North America
United States and Canada
Countries
Latest Updates
Canada ends 8 OINP streams as job offers become mandatory for Ontario workers
Ontario has overhauled its provincial nominee program, consolidating eight immigration streams into one. Most applicants now require a formal job offer from an eligible employer, significantly narrowing the path for independent remote workers and freelancers.
Quebec raises Canada family sponsorship cap to 15,700 undertakings through June
Quebec has reopened its family reunification program with a strict intake limit to manage processing backlogs. The cap applies to sponsorship applications for spouses, common-law partners, and children over a two-year period starting July 2.
Canada allows Parents and Grandparents Super Visa hosts 2 paths to qualify
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada released updated wait times for various permits, showing faster processing for Super Visas but longer delays for citizenship certificates. Digital nomads and expats should check the latest IRCC data as timelines for work and study permits continue to fluctuate.
United States proposes 75% hike for naturalization fees to 1,330 dollars
The U.S. administration has proposed increasing the citizenship application fee by $570 and eliminating fee waivers for low-income applicants. This change significantly raises the final cost of permanent relocation for expats and long-term residents seeking naturalization.
Canada mandates photo checks for Express Entry and study permit files
IRCC has implemented stricter verification protocols for IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, and TCF results to combat fraud. Applicants for work and study permits should expect potential processing delays if their language scores are flagged for additional review.
Canada issues 9,000 Express Entry invitations to healthcare and CEC workers
Canada conducted two major Express Entry draws between June 22 and June 25, issuing 4,000 invitations each to Canadian Experience Class and healthcare sector candidates. This trend favors expats already working in-country and those with specialized skills in high-demand industries.
US State Department warns Mexico travelers to skip intercity trips after dark
The U.S. State Department reissued its Mexico travel advisory, maintaining a Level 2 status while highlighting specific high-risk highways and states. The update includes critical safety guidance for international travelers and expats, such as avoiding intercity travel after dark and utilizing app-based ride services.
Mexico adds strategic project track to Temporary Resident Visa rules
Mexico has introduced a new visa framework targeting highly skilled foreign talent and specialized project workers. While the program offers a streamlined path for qualified remote or project-based professionals, it introduces stricter compliance and sponsorship obligations for the entities involved.
United States exhausts EB-5 unreserved visa numbers for India until Oct. 1
The U.S. State Department has exhausted all unreserved EB-5 immigrant visas for Indian nationals for the remainder of the fiscal year. India-born investors and their families currently seeking permanent residency through this category will face processing pauses until the new fiscal year begins.
Canada health measures stay in force until Aug. 29 for US travelers
The U.S. Department of State updated its Canada travel advisory on June 5, confirming the country remains at Level 1. The update provides current guidance on entry rules, health-care access, and safety protocols for international visitors and long-stay travelers.
Canada requires proof of foreign income for Digital nomads under May 26 rules
Remote workers entering Canada as visitors must now provide documentation proving all income is earned from employers or clients with no financial ties to the country. Border officials will require foreign employment contracts, tax records, and bank statements to verify eligibility for the work permit exemption.
Mexico tightens Temporary Resident Visa rules for work-based applicants
Mexico has tightened requirements for work-related temporary residence, requiring employers to specify work modality and location in offer letters. Foreign professionals must now undergo stricter credential verification and companies must provide knowledge-transfer plans for strategic projects.
Mexico shifts Temporary Resident income floor to $4,400 per month
Mexico has updated its economic solvency requirements for the Temporary Resident visa by switching to the UMA index. Applicants now typically need roughly $4,400 in monthly income or $74,000 in savings to qualify for residency.
Mexico raises Permanent Residency fees to 13,500 MXN starting Jan. 1
Mexico is set to introduce new tourism-related taxes that will increase the cost of entry and stay for foreign travelers. These changes will directly impact the budgets of digital nomads, retirees, and long-term visitors planning to stay in the country.
Mexico phases out paper FMM for 180 day tourist stamps
Mexico is phasing out the paper FMM form at major airports and land borders in favor of digital records and passport stamps. Travelers must now download their digital FMM online if they need proof of legal stay for residency exchanges or banking.
Mexico officers cut FMM stays below 180 days for nomads and tourists
Mexican immigration officials are shifting away from automatically granting 180-day stays to tourists at the border. Travelers may now receive significantly shorter permits, directly impacting digital nomads who rely on visa runs to stay in the country long-term.
Mexico residency costs to surge as INM sets 11,140 peso fee for Jan. 1
Mexico has updated its government fee schedule for residency applications and renewals. Foreigners will face higher costs for obtaining temporary and permanent residency cards as well as for status changes and work authorizations.
Why 6 Mexico states still carry a Level 4 Do Not Travel warning
While major hubs like Mexico City and Cancun remain at Level 1 or 2, the US State Department continues to advise against travel to six specific states due to crime. Digital nomads and expats should utilize the STEP program and app-based transport when navigating higher-risk regions.
Mexico City immigration sweeps lead to 44 detentions throughout May
Mexican immigration agents are conducting rare street-level document checks and neighborhood raids in popular expat hubs like Polanco. Foreigners, including digital nomads and tourists, must carry proof of legal status at all times to avoid detention during these increased enforcement actions.
Keeping valuables safe in Mexico city remains the top priority for nomads
A May 2026 safety overview for Mexico City highlights persistent risks of petty theft and scams in popular nomad neighborhoods and public transport. While central areas remain stable, foreign residents are advised to exercise extra caution with valuables and late-night movements.