Author: Charlie

Visas, Immigration & Nationality

IHS Fee Update: IHS Fee Set to Increase on February 2024

The UK Government has approved a significant 66% increase in the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), with the change set to take effect from February 6, 2024.  The IHS, introduced in 2015, requires migrants to contribute to NHS healthcare costs and is payable alongside most visa applications for access to the National Health Service (NHS) during…
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Discovering Destinations: Where Your Soon-to-Expire British Passport Still Holds Value

Planning a trip abroad? Dealing with an expiring passport can turn the pleasure of arranging a surprise getaway into a nightmare, especially for UK travellers who must wait a whopping ten weeks for their passport renewal from the Passport Office. Ensure a smooth journey by understanding the passport validity requirements of your chosen destination. Here’s…
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Germany Extends Popular €49 Public Transport Pass into 2024

Germany has decided to extend its highly popular €49 public transport pass, known as the ‘Deutschlandticket,’ throughout 2024.  Launched in 2023, the pass, which grants unlimited access to local and regional public transport, witnessed overwhelming success, with over three million Germans purchasing it within the first month of its release.  Germany’s 16 regional transport ministers…
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Switzerland Eases Air and Sea Travel Regulations with Bulgaria and Romania

The Federal Council of Switzerland has recently declared a significant policy shift, announcing the discontinuation of passport checks at its airports for passengers arriving from Bulgaria and Romania, effective March 31, 2024. This move follows the EU’s decision to lift border controls by air and sea for Bulgaria and Romania however controls will remain in…
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France Court Rejects Visa Deal For British Second Home Owners

British owners of second homes in France have been handed a setback after a state official revoked their exemption from stringent limits on their time in France. The measure, which would allow British citizens who own property in France to stay in the country for more than 90 days without a visa after Brexit, was…
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