Immigration news updates for AMER and EMEA regions
Americas
United States: Department of State severely restricts third-country national visa applications 
The U.S. Department of State has issued new guidance that significantly impacts where foreign nationals may apply for U.S. nonimmigrant visas.
Key Updates
- Interview Location Requirement: Visa applicants must now schedule interviews at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or residence.
- End of TCN Processing in Canada: U.S. consular posts in Canada will no longer accept Third-Country National (TCN) applications (individuals applying for a U.S. visa in a country other than their nationality or residence).
- Designated Posts for Certain Nationalities: Nationals from countries without routine U.S. visa operations must apply at specific designated consular locations.
Additional Information
- Fees: Visa fees are non-refundable and non-transferable if an applicant applies outside their country of nationality or residence and is refused.
- Existing Appointments: Previously scheduled nonimmigrant visa appointments will generally remain valid.
- Exceptions: Diplomatic categories (A, G, NATO) and cases involving humanitarian, medical, or foreign policy considerations may be exempt.
Employer Guidance
Employers should prepare for potential disruptions affecting employees who previously relied on U.S. consular services in Canada. Recommended actions:
- Encourage employees to apply for visas in their home country or country of residence.
- Account for longer processing times due to travel and appointment delays.
- Communicate these changes to employees to help adjust travel and work plans.
For full details, may be found in the official notice: Adjudicating Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants in Their Country of Residence (September 6, 2025).
This summary was prepared using the information from our 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 Operations Director, Immigration).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Sweden: Sweden tightens family immigration rules
The Swedish government has introduced a proposal to significantly tighten family reunification regulations, aiming to create a more structured and sustainable immigration framework. If adopted, these changes will take effect on January 1, 2027.
Key Proposed Changes:
- Ongoing Maintenance Requirement: Applicants must meet financial support criteria not only at the time of application but also throughout residence permit renewals.
- Status-Based Rules: Requirements will vary depending on whether the principal is a Swedish citizen, permanent resident, or holds a temporary residence permit.
- Child-Focused Exceptions: Children may be exempt from certain stricter conditions, acknowledging their unique needs.
- Waiting Periods: In certain cases, a two-year waiting period must pass before family members can to apply.
- Narrower Definition of “Family”: Especially for temporary residents and labour migrants, the scope of eligible family members will be more limited.
- Stricter Screening: Applicants with a history of domestic violence may face additional scrutiny or restrictions.
The proposed changes aim to create a more structured and predictable framework, with adjustments. Overall, this means stricter rules and more complexity for applicants and employers.
This summary was prepared using the information from the Government Offices of Sweden
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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