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Starting May 20, 2025, new form of settlement will come into effect that will allow for the regularization of immigration status for thousands of people in Spain, thanks to Royal Decree 1155/2024 approved on November 19. This reform introduces important changes to the Immigration Regulations, facilitating the social and labor integration of those already residing in Spanish territory.

Among the most notable new features of the new regulations are:

1. Second-chance settlement:

This form will benefit those who have previously resided in Spain with a permit and who, for reasons beyond their control, were unable to renew it. They will now be able to obtain a new residence and work permit by meeting certain specific requirements.

2. Socio-laboral roots:

Aimed at those who have lived in Spain for at least two years and have an employment contract for at least 20 hours per week. This new type of roots seeks to provide legal and employment stability to migrant workers who are already integrated into the labor market but lacked adequate regularization.

3. Social roots with family ties:

This option is expanded to include those with close relatives in Spain, such as spouses, registered partners, ascendants, or descendants, provided they can demonstrate sufficient financial support during their stay.

4. Socio-formative roots:

This option will be available to migrants who have lived in Spain for at least two years and who are enrolled in or committed to vocational training related to sectors with high labor demand. This training, which can be done in person or blended, will also allow them to work up to 20 hours per week during the study period.

With these modifications, the Spanish government seeks to respond to the current migration situation, promoting more flexible and effective regularization that fosters the inclusion and social stability of migrants.

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On September 13, 2024, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress approved the “State Council Measures on the Gradual Postponement of the Statutory Retirement Age,” which will take effect on January 1, 2025. These measures establish a gradual increase in the retirement age over a 15-year period.

Under the new regulations, male and female employees in administrative or office positions (white-collar), who currently retire at ages 60 and 55, respectively, will see their retirement ages increase by one month for every four-month period, reaching 63 and 58 in 2040. Meanwhile, female employees in operational or manual positions (blue-collar) will increase from the current age of 50 to 55 in 2040, with an increase of one month for every two-month period.

For example, a male employee who was originally scheduled to retire on January 1, 2025, will now retire on February 1, 2025 (one month later). Similarly, someone who was scheduled to retire on May 1, 2025, will now retire on July 1, 2025 (two months later).

Furthermore, starting January 1, 2030, the minimum years of contribution required to access pension benefits will also be gradually increased. Currently set at 15 years, six months will be added for each year until reaching 20 years of contribution.

Likewise, on December 31, 2024, three ministries and the Organization Department of the Party Central Committee issued the Notice on “Provisional Measures for the Implementation of the Flexible Retirement System.” This regulation, also effective January 1, 2025, expands the provisions on early and delayed retirement.

Employees who meet the minimum contribution period will be eligible for early retirement, provided their age is not lower than the thresholds established before 2025. Similarly, those who wish to continue working beyond the statutory retirement age may do so.

The attached official document includes comparative tables by gender and type of employment, detailing how the retirement age will be progressively postponed. These tables are available in Chinese with English translation for reference.

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Starting July 16, 2025, a reduction in the maximum weekly workday will go into effect in Colombia, from 46 to 44 hours. This change is part of the progressive implementation of Law 2101 of 2021, which seeks to gradually reduce working hours without affecting employees’ wages or acquired rights. This modification represents an adjustment in the way companies manage working hours and labor costs, which has implications for both employers and employees.

To whom does this law apply?

The reduction in working hours will primarily impact private sector workers under employment contracts. However, there are some exceptions:

• It does not apply to public sector employees, except for those governed by the Substantive Labor Code.
• Special workdays established for certain sectors or specific groups, such as minors on work leave, are excluded.
• It does not affect employees under special regimes who have employment agreements that differ from the general regulations.

Impact on Businesses

For employers, this reduction in working hours represents a significant change in their cost structure and workforce planning. Some of the key aspects to consider include:

• Adjustment of overtime pay: By reducing the standard workday, the value of the regular work hour increases, which means that overtime pay, nighttime surcharges, Sunday surcharges, and holiday surcharges will also be affected.
• Adaptation of internal processes: Companies will need to review and adjust their timekeeping systems, payrolls, and shift schedules to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
• Productivity and employee well-being: Several studies have shown that reduced work hours can contribute to greater employee well-being, reducing burnout and improving job performance. Complying with the law will not only avoid penalties but can also represent an opportunity to improve the organizational climate and talent retention.

Background and Projections

Law 2101 of 2021 establishes that the working week in Colombia will gradually decrease to 42 hours per week by 2026. The first reduction, from 48 to 47 hours, was already implemented in 2023, and now, in 2025, the reduction to 44 hours will be implemented. By 2026, the maximum working week will be set at 42 hours per week.

These types of measures align with global trends seeking to improve work-life balance. In countries such as Spain and France, the reduction of working hours has been a key topic in the debate on productivity and worker well-being. Companies around the world have implemented pilot programs for reduced work weeks with positive results in terms of efficiency and job satisfaction.

Challenges and Expectations

While this measure represents progress in terms of labor rights, it also poses challenges for sectors that rely on extended shifts or require high staff availability. Some industries are likely to seek strategies to mitigate the impact of this reduction, such as optimizing processes, automating certain tasks, or hiring more staff to cover the required hours.

The Ministry of Labor has emphasized that compliance with this measure will be monitored and that companies that do not comply with the new regulations may face sanctions. Therefore, it is essential that both employers and workers inform themselves and adapt to these changes in advance.

In conclusion, the reduction of the working day in Colombia starting in July 2025 represents an important step in the evolution of the country’s labor market. Its successful implementation will depend on companies’ ability to adapt and workers’ willingness to take advantage of this new work arrangement in a productive and balanced manner.

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The Ministry of Transport has approved Order TRM/59/2025, dated January 16, regulating the driver certificate for conducting international public road freight transport.

Regulation (EC) No. 1072/2009 establishes the requirement for transport operators holding a Community license to obtain a driver certificate when employing legally contracted drivers or those made available to the operator. However, this requirement does not apply to citizens of a European Union Member State or long-term residents under Council Directive 2003/109/EC of November 25, 2003.

Since this regulation applies within the European Economic Area (EEA) and has been incorporated into the EEA Agreement, drivers who are nationals of Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Norway will also be exempt from needing this certificate.

Additionally, as compliance with labor and social obligations of transport companies is already verified when granting transport authorizations, the scenarios in which the driver certificate is mandatory have been revised. Consequently, the certificate will only be required for international road freight transport when the driver is a national of a third country outside the EU and EEA and does not hold long-term resident status in the EU.

The new order also introduces administrative simplifications, such as consulting documentation through public records and eliminating the requirement to submit a report from the Provincial Traffic Department on the validity of driving licenses issued by foreign authorities.

Order TRM/59/2025 expressly repeals the previous regulation (Order FOM/3399/2002) and establishes the following key provisions:

a) Certificates for third-country nationals are limited to international road freight transport. They will not be required for domestic transport services, passenger transport drivers, or long-term residents.
b) Certificates issued under Order FOM/3399/2002 will remain valid until their expiration date.
c) The requirements for issuing the certificate remain unchanged, except for the removal of the Provincial Traffic Department report when the driving license was issued by a foreign authority.
d) The Administration may verify compliance with requirements electronically when the relevant records are operational.
e) Order FOM/3399/2002 is expressly repealed.
f) The new regulation came into effect on January 29, 2025.

With this regulatory update, the Ministry aims to align Spanish regulations with the European legal framework and reduce the administrative burden on transport companies.

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On a global scale, the Henley Passport Index is the most important reference for measuring citizens’ freedom of movement across different countries. This index ranks the world’s passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without requiring a prior visa. The data comes from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), ensuring the ranking’s reliability and accuracy.

Why Is This Ranking Important?

The Henley Passport Index not only reflects the power of passports in terms of international access but also serves as an indicator of a country’s diplomacy, bilateral relations, and international agreements. A passport that grants access to more countries without a visa is considered more “powerful” because it facilitates trade, tourism, and diplomatic relations. Over the years, this index has demonstrated how global mobility is directly linked to a country’s foreign policies.

Who Leads the Ranking in 2025?

The Henley Passport Index 2025 highlights the countries with the greatest freedom of movement. Below are the top five rankings:

1. Singapore: With visa-free access to 195 countries, Singapore remains the undisputed leader, once again showcasing the impact of its strong diplomatic network.
2. Japan: Access to 193 countries. Japan continues to stand out in the Asian region, solidifying its position as a global mobility leader.
3. Spain: With access to 192 countries, Spain holds firmly to third place, tying with other European nations such as Germany, France, Italy, and Finland. This achievement underscores Spain’s diplomatic power within the European Union and its global influence.

The Mobility Gap

While countries at the top of the ranking enjoy great freedom for their citizens, the Henley Passport Index also highlights disparities in global mobility. Many developing countries face significant challenges in accessing other destinations without a visa. These restrictions reflect the economic and political inequalities that still persist in the international arena. Citizens of these nations often require visas, representing a significant barrier to tourism and business.

Implications for Travelers and the World

The power of a passport has profound implications for travelers. Those with more powerful passports enjoy greater ease in conducting business, studying abroad, or even relocating to other countries with fewer restrictions. Visa-free access facilitates the movement of human capital, which in turn can contribute to more dynamic international relations.

Moreover, the ranking reflects how visa policies and bilateral agreements between countries are shaping a new mobility landscape. Nations that secure visa exemption agreements gain a significant advantage, as they enable easier entry for tourists, students, and international entrepreneurs, which can serve as a driver for their economies.

The Future of Global Mobility

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the positions of countries in the Henley Passport Index may shift. New alliances and free-movement agreements between nations could reshape current dynamics. Similarly, political and economic developments may influence a country’s ability to strengthen its diplomatic power and improve its citizens’ international access.

Conclusion

In summary, the Henley Passport Index 2025 provides insight into the current state of global mobility and the factors that determine which countries hold the most powerful passports. Spain continues to be a key player in Europe, ranking third among the world’s most powerful passports, while Singapore and Japan lead the list. Despite progress in many countries, mobility inequalities remain a global concern, highlighting the need to continue improving international relations and easing visa policies.

For more details and to access the full list, you can visit the official Henley Passport Index 2025 website.

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Schengen, the EU’s passport-free zone, encompasses 29 countries.

The ability to move freely without the need to show a passport, live, work, study, or even retire in any of the 26 countries that make up the Schengen border-free area is undoubtedly one of the most significant achievements of European integration.

The right to free movement, originating from the Maastricht Treaty of 1992, grants citizens the right to move and reside freely within the European Union. This principle was effectively implemented with the gradual removal of internal borders, thanks to the establishment of the Schengen Area in 1995.

Currently, 27 countries are full members of the Schengen system: 25 EU member states, along with Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein, which are associated states. Although Ireland is not part of Schengen, it may choose to apply some provisions of the agreement and has a common travel area with the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, Denmark is part of Schengen but has the option not to adopt new measures related to justice and home affairs, including Schengen governance, while still adhering to certain common visa policies. Cyprus, on the other hand, is undergoing an evaluation process to determine whether it is ready to join the Schengen Area.

In November 2022, the European Parliament approved Croatia’s accession to the Schengen Area before the end of that year, which was implemented on January 1, 2023. In July 2023, the Parliament urged the Council to authorize Romania and Bulgaria’s accession to Schengen before the end of that year, emphasizing that both countries had already met the necessary requirements. As of March 31, 2024, air and sea border controls within the EU were removed for both countries, while land border controls will be abolished on January 1, 2025.

Countries wishing to join the Schengen Area must assume responsibility for monitoring the European Union’s external borders. Additionally, they must implement a set of common rules, such as controls at land, sea, and air borders, and the uniform issuance of Schengen visas. They must also ensure a high level of security within the Schengen Area by cooperating with law enforcement authorities in other member countries. Finally, they must connect to the Schengen Information System (SIS) to share security-related information.

Although internal border controls have been abolished, member states retain the right to reintroduce temporary controls if there are serious threats to internal security or public order. Since the 2015 migration crisis and the rise in terrorist threats, several countries reinstated these controls, a measure that was also adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic to curb the virus’s spread.

In December 2021, the European Commission proposed an update to the rules governing the Schengen Area to ensure that reintroducing internal border controls remains an exceptional measure rather than a frequent practice. This proposal also promoted alternative measures, such as more targeted police checks and increased cooperation between security forces. Despite criticism from the European Parliament regarding the reintroduction of these controls, in February 2024, the Parliament and the Council reached an agreement to update Schengen rules. These new regulations, which came into effect in July 2024, include a risk assessment by national authorities before deciding to reintroduce controls and grant a more active supervisory role to the European Commission.

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On January 3, 2025, the Official State Gazette (BOE) published Organic Law 1/2025, approved on January 2, regarding measures for the efficiency of the Public Justice Service. This law, which will take effect on April 3, 2025, introduces significant changes to the legislation governing investor residence visas.

Organic Law 1/2025 repeals Articles 63 to 67 of Law 14/2013, of September 27, on support for entrepreneurs and their internationalization, which regulated the residence visa known as the Golden Visa.

With this new law, Articles 63 to 67 of Law 14/2013 will be repealed, meaning that the option to apply for residence visas through significant investments in Spain will no longer be available.

Why has its elimination been approved?

1. To improve local housing access: The mass purchase of properties by foreign investors has driven up prices and caused gentrification in certain areas.
2. Limited economic impact: The investments tied to this visa have not had a significant positive effect on Spain’s economy, prompting the elimination of all investor visas.
3. EU restrictions: Following the invasion of Ukraine, the EU has begun to limit investment-based visas due to concerns about money laundering and a lack of transparency, particularly regarding the origin of funds.

What is the Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa is a Spanish residence permit granted through significant investments, provided certain conditions are met:

• Financial investments: A minimum investment of €2 million in Spanish government bonds or €1 million in shares of Spanish companies, investment funds, venture capital funds, or bank deposits in Spanish financial institutions.
• Real estate investments: The purchase of real estate in Spain valued at €500,000 or more.
• Business projects: Investment in projects of general interest carried out in Spain.

Starting April 3, 2025, these options will no longer be valid under the new law.

Transitional arrangements

The law includes transitional measures to ensure acquired rights and ongoing applications are respected:

• Applications submitted before April 3, 2025: Investors or their family members who apply for a visa before this date may continue processing their application under the legislation in force at the time of submission.
• Previously granted visas: Permits issued before the new law takes effect will remain valid for the duration for which they were initially granted.
• Renewals: Renewal applications for visas will be processed according to the legal provisions applicable on the date the initial authorization was granted.

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The European Union (EU) has approved the final step for the full integration of Romania and Bulgaria into the Schengen area of free movement, a significant milestone that will take effect on January 1, 2025. This measure will bring the definitive removal of land border controls, enabling full integration that will benefit not only the citizens of these countries but also Europe as a whole in terms of economic, social, and mobility advantages.

Since their partial entry into the Schengen area in March 2024, Romania and Bulgaria achieved the removal of controls at air and sea borders. However, land border controls remained in place, primarily due to Austria’s opposition, which demanded stronger efforts in managing irregular migration. Now, following a significant reduction in unauthorized crossings, Austria has lifted its objections, paving the way for full membership.

A Boost to the Economy and European Integration

The expansion of the Schengen area to 29 countries marks a milestone in European integration. Established in 1985, the Schengen area facilitates the free movement of people by eliminating internal border controls, promoting a smoother flow of goods, services, and travelers. Currently, over 420 million citizens reside in Schengen countries, and it is estimated that 3.5 million people cross its internal borders daily.

The removal of land border controls in Romania and Bulgaria will directly benefit:

1. Travelers and cross-border workers: Waiting times at borders will be drastically reduced, making daily commutes and travel between European countries much easier. This will be particularly advantageous for the millions of Romanians and Bulgarians living and working in other EU member states, allowing them to return home more quickly and affordably.
2. Businesses and trade: The elimination of border barriers will lower logistics costs and improve the efficiency of road freight transport. This will boost trade between Romania, Bulgaria, and the rest of Europe, strengthening local economies and attracting new foreign investments.
3. Tourism: Full Schengen membership will also encourage tourism by removing border controls, facilitating the arrival of visitors, and creating additional economic opportunities in both countries.

Benefits for the European Union as a Whole

The expansion of the Schengen area strengthens the idea of European unity, facilitating the seamless movement of people and goods.

This decision fulfills a long-standing EU commitment to Romania and Bulgaria, consolidating the full integration of both countries into common mobility and free movement policies.

The Schengen Area: A Symbol of Integration

The Schengen area is one of the EU’s greatest achievements and a symbol of integration. By eliminating internal borders, it has created a dynamic economic environment, strengthened relationships between countries, and provided greater freedom for European citizens. Romania and Bulgaria’s inclusion reaffirms this commitment, further expanding the benefits of free movement.

Full Schengen integration represents a historic opportunity to attract foreign investment, stimulate cross-border trade, and develop key sectors such as logistics, transportation, and tourism. Additionally, the measure reinforces Romania and Bulgaria’s sense of belonging to the European community, removing physical and symbolic barriers that have separated these countries from the rest of Europe for years.

In Summary

Romania and Bulgaria are now full members of the EU Schengen area as of January 1. This marks the end of a 13-year wait for the two countries and opens new opportunities for seamless travel and connectivity across Europe.

Key highlights:

• Border controls between Romania, Bulgaria, and neighboring EU countries have officially ceased.
• Citizens of both countries can now travel across the 27-member Schengen area, including destinations like France, Spain, and Norway, without a passport.
• Random border checks will continue over the next six months, focusing mainly on larger vehicles to deter criminal activity.

This milestone represents a significant step forward for mobility, connectivity, and collaboration in Europe. It’s not just about easier travel but also about building stronger bonds, welcoming a new wave of tourists, and fostering unity.

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The UK Government has announced that starting in 2025, obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) will be mandatory for entering or transiting through the country. This new requirement will apply to both European and non-European citizens who meet the criteria for visa-free travel.

Starting January 8, 2025, non-European citizens will need to have an ETA. Applications for this group can be submitted beginning November 27, 2024. The affected travelers will include citizens of the following countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Macau, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Taiwan (passport must include the identification number issued by Taiwan), Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, United States, and Uruguay.

Meanwhile, European citizens will be able to start the application process on March 5, 2025, allowing them to travel to the UK starting April 2, 2025.

The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) will be introduced gradually for travelers who currently do not require a visa:

• For non-European citizens: ETA applications will be available starting November 27, 2024, and will be mandatory for entering the UK from January 8, 2025.
• For European citizens: ETA applications can be submitted from March 5, 2025, and will become a mandatory requirement starting April 2, 2025.

It is important to note that British and Irish citizens are exempt from this requirement.

This new requirement will affect all travelers arriving at the UK’s major international airports, including London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), Manchester (MAN), Edinburgh (EDI), Birmingham (BHX), and Glasgow (GLA).

The ETA requirement will also impact travelers in transit, who must ensure they complete this process before their international connections. This may result in delays for those who are unaware or have not managed their authorization in advance.

– Travelers are advised to apply for the ETA as soon as the system becomes available on the specified dates.
– To manage the ETA and obtain detailed information, travelers should visit the official UK Government website (www.gov.uk/electronictravelauthorisation).
– Ensure that your passport is valid and that the information matches the details in the application. Any discrepancies could result in a denial of entry to the UK.
– Travelers with connecting flights should allow extra time to comply with the new requirement and avoid disruptions to their itineraries.

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