Posts in category: Uncategorized

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.

www.feliu.biz │ www.expatfeliu.com

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.

www.feliu.biz │ www.expatfeliu.com

On November 19, 2024, the Spanish government repealed the joint instruction issued on March 15, 2019, which permitted Venezuelan citizens to use expired passports for immigration procedures in the country. This measure, originally introduced as an exceptional solution, is no longer in effect due to the normalization of passport renewals by Venezuelan consulates.

A Context Marked by the Venezuelan Crisis
In 2019, Venezuela’s severe political, economic, and social crisis created numerous challenges for Venezuelan citizens both within and outside their country. Among these challenges was the inability to renew passports due to administrative collapse in Venezuelan consulates. Faced with this situation, Spain adopted the extraordinary measure of allowing expired passports to serve as valid documents for Venezuelans to regularize their immigration status within Spanish territory.

The regulation, outlined in a joint instruction dated March 15, 2019, provided relief to thousands of Venezuelan citizens seeking to formalize their stay in Spain despite lacking a valid passport. Over the years, this measure enabled many to obtain residence and work permits, secure access to healthcare, and carry out other essential procedures for integration into the country.

End of the Exceptional Measure
With the decision made on November 19, 2024, this instruction has been repealed. According to official sources, the decision is based on the fact that Venezuelan authorities have now normalized the process of passport renewals at their consulates. As a result, Venezuelan citizens wishing to initiate immigration procedures in Spain will be required to present a valid passport.

It is important to highlight that this repeal applies only to procedures initiated after the date of its implementation. Ongoing procedures that were initiated beforehand will continue to be governed by the previous regulation and will not be affected by this change.

www.feliu.biz │ www.expatfeliu.com

The National Immigration Council (CNIG) of Brazil’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security has approved Resolution CNIG/MJSP No. 45, a measure that allows the granting of temporary visas and residence permits to immigrants known as “digital nomads.” This resolution targets foreign professionals who work remotely for employers outside Brazil, leveraging the flexibility of information and communication technologies.

What is a “Digital Nomad”?
According to the new regulations, a “digital nomad” is defined as an immigrant who, using digital technologies, can perform their job remotely while physically residing in Brazil but working for a foreign company. These workers do not maintain ties with local employers, and their employment depends exclusively on their internet connection.

The regulations clarify that immigrants working for Brazilian companies or those with any form of local employment relationship, as well as those whose residence has been requested under other previously established authorizations, will not be considered under this category.

How to Apply for a Temporary Visa
For those wishing to be recognized as digital nomads in Brazil, the application process begins with obtaining a temporary visa. Applicants must submit a series of documents to Brazilian consular authorities.

The initial residence period granted under this visa will be up to one year, allowing immigrants to enjoy their stay in Brazil while performing remote work.

Additional Requirements for Residence Authorization in Brazil
For individuals already in Brazil who wish to regularize their status as “digital nomads,” they may apply for a residence permit through the Ministry of Justice and Public Security.

Renewal of Residence
The residence permit under this regulation can be renewed for an additional period of up to one year, provided the immigrant continues to meet the established requirements. This includes submitting documents proving their status as a “digital nomad” and demonstrating that their means of subsistence remain sufficient.

Potential Consequences of Omissions or Falsifications
It is important to note that any omission of relevant information or falsification of documents during the process may result in the cancellation of the visa and revocation of the residence permit. Authorities will initiate a cancellation process under Decree No. 9,199 of 2017, without prejudice to applicable civil and criminal liability measures.

Impact of the Measure and Entry into Force
Resolution CNIG/MJSP No. 45 takes effect upon its publication and represents a significant step for Brazil in attracting foreign professionals who, as digital nomads, wish to take advantage of the country’s infrastructure to advance their careers while enjoying Brazil’s quality of life.

The regulation reinforces Brazil’s position as an attractive destination for international remote workers, who are increasingly seeking countries that provide a suitable environment for flexible work and new professional opportunities in a globalized, digitized context.

Through this program, Brazil not only facilitates the entry of these workers but also promotes the country’s digital economy and innovation, generating a positive impact on sectors related to technology, tourism, and consumer markets.

Such initiatives are becoming more common as countries adapt to the new realities of remote work, incentivizing the arrival of global talent to contribute to their economies in innovative and modern ways.

www.feliu.biz │ www.expatfeliu.com

On October 9, the Official State Gazette (BOE) published the bilateral agreement between the Kingdom of Spain and the Republic of Honduras regarding the reciprocal recognition and exchange of national driver’s licenses. This agreement aims to facilitate the mobility of citizens of both countries, ensuring the mutual recognition of driver’s licenses under road safety conditions and in compliance with international regulations.

Starting November 26, 2024, the exchange agreement with Honduras will come into effect, and from that date, it will be possible to request appointments for license exchange. As with other exchange agreements, which are processed through prior appointments, applicants must present the required documents on the day of the appointment.

Key points of the agreement:

1. Reciprocal recognition: National driver’s licenses issued in one of the two countries will be valid for temporary driving in the territory of the other, provided the established conditions are met.
2. License exchange without additional tests: Holders of valid and current driver’s licenses can request an exchange for an equivalent license in the country of residence without the need to take theoretical or practical exams. However, for specific license categories (C1, C1+E, C, C+E, D1, D1+E, D, and D+E), a practical driving test will be required.
3. Authenticity verification: Before the exchange, the authorities of each country will exchange information to verify the validity of the original license.
4. Indefinite duration of the agreement: The agreement will remain in effect indefinitely, although either Party may terminate it with 90 days’ notice.

Competent authorities:

• In Spain: The Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT).
• In Honduras: The National Directorate of Roads and Transportation (DNVT).

This agreement reflects the cooperation between the two countries in terms of mobility and respect for fundamental rights, ensuring the protection of personal data in the information exchange processes.

For more details, consult the full text of the agreement published in the BOE: Access the document.

www.feliu.biz │ www.expatfeliu.com

On November 19, the Council of Ministers approved, at the proposal of the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration, a new Immigration Regulation. Its main objectives are to align the regulations with the current migratory landscape, meet the needs of both the labor market and migrants, and address the demographic challenges of the country. Furthermore, the new text complies with European Union law by transposing pending directives and applying EU regulations.

Key Changes: Visas

The new regulation introduces a specific section for visas, clarifying authorization schemes, requirements, and general procedures. All initial authorizations will now be issued for one year, with subsequent renewals lasting four years.

This change aims to prevent situations of irregular status, which the new regulation also addresses by simplifying and clarifying the process of transitioning from one residence status to another. For instance, migrants will no longer need to leave the country to obtain long-term residency after holding a temporary one.

Additionally, the job search visa, previously valid for three months, has been extended to one year. This visa allows migrants to search for employment in specific occupations and geographical areas. The 12-month duration provides migrants with more time to find a job suited to their professional profile while enabling companies to hire the talent they need.

Key Changes: Five Types of “Arraigo”

A notable aspect of the reform is the inclusion of different types of arraigo (rootedness). Spain is the only European Union country with specific mechanisms to regularize individuals through five modalities of arraigo: social, socio-labor, family, socio-educational, and second-chance rootedness, the latter being one of the most significant novelties in the new regulation.

The second-chance arraigo targets individuals who held a residence permit in the last two years but failed to renew it for various reasons.

The goal is to expand and strengthen pathways to regularization for migrants in Spain, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives as citizens, with both rights and responsibilities.

The time required for eligibility for most arraigo types has been reduced from three years to two, and the requirements have been made more flexible. These permits allow migrants to work, either as employees or self-employed, from the outset.

Most of these authorizations will last one year, except for the family arraigo, which will be valid for five years.

Three Pillars of Inclusion: Work, Training, and Family

The regulation creates new opportunities for inclusion, focusing on three key areas: employment, education, and family. These pillars aim to promote inclusion while maintaining strict legal standards and protecting human rights.

1. Employment
The majority of the authorizations covered by this regulation allow migrants to work immediately, without needing to apply separately for a work permit. This includes students, who will now be allowed to work up to 30 hours per week, facilitating their integration into society.

A new residence and work permit has been created for seasonal work, simplifying individual and collective hiring processes. It also enhances worker protections, ensuring clear and accessible information (in a language they understand) about working conditions, housing, and other expenses. Additionally, safeguards are in place to allow workers to change employers in cases of abuse or unforeseen circumstances, such as crop failures.

Employers will also benefit from streamlined processes, greater flexibility to meet specific needs, and more stable hiring conditions through the 1+4 residence permit structure.

2. Education
For students, the regulation introduces a study permit valid for the duration of their academic program. A streamlined process will also allow them to transition to a work permit after completing their studies.

During their studies, students can work up to 30 hours per week, regardless of the type of training they are pursuing.

The new regulation also strengthens the requirements and responsibilities of educational institutions, offering students greater protection than before.

3. Family
Family reunification procedures have been improved to support inclusion. A new residence permit has been created for family members of Spanish citizens, increasing the age limit for children from 21 to 26 and recognizing non-registered partnerships with proof of a similar relationship.

This measure primarily benefits individuals who have acquired Spanish nationality in recent years and want to bring their families to Spain.

Additionally, the concept of family reunification has been broadened to include children and parents of victims of human trafficking, sexual violence, or gender-based violence.

A Comprehensive Step Forward

This new Immigration Regulation is a significant step towards fostering migrant integration in Spain. By prioritizing work, education, and family, it seeks to create an inclusive society while addressing the country’s labor and demographic challenges. These changes ensure that migrants can participate fully as members of society, enjoying both rights and responsibilities while contributing to Spain’s economic and social growth.

www.feliu.biz │ www.expatfeliu.com

The National Immigration Council (CNIG) of Brazil has made a significant advancement in its immigration policy by approving Resolution No. 50/2024, which establishes new procedures for granting work residency permits to immigrants who have completed undergraduate or strictu sensu postgraduate studies in Brazil. This measure, published on September 5, 2024, in the Official Gazette of the Union, aims to attract and retain international academic talent, facilitating the integration of highly skilled professionals into the Brazilian labor market.

Purpose of the Resolution and Beneficiaries

The new resolution targets immigrants who have obtained their undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in Brazil, specifically those who have attended academic programs at Brazilian institutions accredited by the Ministry of Education. Both in-person and hybrid courses are accepted, provided that the final evaluation process was conducted in person at the educational institution.

A key aspect of the resolution is that most of the educational program must have been completed in Brazil at accredited institutions. This ensures that immigrants granted work residency authorization have received proper training aligned with the country’s educational standards. Primarily, this measure benefits immigrants who chose Brazil for their studies and now wish to pursue their professional careers there.

However, the resolution outlines certain exclusions. It does not cover students participating in programs like the Undergraduate Student Agreement Program (PEC) by the Federal Government or the University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusophony (UNILAB). These programs, designed to promote cultural and educational exchange, impose specific conditions, such as returning to the students’ home countries after completing their studies. In such cases, work residency authorization can only be requested after fulfilling those obligations in their country of origin.

Once a request is approved, the work residency permit is granted for an initial period of up to two years. During this time, immigrants can work in Brazil in areas related to their field of study. This measure aims to foster stability and professional development for qualified immigrants while contributing to the country’s economic growth.

After the initial residency period, there is an option to request an extension to indefinite residency, provided all established requirements are met.

Professional Qualification Requirements

A crucial feature of the new resolution is that immigrants whose area of expertise requires specific professional licensing—such as passing exams, tests, competitions, or registering with a professional council—must complete these steps before being allowed to practice their profession in Brazil. This ensures that only those meeting Brazil’s professional standards can engage in regulated activities.

This aspect of the resolution underscores Brazil’s commitment to maintaining the quality of its regulated professions and safeguarding labor standards, ensuring that immigrants joining the workforce are adequately prepared for their roles.

Broader Impact

Through this initiative, Brazil seeks not only to facilitate the integration of qualified immigrants into the labor market but also to strengthen its economy by incorporating professionals trained within the country. The resolution offers immigrants the benefit of a stable working environment while providing Brazilian companies access to highly skilled talent.

The government of Brazil hopes that these measures will help retain international academic talent, enabling foreign professionals to continue their careers in the country after completing their studies. This approach benefits both the immigrants and the companies operating in Brazil.

Resolution No. 50/2024 came into effect on October 5, 2024, 30 days after its publication. From this date, eligible immigrants can start submitting their applications for work residency permits, contributing to the strengthening of Brazil’s workforce and promoting the integration of immigrants into its economic and social fabric.

This initiative marks an important step in establishing Brazil as a preferred destination for international talent, offering opportunities for those who choose the country for their education and professional growth.

www.feliu.biz │ www.expatfeliu.com

The EES (Entry/Exit System) and ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) are automated computer systems for recording and controlling personal data of nationals from non-EU countries crossing the external borders of the Schengen Area.

Neither system is currently operational, with implementation planned for 2025.

The European Union and Management of External Borders

These European initiatives are part of a set of measures aimed at improving the management of the external borders of Schengen member states.

The future automated systems aim to enhance the effectiveness and reliability of controls at the external borders of the Schengen Area, enabling member states and EU agencies to ensure better information sharing to combat cross-border crime and terrorism while achieving more effective border management, all under strict respect for fundamental rights and European data protection legislation.

EES (Entry/Exit System): A New Automated System for Recording Data of Non-EU Nationals Entering the Schengen Area

The EES is an automated digital data collection device for personal information of nationals from non-EU countries, whether or not they are subject to visa requirements, which will be implemented upon entry and exit from the Schengen Area.

Specifically, the EES replaces the manual stamping of passports for third-country nationals and will allow for electronic monitoring of entry, exit, denial of entry, and duration of stay for nationals from non-EU countries crossing the external borders of the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).

Who Is It Aimed At?

It is directed at nationals of non-EU countries subject to short-stay visa requirements and ETIAS, who will be staying for a short duration (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) in the territory of a Schengen member state.

What Personal Data Will Be Recorded?

• Date and time of entry and exit.
• Place of entry and exit.
• Last name(s) and first name(s) of the national.
• Passport number of the national.
• Photograph of the national.
• Fingerprint of the national.
• It will also record any denial of entry for a short stay.

ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System): A New Prerequisite for Visa-Exempt Short-Stay Travelers Accessing European Territory

ETIAS is a travel authorization, not a visa, established by the European Commission. It will be required by the 30 member states of the expanded Schengen Area. It is a completely electronic system, similar to the United States’ Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), designed to reinforce controls on foreign travelers in the EU, with the goal of detecting potential threats.

It is scheduled to go into service in 2025.

Who Is It Aimed At?

ETIAS will be directed at nationals from approximately sixty non-EU countries that benefit from visa exemption for short stays when traveling to the expanded Schengen Area.

This travel authorization will have a maximum duration of 90 days. Affected third-country nationals must apply for it prior to traveling to European territory: the authorization will be valid for three years for multiple entries or until the expiration date of the travel document used to make the application.

Applications will be made online by completing a simple form. The travel authorization will generally be issued within a maximum period of 96 hours from the date of application and payment of a fee of €7. If additional investigation is required, this processing period may be extended.

It should be noted that no fee will be required from third-country nationals under 18 years old, over 70 years old, family members of EU nationals, or third-country nationals with the right to free movement within the EU.

List of Countries Affected by ETIAS: Who should apply – European Union (europa.eu)

www.feliu.biz │ www.expatfeliu.com

Executive Decree 193 of October 15, 2024, has been published, which modifies provisions of the Permanent Resident category for economic reasons: Qualified Investor.

New forms of investment have been added, giving foreign investors more options to apply for Permanent Residency in Panama, as well as new ways of verification, including a promise of sale.

With this new decree, permanent residency in Panama can be obtained with an investment of at least three hundred thousand US dollars (USD 300,000.00), in one of the following forms:

1. Real Estate Investment: Three hundred thousand US dollars (USD 300,000.00) in the purchase of a property, free of encumbrances. If the property exceeds this amount, the rest may be financed by a local bank.
2. Investment through a Promise of Sale Agreement of three hundred thousand US dollars (USD 300,000.00), in the following scenarios:

   A. Trust Deposit, managed by a bank or trust company in Panama, for which the following must be provided: • A notarized copy of the contract and the original (or notarized copy) of the trust agreement, which must establish that the full amount in the trust will be disbursed to pay the obligations assumed by the trustor as part of the promise of sale agreement made with the real estate company.

   B. Through payment to the developer or seller of 100% of the property that has not yet been built or registered with the Public Registry, for which the following must be provided: • A notarized copy of the Sales Agreement. • A Bank Guarantee of compliance in favor of the investor, established under a series of conditions.

3. Investment in Securities: Individuals who make one or more investments through a securities house for a total of five hundred thousand US dollars (USD 500,000.00) in securities issuers whose business affects the national territory, through the Panama Stock Exchange, and whose commitment is maintained for at least five years, will be eligible for this category.
4. Investment in Fixed-Term Deposit: A foreigner who makes an investment of seven hundred and fifty thousand US dollars (USD 750,000.00) in a fixed-term deposit may qualify for permanent residency. This must be made at a local bank with a natural license, and the deposit must have a minimum term of five years.

In all cases, and depending on the form of investment planned in Panama, the proper procedure and documentation must be followed as established. It must be demonstrated that the funds come from a foreign source and can be through a natural person or a legal entity; in the latter case, the applicant must be the ultimate beneficiary.

www.feliu.biz │ www.expatfeliu.com