As countries finalize their budgets for 2025 and evaluate their needs, they are preparing to unveil new initiatives to attract foreign talent and investors. This comes in response to ongoing labor shortages. Here's an analysis of the latest developments.
New EU travel regulations set for 2025
In 2025, the European Union will implement two major systems to streamline travel within the Schengen Area: the and the . The EES will digitally record the entry and exit of travelers, replacing the current practice of manual passport stamps with electronic tracking. ETIAS, similar to the U.S. ESTA or Canadian eTA, will require visa-exempt travelers to secure an online travel authorization. This authorization, costing 7 euros, will be valid for three years. Travelers should apply at least 96 hours before their trip. The specific launch dates for the EES and ETIAS systems are still pending.
Work permits in Belgium: Updated rules for non-European workers
Since October, Belgium has introduced new rules to streamline work permit procedures and provide greater flexibility for expatriates. Short-term and long-term work permits are now collectively referred to as "Permit B." Permits B that exceed one year are automatically renewed, relieving employers from the need to submit justifications to the authorities unless specifically requested. Foreign nationals residing in the Brussels-Capital region for an uninterrupted period of 30 months can now apply for an unlimited work permit, provided they have been employed continuously for at least 30 months. Workers from other regions will be eligible for this benefit after four years of residence. Additionally, the updates have simplified the process for changing employers for holders of the European Blue Card.
"Mbappé Law" in Spain: New tax benefits for foreign residents
In 2005, Spain enacted the "Beckham Law," allowing immigrants to pay a fixed tax rate of 24% on their Spanish income, regardless of amount, up to a ceiling of 600,000 euros and for a duration of five years. This year, the government has introduced the "Mbappé Law," which also aims to reduce taxes for expatriates but is exclusively applicable to new residents in the Community of Madrid. Under this law, they can enjoy a 20% tax reduction on their investments, provided these are significant and made in non-real estate ventures either upon moving to Madrid or within the following year. Expatriates must commit to maintaining their fiscal residence in Madrid for at least six years. However, it is not possible to benefit from both the Mbappé and Beckham laws simultaneously. Since 2015, the Beckham Law no longer applies to high-level athletes.
End of the road for Spain's Golden Visa
On November 18, the Spanish Congress passed a measure to end all Golden Visa programs, currently under review by the Senate. If approved, the Golden Visa will cease in January 2025. Initiated in April, the government aimed to terminate this controversial program, which was criticized for inflating housing prices. Initially targeting only real estate investments, the proposal later expanded to abolish all types of Golden Visas. The decision by Congress has ironically spurred a surge in applications from affluent foreigners, seizing what may be their last opportunity to secure a Golden Visa. The majority of these applications are from wealthy Americans, motivated less by the program's impending termination and more by Donald Trump's re-election. For those not choosing Spain, alternatives include Golden Visas in Portugal, Malta, or Austria.
How the rise of the health insurance tax will impact expats
A recent agreement between the governing coalition, comprising Sumar, a progressive left-wing coalition, and PSOE, a center-left party, has led to significant fiscal changes to align with European regulations. These changes include the removal of the tax exemption for private health insurance. Consequently, the government will now impose an 8% tax on private medical insurance, which is anticipated to generate 1.76 billion euros annually. Approximately 25% of the Spanish population, many of whom are expatriates, hold private insurance. The government is also considering the possibility of ending the tax exemption for self-employed workers.
Italy's new visa program targets Tunisian construction workers
Italy has introduced a visa program called "THAMM Plus" to bolster economic ties with Tunisia and address labor shortages in the construction sector. Launched in March and reaffirmed during a recent visit by the Italian Minister of Labor to Tunisia, THAMM Plus is designed to train Tunisian nationals for the construction industry. Over the next three years, Italy plans to issue approximately 2,000 visas to trained Tunisian workers. This initiative not only aims to fill critical gaps in construction but also sets a precedent for addressing shortages in other sectors. Additionally, the care sector, which is severely understaffed, is set to benefit from a new policy that grants 10,000 visas to non-European social workers, coupled with enhanced regulatory oversight.
Portugal: Tax cuts aimed at retaining talent
Portugal's center-right government has introduced a tax reduction initiative targeting individuals under 35 as part of its 2025 budget. This reform is designed as a "win-win" strategy to prevent the departure of Portuguese talent and attract foreign professionals. By focusing on retaining young, active individuals, the government also seeks to counteract the effects of an aging population and stimulate economic growth. The proposed tax cuts were approved in the first reading by Parliament, with the Socialist Party abstaining. Â
Portugal Introduces "Solidarity Golden Visa"
Portugal is updating its Golden Visa program with a socially conscious twist. While traditional real estate investments no longer qualify under the program, the government is rolling out the "Solidarity Golden Visa." This new visa will be available to wealthy foreigners who invest a minimum of 250,000 euros in social projects within Portugal. The investments will focus on developing infrastructure to aid the integration of vulnerable immigrant groups and financing accessible housing for those impacted by the housing crisis. Currently, the project is nearing completion and will soon be finalized.
Romania rolls out the red carpet for its talented expats
Romania is actively encouraging its skilled expatriates to return home following a significant emigration wave that saw about 5 million citizens leave since its 2007 EU accession. However, recent trends have shifted, with fewer Romanians emigrating and more returning. In 2023, government data showed that the number of returning Romanians exceeded those leaving by 82,000. This reverse migration is partly influenced by regional dynamics, particularly the economic opportunities emerging from the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has inadvertently boosted Romania's economy, especially in high-tech sectors. Notably, American investments have surged, with Verde Magnesium investing a billion dollars in April 2024 to establish a metallic magnesium factory. This influx of American and European investments has expanded employment opportunities, drawing Romanian talent back to the country.
France seeks foreign workers amid labor shortages
France continues to recruit qualified foreign workers to combat persistent labor shortages despite potentially stricter immigration laws in 2025. European nationals can work in France without a work permit, whereas non-European individuals require one. According to the , sectors like information technology, engineering, health, agriculture, and manufacturing face significant labor deficits. High-demand roles include nurses, software developers, accountants, finance professionals, and sales experts. Several visa options are available for non-European talents, including the , , (particularly useful in agriculture and tourism), and , among other .
Budget 2025: Major reforms in real estate capital gains taxation
The 2025 budget is set to introduce significant changes affecting both local and foreign real estate investors, aimed at encouraging long-term investments. Under the new finance plan (PLF 2025), the taxation system for capital gains on real estate sales will be reformed. The current deductions based on the duration of ownership will be replaced by an indexation system that adjusts the purchase price based on the price index, thus accounting for inflation in the calculation of capital gains.
Moreover, a differential contribution rate will be introduced for very high incomes. An increase in taxation is planned for individuals earning more than 330,000 euros annually and couples earning over 660,000 euros, which is expected to boost state revenue. The third measure involves an increase in the flat tax. The 2025 budget will also see the end of the tax benefits provided by the Pinel law, the reintroduction of the housing tax, and stricter regulations on furnished rentals. These measures are designed to stabilize the real estate market and ensure a fairer tax system.
Greece: Golden Visa reform to boost foreign investment in startups
Greece's 2025 finance law aims to revamp the Golden Visa program to enhance its appeal to foreign investors by including startup investments. Under the proposed changes, foreigners will need to invest at least 250,000 euros in Greek startups to qualify for a Golden Visa. Moreover, investors will be permitted to own up to 33% of the capital or voting rights in the company.
The company receiving the investment must create at least two new jobs within the first year and commit to maintaining the highest number of employees for at least five years post-investment. This shift from the traditionally popular real estate investment aims to alleviate the housing crisis by encouraging contributions to the business sector. However, the real estate pathway for obtaining a Golden Visa remains available, requiring an investment of at least 800,000 euros in tourist areas or 400,000 euros in other regions.
Finland: Trends in work and study permit applications
The Finnish immigration services released a report in November detailing recent trends in residence permits. While the number of work permit requests has decreased, the total still surpasses figures from pre-pandemic years. From January to September 2024, there were 12,498 applications for work-related residence permits, marking a 5% decrease from the same period in 2023. Notably, requests from foreign experts fell by 24%, signaling potential challenges for critical sectors like health and construction, as well as for the broader economic growth of Finland.
Conversely, there has been a significant increase in student permit applications, reflecting Finland's growing appeal as a study destination. The total number of study permits rose by 9% to 11,749, with the highest number of applications coming from Asian countries, particularly India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. This shift underscores Finland's role in the competitive international arena of attracting global talent.
Poland: Major firms are recruiting foreign IT talent
Poland is actively enhancing its workforce through various programs aimed at sponsoring qualified foreign workers, particularly in the IT sector. Prominent companies such as , , , , , and are looking for international IT experts. Applicants are generally required to have a minimum of 2 to 3 years of relevant experience. The salary offerings for these positions range from approximately 15,000 to 25,000 złotys annually (equivalent to $3,640 to $6,065). While other eligibility requirements may differ from one company to another, the application process is uniformly conducted online, making it accessible for global candidates seeking opportunities in Poland's tech industry.
Lithuania: Tightened regulations for temporary residence permits
Starting December 1, 2024, Lithuania will enforce stricter regulations for filing temporary residence permit applications via external providers. Under the new rules, only citizens from countries where these external providers operate will be eligible to use their services. Individuals from countries without such providers must apply for a Lithuanian residence permit in a country where a provider does operate for Lithuania. These changes will affect applications for highly qualified work positions, family reunification, and study permits. However, there are exceptions: Indian nationals can continue to submit their applications within India for purposes such as transfers, teaching positions, research roles, and studies. Similar exemptions apply to nationals from Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Moreover, as of July 1, foreigners who enter Lithuania with a Schengen visa, national visa, residence permit issued by another EU country, or visa exemption are no longer permitted to work in Lithuania without a specific temporary residence permit. Â
Germany expands work visa quotas to address labor shortages
Germany is set to increase the issuance of skilled worker visas by 10% this year, raising the total to 200,000 visas, as announced by the government on November 17. Despite the implementation of the Opportunity Card—a point-based permit system—and easing of visa regulations, the country still faces a staggering 1.34 million job vacancies. The number of study visas granted to non-European nationals has surged by over 20%, with an even more significant increase observed in the number of visas issued to apprentices. The German Minister of Foreign Affairs noted that the country currently welcomes approximately 400,000 foreign workers annually. With the Opportunity Card, Germany aims to attract even more skilled workers by 2025. However, this policy faces challenges, including growing criticism from far-right factions that are gaining traction among some segments of the population.
United Kingdom: New E-Visa system for long-term stays
The UK government, led by Prime Minister Starmer, is set to introduce an electronic visa system effective January 1, 2025, despite facing opposition. This new e-visa will replace all forms of physical documentation, including paper visas, permits, and biometric residence cards, which will all become invalid after December 31, 2024. The government urges all affected individuals, including students and foreign workers, to apply for their e-visas to continue residency in the UK.
Starting January 1, 2025, the e-visa will be mandatory for anyone planning a long-term stay in the UK, defined as trips extending beyond six months. In preparation for this transition, the British Foreign Office is intensifying its communication efforts with partner countries, particularly Ghana, and advises foreign nationals to contact their nearest for more information on the application process.
Increase in seasonal worker visas for 2025
In response to acute labor shortages in the agricultural sector, the British government plans to issue 45,000 seasonal worker visas in 2025. Of these, 43,000 visas will be allocated specifically to the horticulture industry, with the remaining 2,000 designated for the poultry sector. The Minister of Food Security, Daniel Zeichner, has expressed his commitment to supporting British farmers and growers who have faced recruitment challenges, emphasizing that this initiative is critical for ensuring the nation's food security. In 2022, labor shortages led to a loss of 60 million pounds sterling worth of unharvested food products. While many industry leaders have welcomed the increase in visa allocations as a positive step, the National Farmer's Union (NFU) continues to advocate for a stable, long-term solution to address the ongoing issue of chronic labor shortages in agriculture.
Work permit sponsorship in agri-food and pharmaceutical industries
Companies in the UK's agri-food and pharmaceutical sectors are actively offering employment contracts that include sponsorship for work permits. These opportunities primarily target low-skilled positions. Prospective expatriates must first secure a from their prospective employer and demonstrate proficiency in English. The roles particularly in demand are in packaging, requiring applicants to have relevant experience ranging from 1 to 3 years in this or similar roles. Tasks may include working in a workshop environment, carrying heavy loads, and managing goods. Employers may also provide training to further develop skills and facilitate career advancement within the company's logistics services. The starting wage for these positions is between 10-12 pounds sterling per hour (approximately $12.6 to $15.2). Entry-level workers can expect to earn around 20,936 pounds sterling annually ($26,476), with potential earnings increasing to 28,645 pounds sterling annually ($36,224) for more experienced expatriates.
Streamlining visa processing times
The United Kingdom has set a target of 15 days to expedite the processing of visa applications, addressing the surge in application volumes. This accelerated timeline is aimed mainly at professionals, students, and foreign visitors most affected by visa and permit issuance delays. By reducing the processing times, the government aims to attract more foreign talent and foster international exchanges, enhancing its appeal as a destination for global professionals and students.
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Launch of new visa for seniors and specialists
The United Kingdom has introduced a new visa category specifically for seniors and specialists, replacing the existing intra-company transfer visa (ICT). This new visa is designed to streamline the recruitment process for foreign talent, including specialists, senior executives, and skilled workers employed by multinationals. To qualify for this visa, candidates must have a sponsorship certificate and be employed by a company registered with the Home Office. Their job title must also be listed among the professions eligible for this visa category. The minimum salary requirement for the visa is set at 48,500 pounds per year (approximately $61,101). The visa's duration varies based on salary: it is capped at 5 years for those earning less than 73,900 pounds annually ($93,101) and extends up to 9 years for those earning 73,900 pounds or more. Furthermore, immigrants currently holding an ICT visa can transition to this new senior or specialist visa without needing to leave the UK and may also apply for a visa extension.
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The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) eases pilgrimage visa process for Muslim expats
Muslim expatriates seeking to visit the sacred cities of Mecca and Medina can now benefit from easier visa acquisition. The Saudi Ministry announced in mid-November that the process for obtaining the Umrah visa has been simplified for expatriates from GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain). Expatriates now have three visa options: the Umrah visa, a tourist visa, or a transit visa. It's important to note that the transit visa is only available to those who have booked their travel through Saudi Arabian Airlines or Flynas. This initiative aims to streamline the process for Muslim expatriates in the Gulf looking to undertake religious journeys.
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The United Arab Emirates streamlines visa process for foreign workers
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation is advancing its "zero bureaucracy" initiative. On November 12, the ministry announced significant simplifications in work permit processes, aiming to cut down the time required to process these applications. Services previously offered by the ministry are now available on the Federal Network (FEDnet). Both employers and workers can access all necessary resources related to work permits on the "" platform. Additionally, work permit renewals can now be completed through a dedicated app, eliminating the need for physical attendance. Required documentation has also been reduced. The ministry highlights that this overhaul has already achieved a 72% reduction in procedural steps, benefiting employers, workers, and foreign investors alike, with additional resources available on platforms like "" and "."
Ras Al Khaimah introduces Golden Visa for private school teachers
Ras Al Khaimah, the UAE's sixth largest city, has introduced a Golden Visa program specifically for private school teachers and institutional leaders, such as directors and deputy directors. This program offers long-term residence and self-sponsorship to qualified expatriates. To be eligible, candidates must have at least three years of residency and professional experience in Ras Al Khaimah, possess a relevant higher education degree, and show a proven positive impact on student performance. This initiative aims to attract top-tier foreign educators. Interested applicants can apply through the , the official government website.
Ajman NuVentures Centre Free Zone: New hub for foreign entrepreneurs
The , the 46th free zone in the UAE, is set to revolutionize the setup experience for foreign entrepreneurs. The ANCFZ eliminates paperwork and streamlines the entire process online. Entrepreneurs can expect to receive their visas within 24 hours and business licenses in just 2 hours, along with flexible payment options. This initiative addresses previous concerns from foreign entrepreneurs about excessive bureaucracy in other free zones. By simplifying these processes, ANCFZ aims to attract startups and foster innovation within the region.
Abu Dhabi extends grace period for non-compliant expats
Abu Dhabi has announced a two-month extension to the grace period for expatriates with non-compliant status, moving the deadline from October 31 to December 31. This extension, declared in conjunction with the 53rd anniversary of the Union of the UAE, is intended to accommodate the increase in regularization requests from expatriates. Affected individuals are urged to regularize their status before leaving the country, secure employment within the UAE, or change their residency status accordingly. Authorities have emphasized that this will be the final extension offered, with penalties including fines and judicial consequences set to be enforced after the December deadline.
Bahrain imposes higher fees to encourage job nationalization
In an effort to accelerate the nationalization of jobs, Bahrain has introduced higher fees for companies failing to meet local worker quotas. The Bahraini Parliament approved these changes in early November, instituting a new tiered work tax on companies hiring foreign workers. Under the new system, companies will pay a tax of 500 Bahraini dinars (DHB) (USD 1,327) for foreign employees earning around 200 DHB per month (USD 530). This tax escalates to 1,000 DHB (USD 2,653) for those earning between 201 and 500 DHB and further increases for higher salary ranges, peaking at 2,500 DHB for salaries exceeding 1,200 DHB. These fees will complement the biennial payments already made to the Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). Despite opposition from the Chamber of Commerce, which warns of potential inflation, the LMRA has noted a rise in the number of companies meeting local employment quotas, indicating a positive trend toward job nationalization.
Kuwait temporarily halts business registrations for certain expats
The Kuwaiti government has temporarily suspended the ability for foreigners holding a residence permit under Article 18 to start businesses, become partners, or hold managerial roles in existing businesses. This measure also restricts their registration in the trade registry. This restriction is aimed at individuals who are categorized as employees subordinate to an employer under Article 18. However, foreigners who are compliant with Article 19, which pertains to foreign investors and partners who meet specific conditions, are still eligible for these business activities. This policy shift is part of Kuwait's strategy to dissociate the dual role of employer and employee among expatriates. The suspension will remain until further assessments are conducted. The government's review has identified approximately 9,600 "partner employees" or "associate employees," highlighting many expatriates affected by this policy. Meanwhile, Kuwait encourages investments under Article 19 to foster a more robust investment environment.
Modest rise in expat worker numbers
Recent data from the Kuwaiti government indicates a 2.9% increase in the number of expatriate workers, primarily driven by a surge in workers from India and Egypt. Indians have seen the most significant increase, adding 537,430 individuals, while the Egyptian expatriate population now stands at 474,000. Indians continue to constitute the majority of expatriate workers in Kuwait, making up 78.9% of the total. The private sector has absorbed more foreign workers compared to the public sector. However, the trend of Kuwaitization, aimed at increasing national employment rates, is more pronounced in government services, where 79.6% of employees are
Turkey implements new Regulations for foreign workers
Effective October 1, Turkey has introduced stringent conditions for granting work permits to foreign nationals as part of an initiative to boost local employment. Under the new regulations, companies must employ at least five Turkish workers for every foreign hire. However, companies with a turnover exceeding 1.5 million dollars will only be subject to this Turkish worker quota after employing five foreign workers. These measures exclude the computing, health, and aviation sectors. The requirement is even stricter in the tourism sector, with one foreign worker allowed for every ten Turkish employees.
Moreover, the reform has raised the minimum salary thresholds for foreign employees. Pilots and senior managers are now required to earn at least five times the average minimum wage, which is approximately $688 per month. Architects and engineers must earn four times, non-senior managers three times, and skilled workers and specialists twice the average minimum wage. Workers in other professions must at least meet the minimum wage.
The rules also provide some flexibility: temporary work permits will be more accessible for refugees and professionals delivering "essential services." Furthermore, foreigners who make significant economic or sociocultural contributions to Turkey can now receive a work permit exemption extended from six months to three years.
Updated immigration procedures for foreigners in Turkey
Turkey has introduced changes to the process for foreigners seeking to obtain or renew their residence permits. Applicants must now schedule an online appointment before visiting immigration services to register their address. Once their address is registered, they are also required to enroll in the National Electronic Notification System (UETS). Under the new regulations, walk-ins are no longer permitted, and those who miss or cancel their appointment must wait 15 days before they can schedule a new one. Additionally, all applicants must possess an password, which is crucial for accessing various online government services. Expatriates can obtain their e-Devlet credentials using their Turkish bank details or by visiting a local post office (PTT office).
Kazakhstan introduces "Neo Nomad" digital nomad visa
Kazakhstan has officially launched a digital nomad visa, dubbed "Neo Nomad," on November 1. This program is designed to attract expatriates in an effort to boost the country's economy. The government targets welcoming over 500 expatriates annually and anticipates generating $7.3 million each year from the initiative. The Neo Nomad visa will allow holders to live and work in Kazakhstan for up to one year. However, it sets a high income threshold for eligibility, requiring applicants to earn at least $3,000 per month. Additional standard requirements for digital nomad visas include having health insurance and a clean criminal record. The Kazakhstani government plans to release more detailed information about the visa program shortly.
Simplified visa procedures to boost foreign talent influx
Kazakhstan is implementing simplified visa procedures to attract highly skilled foreign professionals, effective November 18. These revisions aim to streamline the process for several key visas. The B9 visa, targeted at professions in high demand within Kazakhstan, will now be easier to obtain and directly allows for establishing a residence permit. Additionally, the requirements for obtaining a business visa (C5) have been reduced, notably with fewer documents needed for the application process.
The government has also relaxed the marriage duration requirement for eligibility to facilitate family reunification. Previously, a minimum of three years of marriage was necessary; now, applications can be submitted after just one year. These changes, including the introduction of the digital nomad visa, are part of a broader strategy to enhance Kazakhstan's appeal to international talent.
Thailand to grant citizenship to stateless expats from neighboring countries
In a significant policy announcement made in November, the Thai government declared its intention to grant Thai nationality to over 483,000 long-term expatriates. However, this initiative specifically targets expatriates from Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos. The measure is aimed at providing legal status to those who have lived in Thailand for an extended period, often as stateless individuals.
By obtaining citizenship, these individuals will be legally able to work and actively participate in the social life of Thailand, helping the country address its demographic challenges. The Ministry of the Interior clarified that this policy would not apply to Western foreigners, including retirees, dispelling any misconceptions they might have had about qualifying for this initiative.
New tax reform faces backlash from expats
Effective January 1, 2024, Thailand has enacted a comprehensive tax reform that requires all foreigners residing in the country for more than 180 days to report and potentially pay taxes on income sent abroad during the current year. This change has been met with considerable discontent among the expatriate community. The reform will officially affect expatriates starting January 1, 2025, prompting 55% of them to consider leaving Thailand this year to avoid the 180-day residency threshold that would subject them to this new taxation.
Expats have until March 31, 2025, to file their income tax returns under this new rule. Many have expressed concerns, viewing the reform as unfair. The Thai government, which announced at the end of October that it had not met its tax collection targets, faces a potential shortfall that could impact its revenue objectives. Looking ahead, the tax reform intends to encompass all income of foreign residents, regardless of whether it is sourced within Thailand or abroad.
South Korea: Jeju Island introduces "Jeju Style" visa for digital nomads
On November 14, Jeju Island, a popular tourist destination in South Korea, launched its own digital nomad visa, dubbed "Jeju Style." This move comes after South Korea's national introduction of a digital nomad visa in January 2024. The "" visa is designed to offer digital nomads a distinctive workcation experience, emphasizing Jeju's scenic landscapes and abundant leisure activities. Expatriates can now extend their stay on Jeju Island beyond the standard visa exemption period, which has allowed visitors up to a month's stay without a visa since 2002. However, to qualify for the "Jeju Style" visa, expatriates must also hold a valid South Korean visa. This new visa initiative aims to attract a global workforce seeking a unique blend of work and leisure in a picturesque setting.
Australia: Significant rise in student transition visa holders
Despite Australia's commitment to reducing overall net immigration, particularly among students, recent data indicates a dramatic rise in the number of expatriates holding a student transition visa. In the first quarter of 2024, there were 113,566 holders, a stark increase from just 13,034 in the same period in 2023. Analysts attribute this surge to stricter student visa regulations. Many expatriates, facing rejection of their student visa applications, are increasingly applying for asylum, which explains the jump in transition visas. Meanwhile, international students are voicing their opposition to these government measures, emphasizing that the Australian economy benefits from their skills.
Top Australian universities suspend admission of international students
In a recent setback for international students, the University of New South Wales (UNSW) has announced a temporary suspension of admissions for international students starting from the 2025 academic year. This move is part of a series of restrictive actions taken by Australia's leading universities. Similarly, the Australian Catholic University disclosed plans to halt admissions once it reaches its cap in 2025. The University of Melbourne and the Australian National University are also implementing similar restrictions. UNSW has stated that students not admitted to this cycle will be placed on a waiting list in anticipation of openings in the future. These universities are preemptively adjusting their policies in response to forthcoming governmental limits on study permits. Specifically, the 2025 reform will cap foreign student enrollments at UNSW at 9,500, significantly down from over 17,000 this year. This policy is part of a broader initiative to reduce foreign student numbers across 15 of Australia's 38 public universities.
Working in Australia: 2025 updates on skilled worker visas
In November, the Australian government revised the visa conditions for skilled workers under , aiming to attract more foreign talent. On November 7, the government issued 15,000 invitations to expatriates who scored the highest points and are employed in critical sectors such as health, computing, engineering, and education. For those not selected in this round, further chances are upcoming. Although specific dates for future invitations are not set, they typically occur monthly or bi-monthly, usually in the first half of the month. Candidates seeking to improve their prospects should aim to meet the top criteria for scoring points: being aged between 25 and 32, proficiency in English, holding qualifications recognized in Australia, and possessing skills in demand.
New Zealand: Updated skilled migrant visa requirements for foreign talent
New Zealand has recently updated its Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) visa requirements, simplifying the application process for expatriates as part of its strategy to attract foreign talent. The reformed visa point system now requires a minimum of 6 points, a significant reduction from the previous requirement of 160 points. The priority sectors for the SMC visa include healthcare, information technology, education, and engineering. Highly sought-after positions include nurses, doctors, civil and mechanical engineers, software developers, analysts, cybersecurity experts, electricians, carpenters, and qualified teachers. Â
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Revised post-study work visa to boost career opportunities for international students
The New Zealand government has reformed the Post-Study Work Visa (PSW) to enhance career opportunities for international students. Under the new regulations, expatriates who have completed at least 30 weeks of coursework in a third-cycle degree program and have continued their studies toward a master's degree without meeting the 30-week threshold are now eligible for the PSW. Those who do not meet these requirements may be granted a grace period, tailored to their specific circumstances. This reform allows students to work post-graduation while they continue their education in New Zealand. The aim is to attract and retain talented students and skilled workers. The updated policy has been well-received by universities.
United States: Adjustments in H-2B and H-1B visa allocations
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced an increase in H-2B visas for 2025, adding 64,716 temporary visas for non-agricultural workers. This boost supplements the annual cap of 66,000 H-2B visas set by Congress, bringing the total to over 130,000 for the fiscal year. 20,000 visas are earmarked for workers from El Salvador, Guatemala, Colombia, Honduras, Haiti, Ecuador, or Costa Rica. The H-2B visa, commonly utilized by the hotel, tourism, and agri-food industries, aims to address labor shortages by allowing more seasonal and temporary employment. However, companies must demonstrate the unavailability of American workers for these roles. Additionally, measures to enhance the protection of expatriate workers are being strengthened.
Conversely, there has been a reduction in H-1B visa issuances, commonly utilized by technology firms. The primary factors for this decline include the ongoing economic downturn and the rise of artificial intelligence technologies. With the political changes and the potential return of Donald Trump to power, the tech industry anticipates possibly stricter regulations on H-1B visas, reflecting broader immigration reform concerns.
Remote work flexibility with the H-1B visa
A recent modification to the H-1B visa regulations now permits visa holders to work remotely from a state different from where their sponsoring employer is based. Successful implementation of this change requires close collaboration among employers, legal advisors, and immigration services. To ensure compliance and effective remote work arrangements, it is crucial for all parties to adhere to established immigration procedures meticulously.
Canada: Diploma programs designed to mitigate labor shortages
Canada is addressing its economic and demographic challenges by emphasizing education, particularly through short diploma programs ranging from one to two years. These programs are specifically tailored to align with industry needs, preparing students for sectors experiencing significant labor shortages such as health (including roles like dental hygienists, oral health educators, and pharmacy technicians), technology, and engineering (such as network engineers, electrical engineering technicians, environmental technicians, and web developers). An additional benefit of these programs is their affordability, costing considerably less than longer academic courses. They also offer greater flexibility for individuals seeking to retrain in new fields. However, international students face restrictions due to a government-imposed cap, which has reduced the number of study permits by 35% in 2024, with a further 10% reduction planned for 2025.
New guidelines for multi-entry visas
The Ministry of Immigration (IRCC) has revised the issuance process for Canadian visas, shifting from the default issuance of multi-entry visas to a more selective approach. Previously, visa applicants were automatically considered for multi-entry visas, typically valid for a maximum duration of 10 years. As of November 6, this policy has been discontinued. The IRCC will now assess each application individually to determine whether a single or multi-entry visa is more appropriate based on the specific circumstances of the applicant.
The decision will consider several factors, including the purpose of the applicant's travel to Canada (e.g., single visit or frequent visits for family reasons), their status in their home country (such as student or worker), financial means, any existing ties with Canada, and the political and economic stability of their home country. Depending on the justification for their stay, even if a multi-entry visa is granted, its validity period may be shorter than the previous standard of 10 years. Â
Canada discontinues direct stream for studies program
Canada has officially ended the Direct Stream for Studies (VDE), also known as the Student Direct Stream (SDS), which was initiated in 2018. This program facilitated an expedited review process for study permit applications, averaging 20 days, for students from 14 designated countries, including the Philippines, Vietnam, Senegal, Costa Rica, India, Antigua and Barbuda, and Brazil. A parallel initiative, the Nigeria Student Express (NSE), was also launched in Nigeria and has similarly concluded as of November 8. Students from these countries will now need to apply for their study permits through the standard application process. However, any VDE or NSE applications filed before the termination date will still be processed under the former program's guidelines, honoring the quicker turnaround time previously promised. Â
New regulations for international students programsÂ
The Ministry of Immigration has confirmed upcoming reductions in the number of international students, coupled with new rules to better support and regulate their experience in Canada. Effective immediately, international students are now permitted to work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during the academic year. This change aims to enhance their ability to support themselves financially while studying.
To protect international students and combat fraud, any changes to their educational institution will now require a new study permit application and approval before the change can be made. Additionally, Designated Educational Institutions (DEIs) are now obligated to ensure the accuracy of the information provided by international students. Failure to comply with these verification requirements may result in sanctions, including a potential ban from accepting international students for one year.
Increase in visa application fees
Starting December 1, there will be an increase in the fees for applying for or extending various types of visas in Canada. The changes will affect applications for temporary residence permits, as well as the restoration of student or worker status. The current fees for these applications stand at 229.77, 379, and 384 Canadian dollars, respectively. The specific amounts of the new fees have not yet been announced. This change will not affect applicants who have already submitted their complete applications and paid the existing fees before the increase. Â
