This guide unveils the 6 major visa updates, including expanded Schengen access, increased financial requirements for Finland, France’s digital visa leap, South Korea’s digital nomad initiative, groundbreaking H-1B renewals in the U.S., and the UK’s newfound flexibility for tourist visa holders.
6 Major Visa Updates for Travellers in 2024
1. Schengen Area Expansion
In a significant development, Romania and Bulgaria are poised to integrate with the Schengen area by March 31, 2024. This integration will eliminate internal air and sea border controls, enabling Schengen visa holders to explore Bulgaria and Romania seamlessly. Furthermore, Bulgaria and Romania are gearing up to issue short-term Schengen visas, marking their partial accession into the Schengen Area.
2. Financial Requirements for Finland Travel
Are you planning a visit to Finland? Ensure your finances are in order, as the country has increased the daily financial requirement for short stays. As of January 2024, travellers must demonstrate proof of available funds at €50 or Rs4,500 per day, compared to the previous cap of €30 or Rs2,700 per day. Additionally, proof of sponsorship and accommodation will now be considered during the application process.
3. Digital Visas in France
France is taking strides towards a digital future for visas. While the complete shift to paperless Schengen visas is on the horizon, France has initiated digitization by issuing around 70,000 visas online for the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic games. These digital visas will be seamlessly integrated into each applicant’s accreditation card through the France Visas website.
4. South Korea’s Digital Nomad Visa
On January 1, 2024, South Korea introduced a digital nomad visa, allowing foreign residents to stay for up to two years while working remotely. Applicants must prove an annual income exceeding 84.96 million won (Rs53,63,000). This visa also extends the privilege to spouses and dependents accompanying the digital nomad.
5. H-1B Visa Renewals in the U.S.
In a groundbreaking move, the United States is launching a pilot program for domestic H-1B visa renewals starting January 29. This marks the first time in nearly two decades that H-1B holders can renew their visas while staying in the U.S. The program, initially limited to Indians and Canadians, covers 20,000 applicants, including spouses and dependents.
6. Work on Tourist Visas in the UK
The United Kingdom has revised its visa policy, allowing visitors on tourist visas to engage in work-related activities. Effective January 31, 2024, this change permits visa holders to conduct various work-related tasks, such as attending meetings, conferences, negotiations, and site inspections. However, it excludes remote work as a digital nomad, emphasizing the need for a relevant skilled worker visa for those intending to work primarily in the UK.
Final Words
So, there you have it, folks! From Schengen’s expansion to the UK’s work-friendly tourist visas, 2024 promises a world of travel possibilities with a twist. It’s a year to embrace innovation, adapt to changing requirements, and above all, never stop exploring.