Expat news
New Zealand
Faced with ongoing labor shortages, New Zealand is simplifying the process for obtaining a residence permit. Published in April, the updated list of critical skills highlights many opportunities for foreign talents, particularly in healthcare, telecommunications, and engineering.
Luxembourg
On March 31, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg updated its list of occupations facing severe shortages. The authorities have identified 22 sectors where Luxembourg employers are struggling to recruit.
Spain
Announced in April 2024 and confirmed by several statements from the executive branch, Spain's Golden Visa is no longer being issued as of April 3, 2025. Only applications submitted before this date will continue to be processed.
USA
Following President Trump's return to office and his issuance of decrees that undermine the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, numerous countries have issued travel warnings.
Thailand
Thailand recently introduced a visa program designed for same-sex couples. This initiative is open to individuals married to a same-sex partner who is either a Thai national or a foreign resident with a permit that allows them to sponsor a spouse.
Bahrain
To stimulate its economy, Bahrain is strategically targeting affluent expatriates. The 2025-2026 budget introduces a novel program specifically designed for investors and skilled foreign workers.
USA
Should temporary and permanent residents be concerned? US Vice President J.D. Vance's recent remark that the privilege of staying in the United States isn't "unlimited" for green card holders has sparked widespread concern. With immigration laws becoming stricter following President Trump's re-election, even immigration experts are treading carefully. These stricter regulations impact both documented and undocumented immigrants.
England
The British tax reform took effect on April 6, 2025. Notable changes include the elimination of the "non-domiciled" status and an overhaul of the inheritance tax system.
Germany
The ascendancy of the conservatives signifies a shift towards a more stringent immigration policy, albeit with continued openness to non-European skilled professionals. On March 12, negotiations commenced between the conservative CDU and the Social Democrats (SPD) to form a coalition, expected to finalize by late April.
England
The British government faces a challenging task: addressing labor shortages without heavily relying on foreign workers. Here's an overview of their strategy.
Singapore
Singapore is addressing its labor shortage by overhauling its work permit system to both attract and, crucially, retain foreign talent. Here are the essential details to note.
USA
The US is overhauling its immigration policies by introducing the Gold Card for affluent foreigners and suspending EB-4 visas. This new strategy includes both a pathway to citizenship for wealthy immigrants and tighter restrictions on existing visa categories.
France
On Friday, February 21, 2025, the French government published an updated list of in-demand occupations. This latest list, replacing the one from 2021, which was based on data from 2008, is part of an immigration reform enacted in January 2024. It aims for a more targeted job distribution, reflecting the true needs across various regions. How will this impact foreign workers?
United Arab Emirates
To further broaden its expatriate community, the United Arab Emirates has introduced new categories of visas. Building on the success of existing visas for educators, digital nomads, and athletes, the UAE is now extending special invitations to green energy leaders and influencers, strengthening its position as a hub of international talent.
England
Announced several months ago, the paid visa will take effect from April 2, 2025. Here's what you need to know.
Canada
Continuing with the restrictive immigration policy initiated in 2024, Canada has introduced several new measures in 2025, including the suspension of sponsorship application processes, delays in pathways to permanent residency, and restrictions on work permit eligibility for expatriate spouses. The most recent regulation now allows for the cancellation of work permits and student visas.
New Zealand
New Zealand is currently facing labor shortages, and it will take some time for reforms in educational and training programs to impact this issue. In response, the government is implementing new visa reforms to attract skilled workers. This move is considered a potential driver for growth. How will these changes benefit foreign investors and workers?
Visas
Different countries adopt unique strategies to manage their workforce needs. Many are continuously revising their immigration policies to favor local employment. Despite these tighter regulations, effective collaboration between local and expatriate workers is achievable and essential. Given the persistent labor shortages, the reliance on foreign workers remains a practical necessity. Here's an insight into the latest changes in popular global destinations.
Other Types
Schools & studies
There is so much more that goes into the choice of a university today than even a decade ago. International students especially have the whole world to choose from. And while before students were more focused on the theoretical benefits of a certain degree, today, with so many less traditional options for learning (online, via social media, private tutoring, etc.), there is a lot more a traditional institution has to offer, especially given the price of formal education.
Banks and finance
If you are like most expats looking to purchase a home overseas, you will probably need a mortgage. This typically means applying to a bank or lender in the country where the property is located. The process can be different and more complex than in your home country, especially for non-residents, as financial institutions are cautious about lending across borders. In some places, the route from application to approval is relatively straightforward, but in others it can be much more challenging.
Work
You may be dreaming of managing your team abroad or opening or taking over a business overseas. But already, a thousand questions are challenging you. Are you really cut out for a leadership role, especially in another country? Here's some practical advice to build your confidence before embarking on the expat project that's right for you.
Work
More young professionals than ever are choosing to start their careers abroad. Driven by the rise of digital nomadism, economic uncertainty, and the promise of new opportunities, they are increasingly willing to cross borders in search of a better future. But what do young expats really expect from their first job overseas? And how do their career goals compare with those of earlier generations?
Paraguay
A new investor residency rulebook landed last month, and for anyone weighing Paraguay as a place to actually live, the numbers are surprisingly friendly. If you've been quietly researching Paraguay as a possible new home base, for the taxes, the cost of living, the easy residency, or just because the rest of the world feels increasingly expensive and complicated, this one is for you.
Tax
Postcard-perfect beaches, luxury villas, sports cars and a jet-set lifestyle: social media often paints expat influencers and content creators as financially free and permanently on vacation. Behind the filters and sponsored posts, however, lies a much more complex reality. As more freelancers, influencers and digital creators move abroad to optimize their lifestyle and income, tax authorities around the world are increasing their scrutiny. So how can content creators relocate overseas legally, optimize their taxes, and avoid crossing the line into tax evasion?
Open a bank account that suits you
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