What's changed .

Sub-standard salary thresholds (healthcare, agri-food) phased out by 2030

The December 2025 roadmap formalised the phasing-out of sub-standard Minimum Annual Remuneration (MAR) thresholds for healthcare and agri-food sectors by 2030 (rather than 2026 as originally planned). Sub-standard thresholds rise by 9% in 2026 as the first step.

Who it affects: Employers in healthcare, care, and agri-food sectors relying on sub-standard employment permits.

DETE — Employment Permits Salary Thresholds Roadmap 2025 ↗ · Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Mar 2026

Announced Visa & immigration

Salary-threshold roadmap: CSEP rises from €38,000 to €40,904 on 1 March 2026

DETE published a gradual-increase roadmap in December 2025 following a ministerial review. The Critical Skills Employment Permit minimum salary rises from €38,000 to €40,904 (a 7.66% increase) on 1 March 2026. The non-degree CSEP threshold rises from €64,000 to €68,911. Further increases are scheduled annually through to 2030.

Who it affects: Employers making CSEP applications from 1 March 2026 onwards; existing permit holders at the prior threshold are unaffected for the current permit cycle.

DETE — Employment Permits Salary Thresholds Roadmap 2025 ↗ · Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 27 Feb 2026

In force Visa & immigration

H-1B lottery replaced by weighted (wage-based) selection

USCIS finalised a rule replacing the randomised H-1B lottery with a weighted selection system that prioritises higher-paid roles. Registrations are weighted at different rates depending on the prevailing-wage level (Level I receives the lowest weight; Level IV the highest). Effective 27 February 2026; applies to the FY2027 cap registration season.

Who it affects: All H-1B cap-subject employers and prospective registrants from FY2027 onwards.

USCIS — US Citizenship and Immigration Services ↗ · Federal Register ↗ · US Department of Homeland Security ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2026

In force Visa & immigration

TTPS eligible-university list expanded to 200 institutions

The aggregate list of eligible universities under TTPS was expanded from 186 to 200 institutions effective 1 January 2026 — adding institutions ranked top-100 in any of four major rankings (Times Higher Education, QS, US News, Shanghai Jiao Tong) plus specialist top-five lists for hospitality and arts/design. The 2024 expansion (from 176 to 198) and 2025 expansion (to 200) reflect a steady widening of the talent-attraction net.

Who it affects: TTPS Categories B and C applicants from January 2026.

Hong Kong Immigration Department ↗ · Government Information Services (HK SAR) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2026

In force Visa & immigration

EU Blue Card 2026 salary thresholds updated

The 2026 update to the EU Blue Card minimum gross-salary thresholds tracks the rise in the statutory pension-insurance ceiling (Beitragsbemessungsgrenze). Regular-occupation and shortage-occupation thresholds both rose; applicants should verify the current figures on BAMF or Make it in Germany before filing.

Who it affects: Non-EU applicants for the EU Blue Card from 1 January 2026.

Make it in Germany (Federal Government) ↗ · BAMF — Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Jan 2026

Announced Visa & immigration

Further 2026 raises announced for Highly Skilled Migrant threshold

The government announced additional uplift to the Highly Skilled Migrant salary thresholds for 2026 — continuing a pattern of above-inflation increases. Practitioners should reconfirm the exact 2026 figures at IND closer to the transition date; the annual adjustment is published in December.

Who it affects: Non-EU applicants planning Highly Skilled Migrant or EU Blue Card applications for 2026 onwards.

IND — Required income amounts ↗ · IND — Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2026

Announced Visa & immigration

COMPASS scoring updated — sector benchmarks, qualifications list, Shortage Occupation List

MOM published an updated COMPASS scoring round in September 2025: sector-specific salary benchmarks recalibrated (most upward), recognised institutions list refreshed (additions to top-tier and degree-equivalent professional qualifications), and the Shortage Occupation List updated with new eligible roles and tighter conditions.

Who it affects: New EP applicants from January 2026; renewals from July 2026.

Singapore Ministry of Manpower ↗ · Singapore Economic Development Board ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 29 Nov 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Migration Amendment (Skilled Visa Reform Technical Measures) Regulations 2025

Effective 29 November 2025, technical amendments to the Migration Regulations 1994 aligned the operational mechanics of the Skills in Demand visa — extending the Minister's power to cancel SID visas where sponsorship obligations are breached, updating sponsored-person definitions under labour agreements, clarifying employer-sponsor obligation termination circumstances, and ensuring overseas SID refusals are reviewable.

Who it affects: Technical compliance for SID 482 sponsors and applicants.

Parliament of Australia ↗ · Department of Home Affairs (Australia) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 4 Nov 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Visa-free entry ports expanded to 65

Five new entry ports were added to the visa-free transit programme on 4 November 2025 — including Guangzhou, Zhuhai's Hengqin, Zhongshan, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, and the West Kowloon Station — taking the total to 65 ports across 24 provinces. Materially improves cross-border accessibility from Hong Kong to Mainland China.

Who it affects: Travellers entering China at newly-added ports.

National Immigration Administration of China ↗ · State Council of the People's Republic of China ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Oct 2025

In force Visa & immigration

DV Lottery ineligible-country list updated for DV-2027

The Department of State's annual DV-lottery ineligibility list is recalculated each year based on prior-5-year immigration volumes. For DV-2027 (registration Oct-Nov 2025), several countries were added to the ineligible list (Brazil, Colombia joined the existing list of high-volume countries); some smaller countries previously ineligible became eligible. Practical effect: shifts in who can register for the 50,000 annual diversity visas.

Who it affects: Prospective DV-lottery registrants from countries added to or removed from the ineligible list.

US Department of State ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 30 Sept 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) pilot launched

DHA launched an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) pilot programme from late 2025 — applying initially to select visa-exempt countries as a pre-travel online authorisation (similar to ESTA or ETIAS). Expected to streamline border processing and enhance security screening. Full rollout expected through 2026.

Who it affects: Visa-exempt short-term visitors from specific participating countries.

Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗ · South African Government ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 21 Sept 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Presidential Proclamation restricting entry of certain non-immigrant workers

A companion Presidential Proclamation to the H-1B fee order restricted entry of certain non-immigrant workers pending the Department of Homeland Security's publication of implementing guidance. The proclamation's practical scope has developed through 2025–2026 agency guidance; ongoing litigation contests several provisions.

Who it affects: Non-immigrant workers in categories specified by subsequent DHS implementing guidance.

The White House ↗ · US Department of Homeland Security ↗ · US Department of State ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 21 Sept 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Presidential Proclamation imposes US$100,000 fee per H-1B petition

Presidential Proclamation issued 19 September 2025 imposed a US$100,000 additional fee per H-1B visa petition as a condition of eligibility, effective immediately for new petitions submitted after 12:01 am EDT on 21 September 2025. Applies to FY2026 lottery petitions and any subsequent H-1B petitions. Litigation challenges filed; implementation continues pending court rulings.

Who it affects: All new H-1B petitions submitted after 12:01 am EDT, 21 September 2025.

The White House ↗ · USCIS — US Citizenship and Immigration Services ↗ · US Department of State ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 22 Jul 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Skilled Worker threshold raised again to £41,700

Second increase in 15 months: the general Skilled Worker salary threshold rose from £38,700 to £41,700 on 22 July 2025. Going-rate thresholds for specific occupations were similarly re-indexed to updated ASHE (Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings) percentiles.

Who it affects: New Skilled Worker applicants from 22 July 2025 onwards; sponsor employers planning hires.

GOV.UK — Home Office ↗ · UK Visas and Immigration ↗ · Migration Advisory Committee ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

Announced 15 Jul 2025

Announced Visa & immigration

Proposed prevailing-wage level reform for H-1B and PERM

DOL issued a notice of proposed rulemaking on prevailing-wage levels for H-1B, H-1B1, E-3, and PERM labour certifications in mid-2025. The proposal would raise Level 1 prevailing wages to approximately the 35th percentile of OES data, Level 2 to the 53rd, Level 3 to the 72nd, and Level 4 to the 90th. The rule is in comment and review; implementation deferred.

Who it affects: Prospective H-1B workers and PERM green-card beneficiaries; sponsoring employers.

U.S. Department of Labor ↗ · Federal Register ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Jul 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Core Skills Income Threshold indexed to AUD 73,150 for 2025-26

The Core Skills Income Threshold rose to AUD 73,150/year for 2025-26 (indexed from AUD 70,000 initial) — an approximately 4.5% uplift. Specialist Skills threshold (AUD 135,000+) remains unchanged. Annual indexation is now the established pattern under the SID framework.

Who it affects: SID Core Skills applicants sponsored from 1 July 2025.

Department of Home Affairs (Australia) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 16 Jun 2025

In force Visa & immigration

EU Blue Card intra-EU mobility streamlined from June 2025

Under the June 2025 decree, Blue Card holders arriving in France from another EU member state to work can begin their French employment up to 30 days before receiving their French Blue Card (short-term mobility), and transition to long-term mobility after 12 months as before. Reduces a practical friction for Blue Card holders already elsewhere in the EU.

Who it affects: EU Blue Card holders in other member states considering a move to France.

Légifrance — French Official Legal Publication ↗ · Service-Public.fr — Official administrative portal ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 16 Jun 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Decree adjusts Talent salary thresholds and processing timeframes

Decree in force 16 June 2025 updated Talent permit salary thresholds and operational procedures. Talent – Qualified Employee threshold reduced from €43,243.20 to €39,582 gross per year (making the route more accessible to recent graduates). Talent – EU Blue Card threshold raised from €53,836.50 to €59,373 gross per year. Streamlined procedures introduced for EU Blue Card spouses, including simultaneous processing of the applicant and accompanying family permits.

Who it affects: Talent – Qualified Employee and EU Blue Card applicants from 16 June 2025.

Légifrance — French Official Legal Publication ↗ · Service-Public.fr — Official administrative portal ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

Announced 15 Jun 2025

Announced Visa & immigration

Critical Skills List review announced for publication in 2026

Minister Schreiber announced a comprehensive Critical Skills List review in 2025, with consultation with business and labour-market stakeholders. Publication of the revised list is expected during 2026. Likely to add emerging-technology occupations (AI, quantum, advanced manufacturing) and potentially refine healthcare and engineering sub-categories.

Who it affects: Current and future Critical Skills Work Visa applicants.

Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 12 Jun 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Indonesia added to 240-hour visa-free transit; total reaches 55 countries

Indonesia was added to the 240-hour visa-free transit policy on 12 June 2025, bringing the total list to 55 countries. Reflects continuing post-pandemic opening and strategic engagement with major partner states.

Who it affects: Indonesian travellers transiting China.

National Immigration Administration of China ↗ · Ministry of Foreign Affairs (China) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 9 Jun 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Proclamation suspending entry from 19 countries

A Presidential proclamation signed 4 June 2025 suspended most immigrant and non-immigrant entry of nationals of twelve countries and imposed partial suspensions on seven others, effective 9 June 2025. Exemptions apply for lawful permanent residents, certain dual nationals, specific visa categories, and individuals whose entry is in the national interest.

Who it affects: Nationals of the nineteen affected countries currently outside the US or seeking US entry.

The White House ↗ · U.S. Department of State — Bureau of Consular Affairs ↗ · Federal Register ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 20 May 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Arraigo de segunda oportunidad (second-chance rootedness) created

The 2025 Reglamento introduced a new "arraigo de segunda oportunidad" path: third-country nationals who previously held legal residence for at least two years but lost it may regularise on demonstrating current Spanish ties and integration. The reform package is expected to regularise around 300,000 people per year over three years.

Who it affects: Former long-term residents who lost legal status; irregular residents who previously held status.

Boletín Oficial del Estado ↗ · Ministerio de Inclusión, Seguridad Social y Migraciones ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 20 May 2025

In force Visa & immigration

New Reglamento de Extranjería (Real Decreto 1155/2024) enters force

Real Decreto 1155/2024, approved by the Consejo de Ministros on 19 November 2024 and in force from 20 May 2025, replaces the 2011 Reglamento de Extranjería. Notable changes: simplified arraigo (rootedness) routes, new arraigo for re-entry, reduced documentation requirements, and an overhaul of the student-to-work transition. Transitional rules apply for pending cases.

Who it affects: All third-country nationals applying for residence or status change in Spain.

Boletín Oficial del Estado ↗ · Ministerio de Inclusión, Seguridad Social y Migraciones ↗ · Portal de Inmigración — Extranjería ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 10 Apr 2025

In force Visa & immigration

BRBrazil

Reciprocal visa requirement restored for US, Canadian, Australian nationals

Brazil restored the reciprocal visa requirement for US, Canadian, and Australian tourists from 10 April 2025 after a multi-year visa-waiver extension. These three countries require visas from Brazilian citizens; Brazilian policy now reciprocates. Implemented via e-visa online platform — application process is simple but has added a cost and pre-trip planning step.

Who it affects: US, Canadian, and Australian tourists and short-term visitors to Brazil.

Itamaraty — Ministério das Relações Exteriores ↗ · Ministério da Justiça e Segurança Pública — Migrações ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 2 Apr 2025

In force Visa & immigration

ETA becomes mandatory for European visitors

From 2 April 2025, citizens of EU countries (and several additional European jurisdictions) require an ETA for short visits to the UK. Completes the phased rollout that began with Gulf states in late 2023. Irish citizens remain exempt under the Common Travel Area.

Who it affects: All European visa-free travellers to the UK from 2 April 2025 onwards.

GOV.UK — Home Office ↗ · UK Visas and Immigration ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 2 Apr 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) extended to all non-visa nationals

The ETA scheme, first launched for Qatari nationals in late 2023, was rolled out to most non-visa-required countries through 2024-2025: Gulf Cooperation Council nationals from early 2024, remaining non-European visa-free nationals (including the US, Canada, and Australia) from January 2025, and European non-visa-required nationals from 2 April 2025. ETA costs £16 (rising to £10 then back) and lasts two years.

Who it affects: Short-stay visitors to the UK from non-visa-required countries.

Home Office ↗ · GOV.UK ↗ · UK Visas and Immigration ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Apr 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Online Certificate of Eligibility application expanded to all categories

The ISA expanded the online Certificate of Eligibility (COE) application system to cover all categories of work and study visas from April 2025. Previously paper-only for several niche routes. Reduces typical COE processing time by 1–3 weeks for digitally-eligible applications.

Who it affects: Japanese employers sponsoring non-Japanese hires.

Immigration Services Agency of Japan ↗ · Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 27 Mar 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Arranged-employment CRS points for LMIA-based offers removed

IRCC removed, with immediate effect on 27 March 2025, the arranged-employment points (50 or 200 CRS points) previously awarded in Express Entry for most LMIA-supported job offers. The change responded to evidence of LMIA misuse in for-sale job-offer arrangements. The 50 CRS points for provincial-nominee holders and certain other categories remained.

Who it affects: Express Entry candidates who previously relied on LMIA-based job offers for their CRS score.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ↗ · IRCC — Express Entry ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 12 Mar 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Care-worker overseas recruitment sharply restricted

From 12 March 2025, sponsors of overseas care workers on the Health and Care visa must first demonstrate that displaced care workers already in the UK have been considered for the role. The change, combined with earlier dependant-ban rules from March 2024, sharply reduced new Health and Care visas for care-worker occupations.

Who it affects: Care providers recruiting from overseas; overseas care workers pursuing UK placement.

Home Office ↗ · GOV.UK ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 7 Mar 2025

In force Visa & immigration

H-1B registration fee raised from $10 to $215

The USCIS fee rule published on 31 January 2024 raised the H-1B electronic registration fee from $10 to $215 per beneficiary registration, effective from the FY2026 cap season in March 2025. Other USCIS fees (Form I-129, I-140, I-485) also rose substantially under the same rule.

Who it affects: All H-1B-sponsoring employers; indirectly H-1B beneficiaries.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services ↗ · Federal Register ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Mar 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Atypical Working Scheme processing times extended under volume pressure

ISD reported that the Atypical Working Scheme — used for short-term specialist assignments that fall outside standard employment permits — saw processing times extend to 8–12 weeks in early 2025 from the previous 2–4-week norm. Applicants are advised to build this into project timelines.

Who it affects: Short-term specialist assignments, locum medical workers, and employers using the Atypical Scheme.

Irish Immigration Service ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Mar 2025

In force Visa & immigration

2025 Express Entry pivots toward in-Canada applicants via CEC

59% of category-based 2025 Express Entry invitations went to Canadian Experience Class (in-Canada) candidates. Reflects the federal government's priority to convert temporary residents with strong Canadian ties to permanent residence over new overseas arrivals, in the context of housing-supply pressure.

Who it affects: Temporary residents with Canadian work experience; new overseas applicants face reduced invitation volume.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ↗ · IRCC — Express Entry ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Mar 2025

In force Visa & immigration

2025 priority categories: French, healthcare, trades, education (new)

IRCC's 2025 category announcement added an Education category (5 eligible occupations), sunset the Transportation category, and reworked all other categories with additions and removals. French language, healthcare and social services, trades, and education are the four active 2025 priority categories.

Who it affects: Prospective Express Entry applicants in the 2025 priority occupations.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ↗ · IRCC — Express Entry ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Mar 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Remote Work Visa added to Immigration Regulations; launched March 2025

The Remote Work Visa was officially added to SA's Immigration Regulations on 28 March 2024; publicly launched by Minister Schreiber on 9 October 2024; applications fully operational from March 2025. 12-month initial visa, renewable annually up to 3 years. Income threshold ZAR 650,976/year (reduced from initially-proposed ZAR 1M).

Who it affects: Non-SA remote workers earning ZAR 650,976+/year.

Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗ · Government Gazette ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 27 Feb 2025

In force Visa & immigration

AEWV median-wage threshold raised to NZD 31.61/hour

INZ raised the AEWV median-wage threshold from NZD 29.66/hour to NZD 31.61/hour (approximately NZD 65,750/year full-time) from 27 February 2025. The median-wage basis is updated periodically as Statistics NZ wage data is refreshed. Materially changes the minimum salary required for most AEWV roles.

Who it affects: All new AEWV applications and renewals from 27 February 2025.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 7 Feb 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Post-Graduation Work Permit limited to specified fields

From 7 February 2025, Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility at public colleges and specified non-degree programs was limited to students graduating in listed fields of study tied to long-term labour-market shortages (agriculture, construction, healthcare, skilled trades, STEM, transport). University-degree graduates remained eligible regardless of field.

Who it affects: International students in non-university programs; universities remained unaffected.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ↗ · Government of Canada ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 22 Jan 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Study-permit cap tightened further to 437,000 for 2025

IRCC announced a 10% reduction in the 2025 study-permit intake cap to 437,000 (from 485,000 in 2024), expanded PAL (Provincial Attestation Letter) requirements to graduate students, and further narrowed Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility. Effective from late January 2025.

Who it affects: International students planning to start studies in Canada in 2025; post-graduation work plans.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ↗ · Government of Canada ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 17 Jan 2025

In force Visa & immigration

H-1B Modernization rule — specialty-occupation definition updated

USCIS's H-1B Modernization final rule published on 18 December 2024 took effect 17 January 2025. The "specialty occupation" definition was clarified to allow multiple qualifying degree fields, deference to prior H-1B approvals was codified, cap-gap for F-1 students was extended to 1 April of the following year, and F-1 ownership of the sponsoring employer was explicitly permitted under conditions.

Who it affects: H-1B candidates and employers; F-1 students transitioning to H-1B; entrepreneurs sponsoring themselves.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services ↗ · Federal Register ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 17 Jan 2025

In force Visa & immigration

USCIS H-1B Modernization Rule — registration integrity, degree recognition

Effective 17 January 2025, the USCIS H-1B Modernization Rule introduced several changes: beneficiary-centric registration (each individual eligible for selection once regardless of multiple employer registrations), clarification of specialty-occupation standards (direct relationship between degree and role required), streamlined cap-gap student extensions. Pre-dates and is distinct from the 2025 Trump administration weighted-selection rule.

Who it affects: All H-1B cap-subject registrants and employers.

USCIS — US Citizenship and Immigration Services ↗ · Federal Register ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Digital Nomad Visa income threshold rises with 2025 SMI

Because the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa income threshold is set at 200% of the SMI, the 2025 SMI increase raised the monthly minimum income benchmark for applicants to approximately €2,763 (gross, for a principal applicant), with incremental additions for accompanying family members. Applicants should verify current figures on the consular website.

Who it affects: Remote workers applying for the Digital Nomad Visa from 2025.

Portal de Inmigración — Extranjería ↗ · Ministerio de Inclusión, Seguridad Social y Migraciones ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Jan 2025

In force Visa & immigration

US W-2 employees confirmed eligible for Digital Nomad Visa

Consular practice in 2025 confirmed that US W-2 employees (employees on US payroll) can qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa, clarifying an ambiguity from the original 2023 Startups Law that had caused inconsistent consular decisions. Eligibility requires the employer to provide documentation authorising remote work from Spain and evidence of social-security compliance.

Who it affects: US remote workers employed through standard W-2 arrangements with US companies.

Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores, UE y Cooperación ↗ · Ministerio de Inclusión, Seguridad Social y Migraciones ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2025

In force Visa & immigration

EU Blue Card 2025 salary thresholds updated

The annual update to the EU Blue Card salary thresholds for 2025 was published. Thresholds are indexed to the German statutory pension-insurance contribution ceiling (Beitragsbemessungsgrenze) and rise each year. Applicants should confirm the current figure on BAMF or Make it in Germany before applying; the practical rule of thumb is "regular" ≈ pension ceiling × 50%, "shortage" ≈ × 45.3%.

Who it affects: Non-EU applicants for the EU Blue Card in 2025.

Make it in Germany (Federal Government) ↗ · BAMF — Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge ↗ · verified 2026-04-18

In force 1 Jan 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Global Talent Attraction Initiative — multiple-stream package announced

The Yoon administration announced a Global Talent Attraction Initiative for 2025 covering multiple visa streams — expansion of the Top-Tier Visa, broader F-2-7 points-based eligibility, and proposed 18-month "Global Talent Visa" for individuals with peer-recognised exceptional achievement. Implementation began January 2025; full rollout extends through 2026.

Who it affects: Future foreign-talent applicants across multiple visa categories.

Office of the President of Korea ↗ · Korea Ministry of Justice ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Highly Skilled Migrant salary thresholds updated for 2025

IND's annual adjustment raised the Highly Skilled Migrant monthly gross salary thresholds by 6.70%: €5,688 for applicants aged 30 and over, €4,171 for under-30s, and €2,989 for recent graduates (within three years of graduation from a qualifying university or completion of the Orientation Year). EU Blue Card thresholds were adjusted to €5,688 standard and €4,551 for holders with a higher-education diploma obtained within the last three years.

Who it affects: Non-EU applicants to the Highly Skilled Migrant and EU Blue Card routes from 1 January 2025.

IND — Required income amounts ↗ · IND — Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Post-study job-search residence permit extended to 24 months

The Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS) for recent graduates — allowing international graduates to remain in France to seek employment aligned with their qualifications — was extended from 12 to 24 months from 1 January 2025. Accessible after a master's-level or professional-license qualification.

Who it affects: International graduates of French higher-education institutions.

Ministère de l'Intérieur ↗ · Légifrance ↗ · Service-Public.fr ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Jan 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Highly Skilled Migrant salary thresholds raised for 2025

The IND's Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant) minimum salary thresholds for 2025 were published: €5,688 gross per month for age 30+, €4,171 for under-30, and €2,989 for recent graduates. Thresholds are indexed annually.

Who it affects: Sponsored highly skilled migrant workers and recognised-sponsor employers.

Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst (IND) ↗ · Rijksoverheid ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Jan 2025

In force Visa & immigration

PNP provincial allocations reduced for 2025

Under the reduced 2025 Immigration Levels Plan, provincial PNP allocations were cut approximately 50% from 2024 levels. Individual provinces (Ontario, BC, Alberta in particular) immediately tightened their own PNP invitation criteria in response. Timelines for nomination invitations materially extended.

Who it affects: Prospective Provincial Nominee Program applicants across all provinces.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2025

In force Visa & immigration

Employment Pass minimum salary raised to S$5,600 (S$6,200 financial services)

MOM raised the Employment Pass minimum monthly salary from S$5,000 to S$5,600 for general sectors and from S$5,500 to S$6,200 for financial services, effective for new applications from 1 January 2025 and renewals from 1 January 2026. Age-band progression also recalibrated — minimum for mid-40s applicants now S$10,700 / S$11,800.

Who it affects: New EP applicants from 1 January 2025; existing EP holders affected at next renewal.

Singapore Ministry of Manpower ↗ · Singapore Economic Development Board ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 17 Dec 2024

In force Visa & immigration

240-hour visa-free transit policy launched (extended from 72/144 hours)

On 17 December 2024, the National Immigration Administration extended the visa-free transit policy from 72/144 hours to 240 hours (10 days). 21 new entry/exit ports were added (taking the total to 60); coverage expanded to 24 provinces (added Shanxi, Anhui, Jiangxi, Hainan, Guizhou). Travellers must hold confirmed interline tickets to a third country.

Who it affects: Citizens of 55 eligible countries transiting through China for tourism / business / family visits.

National Immigration Administration of China ↗ · Ministry of Foreign Affairs (China) ↗ · State Council of the People's Republic of China ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 7 Dec 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Core Skills Occupation List replaces legacy skilled lists

The Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) — maintained by Jobs and Skills Australia — replaced the multiple legacy occupation lists (MLTSSL, STSOL, ROL) for SID Core Skills purposes. CSOL is designed to respond dynamically to labour-market-shortage indicators. Jobs and Skills Australia publishes updates at least annually; reconfirm before lodging.

Who it affects: Employers and applicants navigating the SID Core Skills stream.

Jobs and Skills Australia ↗ · Department of Home Affairs (Australia) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 7 Dec 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Condition 8107 allows 180 days with other employers

The reformed Condition 8107 now allows SID 482 visa holders to cease work with their sponsor and work for any other employer for up to 180 days (or up to 1 year cumulatively over the visa's duration). Materially reduces the historic tied-to-sponsor vulnerability of employer-sponsored visa holders.

Who it affects: All SID 482 visa holders.

Department of Home Affairs (Australia) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 7 Dec 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Work-experience requirement reduced from 2 years to 1 year

As part of the SID visa reform, the required prior work experience was reduced from 2 years to 1 year. Opens the SID pathway to applicants who would previously have been ineligible on work-experience grounds — particularly recent graduates and early-career specialists.

Who it affects: All SID 482 applicants.

Department of Home Affairs (Australia) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 7 Dec 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Skills in Demand (SID) visa replaces TSS 482

The Subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa replaced the former TSS visa on 7 December 2024 — the largest overhaul of employer-sponsored migration since 2018. Three streams: Core Skills (AUD 73,150 CSIT), Specialist Skills (AUD 135,000+), Essential Skills (Labour Agreement, rebranded for 2026). 4-year validity, direct path to PR via ENS, enhanced worker mobility.

Who it affects: All employer-sponsored temporary skilled migration from December 2024.

Department of Home Affairs (Australia) ↗ · Jobs and Skills Australia ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 7 Dec 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Global Talent visa (858) priority sectors realigned under SID

The Global Talent programme's priority sectors were realigned under the SID transition — confirmed focus on tech, health industries, agri-food, resources, defence/space, financial services, education. Salary benchmark updated in line with Fair Work High Income Threshold indexation. Core operational framework of the programme unchanged.

Who it affects: Exceptional-talent applicants in emerging priority sectors.

Department of Home Affairs (Australia) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Dec 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Green List of shortage occupations updated

INZ's Green List of shortage occupations was reviewed and updated in late 2024 — several tech and engineering occupations added to Tier 1 (Straight to Residence); some healthcare roles reclassified between tiers. The Green List is the direct-to-residence fast-track mechanism; periodic rotation reflects evolving labour-market shortages.

Who it affects: Applicants in newly-added or newly-removed Green List occupations.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Dec 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Foreign-student post-study work residence permit pilot launched

A pilot programme launched in select cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Shenzhen) from December 2024 to allow foreign graduates of Chinese universities to apply for a post-study residence permit (1-year duration) without requiring a Z visa Notification at the time of application. Material softening of the historic constraint that foreign students could not transition directly to employment without leaving the country.

Who it affects: Non-Chinese graduates of Mainland Chinese universities seeking employment in China.

National Immigration Administration of China ↗ · State Council of the People's Republic of China ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Dec 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Work to Residence — Straight to Residence pathway for Tier 1 Green List continuing

Operational confirmation that the Work to Residence — Straight to Residence pathway for Tier 1 Green List occupations continues unchanged through 2025–2026. Tier 1 applicants can apply for Permanent Residence directly from overseas with a qualifying NZ job offer. Tier 2 applicants retain the 2-year Work to Residence transitional pathway.

Who it affects: Prospective applicants on the Tier 1 Green List.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 30 Nov 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Unilateral 30-day visa-free entry extended to 30+ countries

A parallel programme of unilateral visa-free entry (30 days for tourism, business, family visit, transit) was progressively extended through 2024–2025 to over 30 countries — including most EU member states, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, the UK, Brazil, and several others. Distinct from the 240-hour transit policy: no onward-ticket requirement.

Who it affects: Tourists, business visitors, and short-term-stay foreign nationals from designated countries.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (China) ↗ · National Immigration Administration of China ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 29 Nov 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Québec PRTQ invitation criteria reformed

Québec's Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration reformed the Arrima invitation process from late 2024 — greater emphasis on francisation (French-language ability), targeted shortage-occupation streams, and streamlined processing for in-Québec CSQ applicants. Implementation continued through 2025.

Who it affects: Prospective Québec permanent-residence applicants.

Gouvernement du Québec — Immigration ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Nov 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Visa renewal application window extended from 4 weeks to 3 months

Effective November 2024, all visa-holders may submit renewal applications up to 3 months before visa expiry (previously 4 weeks). Reduces the practical risk of overstay due to processing delays — a frequent applicant concern through 2023.

Who it affects: All visa-holders approaching renewal — TTPS, GEP, ASMTP, QMAS.

Hong Kong Immigration Department ↗ · Government Information Services (HK SAR) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Nov 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Mainland Talents Scheme (ASMTP) extended to certain Mainland degree holders

ASMTP eligibility was broadened from November 2024 to include certain Mainland degree-holders previously excluded due to qualification-recognition complexity. Specifically targets Mainland tech and engineering graduates servicing Hong Kong's I&T industry expansion strategy.

Who it affects: Mainland-Chinese graduates of Mainland universities seeking Hong Kong employment.

Hong Kong Immigration Department ↗ · Government of the Hong Kong SAR ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Nov 2024

In force Visa & immigration

QMAS Achievement-based Points Test broadened

The Achievement-based Points Test under QMAS was broadened in November 2024 to recognise additional categories of peer-recognised exceptional achievement (specific arts and sports awards, certain industry recognitions). Designed to attract globally-mobile talent who do not fit the traditional General Points Test framework.

Who it affects: Globally-recognised exceptional-achievement applicants under QMAS.

Hong Kong Immigration Department ↗ · Government Information Services (HK SAR) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Nov 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Visitor Visa extended from 9 to 12 months for qualifying nationalities

Visitor Visa maximum duration was extended from 9 months to 12 months for qualifying visa-required applicants from specific partner countries from November 2024. Does not affect visa-waiver nationalities (who receive up to 3 months on arrival). Materially improves the long-stay visitor option for parents and long-term tourists from countries like India, Philippines, China.

Who it affects: Visa-required visitors from specific partner countries.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 28 Oct 2024

In force Visa & immigration

TTPS Category B mandatory third-party verification

From 28 October 2024, all TTPS Category B applications must include third-party verification of qualifications and employment history (typically via WES, ECCTIS, or comparable accredited credential-verification services). Designed to address concerns about document fraud that emerged in the 2023–2024 high-volume application phase.

Who it affects: TTPS Category B applicants from October 2024.

Hong Kong Immigration Department ↗ · Government Information Services (HK SAR) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 28 Oct 2024

In force Visa & immigration

TTPS Category A initial visa extended from 2 to 3 years

Effective 28 October 2024, the initial visa validity for TTPS Category A was extended from 2 years to 3 years, recognising that high-income relocators typically need longer to consolidate Hong Kong employment or self-employment income. Categories B and C remain at 2 years initially.

Who it affects: High-income TTPS Category A applicants and renewers.

Hong Kong Immigration Department ↗ · Government Information Services (HK SAR) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 16 Oct 2024

In force Visa & immigration

2024 Policy Address: further talent-scheme refinements announced

The Chief Executive's October 2024 Policy Address announced further talent-scheme refinements: ongoing expansion of the eligible university list, further QMAS achievement-points criteria, exploration of a "high-value technology" subset of TTPS, and continued integration of the I&T-sector pathways with the Greater Bay Area initiatives. Several measures implemented late 2024 and 2025.

Who it affects: Future TTPS / GEP / QMAS applicants — signals continuing widening of admission policy.

Government of the Hong Kong SAR ↗ · Government Information Services (HK SAR) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Oct 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Global Talent Occupations List refreshed

ESDC refreshed the Global Talent Occupations List in late 2024 — added several AI and cloud-engineering occupations (reflecting post-2022 hiring patterns), maintained 2-week LMIA and work-permit processing commitment. Occupation-list rotation continues annually.

Who it affects: Employers hiring under the Global Talent Stream and their prospective hires.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Oct 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Seasonal Employment Permit introduced

A new short-term permit for seasonal employment (horticulture, soft-fruit picking, agriculture) up to seven months per calendar year. Initially piloted in late 2024 and rolled out formally in 2025. Designed to address targeted labour shortages without creating long-term residence pathways.

Who it affects: Non-EEA workers in seasonal agricultural sectors; horticulture and agri-food employers.

Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment ↗ · Government of Ireland ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

Announced 15 Sept 2024

Announced Visa & immigration

MXMexico

Dedicated digital-nomad visa proposed in Senate — not enacted

A dedicated digital-nomad visa bill was introduced in the Mexican Senate in September 2024 but did not progress to enactment by end-2025. The existing Temporary Resident Financial Solvency route continues to serve the same practical need (and is arguably more flexible than a dedicated DNV). The bill may be re-introduced.

Who it affects: Potential future remote-worker applicants; no change to existing pathways.

Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 2 Sept 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Reduced CSEP salary threshold for recent non-EEA graduates

A lower Critical Skills Employment Permit salary threshold was introduced for recent non-EEA graduates who have graduated in the previous 12 months with a relevant degree. Designed to retain international-student talent in the Irish labour market post-study.

Who it affects: Recent non-EEA graduates of Irish higher-education institutions transitioning to employment permits.

Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 2 Sept 2024

In force Visa & immigration

First-time permit holders can change employer after 9 months (was 12)

Under the Employment Permits Act 2024, first-time employment-permit holders can change employer after nine months of permit holding, reduced from the previous 12-month restriction. The new role must be in a similar field to the original permit to preserve policy intent.

Who it affects: First-time Critical Skills and General Employment Permit holders.

Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 2 Sept 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Labour Market Needs Test simplified — newspaper ad removed

The long-standing requirement to advertise jobs in a national newspaper for three days was dropped. New requirement is simpler: two online platforms, one of which must be EURES (the European Employment Services portal), for 28 consecutive days.

Who it affects: Employers applying for General Employment Permits and other non-Critical Skills routes.

Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 2 Sept 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Employment Permits Act 2024 enters force — largest reform in over a decade

The Employment Permits Act 2024 entered force on 2 September 2024, consolidating and modernising the eight previous employment-permit types into a single statutory framework. Key operational changes: permit holders can change employer after 9 months (previously 12), agencies can be the employer of a permit holder, labour-market testing is simplified to two online advertisements (including EURES) for 28 days, and newspaper advertisement is no longer required.

Who it affects: All non-EEA employment-permit applicants, existing permit holders, and Irish employers.

Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment ↗ · Oireachtas (Irish Parliament) ↗ · Government of Ireland ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 2 Sept 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Employment Permits Act 2024 consolidates and modernises permit system

The Employment Permits Act 2024 was signed into law on 3 July 2024 and commenced on 2 September 2024. It replaced the 2003/2006 framework, introduced a new Seasonal Employment Permit for agriculture/horticulture, modernised change-of-employer rules (after nine months without further approval), and created an intra-group transfer permit. Implementing regulations updated through late 2024.

Who it affects: All non-EEA workers and their employers using Ireland's employment-permit system.

Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment ↗ · Government of Ireland ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Sept 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Startup Korea programme — fast-track for foreign founders

The Startup Korea programme launched September 2024 to consolidate the various foreign-founder pathways (D-8-4 Technology Startup, OASIS programme, K-Startup Grand Challenge) under a single more-streamlined process. KOTRA-coordinated; integrates Korean Visa Center fast-track lanes for selected applicants.

Who it affects: Non-Korean founders considering Korea as a startup base.

Invest Korea (KOTRA) ↗ · Korea Ministry of Justice ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Sept 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Active Investor Plus Visa reformed with lower threshold

The Active Investor Plus Visa was reformed from September 2024 with a lowered threshold — NZD 5M under a new weighted investment-mix system, replacing the previous NZD 15M direct / NZD 50M passive thresholds. Allows more-flexible portfolio composition with weighting toward NZ-company-direct investment. Designed to revive the programme after low application volume under previous settings.

Who it affects: High-net-worth investors considering New Zealand.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) ↗ · Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Sept 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Global Entry expanded to additional partner countries

CBP continued expansion of Global Entry partner-country eligibility through 2024–2025 — adding nationals of additional countries with reciprocal trusted-traveller agreements (notably Poland, Taiwan, and several others). Existing programme rules unchanged; expansion affects applicant eligibility rather than programme substance.

Who it affects: Frequent international travellers from newly-eligible partner countries.

US Department of Homeland Security ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Sept 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Hi Korea digital-application platform expanded

The Hi Korea online portal expanded in September 2024 to handle most visa-extension and ARC-renewal applications digitally end-to-end, including biometric pre-collection scheduling. In-person immigration-office visits required only for biometrics and specific document verification. Reduces typical extension processing time by 1–3 weeks.

Who it affects: All non-Korean applicants and Korean employers sponsoring foreign workers.

Hi Korea — Korea Immigration Service ↗ · Korea Ministry of Justice ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Sept 2024

In force Visa & immigration

S Pass minimum salary raised to S$3,150 (S$3,650 financial services)

MOM raised the S Pass minimum monthly salary from S$3,000 to S$3,150 (general) and to S$3,650 (financial services) effective 1 September 2024. Continuing the steady multi-year tightening of the lower-skill foreign-worker bands. Foreign Worker Levy and Dependency Ratio Ceiling rules unchanged in this round.

Who it affects: Mid-skilled foreign workers and Singapore employers using the S Pass.

Singapore Ministry of Manpower ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Sept 2024

In force Visa & immigration

MAMorocco

e-Visa platform launched for specific country partners

Morocco launched an electronic visa (e-Visa) platform through 2024, initially for tourists from a limited set of visa-required countries (Israel, Thailand, India, and several others) before expansion. Replaces the previous consular-only model for those nationalities. Mover-relevant as a precursor to potential digital-visa expansion.

Who it affects: Visa-required visitors from participating countries.

Ministère des Affaires Étrangères ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Sept 2024

In force Visa & immigration

K-Culture Training Visa launched

A specialised training visa for non-Korean trainees in K-pop, beauty, fashion, and cultural-industry training programmes was launched September 2024. Up to 2-year stay with mandatory affiliation with a registered Korean entertainment / training agency. Restricted purpose; cannot transition directly to general employment visas.

Who it affects: Non-Korean cultural-industry trainees (K-pop, drama, beauty industries).

Korea Ministry of Justice ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Sept 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Study-permit national cap introduced and Post-Graduate Work Permit tightened

From September 2024, a national cap on new study permits was implemented with provincial allocations (approximately 360,000 new study permits vs roughly 400,000+ pre-cap). Post-Graduate Work Permit eligibility tightened — not all public-college programs now qualify. Materially reduces the historic Canada-as-backdoor-PR pipeline for students at lower-tier private-public partnerships.

Who it affects: International students and educational institutions; indirect on future CEC pipeline.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ↗ · Government of Canada ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 28 Aug 2024

In force Visa & immigration

In-Canada visitor-to-work-permit policy ended

IRCC ended, effective immediately on 28 August 2024, the temporary COVID-era policy that had allowed visitors in Canada to apply for an employer-specific work permit from within Canada upon receiving a job offer and LMIA. Applicants must now apply from outside Canada per the pre-pandemic rule.

Who it affects: Foreign nationals visiting Canada and receiving job offers; their employers.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ↗ · Government of Canada ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Aug 2024

In force Visa & immigration

ASEAN-China expanded visa-free arrangements progressed

Bilateral visa-free arrangements with ASEAN member states were progressively expanded through 2024 — most prominently mutual permanent visa-free entry with Thailand (effective 1 March 2024), Singapore (effective 9 February 2024), and Malaysia (effective 1 December 2023). Part of the broader regional opening following the post-pandemic restoration of travel volumes.

Who it affects: Travellers from designated ASEAN countries (Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, etc.).

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (China) ↗ · National Immigration Administration of China ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Aug 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Working Holiday Scheme adjustments for several partner countries

Updates to the Working Holiday Scheme through 2024 — expanded age eligibility to under 35 for several additional partner countries (reciprocal agreements), modified visa caps, and small administrative simplifications. Programme remains broadly intact as a pipeline for young globally-mobile workers to experience NZ.

Who it affects: Young travellers from eligible countries considering NZ.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

Announced 2 Jul 2024

Announced Visa & immigration

Coalition agreement outlines broad migration restriction plan

The July 2024 PVV-VVD-NSC-BBB coalition agreement set out sweeping plans to restrict migration: stricter asylum rules under a proposed "emergency declaration," tightened family-reunification rules, a review of the Highly Skilled Migrant regime, and labour-market test reforms. Draft legislation appeared through 2024-2025; some measures were challenged in court.

Who it affects: Prospective migrants across all categories; current proposals under parliamentary scrutiny.

Rijksoverheid ↗ · Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst (IND) ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Jul 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Business Innovation and Investment programme paused pending review

Most streams of the Business Innovation and Investment programme (subclass 188) were paused to new applications from 1 July 2024 pending a broader review. Remaining approvals continue to be processed for applications already in the pipeline. The review is expected to substantially reform the programme; timeline for reopening unclear as of April 2026.

Who it affects: Prospective Business Innovation and Investment (subclass 188/888) applicants.

Department of Home Affairs (Australia) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jul 2024

In force Visa & immigration

DOL prevailing-wage methodology refreshed

The Department of Labor refreshed its prevailing-wage methodology in mid-2024 — annual OES data refresh plus technical revisions to wage-level determinations for specific tech and healthcare occupations. Did not introduce the controversial 2020 proposed wage floors that were vacated by courts. Continues the stability of the Obama-era four-tier wage structure.

Who it affects: All H-1B, H-2B, PERM, and LCA applications relying on DOL prevailing-wage determinations.

US Department of Labor ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jul 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Foreign Worker Class A/B/C points system refined

The State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs refined the Class A/B/C points-based foreign-worker classification in mid-2024 — slightly expanded eligibility for Class A (highest tier, R visa), broader inclusion of digital-economy and AI roles in Class B, and updated salary multipliers for points calculation. Material for foreign professionals at the borderline of upgraded classification.

Who it affects: Foreign professionals seeking Z / R visa classification.

State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jul 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Post-Study Work visa (subclass 485) eligibility narrowed

The Post-Study Work visa's eligibility was narrowed from July 2024 — age limit reduced from 50 to 35 for most applicants, duration standardised (2 years for bachelor's/master's coursework, 3 years for master's research, 4 years for PhD), and the additional 2-year regional-extension removed for most recent graduates. Reverses several pandemic-era expansions.

Who it affects: International graduates of Australian higher-education institutions.

Department of Home Affairs (Australia) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jul 2024

In force Visa & immigration

International student visa compliance and eligibility tightened

A series of measures tightened international-student visa compliance from mid-2024: higher "genuine student" test threshold, increased financial capacity requirements, tightened Post-Study Work (subclass 485) eligibility, and provider-level caps on international enrolment via the ESOS Act amendments. Part of the Migration Strategy's broader response to post-pandemic student-visa volume surge.

Who it affects: International students and the higher-education sector.

Department of Home Affairs (Australia) ↗ · Parliament of Australia ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jul 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Working Holiday Maker (417/462) programme continuing structural changes

The Working Holiday Maker programme continues to operate through reciprocal bilateral agreements with 40+ countries. 2024–2025 changes include expanded age-eligibility (under 35 now standard for several countries, up from under 30), updated visa caps for several reciprocal partners, and refined second/third-year extension rules tied to designated regional employment.

Who it affects: Young travellers from eligible countries considering Working Holiday in Australia.

Department of Home Affairs (Australia) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 21 Jun 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Startup Japan strategy 2024 update — visa friction reductions

The Cabinet's "Startup Japan" strategic-policy update committed to a series of visa-friction reductions for foreign founders, including expanded participating municipalities for the J-Find/J-Start programmes and faster Business Manager visa renewal cycles for verifiable scaling startups. Several elements have been implemented through 2024–2025.

Who it affects: Foreign founders considering Japan as their startup base.

Cabinet Office of Japan ↗ · METI — Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 5 Jun 2024

In force Visa & immigration

High Potential Individual eligible universities list updated

The Home Office updated the list of eligible universities for the High Potential Individual (HPI) visa in June 2024. The HPI visa offers two- or three-year post-study work rights for recent graduates from a narrow list of globally top-ranked universities (graduates need not have studied in the UK).

Who it affects: Recent graduates of top-ranked non-UK universities seeking UK work rights without a sponsor.

Home Office ↗ · GOV.UK ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 4 Jun 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Invest Japan strategy targets foreign-investor visa friction

The Council on Investments for the Future approved the Invest Japan 2024 plan, committing to reduced friction in the Business Manager visa pathway for verified inward-investment cases — including expanded JETRO support, English-language application guidance, and pilot fast-track lanes at major immigration offices.

Who it affects: High-net-worth foreign investors and Business Manager visa applicants.

Cabinet Office of Japan ↗ · METI — Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 3 Jun 2024

In force Visa & immigration

"Manifestação de interesse" in-country regularisation route ended

The "manifestação de interesse" route, which had allowed third-country nationals who entered Portugal legally to regularise status in-country based on social-security contributions, was ended as part of the June 2024 migration package. New applicants must now apply through consular visa channels abroad. Already-lodged expressions of interest continue to be processed.

Who it affects: Third-country nationals arriving in Portugal without a prior long-stay visa.

Ministério da Administração Interna ↗ · AIMA — Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 3 Jun 2024

In force Visa & immigration

AIMA Mission Plan launched to clear 400,000-case backlog

The Portuguese government launched a dedicated AIMA "mission structure" in June 2024 tasked with clearing an inherited backlog of approximately 400,000 pending residence-permit and regularisation cases — the largest backlog in AIMA's first year. Triage offices were opened and additional staff seconded from other ministries.

Who it affects: All third-country nationals in the AIMA backlog since late 2022.

Ministério da Administração Interna ↗ · AIMA — Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo ↗ · Governo de Portugal ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

Announced 1 Jun 2024

Announced Visa & immigration

EGEgypt

Digital Nomad Visa feasibility study announced; no implementation yet

The Egyptian government announced a feasibility study for a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa in mid-2024 as part of the broader Tourism 2030 strategy. No formal DNV framework enacted as of April 2026. Prospective remote workers continue to operate on tourist visas (for short stays) or long-stay visas through the investor/business route.

Who it affects: Prospective remote-worker applicants.

State Information Service ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jun 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Shenzhen Qianhai foreign-talent fast-track expanded

The Shenzhen Qianhai pilot free-trade zone expanded its foreign-talent fast-track programme in 2024 — 5-year work permits for designated industries, simplified residence-permit conversion, and dedicated immigration-office processing windows. Part of the broader Greater Bay Area integration strategy with Hong Kong and Macau.

Who it affects: Foreign professionals in tech, financial services, and biotech roles based in Qianhai pilot zone.

State Council of the People's Republic of China ↗ · State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jun 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) comes into force

The points-based job-seeker residence permit introduced under Stage 3 of the Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz reform came into force, allowing qualified non-EU nationals to enter Germany for up to one year to look for employment, with points awarded for qualifications, age, German/English language ability, and connection to Germany. Holders may work up to 20 hours per week or take two-week trial employment during the search.

Who it affects: Qualified non-EU nationals looking to enter Germany to search for qualified employment.

BAMF — Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge ↗ · Make it in Germany (Federal Government) ↗ · Bundesregierung (Federal Government) ↗ · verified 2026-04-18

In force 1 Jun 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Top-Tier Visa for tech founders substantially expanded

The Top-Tier track within the D-10-2 visa was substantially expanded in 2024 — broader institutional eligibility (top-100 universities globally per QS / THE), expanded fields beyond pure software to include biotech and advanced manufacturing, and faster processing through the dedicated KOTRA / Invest Korea pipeline. Part of the Yoon administration's talent-attraction initiative.

Who it affects: Senior tech founders and high-skilled professionals.

Invest Korea (KOTRA) ↗ · Hi Korea — Korea Immigration Service ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jun 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Specified Skilled Worker Type 2 expanded from 2 to 11 sectors

Cabinet decision of 29 March 2024 expanded the Specified Skilled Worker Type 2 (which permits unlimited renewal, family sponsorship, and a path to permanent residence) from the original 2 sectors (construction and shipbuilding) to 11 — adding agriculture, fishery, food service, accommodation, automobile maintenance, aviation, manufacturing of materials, industrial machinery, and electric/electronic information industries.

Who it affects: SSW Type 1 holders in newly-included sectors gaining a path to long-term residence and family sponsorship.

Cabinet Office of Japan ↗ · Immigration Services Agency of Japan ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jun 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Pilot regularisation for shortage-occupation workers

Article 27 of the 2024 Loi Immigration created a pilot path for irregular migrants working in designated shortage occupations (métiers en tension) to obtain a one-year temporary residence card ("salarié étranger dans un métier en tension"), subject to employer registration and a minimum period of past work. The pilot runs through end-2026.

Who it affects: Irregular migrants currently employed in listed shortage occupations.

Légifrance ↗ · Ministère de l'Intérieur ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 21 May 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Spousal Open Work Permit eligibility tightened

From May 2024, spouses of international students can only obtain a Spousal Open Work Permit if the student is enrolled in a graduate or professional program. Spouses of temporary workers narrowed to those with sponsors in high-skill (TEER 0 or 1) occupations from March 2025. Materially narrows the historic family-work-permit pipeline.

Who it affects: Spouses of international students and temporary workers.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 14 May 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Graduate Route retained after MAC review

Following a commissioned Migration Advisory Committee rapid review, the Graduate Route — which grants post-study work rights for two or three years — was retained unchanged in May 2024, resisting earlier pressure to restrict it. The MAC found the route was working as intended, with evidence of limited abuse.

Who it affects: International students on or entering UK-degree courses; their post-study work options.

Home Office ↗ · GOV.UK ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 14 May 2024

In force Visa & immigration

MAC review of Graduate Route concludes it should be retained

The Migration Advisory Committee's rapid review of the Graduate Route, commissioned by the Conservative government amid speculation it would be closed, concluded in May 2024 that the route should remain. The MAC found that the Graduate Route supports the financial sustainability of UK higher education and that evidence of widespread abuse was not present. The review recommended tighter compliance on student-recruitment agents but not route closure.

Who it affects: International graduates of UK universities and the institutions that depend on them.

Migration Advisory Committee ↗ · GOV.UK — Home Office ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 May 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Dependant's Pass Letter of Consent (LOC) work pathway tightened

From May 2024, MOM further tightened the Letter of Consent pathway under which Dependant's Pass holders could work in Singapore. New LOCs are issued only in narrowly-defined situations; most DP holders seeking work must apply for a substantive work pass (EP/S Pass) in their own right. Existing LOCs remain valid for the duration of the underlying DP.

Who it affects: Dependant's Pass holders previously working in Singapore via LOC.

Singapore Ministry of Manpower ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 30 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Employer compliance fee and work-permit fees uprated

IRCC updated work-permit and employer-compliance fees from 30 April 2024 under its periodic cost-recovery review. The main work-permit fee rose in line with the Service Fees Act adjustment mechanism; employer-compliance fee under the International Mobility Program remained CAD 230 but with updated processing standards.

Who it affects: Applicants for closed and open work permits; IMP-category employers.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ↗ · Government of Canada ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 30 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Start-up Visa cap per designated entity introduced

IRCC capped each Designated Organization at 10 Start-up Visa endorsements per year and introduced points-based prioritisation among endorsed applicants, including for private-sector venture-capital-backed startups. The change was in response to backlog and file-quality concerns and materially reduced throughput.

Who it affects: Entrepreneurs and startup founders considering the Start-up Visa pathway.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ↗ · Government of Canada ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 15 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Talent – Medical and Pharmacy Profession (PADHUE) permit created

A new four-year multi-annual Talent permit was created specifically for non-EU doctors, dentists, midwives, and pharmacists (Praticiens à Diplôme Hors Union Européenne, PADHUE) who hold the French practice certification. Addresses structural workforce shortages in French public hospitals and regional healthcare systems. Implementing decree published 15 April 2024.

Who it affects: Non-EU medical professionals with French practice certification.

Légifrance — French Official Legal Publication ↗ · Service-Public.fr — Official administrative portal ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 11 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Family (partner) visa minimum income rises to £29,000

The minimum-income requirement for Family visas sponsoring a spouse or partner rose from £18,600 to £29,000 on 11 April 2024, with a further phased rise to £38,700 previously indicated. The 2024 general election outcome paused further rises pending a Migration Advisory Committee review reporting in 2025.

Who it affects: British and settled residents seeking to sponsor a non-UK partner.

Home Office ↗ · GOV.UK ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 8 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

EAD automatic extension period lengthened to 540 days

USCIS published a temporary final rule on 8 April 2024 lengthening the automatic extension of expiring Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for eligible categories from 180 to 540 days. The rule was made permanent by a final rule in December 2024, addressing chronic USCIS processing backlogs.

Who it affects: EAD-dependent workers including H-4, L-2, and certain asylum and adjustment-of-status applicants.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services ↗ · Federal Register ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 5 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Digital Nomad / Remote Worker visa operational

The interministerial decree operationalising Italy's Digital Nomad / Remote Worker visa was published and the visa became available from 5 April 2024, nearly two years after the primary legislation. It requires proof of at least six months of remote-work activity, a minimum annual income (approximately three times the national health-exemption threshold, ~€28,000), and valid private health insurance.

Who it affects: Non-EU remote workers and highly qualified freelancers seeking Italian residence.

Ministero dell'Interno ↗ · Gazzetta Ufficiale della Repubblica Italiana ↗ · Ministero degli Affari Esteri ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 4 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Shortage Occupation List replaced by Immigration Salary List

On 4 April 2024, the Shortage Occupation List was replaced by a narrower Immigration Salary List (ISL) that retains a 20% salary discount for roles on the list but does not discount fees. The ISL covers fewer occupations than the SOL it replaced; MAC reviews the list annually.

Who it affects: Sponsored workers in occupations previously on the SOL; sponsoring employers.

Home Office ↗ · GOV.UK ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 4 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Digital Nomad Visa launched — April 2024

Italy's Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa came into force on 4 April 2024 following the inter-ministerial implementing decree of 29 February 2024. Created under Article 27-quater of Legislative Decree 286/1998 — outside the annual Decreto Flussi quota, removing the most significant bottleneck of the traditional self-employment route. Minimum income €28,000/year; restricted to "highly qualified" workers (post-secondary degree or 3+ years specialist experience).

Who it affects: Non-EU remote workers and qualified self-employed professionals considering Italy.

Gazzetta Ufficiale (Italian Official Gazette) ↗ · Governo Italiano ↗ · Esteri.it — Ministero degli Affari Esteri ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 4 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Immigration Salary List replaces the Shortage Occupation List

On 4 April 2024 the Immigration Salary List replaced the long-standing Shortage Occupation List. The new list grants a 20% discount on the general Skilled Worker salary threshold (not on the going rate for the role). Scope is deliberately narrower than the old SOL; many roles previously listed — including some tech and creative roles — are no longer included.

Who it affects: Skilled Worker applicants in shortage occupations; employers in sectors that previously enjoyed SOL concessions.

Migration Advisory Committee ↗ · GOV.UK — Home Office ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 4 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Skilled Worker minimum salary raised to £38,700

From 4 April 2024, the general Skilled Worker minimum salary threshold rose from £26,200 to £38,700 — a 48% increase. The "going rate" for each occupation was also updated to the 50th (rather than 25th) percentile. Transitional arrangements protect most existing Skilled Worker holders on extensions and change-of-employment applications.

Who it affects: New Skilled Worker applicants and sponsoring employers; health and care visa holders remained on separate rules.

Home Office ↗ · GOV.UK ↗ · UK Visas and Immigration ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 4 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Skilled Worker general salary threshold raised from £26,200 to £38,700

The largest single uplift in the history of the Skilled Worker route. The general threshold rose from £26,200 to £38,700 on 4 April 2024 (a ~48% increase), aligned with the 50th percentile of UK full-time earnings. Existing Skilled Worker visa holders before the change retain a reduced threshold of £29,000 under transitional rules.

Who it affects: New Skilled Worker visa applicants from 4 April 2024 onwards.

GOV.UK — Home Office ↗ · House of Commons Library — Research Briefings ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

J-Find / Future Creation Startup Visa extended to 2 years

The Future Creation startup-visa programme — operated by Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and other participating municipalities — was extended from 1 to 2 years for selected innovative-founder applicants. Provides a longer runway to register a company and transition to the standard Business Manager visa without leaving Japan.

Who it affects: Foreign founders launching startups under the participating-municipality programmes.

METI — Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry ↗ · Immigration Services Agency of Japan ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

USCIS Trusted Employer Pilot Programme launched

USCIS launched a Trusted Employer Pilot Programme in April 2024 to streamline adjudication for a defined set of high-volume, low-risk petitioners. Enrolled employers receive expedited review of eligible petitions. Pilot operated for 2 years; outcomes published in 2026 inform potential expansion of permanent-programme status.

Who it affects: Large-volume USCIS petitioners enrolled in the pilot; indirect benefit to their beneficiaries.

USCIS — US Citizenship and Immigration Services ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

BRBrazil

Investor Visa thresholds clarified in updated Portaria

Updated Portaria in early 2024 clarified and marginally adjusted the Investor Visa thresholds — business investment BRL 500,000+ (approximately US$85,000 at current exchange), real-estate BRL 1,000,000+ (approximately US$170,000). Reduced-threshold pathways for investment in the Northeast and Amazon regions (approximately BRL 150,000 / BRL 250,000) retained and clarified.

Who it affects: Prospective Investor Visa applicants and Brazilian investment counsel.

Ministério da Justiça e Segurança Pública — Migrações ↗ · Diário Oficial da União ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Passeport Talent renamed and restructured

The multi-category Passeport Talent residence permit was reorganised under the 2024 Loi Immigration. The "salarié qualifié" (qualified employee) category was updated, the "création d'entreprise" path narrowed to genuine entrepreneurial projects, and a new "profession médicale ou de pharmacie" track was created for foreign-trained doctors and pharmacists. Implementing decrees phased changes through 2024-2025.

Who it affects: Skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and foreign-trained medical professionals seeking French residence.

Légifrance ↗ · Ministère de l'Intérieur ↗ · Service-Public.fr ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Foreign Worker's Work Permit fully digitalised

The Foreign Worker's Work Permit system migrated to a fully digital workflow from April 2024 (in development through 2023) — applications, supporting documents, and the resulting Notification all handled via the integrated SAFEA platform. Material reduction in administrative friction; physical document submission largely eliminated for most application types.

Who it affects: Foreign workers and Chinese employers using the work-permit framework.

State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs ↗ · National Immigration Administration of China ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Apr 2024

In force Visa & immigration

E-7 visa quota system reformed for designated industries

The E-7-4 (skilled-trade workers in designated industries) quota system was reformed from April 2024, with significantly expanded annual limits for shipbuilding, manufacturing, and certain construction-adjacent roles experiencing structural domestic-labour shortages. Designed to address the demographic-decline-driven labour gap.

Who it affects: Manufacturing, shipbuilding, and skilled-trade employers; their non-Korean hires.

Korea Ministry of Justice ↗ · Hi Korea — Korea Immigration Service ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 31 Mar 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Digital Nomad Visa launched as new "Designated Activities" status

Introduced under the "Designated Activities" status of residence on 31 March 2024. Six-month stay, no renewal, ¥10 million annual income, restricted to nationals of 49 jurisdictions. Outside the standard work-visa framework — does not lead to permanent residence. Designed primarily as a tourism-spending and soft-power instrument.

Who it affects: Remote workers from 49 eligible jurisdictions earning ¥10M+/year.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan ↗ · Immigration Services Agency of Japan ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 15 Mar 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Skilled Immigration Act — Stage 3 (regulation) completes reform package

The implementing regulation for Stage 3 of the Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz was published, setting the detailed rules for the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) points system, the short-term employment track for recognised qualifications, and the simplified family-reunification rules for skilled workers. It completes the staged 2023-2024 reform package.

Who it affects: Non-EU skilled workers and their families using any of the new reform tracks.

BAMF — Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge ↗ · Make it in Germany (Federal Government) ↗ · Bundesregierung (Federal Government) ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 11 Mar 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Care workers and senior care workers can no longer bring dependants

From 11 March 2024, new applicants to the Health and Care Worker visa in care-worker or senior-care-worker roles cannot bring their partner or children as dependants. Care sponsors must also be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Aimed at reducing net migration via what the Conservative government described as "the social care route". Does not affect nurses, doctors, or other clinical roles.

Who it affects: New care-worker and senior-care-worker visa applicants from 11 March 2024.

GOV.UK — Home Office ↗ · UK Visas and Immigration ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Mar 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Skilled Immigration Act reform — Stage 2 enters force

Second stage introduced the "experienced worker" path — non-EU workers with at least two years of relevant qualified professional experience (and a qualification recognised in their country of origin) can work in Germany without prior German recognition of their credentials, provided a minimum salary threshold is met. Also introduced the "recognition partnership" enabling arrival while the formal recognition process runs in Germany.

Who it affects: Non-EU skilled workers without formally recognised German credentials; IT specialists in particular.

BAMF — Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge ↗ · Make it in Germany (Federal Government) ↗ · Bundesregierung (Federal Government) ↗ · verified 2026-04-18

In force 1 Mar 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Visitor Visa remote-work policy clarified — 90 days permitted

INZ clarified in early 2024 that Visitor Visa holders may work remotely for non-NZ employers or clients during the 90-day standard visa-waiver stay (or longer visitor visa) — formally acknowledging what had been tolerated in practice. New Zealand does not operate a dedicated digital-nomad visa; longer-term remote work requires AEWV or another substantive visa category.

Who it affects: Remote workers considering short-term stays in New Zealand.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Mar 2024

In force Visa & immigration

H-1B beneficiary-centric registration rule

USCIS finalised a rule, published 2 February 2024, changing the H-1B cap-season registration process so that each beneficiary is counted once regardless of how many employers register for them. Multiple registrations for the same beneficiary were a primary driver of cap-selection distortion; the new rule applied from the FY2025 cap season.

Who it affects: H-1B-sponsoring employers; workers subject to the annual 85,000 H-1B cap.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services ↗ · Federal Register ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Mar 2024

In force Visa & immigration

AEUnited Arab Emirates

Virtual Working programme harmonised at federal level

The Virtual Working programme — originally a Dubai-specific 2020 initiative — was harmonised under the federal ICP framework from March 2024, with consistent processing across all seven emirates. Income threshold (US$5,000/month) and 1-year duration unchanged.

Who it affects: Remote workers using the Virtual Working Programme.

ICP — Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security ↗ · GDRFA — General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (Dubai) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 22 Feb 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) expands to Gulf states

Phased rollout of the UK's ETA visitor pre-clearance system. Required for short-visit entry from Qatar (from 22 November 2023), Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, UAE, Saudi Arabia (from 22 February 2024), and subsequently to a wider range of non-visa nationals through 2024–2025. £10 per application, valid 2 years.

Who it affects: Visa-free travellers from Gulf and other non-visa-national jurisdictions visiting the UK.

GOV.UK — Home Office ↗ · UK Visas and Immigration ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 6 Feb 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Immigration Health Surcharge raised to £1,035 per year

The IHS — payable upfront per person for the full duration of a UK visa — rose from £624 to £1,035 per year on 6 February 2024 (a 66% increase). Discounted rates for under-18s, students, and Youth Mobility Scheme entrants rose from £470 to £776. Health and Care Worker visa holders remain exempt. A 5-year Skilled Worker visa with a partner and two children now costs over £20,000 in IHS alone.

Who it affects: All non-UK visa applicants requiring entry clearance or leave to remain — material cost factor.

GOV.UK — Home Office ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 6 Feb 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Standard UK visa application fees increased 15–35% across the board

Alongside the IHS rise, the Home Office increased most standard visa application fees by 15–35% on 6 February 2024 — e.g. Skilled Worker main-applicant fee from £719 to £827 for up to 3 years' leave, and substantially more for longer leave. Visitor visas also rose proportionally. Fees continue to be re-indexed annually.

Who it affects: All UK visa applicants from 6 February 2024 onwards.

GOV.UK — Home Office ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

Announced 1 Feb 2024

Announced Visa & immigration

MAMorocco

Digital Nomad Visa announced; implementation uncertain

Multiple government statements through 2024–2025 indicated that a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa was being developed, but no formal visa framework has been enacted as of April 2026. Contradictory third-party sources have reported implementation variously in 2024 and 2025; official DGSN and MAEC channels have not published DNV implementing regulations. Mover-relevant pathway remains the Carte de Séjour.

Who it affects: Prospective digital-nomad applicants to Morocco.

Ministère des Affaires Étrangères ↗ · Gouvernement du Maroc ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 30 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

National Interest Waiver guidance expanded for STEM and entrepreneurs

USCIS issued revised policy guidance on 30 January 2024 for the EB-2 National Interest Waiver, including specific positive factors for STEM-field research and for entrepreneur-founders with supporting evidence of national interest. The guidance materially expanded the realistic NIW pathway for advanced-degree professionals.

Who it affects: EB-2 NIW self-petitioners, particularly STEM professionals and startup founders.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services ↗ · Federal Register ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 26 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Loi Immigration (Loi pour contrôler l'immigration) enacted

Law 2024-42 was promulgated on 26 January 2024 after the Conseil constitutionnel struck down 35 provisions. The surviving text tightened family-reunification income and housing requirements, lengthened residence requirements for certain social benefits, revised the carte de séjour "étranger malade" criteria, and created a limited talents-based regularisation for shortage-occupation workers. A further "circulaire" in 2025 set administrative thresholds for regularisations.

Who it affects: All third-country nationals seeking residence, family reunification, or regularisation in France.

Légifrance ↗ · Ministère de l'Intérieur ↗ · Gouvernement de la République française ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 26 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Passeport Talent renamed "Talent" and restructured

The Passeport Talent residence permit was renamed "Talent" and consolidated from its previous proliferation of sub-categories into a simpler two-family structure: "skilled talent" (qualified employees, researchers, Blue Card) and "project talent" (founders of innovative projects, investors, artists). Talent permit holders remain exempt from labour-market testing and from the A2 French language requirement that applies to most multi-year residence permits from 2026.

Who it affects: Qualified professionals, researchers, and founders applying to French residence permits.

Service-Public.fr — Official administrative portal ↗ · Légifrance — French Official Legal Publication ↗ · Welcome to France (MFA) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 17 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Critical Skills Employment Permit salary floor raised

The general minimum annual remuneration for the Critical Skills Employment Permit rose from €32,000 to €38,000 on 17 January 2024, and the General Employment Permit minimum from €30,000 to €34,000. Occupation-specific higher salary requirements under the Critical Skills list were also updated.

Who it affects: Non-EEA skilled workers applying for employment permits in Ireland; sponsoring employers.

Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment ↗ · Government of Ireland ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

EGEgypt

Bilateral visa-exemption agreements expanded

Egypt expanded bilateral visa-exemption agreements through 2024 — most notably mutual visa-free arrangements with additional Gulf states, Russia (for tourism), and specific Southeast Asian countries. Continues the broader Egyptian strategy of expanding tourism access while maintaining work and residence visa controls.

Who it affects: Travellers between Egypt and specific partner countries.

Ministry of Interior (Egypt) ↗ · State Information Service ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Updated USCIS guidance for O-1 extraordinary-ability adjudication

USCIS continued its multi-year refresh of O-1 adjudication guidance through 2024 — explicit recognition of criteria common in STEM fields (peer-reviewed publications, patents, research-grant awards, media coverage in specialised outlets). Materially improved the adjudication predictability for founder and researcher O-1A petitions following earlier 2022 guidance.

Who it affects: O-1A and O-1B petitioners, particularly founders and STEM researchers.

USCIS — US Citizenship and Immigration Services ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

APEC Business Travel Card programme continued for eligible nationals

China continues to participate in the APEC Business Travel Card scheme — providing multi-entry visa-free short-stay access for verified senior business travellers from participating APEC economies (Australia, Canada, Japan, Korea, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, USA, etc.). 5-year card validity; up to 60 days per visit.

Who it affects: Senior business travellers from participating APEC economies.

National Immigration Administration of China ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Tech.Pass (EDB): 2024 Relaunch & Eligibility Criteria

EDB relaunched the Tech.Pass programme in 2024 with restructured eligibility (any 2 of 3 criteria: salary ≥ S$22,500/month, leadership of a tech product/team with ≥ 100k MAU or US$100M revenue / US$10M funding, lead role launching a tech product). Programme had been quietly de-emphasised between 2022 and early 2024; the relaunch signals renewed prioritisation.

Who it affects: Senior tech-sector leaders and product founders.

Singapore Economic Development Board ↗ · Singapore Ministry of Manpower ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

EU Blue Card 2024 salary thresholds set

Under the reformed thresholds, the EU Blue Card minimum gross annual salary for 2024 was set at €45,300 for standard qualified occupations and €41,041.80 for shortage occupations (MINT subjects, medicine, and several others) and recent graduates — a significant reduction from pre-reform levels.

Who it affects: Non-EU applicants for the EU Blue Card in 2024.

Make it in Germany (Federal Government) ↗ · BAMF — Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge ↗ · verified 2026-04-18

In force 1 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Carta Blu UE salary thresholds lowered and eligibility broadened

Legislative Decree 152/2023 implementing the EU Blue Card recast lowered the Italian minimum gross-salary threshold to roughly the Italian median gross salary (previously a higher ministerial-decree figure), broadened eligibility to include recognised professional experience in lieu of a degree in specified ICT occupations, and permitted shorter minimum employment contracts (from twelve to six months). Full effect from 1 January 2024.

Who it affects: Non-EU highly qualified workers applying for the EU Blue Card in Italy.

Gazzetta Ufficiale della Repubblica Italiana ↗ · Ministero dell'Interno ↗ · Ministero del Lavoro e delle Politiche Sociali ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

F-1-D Workation (Digital Nomad) Visa launched

Launched 1 January 2024 as a permanent (not pilot) programme. 2-year stay (1 year initial + 1 year extension). Income threshold ₩88.1 million annually (~US$66,000) — twice the prior-year Korean GNI per capita. Spouse and minor children may accompany. Visa holders cannot work for Korean employers.

Who it affects: Non-Korean remote workers earning ₩88M+/year considering Korea.

Hi Korea — Korea Immigration Service ↗ · Korea Ministry of Foreign Affairs ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Triennial Flussi Decree — 452,000 work-entry quota 2024-2026

The three-year Flussi Decree for 2023-2025 was superseded by an expanded 2024-2026 plan setting an overall 452,000-worker quota for regular non-seasonal and seasonal entries over three years. Subsequent decrees (the DL Flussi of October 2024 and April 2025) added anti-fraud controls after evidence of widespread abuse of Bergamo and Bari applications.

Who it affects: Non-EU workers seeking seasonal or non-seasonal work-visa entries; Italian employers.

Ministero dell'Interno ↗ · Gazzetta Ufficiale della Repubblica Italiana ↗ · Ministero del Lavoro e delle Politiche Sociali ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

Most international students barred from bringing family dependants

From 1 January 2024, international students on courses below research-postgraduate level can no longer bring dependants on their Student visa. Partners and children of taught-master's students lost dependant-visa eligibility. The change delivered the single largest reduction in UK net migration for 2024.

Who it affects: International students on taught-master's and undergraduate courses; their partners and children.

Home Office ↗ · GOV.UK ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Jan 2024

In force Visa & immigration

International students can no longer bring dependants (except PhD)

From 1 January 2024, most international students on the Student visa route can no longer bring partner or child dependants to the UK. PhD students and government-sponsored students retain the right to bring dependants. Designed to reduce net migration in the student-visa category.

Who it affects: International students starting courses from January 2024 onwards.

GOV.UK — Home Office ↗ · House of Commons Library — Research Briefings ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 18 Nov 2023

In force Visa & immigration

Skilled Immigration Act reform — Stage 1 enters force

The first stage of the Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz reform came into force, lowering Blue Card salary thresholds, expanding the list of eligible professions, and allowing Blue Card holders to switch employers more flexibly within the first twelve months.

Who it affects: Non-EU skilled workers with tertiary qualifications seeking employment in Germany.

BAMF — Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge ↗ · Bundesregierung (Federal Government) ↗ · Make it in Germany (Federal Government) ↗ · verified 2026-04-18

In force 29 Oct 2023

In force Visa & immigration

AIMA replaces SEF as migration authority

The Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo (AIMA) replaced the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras on 29 October 2023, absorbing most civilian immigration functions. Border-police functions transferred to PSP/GNR. The transition contributed to a large backlog in residence-permit processing through 2024-2025.

Who it affects: All third-country nationals with residence cases; Portuguese residents renewing permits.

AIMA — Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo ↗ · Diário da República Eletrónico ↗ · Ministério da Administração Interna ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Sept 2023

In force Visa & immigration

COMPASS framework introduced for Employment Pass applications

The Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) — Singapore's points-based EP eligibility test — came into effect for new applications from September 2023 and for renewals from September 2024. Applicants must score ≥ 40 points across four foundational criteria (salary, qualifications, diversity contribution, skills shortage). Applicants with a fixed salary ≥ S$22,500 are exempt. Has materially reshaped employer hiring pipelines and demonstrably tightened the EP filter.

Who it affects: All EP applicants and Singapore employers sponsoring EP candidates.

Singapore Ministry of Manpower ↗ · Singapore Economic Development Board ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Sept 2023

Repealed Visa & immigration

Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) discontinued for new applications

MOM discontinued new Personalised Employment Pass applications from September 2023. The PEP — which had allowed mid-tier mobile professionals to retain a Singapore work-pass independent of any single employer — was effectively superseded by the higher-bar ONE Pass and the recalibrated EP. Existing PEP holders continue to operate under their existing terms until expiry.

Who it affects: Mid-tier global mobile professionals previously using the PEP.

Singapore Ministry of Manpower ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 5 Aug 2023

In force Visa & immigration

Revised EU Blue Card transposed into Italian law

Legislative Decree 152/2023 transposed the revised EU Blue Card Directive 2021/1883 into Italian law with effect from 5 August 2023. Key changes: minimum contract duration reduced from 12 to 6 months, lower salary threshold (1.5× national average, previously 1.2× depending on region), easier intra-EU mobility, and broader eligibility for qualified workers without a formal degree (via recognised 5-year professional experience).

Who it affects: Non-EU professionals with higher-education qualifications or equivalent experience.

Gazzetta Ufficiale (Italian Official Gazette) ↗ · Ministero dell'Interno ↗ · Ministero del Lavoro e delle Politiche Sociali ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 28 Jun 2023

In force Visa & immigration

Category-based Express Entry selection introduced

IRCC began operating category-based Express Entry draws from 28 June 2023 alongside general and program-specific draws. The Minister sets annual priority categories; a candidate must be in an eligible category AND meet the minimum CRS for that draw. Categories rotate annually.

Who it affects: All Express Entry candidates; signals priority occupations for the year.

IRCC — Express Entry ↗ · Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 21 Apr 2023

In force Visa & immigration

J-Skip — Highly Skilled Professional fast-track for top earners and top researchers

The J-Skip programme grants HSP-2-equivalent status without going through the points-based scoring to applicants meeting either (a) annual income of ¥20M+ AND a master's degree (¥30M+ AND a PhD/master's for ¥30M tier), or (b) a record of leading research at a recognised institution. Substantial fast-track for senior international hires.

Who it affects: Senior researchers and high-income professionals previously below HSP-2 thresholds.

Immigration Services Agency of Japan ↗ · Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 21 Apr 2023

In force Visa & immigration

J-Find Visa for graduates of top-100 global universities

The J-Find programme created a 2-year "Future Creation" status of residence for graduates within five years of graduation from a top-100 global university (per QS, THE, or Shanghai rankings). Allows job-search and short-term work activities in Japan without prior sponsorship — a substantive opening for international graduates.

Who it affects: Recent graduates of top-100 universities (per major rankings) considering Japan as a job-search destination.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan ↗ · Immigration Services Agency of Japan ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2023

In force Visa & immigration

UGE-CE fast-track for HQP/startup/ICT applications established

The Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit (UGE-CE) was formalised as the specialist processing unit for Highly Qualified Professional, Startup, and Intra-Company Transfer applications under the Startups Law. Typical processing: 20 working days, vastly faster than the standard Work Visa pathway. Reduced administrative friction has been material to the Startups Law's adoption.

Who it affects: Employers hiring into the HQP, Startup Visa, and ICT routes.

Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit (UGE-CE) ↗ · Ministerio de Inclusión, Seguridad Social y Migraciones ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2023

In force Visa & immigration

Startups Law creates Digital Nomad Visa and expanded Beckham access

Ley 28/2022 de fomento del ecosistema de las empresas emergentes (the "Startups Law") came into force on 1 January 2023, introducing the International Teleworker Visa (the Digital Nomad Visa) for remote workers earning a minimum income benchmark (200% of the SMI), and extended Beckham-regime eligibility to remote employees, certain entrepreneurs, and highly qualified self-employed workers.

Who it affects: Remote workers with non-Spanish employers; entrepreneurs and self-employed highly qualified workers.

Boletín Oficial del Estado ↗ · Ministerio de Inclusión, Seguridad Social y Migraciones ↗ · Gobierno de España — La Moncloa ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 1 Jan 2023

In force Visa & immigration

Startups Law (Ley 28/2022) enters force — DNV and HQP introduced

Ley 28/2022 de fomento del ecosistema de empresas emergentes ("Startups Law") entered force on 1 January 2023. Created the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) for remote workers and expanded the Highly Qualified Professional (HQP) route. The law also expanded the Beckham Law tax regime to include holders of the DNV and shortened the pre-relocation non-residency requirement from 10 to 5 years.

Who it affects: Remote workers, qualified international hires, and founders considering Spain.

BOE — Boletín Oficial del Estado (Spanish Official Gazette) ↗ · La Moncloa — Spanish Government ↗ · Ministerio de Inclusión, Seguridad Social y Migraciones ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2023

In force Visa & immigration

Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) annual quota abolished

The Chief Executive's 2022 Policy Address abolished the annual quota for the QMAS — historically capped at 4,000 applications per year — effective 1 January 2023. Applications are now considered on a rolling basis without an upper limit, materially reducing the structural bottleneck of the points-based scheme.

Who it affects: QMAS applicants from January 2023 onwards.

Government of the Hong Kong SAR ↗ · Hong Kong Immigration Department ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 1 Jan 2023

In force Visa & immigration

Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE) Pass introduced

The ONE Pass — Singapore's top-tier work pass — launched 1 January 2023. Two pathways: salary track (fixed monthly S$30,000+ for past year, or confirmed Singapore role at that level) or extraordinary-talent track (recognised peer-evaluated achievements in arts, sports, science, academia, technology). 5-year validity, renewable; allows multi-employer concurrent work.

Who it affects: Top-tier global talent considering Singapore.

Singapore Ministry of Manpower ↗ · Singapore Economic Development Board ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 28 Dec 2022

In force Visa & immigration

Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) launched

TTPS launched 28 December 2022 as the headline talent-attraction instrument under the John Lee administration's policy package. Three categories: A (high earners ≥ HKD 2.5M annual income), B (top-university graduates with 3+ years work experience), C (recent top-university graduates within the past 5 years, with annual quota). 100,000+ approvals issued through end-2024.

Who it affects: High earners and graduates of designated universities considering Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Immigration Department ↗ · Government of the Hong Kong SAR ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 30 Oct 2022

In force Visa & immigration

D8 Digital Nomad Visa formally launched

Portugal introduced the D8 Digital Nomad Visa (Visto para atividade profissional prestada remotamente) on 30 October 2022. It offers long-stay entry for remote workers earning at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage from non-Portuguese employers or clients, with a route to residence permit thereafter. It has become one of the most-used remote-work visas in Europe.

Who it affects: Remote workers with non-Portuguese employers seeking to relocate.

AIMA — Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo ↗ · Diário da República Eletrónico ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 30 Oct 2022

In force Visa & immigration

D8 Digital Nomad Visa introduced

Portugal introduced a dedicated remote-worker residence permit (visto de residência para exercício de atividade profissional prestada de forma remota, commonly "D8") from 30 October 2022. Applicants demonstrating foreign-source income of at least four times the national minimum wage (approximately €3,480/month in 2025) qualify for either a one-year temporary-stay visa or a residence permit renewable for up to five years with a path to permanent residence and citizenship.

Who it affects: Non-EU remote workers and freelancers with foreign clients considering Portuguese residency.

Portal de Vistos (Ministério dos Negócios Estrangeiros) ↗ · AIMA — Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo ↗ · Diário da República ↗ · verified 2026-04-18

In force 30 Oct 2022

In force Visa & immigration

Work-Seeker Visa (Visto para Procura de Trabalho) introduced

A new residence visa for the purpose of job search was created under the 2022 Lei dos Estrangeiros revision, allowing non-EU nationals to enter Portugal for up to 120 days (extendable once by 60 days) to look for work. Holders who sign an employment contract during the stay can then convert directly to a work residence permit without leaving the country.

Who it affects: Non-EU nationals seeking entry to Portugal to search for employment.

AIMA — Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo ↗ · Portal de Vistos (Ministério dos Negócios Estrangeiros) ↗ · Diário da República ↗ · verified 2026-04-18

In force 4 Jul 2022

In force Visa & immigration

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) launched — major consolidation

AEWV replaced the previous fragmented employer-sponsored visa categories (Essential Skills, Talent (Accredited Employer), and others) from July 2022. Three-step accreditation / job-check / applicant model. Median-wage threshold drives most qualification tests. Major operational turbulence through 2022–2024 as employers and INZ transitioned.

Who it affects: All employer-sponsored temporary-work migration.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) ↗ · Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 15 Mar 2022

In force Visa & immigration

EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act investment thresholds set

The EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (signed 15 March 2022) reauthorised the Regional Center program and set permanent minimum investment thresholds: $1.05 million for standard projects and $800,000 for projects in Targeted Employment Areas. Investment-level inflation adjustments apply every five years (next adjustment 1 January 2027).

Who it affects: EB-5 investor-visa applicants and regional centers.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services ↗ · Federal Register ↗ · verified 2026-04-21

In force 2 Feb 2022

In force Visa & immigration

Critical Skills List 2022 revision in force; further review consultation ongoing

The February 2022 revision of the Critical Skills List remains the operative version through 2025–2026. The list includes approximately 100 occupations across science/engineering, healthcare, agriculture, ICT, and skilled trades. Minister Schreiber announced in 2024 a further review consultation to align with current labour-market needs; results expected 2025–2026.

Who it affects: Critical Skills Work Visa applicants.

Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 24 Jan 2022

In force Visa & immigration

BRBrazil

VITEM XIV Digital Nomad Visa launched — first in Latin America

Portaria Interministerial 8/2022 (CONARE) introduced the VITEM XIV digital-nomad residence visa on 24 January 2022 — the first formal digital-nomad visa in Latin America. 1-year validity, renewable for a further year. Income threshold US$1,500/month or US$18,000 bank balance. Simple documentation package; practically one of the most-accessible DNVs globally.

Who it affects: Non-Brazilian remote workers earning US$1,500+/month.

Ministério da Justiça e Segurança Pública — Migrações ↗ · Diário Oficial da União ↗ · verified 2026-04-19

In force 21 Jan 2022

In force Visa & immigration