Expat news
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.
England
The British tax reform took effect on April 6, 2025. Notable changes include the elimination of the "non-domiciled" status and an overhaul of the inheritance tax system.
Germany
The ascendancy of the conservatives signifies a shift towards a more stringent immigration policy, albeit with continued openness to non-European skilled professionals. On March 12, negotiations commenced between the conservative CDU and the Social Democrats (SPD) to form a coalition, expected to finalize by late April.
England
The British government faces a challenging task: addressing labor shortages without heavily relying on foreign workers. Here's an overview of their strategy.
Singapore
Singapore is addressing its labor shortage by overhauling its work permit system to both attract and, crucially, retain foreign talent. Here are the essential details to note.
USA
The US is overhauling its immigration policies by introducing the Gold Card for affluent foreigners and suspending EB-4 visas. This new strategy includes both a pathway to citizenship for wealthy immigrants and tighter restrictions on existing visa categories.
France
On Friday, February 21, 2025, the French government published an updated list of in-demand occupations. This latest list, replacing the one from 2021, which was based on data from 2008, is part of an immigration reform enacted in January 2024. It aims for a more targeted job distribution, reflecting the true needs across various regions. How will this impact foreign workers?
United Arab Emirates
To further broaden its expatriate community, the United Arab Emirates has introduced new categories of visas. Building on the success of existing visas for educators, digital nomads, and athletes, the UAE is now extending special invitations to green energy leaders and influencers, strengthening its position as a hub of international talent.
England
Announced several months ago, the paid visa will take effect from April 2, 2025. Here's what you need to know.
Canada
Continuing with the restrictive immigration policy initiated in 2024, Canada has introduced several new measures in 2025, including the suspension of sponsorship application processes, delays in pathways to permanent residency, and restrictions on work permit eligibility for expatriate spouses. The most recent regulation now allows for the cancellation of work permits and student visas.
New Zealand
New Zealand is currently facing labor shortages, and it will take some time for reforms in educational and training programs to impact this issue. In response, the government is implementing new visa reforms to attract skilled workers. This move is considered a potential driver for growth. How will these changes benefit foreign investors and workers?
Visas
Different countries adopt unique strategies to manage their workforce needs. Many are continuously revising their immigration policies to favor local employment. Despite these tighter regulations, effective collaboration between local and expatriate workers is achievable and essential. Given the persistent labor shortages, the reliance on foreign workers remains a practical necessity. Here's an insight into the latest changes in popular global destinations.
Tax
With each new year, we see shifts in taxes, savings rates, consumer costs, and governmental allowances. This year also introduces significant tax changes that will affect both current expatriates and those considering a move. Below, we provide a detailed look at the most favorite expat countries.
USA
Images of the newly re-elected president signing numerous executive orders have been seen worldwide. Many of these orders directly address immigration policies, signaling significant impacts on the employment landscape. This will affect both international workers and domestic companies. How will these changes influence the recruitment of international talent? Is the American Dream still accessible for those looking to build their careers in the US?
Visas
Immigration policies are undergoing major shifts globally. Spain is set to retire its Golden Visa program, prompting expatriates and investors to look elsewhere. Meanwhile, New Zealand is overhauling its rules, and the United Arab Emirates is strengthening its offerings. This article explores the significant changes in these regions and what they mean for potential visa applicants.
Visas
States are experimenting with various approaches to attract qualified foreign professionals and regulate their immigration flows, ranging from simplifying to tightening the rules. The objective remains consistent: addressing labor shortages.
Everyday life
Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on Monday, January 20. In his assertive inauguration speech, he swiftly signed numerous executive orders, signaling a robust return to the White House. Among these orders were significant and surprising changes to immigration policies. What do these changes mean for expatriates and those planning to move to the US?
Formalities
The Henley Passport Index 2025 was recently released. Singapore's passport remains the most powerful in the world, followed by Japan's. The American and British passports have declined slightly in strength, while passports from war-torn countries, such as Afghanistan, remain the weakest. How important does it remain in 2025 to have a powerful passport to be able to travel and become an expat?
Other Types
Everyday life
Giving birth is one of the most powerful and life-changing experiences a woman can have. Doing it abroad? That adds a whole new layer of emotion and complexity. From navigating childbirth in a foreign language to adjusting to unfamiliar medical practices and postnatal care, expat parents often find their resilience and adaptability pushed to the limit. So how can you prepare for this pivotal moment while living overseas — and what should you be aware of?
Formalities
Sponsoring a relative comes with many rules. Can your current status allow you to sponsor someone? Who are you actually allowed to sponsor? And what should you keep in mind before starting the process? Expat.com breaks it down for you.
Work
Whether we embrace it with excitement or cautiously, artificial intelligence (AI) has become inseparable from our current and future world. The latest World Economic Forum report makes that clear: AI is reshaping the job market. This shift is especially significant for expats aiming to build an international career. So, what skills are recruiters looking for?
Formalities
Latin America as a region has become one of the most popular hubs for expats, digital nomads, and international entrepreneurs. The escalating prices, the rising taxes, and stricter immigration laws in Europe and North America are forcing people to seek alternatives, and many are finding Latin America's relative affordability, vibrancy, and diversity an ideal combination.
Leisure
Major urban centers continue to draw foreigners for a simple reason: they offer more jobs and housing. The global housing crisis hasn't changed that. Life in the city feels familiar and secure. But stepping away from crowded megacities can be just as comforting. It's a chance to enjoy fresh air and open space. Here are five ideal destinations where you can breathe deeply and live closer to nature.
USA
For thousands of international students, the end of the visa freeze offers only a partial win. Application reviews have resumed, but under far stricter conditions. The Trump administration remains resolute, even if it means putting more pressure on its relationship with the US academic community. Meanwhile, other countries are seizing the moment to attract international students. Could this mark the beginning of a shift in student mobility trends? And what lies ahead for exchange programs and global student mobility?
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