Expat news
Spain
Spain's sweeping immigration reform came into effect on May 20, 2025, with the aim of simplifying procedures and modernizing the system. Here are the key points to understand.
South Africa
South Africa's Department of Home Affairs continues to experience delays in processing visa applications. In response, it has issued a new exemption, valid until 30 September 2025, as outlined in Immigration Directive No. 5 released earlier this year.
Indonesia
According to the Directorate General of Immigration, the aim is to prevent the exploitation of foreign workers. Since June 14, 2025, new rules have been in place to more strictly regulate the C18 stay permit (C18 visa). Also known as the "Work Trial" visa, the C18 is intended for workers coming to Indonesia to complete a trial period with a sponsoring company—the company where the trial will be carried out.
Kuwait
Expatriates in Kuwait should prepare for stricter visa controls. This new crackdown aims to better regulate the entry and exit of foreign nationals and more effectively “secure” the labor market. Here are the key changes.
Japan
Japan is stepping up efforts to hold foreign residents accountable for unpaid taxes and health-related fees. Under a new policy set to take effect by June 2027, the government aims to create what it calls an “orderly and harmonious society”—a vision that includes stricter expectations for expats.
Australia
Australia is amid a major rethink of its regional migration policy, aiming to attract more skilled foreign workers to areas beyond its major cities. The goal? To help fill critical labor shortages in regional communities and make it easier for expatriates to settle and thrive outside the country's urban centers.
Finland
Finland is introducing stricter rules for foreign workers. If you're an expat with a residence permit tied to your job, and you lose that job, you'll now have just three months to find new employment. Otherwise, you could lose your right to stay in the country.
Hong Kong
To stay competitive in today's global economy, Hong Kong is making a strategic shift in its immigration policy. The city is preparing to raise the age limit for foreign professionals looking to work there in response to an ongoing shortage of skilled workers. If you've ever dreamed of advancing your career in Asia, this could be your opportunity.
France
France is introducing a mandatory online appointment system for all visa applications. This new requirement applies to all travelers, whether they are planning a short stay or a long-term visit. If you're heading to France, here's what you need to know.
England
The UK is getting ready to tighten its visa rules once again. The changes on the table include shorter visa durations, tougher language requirements, and a new rating system for university sponsorships. These updates are part of a broader effort to reshape immigration policy, and they could soon affect how foreign nationals enter and stay in the country. Two key changes are already in progress: the nationwide rollout of mandatory e-visas and a planned overhaul of the student visa system.
Belgium
Facing deep US science funding cuts, the European Union has launched Choose Europe for Science—a €500 million plan to recruit top American researchers. Announced on May 5, the initiative highlights 15 cities, from Berlin to Helsinki, as welcoming centers for global scientific talent.
Germany
According to official data, the German Federal Foreign Office issued fewer spousal visas in 2024 than in 2023. One likely reason is the language requirement: level A1, classified as “elementary.” This level reflects a basic command of German, enabling applicants to introduce themselves and engage in simple conversations—provided their interlocutor speaks slowly and clearly.
England
The UK is rethinking its migration policy. A new visa aimed at attracting foreign investors is under review, even as the path to permanent residency becomes more restrictive. London is trying to strike a new balance—tightening long-term access while selectively opening its doors to targeted economic contributors.
Thailand
On January 1, 2024, the Thai government enacted a sweeping fiscal reform. The Thai Revenue Department (TRD) is reportedly drafting a royal decree that would change how foreign income transferred into Thailand is taxed. The aim is to stimulate investment and attract more capital into the country.
New Zealand
The easing of New Zealand's “Golden Visa” program, enacted in February and effective since April 1, is already delivering results. Authorities have received 82 applications—55 from US nationals—bringing in more than NZ$600 million in investment. It's a welcome boost for a country that slipped into a -1.1% GDP recession in 2024. While signs of recovery are emerging, the outlook remains cautious. The streamlined visa is designed to attract wealthy foreign investors as part of a broader strategy to jump-start the economy.
England
"Good for our jobs, our money, and our borders.” This is how British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the historic agreement reached with the European Union on May 19. Here's a look at the key points of the agreement. How might it impact expats and future expats in the UK and British expatriates abroad?
England
The United Kingdom is considering new visa restrictions for nationals of countries suspected of misusing the immigration system to seek asylum. Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka are already under review, and more countries could soon follow. If you're planning to move to the UK, whether for work or studies, here's what you need to know.
Canada
British Columbia is still grappling with a shortage of doctors and nurses. While the province's 2023 compensation plan has successfully brought in 1,001 new family doctors over the past year, about 400,000 residents remain without a family physician. In response, the province announced a cap on Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applications as of April 14.
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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