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Monthly Archives: September 2024

Travel Expore  /  Blog  /  2024  /  September
10 Sep 2024

Why Finland is a Top Choice for International Students?

Categories EU

Good news for international students! Finland is processing student residence permits significantly faster than last year, despite a rise in applications. As of July 2024, the average processing time is just 30 days, compared to 38 days in 2023.

Key Points: Finland received 9,293 first-time student residence permit applications by July 2024, exceeding the 2023 figure (8,762). Students from Nepal, Bangladesh, China, India, and Sri Lanka submitted the most applications. Automation has boosted processing efficiency, with 19% of positive decisions automated. Despite faster processing, potential delays may occur due to embassy backlogs, particularly in New Delhi and Abu Dhabi.

Faster Processing Through Automation: The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) attributes the processing speed increase to automation. An automated decision system issues permits automatically if applicants meet all legal requirements. This frees up specialist time for complex applications, improving overall efficiency.

Top Countries Submitting Applications:

Migri data reveals the top countries submitting student residence permit applications:

  • NepalBangladeshChinaIndiaSri Lanka

    • Important Note: While processing times have improved, some international students may face delays due to embassy backlogs in identifying students, particularly in New Delhi and Abu Dhabi. This could lead to application processing extending into August or September, potentially impacting study start dates.

    Learn more about studying in Finland:

    Finnish Immigration Service (Migri)

    10 Sep 2024

    Denmark Tightens Rules for Rejected Asylum Seekers

    Categories Work Permits

    Denmark’s government is proposing a policy shift that could significantly impact rejected asylum seekers.

    The current system allows rejected applicants to remain in the country for 18 months and potentially obtain residence permits under specific circumstances. However, the government argues that this rarely happens and is looking to abolish the program entirely.

    Key Points:

    Rationale Behind the Proposed Change:

    The Ministry of Immigration and Integration emphasizes the high administrative cost compared to the small number of successful applications. They argue that rejected asylum seekers have already received a fair hearing and do not meet the criteria for protection in Denmark.

    Minister’s Statement:

    Kaare Dybvad Bek, Denmark’s Immigration Minister, emphasizes that this proposal is not a major immigration policy overhaul. He views it as a streamlining measure that reduces unnecessary bureaucracy.

    The Proposal’s Path Forward:

    The Ministry will formally propose scrapping the program. The proposal will undergo a public hearing process followed by a parliamentary vote. Even with approval, the government may still grant residence permits in exceptional cases.

    Denmark’s Asylum Seeker Landscape:

    Conclusion:

    The Danish government’s proposed policy change aims to reduce administrative burdens and limit opportunities for rejected asylum seekers to obtain residence permits. The proposal will likely face scrutiny during the public hearing and parliamentary vote.  

    10 Sep 2024

    Suriname Seeks Visa-Free Travel to the Netherlands

    Categories Visa Consultancy

    The Surinamese diaspora in the Netherlands is urging the Surinamese government to pursue visa-free travel for Surinamese passport holders. This initiative aims to strengthen ties between the two communities and streamline travel for the nearly 360,000 Surinamese people residing in the Netherlands.

    The Platform Surinamese Diaspora (PSD) is leading the charge, with board member Ramnarain Rambaratsingh calling on Foreign Minister Albert Ramdin to initiate talks with the Netherlands for a visa facilitation agreement.

    Rambaratsingh believes that such an agreement would foster closer connections between the Surinamese diaspora and Surinamese residents. He points to Greece’s recent visa program for Turkish tourists as a successful example of improved relations through relaxed travel restrictions.

    Travel Statistics:

    • According to Schengen Visa Info, the Netherlands is the top destination for Schengen visa applications by Surinamese nationals.
    • In 2023, Surinamese submitted nearly 20,000 visa applications, with almost all directed to the Netherlands.
    • The approval rate for Surinamese applicants is around 84%, with rejections accounting for approximately 15% of applications.

    The Surinamese Diaspora in the Netherlands:

    • Statistics show a growing Surinamese population in the Netherlands, reaching nearly 360,000 in 2022.
    • Nearly half of Dutch citizens of Surinamese origin are Dutch-born, reflecting the migration wave of the 1970s.
    • Suriname’s colonial history with the Netherlands and the widespread use of Dutch in Suriname contribute to the successful integration of the Surinamese community.
    • Unlike larger migrant communities, Surinamese migration to the Netherlands has slowed down over the past few decades.

    Conclusion:

    The push for visa-free travel reflects the deep connection between Suriname and the Netherlands. With a significant diaspora population and historical ties, facilitating easier travel could benefit both communities.

    For more information on the Surinamese diaspora in the Netherlands and the visa-free travel initiative, please visit:

    09 Sep 2024

    Ireland’s Job Boom: Over 27,000 Work Permits Issued

    Categories Work Permits

    Ireland’s job market is booming! With a growing demand for skilled workers across various sectors, the country has issued over 27,181 work permits in the first eight months of 2024 alone. This represents a significant increase compared to previous years.

    Healthcare and Tech Lead the Way:

    The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE) reports that the health and social work sector received the highest number of permits (9,125), followed closely by information and communication (4,628). Agriculture, forestry, and fishing also saw a significant demand for foreign workers with 2,533 permits issued.

    Addressing Labor Shortages:

    This surge in work permits reflects Ireland’s attempt to address labor shortages in crucial sectors. A 2023 EURES report identified healthcare, IT, engineering, manufacturing, construction, and transportation as areas facing significant workforce gaps.

    New Employment Permit Law:

    To further address these shortages, Ireland implemented a new Employment Permits Act in September 2024. This act aims to create a more flexible system, particularly benefiting agriculture and horticulture with a new seasonal employment permit. This short-term permit allows non-EEA nationals to work for up to seven months in seasonal roles.

    Minister Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment of Ireland, emphasizes the benefits of the new law:

    “The improvements in the new Act will allow for a more modern, flexible employment permit system while ensuring employee rights are maintained.”

    Looking Ahead:

    With a focus on attracting skilled workers and streamlining the work permit process, Ireland positions itself as a welcoming destination for international talent. This trend of increasing work permits is likely to continue as the country strives to fill crucial positions and maintain economic growth.

    09 Sep 2024

    Europe’s Beach Ban Guide: A Must-Read for Travelers

    Categories Travel Insurance

    Europe’s stunning beaches beckon travelers worldwide, promising relaxation and adventure. However, with growing popularity comes the need for regulations. Here’s a quick guide to some beach bans and restrictions in popular European destinations:

    Spain:

    • No Saving Spots: Ditch the towel reservation tactic! Some Spanish beaches fine tourists for claiming spots with towels before arrival.
    • Early Bird Gets the Chair: Setting up umbrellas or chairs before 9:30 am in Calpe, Spain, might lead to a hefty fine.
    • Smoke-Free Shores: Barcelona enforces a beach smoking ban to keep cigarette butts at bay. Fines apply for violators.
    • Dress Code for Diners: Certain Barcelona restaurants have banned beach attire (football shirts, strapless tops) and require proper clothing.
    • Hygiene Matters: Public urination in the sea is strictly prohibited in Galicia. Fines await those who disregard this rule.
    • Nighttime Beach Ban: Benidorm enforces a midnight to 7 am ban on swimming and sleeping on the beach.

    Italy:

    • Swimwear Etiquette: Sorrento frowns upon swimwear outside beaches and pools. Breaking this rule can lead to a €500 fine.
    • Towel Trouble in Sardinia: The pristine Spaggia della Pelosa prohibits towels for sunbathing, citing sand preservation.
    • Limited Entry Paradise: Sardinia’s stunning beaches like Lu Impostu and Brandinchi have daily visitor caps and entrance fees.
    • Footprints Forbidden: Stepping on the unique pink sand of Spiaggia Rosa beach in Italy is illegal, with hefty fines for violators.
    • Strike a Pose (But Not Here): Portofino discourages selfies in crowded areas due to congestion and fines violators up to €275.
    • Guided Whisper Tours: Tour guides in Venice can no longer use loudspeakers, and groups are limited to 25 people to minimize “confusion and disturbances.”
    • No Sitting on the Spanish Steps: Rome’s iconic Spanish Steps are off-limits for sitting, with fines ranging from €250 to €400.

    Portugal:

    • Keep it Quiet: Playing loud music on Portuguese beaches, including via portable speakers, can result in significant fines (up to €36,000).

    Stay Informed, Enjoy Responsibly!

    Remember, these are just some examples. Always research specific beach regulations before your trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable European getaway.

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