World Immigration News

Global immigration news from around the world

Release Date: 2025-05-27
Media: Smith Stone Walters
Summary: This week, Smith Stone Walters’ Global Immigration team highlights key immigration updates from Poland, Denmark, and Hong Kong.

In Poland, new immigration laws will take effect on 1 June 2025. Key changes include the removal of the labour market test, the introduction of protected occupation lists, full digitalization of application processes, and stricter rules on minimum work hours for foreign workers. Employers must upload signed employment contracts before work begins, and companies operating for less than a year will only receive one-year permits. Penalties for illegal employment will also increase. Further implementation details are expected.

In Denmark, from 15 May 2025, four new online forms for EU residence applications were launched by SIRI. These replace the old OD1 form and include OD1A (EU citizens), OD1B (family members), OD1C (permanent residence), and OD1D (change of grounds). The new system is mobile-friendly, simplifies the process, removes the requirement for a signed sworn declaration in some cases, and allows applicants to view submitted forms for 30 days. Applications started in the old system can still be completed for a limited time.

In Hong Kong, the government has announced new visa-free access arrangements. Hong Kong passport holders can now enter Qatar and the UAE visa-free for up to 30 days (previously visa-on-arrival). The visa-free stay in Oman has been extended from 10 to 14 days. As of 14 May 2025, Hong Kong passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 174 countries and territories, including all six GCC member states.

Finally, Smith Stone Walters is now part of Envoy Global, enhancing its global immigration service capabilities for corporate clients.
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