Category: News & Events

Visas, Immigration & Nationality

Finland Increased Minimum Salary Criteria For EU Blue Cards

The Finnish immigration authorities have introduced revised salary thresholds for Specialist and EU Blue Card permit applications in 2024. These adjusted salary levels apply to both first residence permits and extensions. Failing to meet the new requirements necessitates applying for a residence permit for an employed person, as opposed to a Specialist or EU Blue…
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Biometric Passport Checks Threaten Eurostar Services

The much-delayed post-Brexit EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is due to go into effect in October this year, and Eurostar may be driven to reduce the number of trains because the facilities at London St Pancras have been considered “inadequate” to perform these new checks. The EES is an automated IT system for registering travellers from…
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Germany Approved Simplified Citizenship Rules

German lawmakers have passed a bill that makes the process of obtaining citizenship easier and moved to simplify repatriations. The long-awaited citizenship law reform has cleared the parliamentary process and is expected to be officially signed into law in the coming weeks. The naturalisation reform, approved by the upper house of parliament on 02 February…
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EU Updates Schengen Borders Code

The European Union Parliament, in conjunction with the Council of the EU presidency, has successfully negotiated an updated Schengen Borders Code, marking a significant step towards reinforcing seamless movement within the Schengen area. The reform aims to strengthen free movement within the Schengen area, clarify rules, and reduce the amount of temporarily reinstated border controls…
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EU Proposed To Raise Schengen Visa Fee

The European Commission is contemplating a 12 percent increase in the fees associated with obtaining a Schengen visa.  The proposal suggests raising the basic fee for adults from €80 to €90 and for children from €40 to €45. Schengen visas are required for non-EU citizens from countries not covered by the EU/Schengen area’s 90-day rule. …
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