New Zealand: Final details about changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa and work to residence visas

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is announcing final details on changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) ahead of these changes taking effect on 24 August 2026. 

In addition, INZ is also announcing changes to the wage rate rules for work to residence visas.

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Switzerland lifts visa restrictions on Ethiopia

Under the Schengen Association Agreement, Switzerland has decided to lift the visa restrictions it has applied to Ethiopia since April 2024. 

The Federal Council adopted the measure at its meeting on 12 June, following a decision by the Council of the European Union (EU) to reinstate certain visa requirements for Ethiopia in response to the country's improved cooperation on returns.

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New Zealand: New and updated post-study work visa options

A new Short-term Graduate Work Visa and extending Post Study Work Visa eligibility is introduced to better align graduate pathways with New Zealand’s skills needs.

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Vietnam: Health declaration notice for Viet Nam-bound travellers

All inbound and outbound travellers shall be subject to health declaration from July 1, 2026, according to the Government's Decree No. 165/2026/ND-CP.

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Ireland: Changes to acknowledgement of posted documents

ISD are currently receiving a high number of applications and postal items. From now on, as part of this adjustment, ISD will not issue acknowledgements for documents or letters sent by post. This includes additional documents and queries about the progress of your application.

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Denmark: New digital application for those who are applying for a residence permit as an accompanying family member in Greenland

On 11 May 2026, the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) launches a new digital application, GL2. 

You can use this application to apply for a residence permit in Greenland as an accompanying family member. This means that as of today, you can complete and submit your application directly on newtodenmark.dk.

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European Parliament: AI Act: deal on simplification measures, ban on “nudifier” apps

The agreement between EU co-legislators aims to make it easier for providers to comply with the AI Act, while maintaining its main provisions and risk-based approach.

Early Thursday morning, Parliament and Council negotiators reached a provisional deal on amending certain rules within the EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act as part of the digital omnibus package.

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UK: New EU rules for pet travel for GB residents (The changes apply to non-commercial movements of dogs, cats and ferrets)

From Wednesday 22 April new EU rules have come into effect covering how GB residents can travel to the EU with their pets. People can still travel to the EU with their pets, but they are strongly encouraged to check the latest guidance.

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New Zealand: Changes to health insurance requirements for the Peak Seasonal Visa

From 19 April 2026, health insurance for the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) will change to make it clearer and easier for migrants and employers to meet the requirements.

The changes reflect the health insurance products that are currently available in the New Zealand market and will reduce uncertainty for people applying for, or employers supporting, a Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) application.

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New Zealand: Income thresholds to increase for Pacific and parent visa categories

From 30 April 2026, income and sponsorship thresholds will increase for several Pacific and family visa categories.

The changes affect the Pacific Access Category and Samoan Quota, Parent Category Resident Visa and Parent Boost Visitor Visa. 

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