Expat news
Visas
In the Gulf, the end of the oil era necessitates a new strategy: diversifying revenue and attracting foreign talent. Behind the big national visions—Saudi Vision 2030, We the UAE 2031, Oman Vision 2040, and Bahrain Vision 2030—lies the same reality: tomorrow's economy will be built with investors, entrepreneurs, and qualified expatriates. Golden Visa, Premium Residency, and Green Visa all signal a shared intent to simplify access to residency and strengthen the region's appeal.
Tax
Despite mounting opposition (critics have called for a massive strike on September 10), Prime Minister François Bayrou's virtual summer tour continues with a seventh episode dedicated to reducing government spending. In this series of educational explanations designed to make his budget easier to accept, the Prime Minister insists on the urgent need to restore public finances. One of his main weapons: more audits.
Everyday life
Moving abroad often means mastering the art of resourcefulness. Why spend a fortune on furnishings you could get for cheap—or even for free? Here's your savvy expat guide to creating your own “home sweet home” without draining your budget.
Visas
As extreme climate events multiply, the world is asking hard questions. What future lies ahead for the most exposed populations? The creation of artificial islands and territories is still being discussed, but it only partially—and temporarily—addresses the needs of climate-displaced communities. Some states are now moving toward more durable solutions. Here's a closer look.
United Arab Emirates
Since the end of July, Dubai has made new medical tests a requirement for obtaining a visa, whether it's a first application or a renewal. These examinations apply to foreign adults moving to Dubai for work, as well as those already living there.
USA
Much more than just a driver's license, the American Driver's License serves as a genuine form of identification. The recent introduction of the REAL ID Driver's License—a true driver's license identity card—proves it once again.
Netherlands
The Dutch government is drafting new immigration rules, with a particular focus on companies that recruit highly skilled workers from abroad. Here's what this means for you if you're considering a move to the Netherlands.
England
On July 1, the UK Parliament approved a major reform of its immigration framework. Key measures include halting international recruitment for social workers, removing over 100 professions from the visa eligibility list, and introducing stricter salary and qualification requirements.
USA
Can you travel on an H-1B visa and return to the US without trouble? That's the question many expats are now asking, following a wave of social media posts from H-1B visa holders whose visas were reportedly canceled after extended trips abroad.
Italy
Facing persistent labor shortages across multiple sectors, Italy is once again looking beyond its borders for solutions. The government has announced a new plan to issue nearly half a million work visas to non-EU nationals over the next three years.
Canada
On July 4, 2025, the Canadian federal government revised the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes, which are used to classify post-secondary programs by field of study. Here's what international students need to know.
United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates is strengthening its immigration policy and introducing four new visa categories designed to attract global talent and reflect industry trends. Authorities are also addressing recent misinformation about crypto-based residency pathways.
Saudi Arabia
As part of its Vision 2030 strategy, the Saudi government is implementing a series of reforms aimed at diversifying the economy and enhancing the country's competitiveness in the global job market. If you're considering career opportunities in the Kingdom, here's what you should know.
England
Commissioned by the government, the independent Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has published a report on family visa rules. Its findings show that the current financial thresholds are preventing many applicants from reuniting with their loved ones.
Slovenia
Good news for prospective remote workers: Slovenia is joining the growing list of countries welcoming digital nomads. The visa is expected to launch this autumn.
USA
The Trump administration's latest measures could make daily life harder for foreign residents. International students remain a primary focus, but other expats are also affected. For many, sending money abroad may soon become more complicated.
Portugal
The Portuguese government is set to tighten the rules for acquiring nationality. The Council approved a draft law of Ministers on 23 June, but the reform is not yet final. For now, the measures outlined below remain proposals.
Netherlands
With a pointed question, Amsterdam city councillor and Labour Party member Lian Heinhuis is challenging both businesses and residents to rethink how expatriates fit into city life. Her proposal, Maak van Amsterdam je thuis (“Make Amsterdam Your Home”), was initially rejected. But on June 12, the city council gave it the green light. Its mission is straightforward: to help expats feel truly connected to life in Amsterdam.
Other Types
Sponsored
Center for U.S. Voters Abroad Turnout Project
If you're an American living abroad, you can vote in the 2026 elections for US Senate, House, and more! This guide will walk you through the simple process and direct you to a simple form that makes requesting your ballot easier than ever.
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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