Expat news
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.
France
This measure has largely gone unnoticed, but it will affect many international students in France. From July 1, 2026, non-European international students in France, without a scholarship, will no longer be eligible for housing assistance (APL).
France
The 2026 Finance Law raises the flat tax to 31.4%, up from the previous 30%. What should expatriates expect?
Spain
Thinking about moving to Spain for work? With economic growth projected at +2.5% in 2025 (according to the OECD), the country is positioning itself as an attractive destination for international talent. Here is a closer look at the sectors and professions expected to offer the strongest opportunities this year.
Everyday life
Since February 28, 2026, when joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran triggered sweeping retaliation from Tehran, millions of expatriates have been thrust into uncharted territory. Airports have shut down overnight, jobs have been thrown into question, evacuation plans have faltered, and the Gulf's long-standing reputation as a haven has come under strain. Here is a clear look at a crisis that is rapidly reshaping daily life for expat communities across the region.
Canada
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.
USA
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.
Finland
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.
Greece
In 2025, Greece issued over 80,000 visas for non-European workers, while nearly 300,000 jobs remained unfilled. In February 2026, the Greek Parliament is preparing to welcome "tens of thousands" of expatriate workers from South and Southeast Asia. The goal remains the same as in 2025: tackling labor shortages.
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.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 is expected to drive more changes in 2026. One of the biggest shifts is the opening of the property market to expat residents and Emirati nationals. At the same time, authorities are tightening the tone toward self-employed expats, reminding them that being self-employed is only possible if residency rules are fully respected.
Malaysia
Malaysia has adopted a new reform that will significantly raise the minimum salary required to employ foreign workers. The government is also introducing additional measures to better regulate expatriate hiring.
Bahrain
On 20 January, Bahrain's Parliament approved an amendment that would tie an expat's identity card to the duration of their residency permit. The decision was adopted despite concerns raised by the Foreign Affairs Committee. What should expat expect?
Oman
Oman is expanding its Omanization policy, which aims to prioritize local employment. The Ministry of Labour has confirmed that more than 200 additional roles are now closed to foreign workers.
Thailand
The Thai government is stepping up immigration enforcement with a new measure aimed at reducing visa overstays.
England
The UK government plans to prioritize British nationals for NHS (National Health Service) roles. Health Secretary Wes Streeting says the move is intended to put the system back on track after what he called the previous government's “catastrophic” handling of the NHS.
New Zealand
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.
France
As France's political crisis continues to dominate headlines, following yet another rejection of the government's draft budget, sweeping changes to immigration rules have gone largely unnoticed. A new mandatory civics exam for foreign nationals has been in force since January 1, 2026.
Other Types
Work
Labor shortages in some sectors are playing out alongside unemployment rates that, depending on the country, remain stubbornly high. Young people are particularly at risk of failing to find work in their field or anywhere else. So, how are young professionals thinking about moving abroad in this climate?
Argentina
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 is now wielding the magic wand of citizenship by investment to foreign investors in Argentina.
Everyday life
Expat life is often seen as an exciting adventure: a new country, new opportunities, and a rich cultural experience. Moving abroad represents, for many, a major life project — one filled with hope and the promise of a fresh start. When you make that move as a couple, it can feel even more reassuring. You're not going it alone; you have each other, with the shared belief that this change will bring you closer and create lasting memories together. And it truly can. But living abroad also brings profound upheaval: the loss of familiar landmarks, constant cultural adjustment, distance from family and friends, and sometimes a complete professional reinvention. All of these factors can unsettle not only your individual sense of balance but also the foundation of your relationship.
Everyday life
In an interview with French newspaper Le Figaro, Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), stated that the current energy crisis is "worse than those of 1973, 1979, and 2022 combined." Compounded by the war in the Middle East, the crisis is pushing governments to fast-track their energy transition policies, from fuel taxes and vehicle use restrictions to incentives for remote work. Should expats brace for lasting disruptions to their daily lives? And how can they adapt to this new reality?
Costa Rica
It is the 4th-happiest country in the world. For the first time, Costa Rica has broken into the top 5 happiest countries on the planet, and it is the first Latin American nation to reach the upper ranks of the list. This strong showing mirrors Costa Rica's reputation among expats: the country consistently ranks among the best places to live abroad. So what makes Costa Rica so appealing? And how do you go about settling there as a foreigner?
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