Category: Asia Pacific

Visas, Immigration & Nationality

Malta’s Golden Passport Scheme Survives EU Legal Challenge

Malta‘s controversial “golden passport” scheme, which allows wealthy individuals to buy EU citizenship through a large financial investment, has long stirred debates across Europe.  While critics argue it threatens the security and integrity of the EU, a recent legal opinion might just keep it alive. The European Court of Justice (CJEU) suggests that every state…
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More European Countries to Enjoy Visa-Free Travel to China

Over the last year, China has taken an unusual step of relaxing its requirements for foreign tourists. Citizens of Greece, Slovenia, Norway and Denmark will soon be able to visit China without a visa for up to 15 days. This move is part of China’s broader effort to strengthen diplomatic ties and boost tourism. During…
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Overstaying Your Schengen Visa in Portugal? Here’s What You Need to Know About Fines

If you’ve overstayed your welcome in Portugal, you might want to pay attention especially when it comes to fines.  Contrary to popular belief, getting caught isn’t going to cost you a jaw-dropping €700, according to a recent report by Publico. Instead, Portugal’s Public Security Police (PSP) are handing out fines ranging between €80 and €250…
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EU’s Entry/Exit System Faces Fresh Delays Ahead of November 2024 Launch

The European Union’s much-anticipated Entry-Exit System (EES), which aims to revolutionise the way non-EU travellers enter and exit its borders, is once again under scrutiny as doubts grow over its readiness for the November 10 launch. EES, a cutting-edge biometric system designed to streamline border crossings, will use digital photographs and fingerprints to register travellers…
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EU Citizens Required to Get UK Travel Authorisation in 2025

The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will soon apply to visitors from Europe, Australia, the US and Canada. The Home Office began rolling out the scheme last November for nationals of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. From April 2, 2025, EU citizens travelling to the UK without a…
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