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
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Work
You might assume that office life is much the same everywhere: fairly standard working hours, the occasional overtime, and organizational differences from one company to another. But moving abroad can quickly challenge that assumption. Workplace habits are deeply influenced by local culture, from what people wear to how they interact with colleagues. So what is considered perfectly acceptable in your new country, and what might be frowned upon? Here are seven workplace habits that reveal just how differently office culture can be understood around the world.
Everyday life
Using AI to plan a move abroad may seem like a quick and convenient solution. It can compare destinations, explain visa procedures, and help organize your relocation. However, inaccurate information, outdated advice, and a lack of human understanding can put your expatriation project at risk. So, how much should you really rely on AI?
Australia
For years, Australia has been one of the world's most sought-after destinations for international students. Its world-class universities, high standard of living, and generous post-study work opportunities have attracted hundreds of thousands of young people hoping to build a future abroad. But that appeal is beginning to fade. As the government continues to tighten its immigration policy, it has once again increased the cost of its post-study work visa, making it one of the most expensive of its kind in the world. Combined with stricter eligibility rules and fewer pathways to long-term residency, the changes are forcing many prospective and current international students to rethink their plans. Is Australia slowly becoming a study destination reserved for those who can afford to pay the price?
Everyday life
Are retirees really the "wealthy elite" they're often portrayed as? In reality, retirement incomes vary widely, and so do living standards. For expat retirees, the picture is even more complex. Beyond everyday expenses, they must also navigate inflation, hidden costs, rising healthcare bills, and policy changes that can all have a significant impact on their budget.
Accommodation
Buying your own property is a major milestone, and for many expats, an exciting new chapter. But purchasing a home abroad involves more than finding the right property. Your relationship status can have a significant impact on your rights as a buyer and the legal protections available to you. Whether you're married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting, are you equally protected when buying property overseas?
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