Visas - Expat Magazine
New Zealand
Since June 1, foreign workers seeking certain work visas in New Zealand have been subject to new English language requirements. The government says the changes are intended to improve migrant integration and help prevent workplace exploitation.
Belgium
Belgium's latest reforms, which took effect on June 1, bring greater flexibility to the labor market in an effort to support job creation. At the same time, the government has introduced stricter requirements for non-European students.
United Arab Emirates
Foreign residents in the United Arab Emirates should take note: under UAE regulations, residence visas are generally canceled if the holder remains outside the country for more than 180 consecutive days. In most cases, affected residents must apply for a new visa before returning. However, several categories of expatriates are exempt from this rule and can retain their residency status despite an extended stay abroad.
USA
Another blow for foreigners in the United States. On May 22, a memo from the US immigration services introduced a new rule aimed at limiting legal immigration. Apart from a few exceptions, Green Card applications will now have to be filed from the applicant's country of origin. What is the current situation?
South Korea
Last March, the South Korean Ministry of Justice announced the easing of conditions for issuing certain visas in order to tackle the labor shortage. On May 12, the Ministry of Employment and Labor unveiled a new strategy aimed at boosting the employment of foreign workers, while also supporting that of local workers.
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.
Japan
Conservative Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has made immigration one of the key issues of her term. Since October 2025, foreign professionals, particularly entrepreneurs, have had to deal with stricter immigration rules. Early surveys reveal a significant drop in the number of entrepreneur visa applications.
United Arab Emirates
The UAE's Golden Visa program has been updated. The reform, focused on simplification, aims to further cement the United Arab Emirates' position as a top destination for foreign investors and entrepreneurs.
United Arab Emirates
The emirate of Dubai is rolling out a new strategy to keep attracting wealthy expats. A minimum investment is no longer required to qualify for a two-year residency visa.
USA
Are US immigration rules about to get even stricter? New mandatory questions introduced by the State Department could complicate the process for those looking to move abroad, particularly potential asylum seekers.
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.
Argentina
As an expat who has made South America's Southern Cone my home, I explained last year why Latin America is the new frontier and how to get residency here. This year, I've been spending a lot of time in the new Land of Opportunity: Argentina. After taking a chainsaw to inflation, President Milei has set his sights on citizenship by investment as the next lever to pull.
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.
A university degree is no longer the only path to working abroad. As labor shortages deepen across key sectors, governments are rethinking how they define skilled talent. From Europe to Oceania, immigration systems are evolving to recognize hands-on experience, vocational training and proven expertise as strong qualifications in their own right.
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.
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.
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.
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