Visa Updates
A log of changes our research bot finds and applies — requirement updates, new programs, and upcoming launches.
UK: Global Talent Visa adds design pathway and expands prestigious prizes
New design pathway effective 26 March 2026 covering additional design roles. 27 prestigious prizes added in November 2025. English language requirement for settlement increases from B1 to B2 effective March 2027. GBP 54 million Global Talent Taskforce launched.
UK: High Potential Individual Visa raises English requirement to B2
English language requirement raised from CEFR B1 to B2 effective 8 January 2026. Eligible institutions list approximately doubled and annual cap of 8,000 applications introduced from November 2025. Secretary of State gained power to exclude universities on national security grounds.
UAE: Golden Visa expands talent categories and adds Skilled Professionals pathway
New Skilled Professionals pathway requires AED 30,000 minimum monthly salary verified through 6 months of bank statements. Expanded categories include content creators, frontline heroes (nurses with 15+ years at Dubai Health), education specialists, and digital technology specialists.
Germany: Settlement Permit updated with 2026 thresholds and EU talent recommendation context
Updated with 2026 EU Blue Card salary thresholds (EUR 50,700 standard). Added fast-track procedure for skilled workers (§81a AufenthG). Naturalization reform now allows 3-year fast track and dual citizenship. EU Commission's January 2026 talent recommendation signals upcoming procedural overhauls.
Nepal reportedly planning a Digital Nomad Visa
Reports from Nepali media suggest the government is drafting legislation to launch a digital nomad visa program aimed at attracting remote workers and boosting tourism revenue.
Spain: International Telework Visa income threshold raised to EUR 2,763/month
Spain updated its 2026 SMI (Salario Mínimo Interprofesional) income thresholds for the International Telework Visa. The new minimum is EUR 2,763/month (200% of SMI).
UAE: Virtual Work Residence Permit bank statement requirement increased to 6 months
The UAE updated its Virtual Work Residence Permit requirements, extending the required bank statement history from 3 months to 6 months.
Thailand: Destination Thailand Visa adds TDAC registration and bank balance requirements
Thailand updated the Destination Thailand Visa conditions: applicants must now register with the Thailand Digital Nomad Advisory Council (TDAC) and maintain a 3-month bank balance. Accommodation booking confirmation is also required.
Sri Lanka: Digital Nomad Visa inaugural issuance details and termination provisions added
Sri Lanka's Digital Nomad Visa program has been updated with inaugural issuance details and clarified termination provisions for visa holders.