Immigration news update for all regions
Americas
United States: End of automatic EAD extensions
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a rule change that ends the automatic extension of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for most noncitizens who file renewal applications on or after October 30, 2025. This move is intended to improve screening and vetting processes, helping USCIS better detect fraud and assess public safety or national security risks. Exceptions to the rule will only apply where specifically allowed by law or through Federal Register notices, such as for certain Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders. EADs that were automatically extended before the effective date will remain valid through their designated extension periods. F-1 students are not affected by this change, as their work authorization is governed by separate regulations.
Employers should prepare for increased administrative responsibilities, including closer monitoring of EAD expiration dates and I-9 compliance. Since automatic extensions will no longer apply to renewals filed after October 30, employees may face temporary lapses in work authorization if their new EADs are not approved in time. To mitigate this, employers are advised to encourage early renewal filings, update internal tracking systems, and proactively communicate the changes to affected employees. Legal challenges to the rule may arise, so employers are encouraged to consult with legal counsel for guidance on compliance.
This summary was prepared using the information from our service partner Maggio, Kattar, Nahajzer + Alexander, PC.
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 Operations Director, Immigration).
Asia-Pacific
China: Chinese embassy launches updated visa application platform
The Chinese Embassy in the United States has officially launched the new China Online Visa Application System, known as the New COVA System. This platform introduces a streamlined and more efficient process for visa applicants, aiming to enhance the overall experience and reduce processing times.
To begin the application process, individuals must access the New COVA System online, where they are required to complete the visa application form and upload the necessary supporting documents for preliminary review. Once the application status updates to “Passport to be submitted,” applicants or their authorized agents must deliver the physical passport, the printed application info-page with a barcode, and any other original documents requested to the Visa Office during its official working hours.
Applicants who have already submitted their applications through the previous version of the COVA System are advised to consult the appropriate page for the relevant application requirements, as the procedures may differ.
For those using the New COVA System, it is essential to follow the provided guidelines carefully to ensure the application is completed correctly. Attention to detail during the online form-filling process can help avoid delays and ensure a smoother visa application experience.
This summary was prepared using information provided from the Chinese Embassy in the U.S.
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) or Roberta Carnaccini (Global Operations Director, Immigration).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Denmark: International House Copenhagen clarifies enhanced documentation requirements for Civil Status Registration
International House Copenhagen announces an update to its registration procedures for foreign nationals entering Denmark and applying for a Civil Registration Number (CPR). Effective immediately, International House will place increased emphasis on verifying documentation related to civil status.
Key Updates:
- Legalisation/Apostille Requirement:
Documentation of marriage or registered partnership must be legalised or apostilled/certified for certain countries, regardless of whether the spouse is residing in Denmark, arriving later or not entering Denmark at all. If documentation is not provided, it will be requested. Failure to submit valid documentation will result in the applicant being registered as “unmarried” in CPR. Apostille certifications from Bangladesh and Pakistan are not accepted; documents from these countries must be legalized instead. - Exemption Based on Immigration Authority Recognition:
If the Danish immigration authorities (SIRI or the Danish Immigration Service) have already recognized the marriage or partnership, by referring to the parties as spouses or registered partners in residence permits or EU residence documents, International House will only require the marriage or partnership certificate, without further legalisation. - Countries Without Danish Embassy Legalisation:
For countries where Danish embassies cannot legalise documents (e.g., Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Iraq, Libya, Pakistan, Somalia, South Sudan, Yemen), applicants must obtain stamps from other relevant national authorities to ensure the document is legalised “to the greatest extent possible.” - Accepted Languages:
Documentation is accepted in Danish, English (fully or partially), and other Nordic languages. If translation is required, it must be performed by an authorised interpreter. - Birth Certificates:
Legalisation or apostille certification is generally not required for birth certificates.
This change is part of a broader effort to ensure the accuracy of data recorded in the CPR system, under Section 21(1) of the Danish CPR Act.
This summary was prepared using information provided from the International House Copenhagen.
Gulf Cooperation Council: Launch of Unified Tourist Visa
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Oman) intend to rollout a unified tourist visa starting in Q4 2025, marking a major milestone in regional mobility and tourism.
This visa will allow travellers to move freely across all six nations with a single permit , simplifying travel for tourists, expatriates and business professionals alike.
What this means:
- One visa for travel or work across GCC countries
- Streamlined travel for families, expatriates and business teams
- Simplified planning for relocations, assignments and regional projects
A pilot program is expected before the end of the year, offering a preview of the new system’s benefits. The unified visa is expected to boost tourism, enhance regional collaboration and make the GCC more accessible to global talent and investment.
This summary was prepared using information provided by our regional service partner.
Portugal: Cancellation of all Work-Seeking Visa appointments
Portuguese authorities have abolished its Work-Seeker Visa program effective October 23, 2025, following the enactment of Law No. 61/2025. All scheduled appointments for work-seeking visas have been automatically cancelled.
The discontinued visa, which allowed foreigners to enter Portugal and search for employment for up to 120 days, will be replaced by a new “highly skilled work-seeking visa”. However, applications for the new visa cannot begin until further regulations are published. For now, no timeline has been announced.
Key Changes:
- Manifestação de Interesse pathway will end permanently on December 31, 2025
- The new visa will be limited to applicants with specialized technical competencies, yet to be defined by ministerial order.
- The visa will be territorially restricted to Portugal.
- Applicants who fail to secure employment within 120 days must leave Portugal and wait one year before reapplying.
Considering the above, other visa categories are available, including:
- D7 Passive Income Visa
- D8 Digital Nomad Visa
- D2 Entrepreneur Visa
- D3 Highly Qualified Professionals Visa
- Golden Visa Program
Until further guidance is released, stakeholders are advised to monitor developments closely and explore alternative visa pathways to ensure continuity in workforce planning and compliance.
This summary was prepared using information provided from the Schengen News
United Arab Emirates: Four new Visit Visa categories and other updates
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) has announced a major update to the UAE’s visa system, introducing four new visit visa categories and revising the conditions, durations and requirements for several existing visa types. This initiative supports the UAE’s strategic goals of attracting global talent, enhancing economic growth and improving quality of life.
New Visit Visa Categories:
- Artificial Intelligence Specialists Visa – For single or multiple visits, requiring a letter from a sponsoring tech-focused entity.
- Entertainment Visa – For temporary leisure stays.
- Events Visit Visa – For attending festivals, exhibitions, conferences and other public or private sector events.
- Cruise Tourism Visa – For visitors arriving via cruise ships or leisure boats, with a tourism itinerary and a licensed sponsor.
Key Updates to Existing Visas:
- Truck Drivers Visa – Now available for single or multiple trips with stricter sponsor and insurance requirements.
- Visiting Friends or Relatives – Income thresholds now vary based on degree of kinship.
- Business Opportunity Visa – Applicants must show financial capability or professional engagement in the intended activity.
- Humanitarian Cases – One-year visa duration; exceptions allowed for war/disaster-affected nationals and family reunification.
- Residency for Widows/Divorcees – New provisions for foreign spouses and children, with financial and housing requirements.
Local authorities emphasized that these changes reflect forward-looking studies and public feedback, aligning with the UAE’s vision to remain a global hub for talent, innovation, and opportunity.
This summary was prepared using information provided from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security
United Kingdom: Increase in priority service fees for sponsor license processing
The United Kingdom has officially increased fees for priority immigration services related to sponsor license applications and management requests, effective October 21, 2025.
Key Changes:
- Priority processing of sponsor license applications has increased from £500 to £750.
- Expedited sponsorship management requests (e.g., allocation requests for Worker and Temporary Worker sponsors) have risen from £200 to £350.
These changes affect companies seeking to fast-track their ability to sponsor foreign workers or make urgent updates to existing sponsorship licenses.
This summary was prepared using information provided from the Home Office
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 Joanna Sogeke (Immigration Team Leader) or Roberta Carnaccini (Global Director of Immigration).
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