Category Archives: Visa Consultancy

Citizens of Norway can now enjoy visa-free entry to China for short stays, thanks to a recent agreement between the two countries. This exciting development simplifies travel for tourists, businesspeople, and anyone planning a brief visit to China.

Key Points:

• Norwegians can visit China visa-free for up to 15 days for tourism, business, visiting family/friends, or transit purposes.
• The visa exemption applies only to stays under 15 days. Longer visits still require a visa application.
• China currently offers similar visa-free entry to 11 other EU countries.
• Reciprocity is not yet in place, meaning Chinese travelers still require a Schengen visa for Europe.

A Welcome Change:

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre of Norway welcomed the agreement, highlighting its benefits for travel, business, and cultural exchange. This visa-free access streamlines travel for Norwegians, fostering stronger ties with China.

Important Note on Reciprocity:

While China offers visa-free entry to several EU countries, including Norway, reciprocity is not yet in place. Schengen visas remain a requirement for Chinese travelers visiting Europe.

China’s Open Door Policy:

China’s visa liberalization aims to attract more EU visitors. Besides Norway, eleven other EU member states currently enjoy visa-free entry to China:

• Austria https://www.austria.info/en
• Belgium https://www.belgium.be/en/about_belgium/tourism
• France https://www.france.fr/en/
• Germany https://www.germany.travel/en/home.html
• Hungary https://hungary.com/
• Ireland https://www.ireland.com/
• Italy https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tourism_in_Italy
• Luxembourg https://www.visitluxembourg.com/
• Netherlands https://www.holland.com/
• Spain https://www.spain.info/en/
• Switzerland https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/

Temporary Policy:

The visa-free entry for these countries is currently valid until December 31, 2025, with the possibility of extension. China hasn’t announced plans for visa liberalization with other EU members.

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:

• SchengenVisaInfo

Are you dreaming of calling the beautiful Nordic country of Finland home? If so, you’ll need to meet certain requirements, including a sufficient income. Finland has recently increased its income thresholds for residence permit applicants, effective November 1, 2024.

The New Income Requirements

• Single Adults: €14,520 annual income (up from €12,000)
• Students: €800 monthly income (up from €560)
• Au Pairs: €340 monthly income (up from €280)
• Working Holiday Applicants: €2,450 for the first three months (up from €2,000)

Note: These changes only apply to new applicants. Existing permit holders are unaffected unless stated otherwise.

Why the Increase?

Finland aims to ensure that all residence permit applicants have adequate financial resources to support themselves during their stay. The new thresholds reflect the current cost of living in the country.

Tips for Applying

1. Plan Ahead: Start your application well in advance to ensure you have enough time to gather all the necessary documents.
2. Demonstrate Financial Stability: Provide strong proof of income, such as payslips, bank statements, or tax returns.
3. Understand the Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements for your desired type of residence permit. Travel Expore WhatsApp has a wealth of information to help you navigate the process.
4. Seek Professional Help (if needed): If you’re unsure about any aspect of the application, consider consulting with an immigration lawyer or advisor. Their expertise can save you time and frustration.

By following these guidelines and meeting the new income thresholds, you’ll be well on your way to securing a residence permit in Finland.