Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa Shift, UK’s Surge in Indian Family Visas, and More

Here are the latest updates in immigration news from around the world:

1. Greece Alters Digital Nomad Visa Application Process: Starting January 1, 2024, Greece will no longer accept in-country applications for the Digital Nomad Visa. Applicants must now apply through Greek consular posts in their country of citizenship or residence. The visa is open to non-European Union citizens who meet specific conditions, including proof of being a digital nomad, a valid employment contract registered outside Greece, and a monthly salary of at least Euro 3,500.
2. Digital Nomad Visa Rankings: Argentina has been ranked as having the best digital nomad visa policy in North and South America and the second-best globally, following Spain. The ranking, conducted by Visaguide.world, also places Romania third, the United Arab Emirates fourth, and Croatia fifth.
3. UK Sees a 123% Spike in Family-Related Visas for Indians: Between September 2022 and 2023, the United Kingdom granted 5,870 family-related visas to Indian nationals, marking a significant 123% year-on-year increase. Overall, 82,395 family-related visas were issued during this period, the highest ever granted in a single year.
4. New Zealand Extends 90-Day Trial Periods: The New Zealand Government has announced its intention to extend 90-day trial periods to all employers, excluding accredited employers and those on the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). Accredited employers were previously prohibited from using 90-day trial periods in employment agreements as of October 29, 2023.
5. Finland Faces Backlog in Family Ties Applications: Finland’s Immigration Service reports a backlog in processing applications based on family ties, with approximately 11,800 applications awaiting a decision. The number of applications has surged by 50% compared to 2021, reaching an expected 40,000 in 2023. Despite the backlog, more than 60% of applications have been decided within three months, and 76% within six months.
6. Netherlands Allows Double Surnames: Starting January 1, 2024, children born in the Netherlands can be registered with the surnames of both their parents. This change applies to children born on or after January 1, 2016, during a transition period. Adopted children will also have the option to choose a combination of their name at birth and the name of one adoptive parent, with a maximum of two surnames.

These updates reflect ongoing changes in immigration policies worldwide, impacting digital nomads, family reunification, employment terms, and naming conventions in various countries.

For more updates stay tuned to FELA News!