Learn about the EU Blue Card and other popular global work authorization options for employers sending talent abroad to the European Union and other countries.

Beginning 31 Oct 2021, the government of Russia started to require foreign nationals to pass a mandatory medical exam before a new work permit or permit renewal could be approved.

The government of Portugal announced that certain documents, including Citizen Cards and visas related to temporary stay in Portugal that expired after 24 Feb 2020 will remain valid until 31 Dec 2021.

Thailand has extended the Declaration of an Emergency Situation in the country until 31 Jan 2022 and a 60-day extension will be added to the current COVID-19 visa extension scheme.

The government of the United Kingdom announced that it will launch additional visa routes in the spring of 2022.

On 26 Nov. 2021, the WHO named the new B.1.1.529 variant Omicron. In response to this new variant, a number of countries have reintroduced travel restrictions and entry requirements.

The government of New Zealand released plans to gradually allow vaccinated travelers to avoid MIQ beginning in Jan. 2022.

The government of the UAE released updates for entry procedures through land borders for citizens of neighboring countries that went into place on 23 Nov. 2021.

The government of Austria announced that a temporary nationwide lockdown will be enforced as of 22 Nov. 2021.

The government of New Zealand announced the My Vaccine Pass that will be required in order to enter some businesses beginning 3 Dec. 2021.

The government of Luxembourg updated its entrance restrictions in accordance with EU Council recommendations.

The government of the UK has introduced changes to its international travel policy, including expanding accepted vaccination certificates and easing travel requirements for travelers from the U.S.

On 15 Nov. 2021, the government of Chile announced additional modifications to its Protected Borders Plan that will go into effect 1 Dec. 2021.

New Zealand will replace its current alert system level with a traffic light system as a result of high vaccination rates in the country and in accordance with the COVID-19 Protective Framework.

The government of Australia will allow eligible fully vaccinated visa holders to enter Australia without needing to apply for a travel exemption beginning 1 Dec. 2021.

The government of Australia will allow fully vaccinated citizens from Japan and the Republic of Korea, who hold a valid Australian visa, to enter the country beginning 1 Dec. 2021.

The government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will extend the previous five-year exemption to operating licensing fees for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by two more years in Dubai.

The government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) issued a new law regulating labor relations in the private sector that will be effective 2 Feb. 2022.

On 19 Nov. 2021, the German government announced new health measures related to COVID-19.