Immigration news update for all regions
Americas
United States: Romania added to Visa Waiver Program
The US government has added Romania to the countries in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This will enhance U.S. security interests and promote legitimate travel and commerce between the two nations.
Romania has met the security requirements to join the VWP and starting likely at the end of March 2025, Romanian citizens can apply for travel authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for tourism or business visits to the U.S., for up to 90 days without a visa. U.S. citizens already enjoy visa-free travel to Romania for up to 90 days.
This summary was prepared using information from the Department of Homeland Security
Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any further inquiries regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Roberta Carnaccini (Global Director of Immigration).
Asia-Pacific
Hong Kong: Introduction of mandatory on line submission of visa applications
The Hong Kong Immigration Department (ImmD) Authorities have announced an adjustment to the method of submission for applications under various admission policies/schemes. The change in process requires all applications for the following admission policies/categories of visa to be submitted via the online portal from January 17.
- General Employment Policy (including both employment and investment as entrepreneurs);
- Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals;
- Capital Investment Entrant Scheme;
- Training;
- Working Holiday Scheme; and
- Residence as Dependents.
Applicants seeking visas in the categories listed above must submit their applications for visa/entry permits and extensions of stay via electronic services with effect from January 17. Electronic services for a visa application allow applicants to complete the entire process of an application submission, payment and collection of an “e-Visa” through the ImmD mobile application, the ImmD’s website (www.immd.gov.hk/eng/index.html) or the GovHK website (www.gov.hk/en/nonresidents/), without having to visit an Immigration Office in person. The authorities will no longer accept such applications submitted in person, or by post or drop-in-box. The eligibility and approval criteria for the relevant policies/schemes remain unchanged. After submitting the applications, applicants can also upload supplementary documents and/or inquire as to the status of applications online if necessary. It is not yet clear if processing times will be reduced due to this change.
This summary was prepared using information from the Immigration Department
Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any further inquiries regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Debra Beynon (Regional Immigration Manager, APAC) and Roberta Carnaccini (Global Director of Immigration).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Hungary: Cap on guest worker residence permits in 2025
The Hungarian Ministry of National Economy has announced that the country will cap the number of guest worker residence permits and employment-related residence permits to 35,000 in 2025. This decision marks a substantial reduction from the 2024 cap, which was set at 65,000.
By limiting the number of foreign workers, the government said that it aims to ensure that more employment opportunities are available for Hungarian citizens, thereby strengthening the domestic labor market.
This decreaase is expected to have significant implications for industries that rely heavily on foreign labor. Businesses may need to adjust their strategies and explore new ways to attract and retain local talent.
This summary was prepared using information from the Schengen News
Sweden: Stricter Swedish citizenship requirements proposed
A recent report proposes stricter requirements for Swedish citizenship to encourage active social participation. Key changes include:
- Extending residency requirements to eight years.
- Implementing stricter standards for a “respectable lifestyle”, particularly affecting those with criminal records.
- Introducing a self-sufficiency requirement.
These changes are set to take effect on June 1, 2026. The proposals aim to ensure applicants are well-integrated and self-reliant, although this has sparked mixed reactions about the impact on vulnerable groups.
This summary was prepared using information from our local service partner.
Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any further inquiries regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Roberta Carnaccini (Global Director of Immigration)
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