Category: Uncategorized

Visas, Immigration & Nationality

Australia Doubles International Student Visa Costs

Australia has significantly increased visa application fees for international students, aiming to enhance the “integrity” of its education sector and manage overall migration.  The fee has jumped by 125%, from AU$710 to AU$1,600, effective July 1, 2024. Australia boasts one of the world’s largest international education sectors, valued at around A$48 billion annually, accounting for…
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US Passport Online Renewal Is Available Again

The US State Department has reopened its online passport renewal portal, reintroducing a convenient service that has been on hold for over a year.  There are a limited number of slots for US passport holders to renew online each day. The window for US passport renewal applications opens each day at 1 p.m. ET and…
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Hungary Relaunches Golden Visa Program

Hungary is back with its Golden Visa Program, now called the Guest Investor Program (GIP), starting July 1, 2024.  This program, which stopped in March 2017, allows wealthy people from outside the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) to get residency in Hungary. This residence permit is granted for 10 years and may…
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China Expands Visa-Free Travel to Poland

China has made it easier for travellers from Poland, Australia, and New Zealand by extending visa-free travel until the end of 2025. This initiative, launched in early 2024, is part of a broader plan to welcome more visitors from around the world for business and tourism. Since the start of 2024, China has gradually rolled…
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EU Membership: Ukraine and Moldova Take Steps Toward Joining The EU

The European Union is officially beginning the process of welcoming Ukraine and Moldova as potential new members. On June 25, the EU’s Economic and Financial Affairs (ECOFIN) Council, which includes ministers from all 27 member countries, decided to start accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova.  “I am grateful to everyone on our team who worked…
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