Golden Visa & Immigration News Today – Latest Updates & Policy Changes | February 24, 2025
Published Date: 24th Feb, 2025
Spain Discontinues Golden Visa Program
Spain has officially terminated its Golden Visa program, which granted residency to non-EU investors making significant financial contributions, particularly in real estate. The decision, published in the Official State Gazette on January 3, 2025, is part of broader judicial reforms aimed at addressing housing affordability and market speculation. Investors now need to explore alternative pathways for residency in Spain.
Portugal Releases 2025 Golden Visa Investment Fund Index
Portugal Pathways has unveiled its 2025 Golden Visa Investment Fund Index, offering insights into alternative investment funds eligible for the country's residency-by-investment program. This initiative provides potential investors with updated information on viable investment options, reflecting Portugal's commitment to attracting foreign capital through diversified avenues.
UK Proposes Stricter Immigration Policies
The UK's Conservative Party leader, Kemi Badenoch, has proposed new immigration policies that would disqualify migrants who have claimed benefits or used social housing from obtaining permanent residency. Additionally, the required residency period before applying for indefinite leave to remain would double from five to ten years. These measures aim to ensure that only net contributors to the economy are granted permanent status.
Australia Considers Reintroducing 'Golden Ticket Visa'
Australian opposition leader Peter Dutton has proposed reinstating the 'Golden Ticket Visa,' allowing wealthy foreign investors to obtain residency through significant local investments. Critics argue this could exacerbate housing affordability issues, as it may enable affluent foreigners to purchase Australian real estate, potentially driving up property prices.
U.S. Senate Passes Immigrant Detention Bill
The U.S. Senate has approved the Laken Riley Act, mandating the detention of migrants accused of theft and violent crimes. Expected to be the first law signed by President Donald Trump in his current term, this legislation underscores a stringent approach to illegal immigration, reflecting a significant shift in U.S. immigration enforcement policies.
Sinn Féin Opposes Asylum Centers in Deprived Areas
Sinn Féin is intensifying its opposition to the establishment of asylum accommodation centers in economically deprived areas. The party advocates for locating these centers in more affluent regions with better services and infrastructure, aiming to ensure equitable distribution and prevent overburdening disadvantaged communities.
Surge in Irish Citizenship Applications Post-Brexit
Post-Brexit, there has been a significant increase in applications for Irish citizenship from Britain, reaching a peak in 2024. This surge is driven by individuals seeking to retain EU access amidst the UK's economic challenges and new travel restrictions, highlighting the ongoing impact of Brexit on personal and professional mobility.
U.S. Executive Order Targets Sanctuary Cities
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aiming to withhold federal funding from jurisdictions that do not cooperate with federal immigration enforcement, commonly known as sanctuary cities. The order also mandates stricter screening requirements for federal benefits, potentially impacting undocumented immigrants' access to certain services.
Marbella Attracts New Wave of Residents
Marbella is transforming from a traditional tourist destination into a year-round home for young entrepreneurs, families, and digital nomads. Attracted by a burgeoning tech scene and high-quality living standards, this new wave of residents is reshaping the city's demographic and economic landscape.
UK Introduces Border Security and Immigration Bill
The UK government has introduced the Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill 2024-25, aiming to expand powers related to immigration offenses and serious crime. The proposed legislation includes new criminal offenses for facilitating illegal immigration and collecting information for unauthorized journeys, reflecting a stricter stance on border control and immigration enforcement.
Date: 24th Feb, 2025
