Author: Charlie

Visas, Immigration & Nationality

Romania’s Path to Schengen Membership: Austria Considers Lifting Veto

Romania is closer than ever to full Schengen membership, with Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu suggesting that Romania’s land borders could join the Schengen Zone by March 2025.  While Romania gained partial Schengen access by air and sea on March 31, 2024, its land borders remain restricted. After years of blocking Romania and Bulgaria’s Schengen membership…
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Greece to Introduce Major Changes to Golden Visa Program in 2025

Starting January 1, 2025, Greece’s Golden Visa Program will undergo significant reforms, shifting its focus from real estate investments toward more productive avenues, such as startup investments and attracting foreign investors. In Greece’s Draft Budgetary Plan for 2025, the government has detailed a new “Startup Investment” pathway as part of a tax bill introduced by…
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Portugal’s Golden Visa Gains Momentum Among Wealthy Americans Post-Election

More and more Americans are eyeing Portugal’s Golden Visa Program, especially following the latest US presidential election, where political shifts have fueled interest in overseas residency options. In recent years, wealthy Americans have shown a growing desire for dual citizenship or overseas residencies, particularly during political and economic uncertainty. While some are drawn to Portugal’s…
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7 More Countries Can Now Visit China Without a Visa

China is opening its doors wider than ever with a recent expansion of its visa-free entry program, now allowing citizens from seven additional countries to visit for up to 15 days without needing a visa.  This move is part of China’s broader effort to revive international tourism and stimulate economic growth after the pandemic years…
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Slovenia Implements Language Test for Foreign Nationals Applying for Permanent Residency

Slovenia has introduced stricter language requirements for foreign nationals seeking permanent residency or permit extensions for family reunification.  As of November 1, 2024, all applicants for a permanent residence permit or those renewing their family reunification permits must demonstrate basic proficiency in Slovenian. Applicants now need to pass an A2-level Slovenian language test to meet…
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