Expat news

In October 2022, the world feared that the dollar's rise would fuel a new inflationary spiral. It was then referred to as the "unstoppable force of the dollar," powerful enough to shake the currencies of major economies like Japan, the Eurozone, and the United Kingdom. However, in December, the tone changed: the dollar experienced a slight decline but remained strong, continuing to be the safe haven of 2023. On the other hand, other major currencies continued to weaken. Nonetheless, some countries resisted, mainly in emerging economies. What are the consequences for expats' finances?

A new law was enacted in China on July 1, 2023. It broadens the scope of what is considered espionage and grants the Chinese government increased authority to address perceived threats to national security. Here's what it means for expats. 

The 17th edition of the Global Gender Gap, released on June 20, 2023, examines the progress of gender equality across four key areas: health and survival, education, the economy, and empowerment. Established in 2006, the Global Gender Gap Index is the longest-standing measurement of its kind. What insights can we gather from this latest edition? What transformations are occurring in various countries? Are we observing positive advancements or a concerning decline in the overall situation?

Diplomatic negotiations between the US and India have paid off for Indian expats in the States. Many of these expats have been affected by the 2023 tech layoff, which put their right to remain in the US as well as Green Card applications, in danger. In June, President Biden announced a pilot program allowing laid-off expats to get a one-year work authorization document while they find another sponsor.

Are you looking to move abroad? The 2023 ranking of the world's most livable cities might give you some ideas. Last month, The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), the sister organization of The Economist newspaper, published its annual "Global Liveability Index," which ranks the friendliest cities to live in. The top 10 cities include destinations expatriates already appreciate for their living environments. However, this year's results are full of surprises, particularly in Europe and Asia. What has led to these changes?

As an officially bilingual country, Canada must ensure that French doesn't fall behind English in all of its provinces, not just in Quebec. In June, the Canadian government adopted a new bill to foster the immigration of francophone expats as well as promote the use of French in federal institutions.

The European Parliament needs to vote on a proposal that would ease non-EU expats' access to long-term resident status. That will make it easier for them to fully enjoy the EU's freedom of movement. Currently, there are de facto restrictions on taking up work in any EU country, even if you are a (non-EU) expat in one member state. If passed, the reform will allow these expats to immediately get long-term resident status in a second EU country if they relocate.

Here's some good news for English football clubs. The Home Office has recently approved new visa criteria for international footballers, resulting in increased flexibility for these foreign talents. This is advantageous for football clubs as they will be able to continue recruiting internationally. Now, does the Home Office's assistance extend to other foreign talent?

How can the smooth movement of individuals be ensured while effectively managing the external borders of the European Union? The European Commission has outlined its strategy: the digital Schengen visa. It has successfully reached a groundbreaking agreement in this regard. What does this mean for travelers and prospective expats? 

Bali remains open to tourists and expatriates but in compliance with certain rules. I Wayan Koster, the Governor of Bali, has issued a new circular to clarify things. Effective May 31, it sets out new rules for international tourists and expatriates alike. According to the governor, who has observed a "growing laxity" among some foreign visitors, this measure is essential.

Where to move in 2023? Many would-be expatriates tend to scrutinize the various international rankings. Those already living abroad are seeing the effects of inflation on their daily lives. In New York, you have to look twice before you shop. The same applies to other major American cities. Other expatriation hotspots are also experiencing rising prices.

Combining a new life abroad while practicing your religion is not always straightforward, especially when you choose to wear a visible sign of your faith. It significantly depends on how open the host country is. Many Muslim women who choose to wear the veil say they are particularly sensitive to how their religion is received in a foreign country.  

Air travel can be stressful. You need to arrive early, check the size of your luggage, and go through customs. And then there are flight delays. But, apparently, some airports can raise your cortisol levels higher than others.