Category: Finland

Visas, Immigration & Nationality

Cyprus Sets Sights on Schengen Area Accession by 2024

Cyprus is gearing up for Schengen Area membership, eyeing 2024 as the pivotal year for its inclusion in the passport-free zone. A full-fledged member of the European Union since May 1, 2004, Cyprus has yet to secure a spot within the Schengen area. Highlighting the country’s foreign policy agenda for the upcoming year, Foreign Minister…
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EU to Allow Visa-Free Entry for Citizens of Kosovo With Serbian Passports

In April 2023, the  European Parliament granted visa-free entry to the Schengen zone to citizens of Kosovo beginning January 1, 2024. However, Kosovo citizens who possess passports issued by Serbian authorities, most of whom are Serbs, will not be able to travel to the Schengen area without a visa until they obtain valid and legal…
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EU Enlargement: Will The EU Welcome New Members?

The European Union’s Commission recently greenlit the 2023 Enlargement Package, offering a comprehensive evaluation of the advancements made by Georgia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Ukraine. Recommendations have been put forth for each country’s progression towards EU membership. The Commission has recommended granting Georgia the status of a candidate country, marking a significant step in its…
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European Council Approves Online Schengen Visa Application Process

In a pivotal stride toward modernising travel protocols, the Council of the European Union has approved the digitalisation of the Schengen visa application process, marking a significant shift in travel convenience. Recent deliberations among EU foreign ministers have resulted in the green signal for digitising Schengen visa applications. This transformative online platform is poised to…
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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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