Visas - Expat Magazine

New visas for international graduates in New Zealand
New Zealand
New visas for international graduates in New Zealand
As part of a sweeping overhaul of its post-study work visa system, the New Zealand government has announced two major changes: the introduction of a new temporary work visa and an expansion of the post-study work visa. Both measures are expected to come into effect in late 2026.
Argentina to launch South America's first Citizenship by Investment program
Argentina
Argentina to launch South America's first Citizenship by Investment program
As an expat who has made South America's Southern Cone my home, I explained last year why Latin America is the new frontier and how to get residency here. This year, I've been spending a lot of time in the new Land of Opportunity: Argentina. After taking a chainsaw to inflation, President Milei has set his sights on citizenship by investment as the next lever to pull. 
Canada updates Express Entry categories
Canada
Canada updates Express Entry categories
In a recent press release, Canada announced the creation of new Express Entry categories. The goal is to continue attracting top international talent in an increasingly competitive global market. Here's what you need to know.
How does the United States define “extraordinary talent”?
USA
How does the United States define “extraordinary talent”?
In 2026, the United States began enforcing a new set of measures aimed at “restricting the entry of foreign nationals and protecting the United States.” President Trump has once again tightened immigration policy: visa procedures have been frozen in more than 70 countries, and negotiations are underway to require visa applicants to disclose their social media accounts. When it comes to visas, a fresh wave of anxiety is spreading among those classified as “extraordinary talents.” Recent cases suggest that certain categories of applicants may now be favored over others. Here's a closer look at what's happening.
Skills-based immigration: Where you can work abroad without a degree
Skills-based immigration: Where you can work abroad without a degree
A university degree is no longer the only path to working abroad. As labor shortages deepen across key sectors, governments are rethinking how they define skilled talent. From Europe to Oceania, immigration systems are evolving to recognize hands-on experience, vocational training and proven expertise as strong qualifications in their own right.
Finland tightens permanent residence rules
Finland
Finland tightens permanent residence rules
Since January 8, 2026, stricter requirements have been in place for obtaining permanent residence in Finland. Among the key changes are tougher language requirements and a longer mandatory residence period.
A 10-year visa to attract foreign entrepreneurs and talent to Qatar
Qatar
A 10-year visa to attract foreign entrepreneurs and talent to Qatar
Competing with the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, Qatar is launching a new program to attract foreign talent. Entrepreneurs and highly skilled professionals will soon be able to benefit from a 10-year residence visa.
New Zealand opens temporary work visas for project-based roles
New Zealand
New Zealand opens temporary work visas for project-based roles
If you have been dreaming of moving to New Zealand, here's some big news: the 2026 work visa season is now open. Following the success of the Specific Purpose Work Visa introduced in 2025, the government is relaunching the scheme this year.
Kuwait updates visa and residency rules for expats
Kuwait
Kuwait updates visa and residency rules for expats
While Kuwait continues to pursue its job nationalization policy, the country is also seeking to attract investors and highly skilled professionals. Here's what you need to know if you're planning a move to Kuwait.
Which countries issue work visas at the state level?
Which countries issue work visas at the state level?
If you're looking for a work visa for your move abroad, you may be spending hours scrolling through national government websites, checking eligibility rules and minimum salary requirements. While in most countries it's the national governments that issue the final authorization, in others, you will have to apply to the specific state or province where you intend to settle. Among the countries with these decentralized systems are Belgium, Canada, Switzerland and Australia.
US suspends immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries and introduces visa bonds
USA
US suspends immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries and introduces visa bonds
Immigrant visa suspension, visa bonds, tighter H-1B rules and higher entry barriers: the United States is pressing ahead with policies aimed at curbing both legal and illegal immigration. What will the “American Dream” look like in 2026, and what should expats expect?  
Moving abroad as a couple with different passports
Moving abroad as a couple with different passports
You've made the decision. You're ready to take the leap and move abroad together. But when one partner can travel visa-free and the other cannot, the mobility gap can feel significant. What happens when one of you holds a “weak” passport and the other a “strong” one?
Moving abroad in 2026? Here's what you should expect
Moving abroad in 2026? Here's what you should expect
Where will expat trends move in 2026? With the new year underway, it's time to look back at the shifts that defined global mobility in 2025. What lessons stand out—and what lies ahead for expats in 2026?
New Greek Golden Visa rules aim to attract more investors
Greece
New Greek Golden Visa rules aim to attract more investors
The Greek government has introduced new measures to streamline the Golden Visa process. Its goal is clear: make the programme more accessible, attract more foreign investors, and boost tourism.
Business Investor Work Visa: New Zealand's new pathway for expats
New Zealand
Business Investor Work Visa: New Zealand's new pathway for expats
New Zealand has rolled out a new visa aimed at attracting foreign investors since November 24, 2025. Unlike previous schemes, applicants won't need to set up their own company. Instead, the visa targets high-net-worth expatriates who want to invest in existing New Zealand businesses.
Oman extends residency to 10 years and introduces new workforce regulations
Oman
Oman extends residency to 10 years and introduces new workforce regulations
By easing residency renewals, Oman aims to attract more skilled professionals and investors. The change is a key step in advancing Oman Vision 2040 and its push for a more diversified economy.
Canada cuts temporary immigration by 43%: What's changing in 2026–2028
Canada
Canada cuts temporary immigration by 43%: What's changing in 2026–2028
Canada continues to captivate expatriates, but entering and staying is becoming increasingly difficult. The immigration slowdown is confirmed. The 2026-2028 plan prioritizes long-term economic immigration and curtails temporary immigration to Canada. Temporary expatriate workers and students are directly targeted by this slowdown. 
Thailand makes online work permits mandatory for foreign workers
Thailand
Thailand makes online work permits mandatory for foreign workers
The Thai government has launched an ambitious plan to simplify and modernize visa and work permit processes. The goals are clear: reduce paperwork, streamline procedures, enable real-time tracking, and speed up responses.