Expat news
Vietnam
Vietnam's proposed new Golden Visa aims to attract foreign investors and high-net-worth individuals, as the country capitalizes on its strong economic momentum. With GDP growth projected at 7.1% in 2024—driven largely by exports and foreign direct investment—the government is positioning itself for a “new era” of development and is setting its sights on double-digit growth.
Philippines
Calling all digital nomads and remote workers: The Philippines is officially joining the global digital nomad movement. A government order signed on April 24 has launched a pilot program for a new digital nomad visa. The first visas are expected to be available by late June or early July. If you're considering your next remote work destination, here's what you need to know.
Spain
In Barcelona, call centers are shutting down one after another. The causes: artificial intelligence and outsourcing to cheaper countries. Nearly 600 layoffs are expected by October. That's the plan announced by CPM International, a commercial outsourcing agency, for its Barcelona site. Here's what you need to know if you're planning to look for work in Barcelona.
United Arab Emirates
Sharjah has unveiled a bold new opportunity for foreign investment: a 100-year lease for non-Arab expatriates. This long-term lease scheme is part of the AI Saja'a Industrial Land project, launched by ASAS Real Estate, the property development arm of Sharjah Islamic Bank.
Czech Republic
A sweeping overhaul of the Czech Labor Code—known as the Flexible Work Amendment—is set to reshape how employees are hired, paid, and dismissed. Taking effect in June 2025, the reform targets both local and international workers. If you've recently relocated for work or are planning a move to Czechia, here's what you need to know.
Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has reiterated that violations of residency rules—such as overstaying a visa—affect not only expatriates but also their sponsors. Sponsors may face serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and even deportation if they are foreign nationals.
Saudi Arabia
Renewing your iqama (residence permit) will now be easier. The General Directorate of Passports of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has introduced new regulations for expatriates.
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.
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?
Open a bank account that suits you
Discover the best international banks to manage your money securely.
"