Expat news
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.
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.
Other Types
Schools & studies
Starting at a new school used to be about standing in lines, printing folders of documents, and going on campus tours. Today, in many schools, the enrollment process looks very different. Lots of things can be done online – and sometimes the first time you and your child will step foot in the new school will be on the actual first day. For expats and their kids, this is a trend that works in their favor. Because now they can explore, apply, interview, tour, and even enroll in a school before they are even there. Here's how it works.
Work
More people than ever are considering entrepreneurship abroad. While securing a visa, funding and the right legal status are important, long-term success depends on much more. Before launching a business overseas, what are the key questions every entrepreneur should ask themselves?
Everyday life
The biggest difference between moving counties and moving continents is the distance. Duh, you might think. But it's not only the physical distance itself. It's also how this distance feels. Moving from Spain to Germany is a big life change. But not quite as big as moving from Germany to Brazil. You are now a Transatlantic flight away from everything that you used to know as home. And even if the culture may not be that different, everything else probably is.
Work
Working in an office can feel really isolating. True, you are surrounded by people. But everyone around you is busy, working on their projects and meeting their deadlines. Take this situation abroad, and you are adding in language barriers, cultural differences, workplace misunderstandings… Before you know it, you may find yourself turning to ChatGPT for social comfort, and liking it. But in this article, we want to explore why human connection in the workplace still matters, especially for expats. And why you absolutely should have a work buddy, and how to find one.
Work
After repeatedly hearing that international employers place as much value on personality and cultural fit as they do on technical skills, you might be tempted to express your individuality through your wardrobe. But does that mean anything goes when it comes to interview attire? Whether your interview is in person or online, choosing the right outfit remains an important part of making a strong first impression. From cultural expectations and industry norms to common style mistakes, here's how to dress appropriately for a job interview abroad.
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.
Open a bank account that suits you
Discover the best international banks to manage your money securely.
"