New Immigration Policies in June 2025: A Global Shift

The start of June 2025 ushered in a series of transformative immigration policies worldwide, reflecting nations’ attempts to balance national interests, labor market needs, and international relations. Countries like China, Poland, Australia, Sweden, the UAE, the US, the UK, Spain, Portugal, France, and Italy have made significant changes. Here’s an in-depth look at these developments and their potential impacts on global mobility.

China’s Visa-Free Travel Expansion

On June 9, 2025, China expanded its visa-free travel scheme to now include citizens from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, allowing them to visit for up to 30 days without a visa. This strategic move builds on existing agreements with Qatar and the UAE, as China actively welcomes travelers from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations.

In addition, from June 1, 2025, residents of five Latin American countries—Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay—can also enjoy similar visa-free access. This is part of China’s broader initiative to foster international tourism and business collaboration, extending its hospitality to nationals from the EU, Japan, South Korea, and more.

Poland’s Work Authorisation Overhaul

Poland’s immigration policies saw significant revisions on June 1, 2025, with a focus on simplifying work authorization processes. The country has abolished the labor market test, allowing employers to submit only electronic applications for work permits, thereby eliminating redundant paperwork.

The new policies also introduce a curated list of “protected” jobs that local labor must fill, prioritizing them over foreign workers. Work permits for part-time roles are limited to one year, and priority processing is now reserved for key economic sectors. Stricter enforcement measures will ensure compliance, with heavy penalties imposed for illegal employment.

Australia Cuts Migration Intake

In response to current economic challenges, Australia set its migration intake at 250,000 persons for the year ending June 2025, reverting to pre-pandemic levels. The Australian Bureau of Statistics indicated a drop in net overseas migration from 536,000 to 446,000 in the 2023-24 period. This strategy is aimed at addressing labor shortages and the housing crisis, restoring balance in the labor market while still attracting necessary talent.

Sweden Raises Income Threshold for Migrants

Sweden’s new immigration reform, effective June 2025, mandates that migrants must earn at least 80% of the median Swedish salary to qualify for work permits—approximately 35,600 kronor. This policy aims to curtail labor immigration to high-skilled sectors and ensure that new workers meet local salary standards, with certain exceptions for domestic care workers. This spotlight on skilled labor is evident in the increase of migrant arrivals from India, now the second-largest group after Ukrainians.

UAE Introduces New Work Visit Visa

The UAE is set to launch a new visa type for skilled professionals on June 30, 2025, called the Visit Visa for Work Purposes. This visa will enable individuals to enter the UAE for short-term assignments or to explore job opportunities for up to 120 days.

To qualify, applicants must have certain qualifications, such as a degree or relevant work experience, and prove their financial capability to support themselves. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s commitment to attracting global talent, enhancing the country’s labor market flexibility.

Changes in the US Visa System

The United States has made headlines with its recent decision to pause new international student visa interviews, which affects F, M, and J visa applicants. This measure includes expanded social media checks, raising concerns over potential delays and increased scrutiny for many hopeful students.

In the midst of these changes, a federal judge temporarily blocked previous restrictions on Harvard University’s admissions for international students, impacting about 7,000 visa holders. While this offers some immediate relief, uncertainty looms over the landscape for international students wishing to study in the U.S.

UK Immigration Surge and Visa Changes

The UK has witnessed a remarkable increase in applications for British citizenship, with over 6,600 Americans applying by the year’s end on March 2025—this represents the highest rate since 2004.

In light of changing immigration dynamics, the UK government proposed new regulations in its White Paper on immigration, altering eligibility for Skilled Worker visas to exclusively university-level roles. Employers are now mandated to train local staff or risk losing access to the Skilled Worker route. Additionally, there are plans to increase the Immigration Skills Charge and tighten the Graduate Route duration.

Spain Eases Work and Study Permit Regulations

Spain has introduced notable reforms in its immigration system aimed at improving conditions for foreign workers and students. These policies provide stronger workplace protections and simplify residency processes for dependents of foreign workers. Students now have the opportunity to work up to 30 hours weekly and can transition to work permits seamlessly upon graduation, further positioning Spain as an attractive destination for international students.

Portugal Tightens Border Control Systems

Portugal has rolled out a new border control system that mandates biometric data submission for third-country nationals with short-stay visas. This initiative aims to bolster security and streamline immigration procedures, though it may result in increased wait times at entry points during initial implementation.

France’s Talent—EU Blue Card Reforms

In June 2025, France revised its Talent—EU Blue Card framework to provide greater flexibility for highly qualified workers. Reforms permit contracts as short as six months for eligibility, while applicants without higher education degrees can now apply if they possess significant relevant experience. This move underscores France’s dedication to attracting skilled labor to fulfill its economic demands.

Italy Introduces Fingerprinting for National Visa Applicants

Italy has introduced a biometric requirement for applicants seeking long-stay national (D) visas. This process demands that applicants undergo an in-person interview to provide fingerprints, with exemptions for those who have submitted biometric data for a Schengen visa in the previous five years. This change is part of Italy’s efforts to enhance security and streamline visa processing.

These substantial changes in immigration policies signal a pivotal moment in how nations handle foreign workers and travelers. Whether easing restrictions to welcome visitors or tightening controls to secure job markets, each government is redefining its stance on global mobility as the world continues to adapt post-pandemic.