Category: Germany

Visas, Immigration & Nationality

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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Discovering Destinations: Where Your Soon-to-Expire British Passport Still Holds Value

Planning a trip abroad? Dealing with an expiring passport can turn the pleasure of arranging a surprise getaway into a nightmare, especially for UK travellers who must wait a whopping ten weeks for their passport renewal from the Passport Office. Ensure a smooth journey by understanding the passport validity requirements of your chosen destination. Here’s…
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Germany Extends Popular €49 Public Transport Pass into 2024

Germany has decided to extend its highly popular €49 public transport pass, known as the ‘Deutschlandticket,’ throughout 2024.  Launched in 2023, the pass, which grants unlimited access to local and regional public transport, witnessed overwhelming success, with over three million Germans purchasing it within the first month of its release.  Germany’s 16 regional transport ministers…
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Switzerland Eases Air and Sea Travel Regulations with Bulgaria and Romania

The Federal Council of Switzerland has recently declared a significant policy shift, announcing the discontinuation of passport checks at its airports for passengers arriving from Bulgaria and Romania, effective March 31, 2024. This move follows the EU’s decision to lift border controls by air and sea for Bulgaria and Romania however controls will remain in…
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German Parliament Approves Easing Citizenship Rules

German lawmakers have approved new legislation easing the rules on naturalisation and ending restrictions on holding dual citizenship.  The German government says the bill should help make Germany more appealing to international skilled workers and help to alleviate labour shortages. Parliament voted 382-234 for the plan with 23 lawmakers abstaining. The opposition fiercely opposed the…
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