Expat news
New Zealand
The easing of New Zealand's “Golden Visa” program, enacted in February and effective since April 1, is already delivering results. Authorities have received 82 applications—55 from US nationals—bringing in more than NZ$600 million in investment. It's a welcome boost for a country that slipped into a -1.1% GDP recession in 2024. While signs of recovery are emerging, the outlook remains cautious. The streamlined visa is designed to attract wealthy foreign investors as part of a broader strategy to jump-start the economy.
England
"Good for our jobs, our money, and our borders.” This is how British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the historic agreement reached with the European Union on May 19. Here's a look at the key points of the agreement. How might it impact expats and future expats in the UK and British expatriates abroad?
England
The United Kingdom is considering new visa restrictions for nationals of countries suspected of misusing the immigration system to seek asylum. Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka are already under review, and more countries could soon follow. If you're planning to move to the UK, whether for work or studies, here's what you need to know.
Canada
British Columbia is still grappling with a shortage of doctors and nurses. While the province's 2023 compensation plan has successfully brought in 1,001 new family doctors over the past year, about 400,000 residents remain without a family physician. In response, the province announced a cap on Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applications as of April 14.
Vietnam
Vietnam's proposed new Golden Visa aims to attract foreign investors and high-net-worth individuals, as the country capitalizes on its strong economic momentum. With GDP growth projected at 7.1% in 2024—driven largely by exports and foreign direct investment—the government is positioning itself for a “new era” of development and is setting its sights on double-digit growth.
Philippines
Calling all digital nomads and remote workers: The Philippines is officially joining the global digital nomad movement. A government order signed on April 24 has launched a pilot program for a new digital nomad visa. The first visas are expected to be available by late June or early July. If you're considering your next remote work destination, here's what you need to know.
Spain
In Barcelona, call centers are shutting down one after another. The causes: artificial intelligence and outsourcing to cheaper countries. Nearly 600 layoffs are expected by October. That's the plan announced by CPM International, a commercial outsourcing agency, for its Barcelona site. Here's what you need to know if you're planning to look for work in Barcelona.
United Arab Emirates
Sharjah has unveiled a bold new opportunity for foreign investment: a 100-year lease for non-Arab expatriates. This long-term lease scheme is part of the AI Saja'a Industrial Land project, launched by ASAS Real Estate, the property development arm of Sharjah Islamic Bank.
Czech Republic
A sweeping overhaul of the Czech Labor Code—known as the Flexible Work Amendment—is set to reshape how employees are hired, paid, and dismissed. Taking effect in June 2025, the reform targets both local and international workers. If you've recently relocated for work or are planning a move to Czechia, here's what you need to know.
Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has reiterated that violations of residency rules—such as overstaying a visa—affect not only expatriates but also their sponsors. Sponsors may face serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and even deportation if they are foreign nationals.
Saudi Arabia
Renewing your iqama (residence permit) will now be easier. The General Directorate of Passports of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has introduced new regulations for expatriates.
New Zealand
Faced with ongoing labor shortages, New Zealand is simplifying the process for obtaining a residence permit. Published in April, the updated list of critical skills highlights many opportunities for foreign talents, particularly in healthcare, telecommunications, and engineering.
Luxembourg
On March 31, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg updated its list of occupations facing severe shortages. The authorities have identified 22 sectors where Luxembourg employers are struggling to recruit.
Spain
Announced in April 2024 and confirmed by several statements from the executive branch, Spain's Golden Visa is no longer being issued as of April 3, 2025. Only applications submitted before this date will continue to be processed.
USA
Following President Trump's return to office and his issuance of decrees that undermine the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, numerous countries have issued travel warnings.
Thailand
Thailand recently introduced a visa program designed for same-sex couples. This initiative is open to individuals married to a same-sex partner who is either a Thai national or a foreign resident with a permit that allows them to sponsor a spouse.
Bahrain
To stimulate its economy, Bahrain is strategically targeting affluent expatriates. The 2025-2026 budget introduces a novel program specifically designed for investors and skilled foreign workers.
USA
Should temporary and permanent residents be concerned? US Vice President J.D. Vance's recent remark that the privilege of staying in the United States isn't "unlimited" for green card holders has sparked widespread concern. With immigration laws becoming stricter following President Trump's re-election, even immigration experts are treading carefully. These stricter regulations impact both documented and undocumented immigrants.
Other Types
Everyday life
Moving to a new country opens the door to fresh experiences—and that includes meeting new people. Dating apps can make it easier to connect, whether you're looking for companionship, a relationship, or just someone to explore the city with. But how can you make sure you're meeting the right person? And how do you stay safe while doing it?
Schools & studies
Like millions of locals, international students often work to support their studies. While working can offer cultural insight and a chance to engage with the host country, finances are usually the main motivation. So, how can students strike a balance between work and study? And what boundaries can help them make the most of their student life?
Visas
It's the golden ticket to living almost like a citizen. For foreign nationals, a permanent resident card holds deep symbolic value. Many expats work hard to get it—a milestone that's often challenging. Once it's granted, maintaining that status becomes crucial, especially for those aiming to apply for citizenship later on. But what happens when your permanent resident card expires? Do you automatically lose your status?
Work
Unlike other Erasmus initiatives limited to those under 30, the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs program has no age restriction. It offers a practical pathway to professional growth: the chance to explore new business cultures, gain vital skills, and expand your international network. You don't need years of experience to apply. What matters is a clear business idea, determination, and a strong desire to learn. In this article, Enrico, a young ambassador who benefited from the program, gives you insight into the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs initiative.
Everyday life
Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure full of opportunities. But it also means getting to know a place that may still feel unfamiliar. Unfortunately, scams are common—especially in large cities. Expats who don't yet speak the local language or understand how things work can be easy targets. To help you avoid problems and settle in smoothly, here are some key insights into the most common types of scams you must beware of.
Everyday life
Many aspects of life today are shaped by constant judgment and evaluation—annual reviews, performance indicators, goal assessments, skills audits, and more. But should we apply the same lens to an international relocation? Living abroad is a rich and complex experience, which raises an important question: how—and why—should we evaluate it? Is it to strengthen an application for a new role and better reflect the value of our intercultural experience? To gain clarity about future goals in an international setting? Or perhaps to make sense of the reasons behind a return?
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