Europe
Portugal, Spain, Germany, France, and more
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Latest Updates
Italy caps single permit issuance at 30 days for non-EU hires
Italy has implemented a strict 30-day deadline for police headquarters to issue Single Permits once an application is complete. This reform effectively caps the total work authorization process at 90 days and clarifies work-access rules for foreign employees.
France ends third-party Schengen visa filings for Russians in Russia
Russian citizens applying for French Schengen visas must now submit their applications in person or through immediate family members. The new rule eliminates the use of third-party agencies and representatives for the application process.
Huge win for Nomads: Foreign remote workers can legally use a visitor residence permit in France
The French government confirmed that remote workers can reside in France on a 'visitor' permit if their work has no connection to the French economy. However, those working with French clients or companies must obtain a specific work permit and appropriate residency status.
Spain ends automatic permit loss for absences over 183 days
The Spanish Supreme Court ruled that immigration authorities cannot deny residency renewals for non-lucrative or digital nomad permits based solely on time spent abroad. This decision effectively eliminates the mandatory six-month stay requirement previously needed to maintain legal status.
Poland reclassifies Ukrainians as economic migrants under the CUKR route
Polish municipalities are tightening scrutiny on temporary protection applications, often reclassifying applicants as economic migrants. This shift reduces access to social benefits and complicates the residency path for Ukrainians seeking to remain in Poland long-term.
Hungary closes the guest worker route for all third-country nationals
A new government decree has suspended applications for the guest worker residency permit as Hungary initiates a broader overhaul of its immigration system. This move restricts one of the primary residence options for non-EU foreigners seeking to live and work in the country.
Portugal uses Eurodac and ESP to track non-EU travelers at Schengen borders
The EU has activated the first phase of the new Eurodac system and the European Search Portal to modernize border data infrastructure. These interoperable IT systems allow authorities to instantly verify biometric data and track entry/exit history for all non-EU travelers across the Schengen Area.
Greece bans short term rentals for 800,000 euro Golden Visa units
The Greek government's 2026–2035 housing strategy introduces a new Golden Visa category for investors who commit to long-term rental contracts. This new path explicitly excludes short-term tourist rentals like Airbnb to increase the availability of permanent housing for residents.
Portugal tourism spending hits 5.2 billion as US travelers lead growth
International visitor spending in Portugal reached record levels in the first quarter, driven largely by travelers from the UK and US. This sustained demand is expected to maintain upward pressure on accommodation and service costs in popular expat and nomad destinations.
The small print in the limited validity ETIAS for humanitarian emergencies
The European Union has introduced a restricted ETIAS version for travelers with humanitarian needs or urgent obligations. This authorization is valid for a maximum of 90 days and only permits entry into the specific countries listed on the application.
Netherlands gives 6 month job search window to 2 year permit holders
Under EU Directive 2024/1233, the Netherlands has extended the period foreign workers can remain in the country to find a new job after unemployment. The update also introduces longer decision windows for certain residence and work permit applications.
The Small Print in Germany's Updated 190 Country Visa List
The German Federal Foreign Office has released its latest reference list detailing which citizens require a visa for short stays versus those eligible for visa-free entry. This update serves as the definitive guide for nomads and travelers planning entry into Germany or the wider Schengen area.
Estonia cuts job switching time to 30 days for non-EU workers
New amendments to the Aliens Act will allow expats to continue working while their residence permit extensions or changes are being processed. The reforms also make it easier to switch employers and extend the grace period for non-EU foreigners to remain in the country after losing a job.
Amsterdam tourist tax in Netherlands will reach 20% by 2030
Amsterdam has unveiled a multi-year plan to increase its overnight tourist tax from the current 12.5% to 16% in 2027, eventually reaching 20% by 2030. This increase will significantly raise the cost of short-term stays for digital nomads and slow travelers using hotels or short-term rentals in the city.
Netherlands joins 11 nations to tighten Russian Schengen tourist visa limits
The Dutch government has joined a coalition of EU member states calling for stricter curbs on Russian travel. This policy shift may lead to increased border scrutiny and changes to Schengen visa processing for Russian nationals and those traveling from the region.
American Airlines runs nonstop Prague to Philadelphia flights through Oct. 5
American Airlines has restored its seasonal direct connection between Czechia and the United States, operating daily flights until Oct. 5. This route provides expats and digital nomads in Prague with a second direct North American link and one-stop access to over 100 destinations across the U.S.
France requires 80% on civic exam and B2 French for naturalisation
The French Interior Ministry is reviewing proposals to streamline the citizenship process and improve accessibility for foreign retirees. While not yet law, these changes would simplify long-term settlement for expats and older international residents.
EU confirms ETIAS will start in the last quarter for 60 nations
The European Union confirmed that the ETIAS pre-travel authorization system for visa-free nationals is now scheduled to go live in late 2026. Travelers from over 60 countries will eventually need this digital permit to enter the Schengen Area for short stays.
Czech Republic drops foreign criminal record rule for 2 visa programs
The Czech government has streamlined documentation requirements for highly qualified applicants to attract international talent. Additionally, participants in the Indonesian labor migration project can now switch employers after 6 months of residency.
EU extends detention to 30 months for irregular stays in Portugal
The EU approved a new Return Regulation allowing for deportation centers outside the bloc and tougher entry bans for those without legal status. While targeting irregular migration, the law expands police powers to verify residency documents for all foreign residents across the Schengen Area.