Category: Latest Immigration News

Visas, Immigration & Nationality

Russian Visitors Granted 90 Days Visa-Free In Thailand

From November 1, 2023, to April 30, 2024, Thailand will grant Russian tourists a 90-day visa-free stay, an extension from the previous 30-day limit. The move comes as tourists from the country have had increasingly few options for travel, given Moscow’s war on Ukraine, the impact of sanctions, travel restrictions, and a weakening ruble. Thailand’s…
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Finland Simplifies Student Residency Applications With Automation

Finland, known for its high-quality education system and vibrant student life, has become an increasingly attractive destination for international students. In a move to accelerate and standardise the processing of student residence permits, the Finnish Immigration Service initiated a pilot program on 19 October 2023 to automatically issue positive decisions on student residence permit applications …
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Slovenia Extends Internal Border Controls With Croatia & Hungary

The Slovenian government decided to extend border controls on the Croatian and Hungarian borders until November 19, 2023. Slovenia initially reinstated temporary border controls with Croatia and Hungary on October 21, originally planned for a ten-day period. The Ministry of Interior of Slovenia has cited the continued need for enhanced security due to elevated terrorist…
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Japan Takes StepsTo Counter Over Tourism

As foreign visitors return in droves following the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan has outlined new plans to counter problems associated with overtourism. Recognising the pressing need to address the adverse effects of large-scale tourism, officials revealed countermeasure plans which include a  strengthening infrastructure in order to welcome tourists and better cope with overcrowding in popular cities. …
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Temporary Border Controls in the Schengen Zone

The Schengen Agreement is predicated on the fundamental principle of allowing the freedom of movement for its citizens within the Schengen Zone meaning no controls at the group’s internal borders. However, there are clauses in the treaty that provide for the temporary reinstatement of border controls, primarily when there is a threat to public order…
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