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Visas, Immigration & Nationality

France Increases Schengen Visa Processing Time and Fees for Russian Applicants

In September 2022, the European Council suspended the visa facilitation agreement between the European Union and Russia, significantly complicating the process for Russian citizens looking to visit the Schengen area for short stays. France, a key member of the Schengen area, has implemented these changes, resulting in longer processing times and higher fees for Russian…
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UK Faces Significant Drop in Student and Work Visa Applications

New data from the British government reveals a noticeable decline in both student and work visa applications in 2024.  These drops are likely tied to recent policy changes aimed at reducing legal migration, a move that could have serious implications for the education and healthcare sectors. Industry leaders are now calling on the government to…
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Countries Urge Caution for UK Travel Amidst Violent Incidents

Several countries have issued warnings to their citizens about travelling to the United Kingdom (UK), following a series of anti-immigrant riots across Britain. Over the past week, violent riots have erupted in various UK cities, including popular tourist destinations such as Manchester and Liverpool. Rioters have attacked hotels housing asylum seekers, clashed with police, and…
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EU Parliament Urges Suspension of Hungary from Schengen Over Russian Visa Concerns

Hungary’s recent move to relax entry requirements for Russian and Belarusian citizens has sparked significant concern within the European Union.  At least 70 European politicians signed a letter urging the European Commission to suspend Hungary’s participation in the visa-free Schengen Area. “We call on the European Commission to take urgent measures to investigate Hungary’s decision,…
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UK Suspends Proposed Increase in Family Visa Income Requirement

The United Kingdom’s plan to increase the family visa threshold to £38,700 in 2025 has been halted by the new government. This decision was confirmed by UK Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, in a written statement to the House of Commons.  The plan was to raise the threshold from £18,600 to £ 29,000, with future increases…
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