Category: Immigration updates

Visas, Immigration & Nationality

UK Visa Financial Requirements for 2025: What You Need to Know

The UK government has announced updated financial requirements for individuals applying for student, tourist, work, or family visas in 2025.  These changes aim to reflect the rising cost of living and inflation, ensuring that applicants can meet the financial demands of living in or visiting the UK. Whether you’re planning to study, work, or spend…
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EU Officially Ends Visa-Free Travel for Vanuatu Over Golden Passport Concerns

In a historic move, the European Union has officially revoked its visa-free travel agreement with Vanuatu due to concerns over its controversial “golden passport” program.  This marks the first time the EU has taken such action against a country for operating citizenship-by-investment schemes. Effective December 12,2024, the decision brings a permanent end to the visa…
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What Schengen Membership Means for Travel in Romania and Bulgaria

Starting January 1, 2025, Romania and Bulgaria will officially become full members of the Schengen Area, Europe’s borderless travel zone.  This landmark move will simplify travel between these countries and the rest of the Schengen states for over 450 million citizens. Romania and Bulgaria joined the European Union (EU) in 2007, but border controls have…
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UK Updates Travel Advice for Israel

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice for Israel, easing restrictions for several popular tourist destinations.  Previously, the FCDO advised against “all travel” or “all but essential travel” to most parts of Israel. The revised guidance applies to major tourist destinations, including: Travellers are now encouraged to consult the…
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Greece Approves Major Tax Hikes for Tourists: Will It Affect Your Plans?

Planning a trip to Greece next year? Get ready to budget a little more.  Starting in 2025, Greece will introduce significantly higher tourist taxes on accommodations and cruise ship visits. The move, approved by the Greek Parliament, is aimed at addressing the financial toll of climate change, which has brought devastating floods, droughts, and wildfires…
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