I’m a French immigration lawyer. Of course, I’d love for you to move to France – and  in order to succeed in your move, you’ll want to make sure you’re going into it with eyes wide open. Here are some of the challenges my clients would have liked to have known before they make their move to France.

#### 1.	Salaries 

France, like the US, has websites like [Glassdoor](https://www.glassdoor.fr/) to compare salaries. The average monthly salary in France is 1 789€ - compared to $5,493 monthly in the US. For one Saudi client who immigrated to France from a high-powered consultant job in Dubai, she took a salary cut of 1/3 of what she was earning before.

French residents can rationalize this by saying that there’s a strong social safety net, and the salaries are lower but with stronger social services. It’s the deal I accepted when I moved to France.  

#### 2.	Properties costs are nevertheless high

Buying a property in Paris is a solid investment, as property values regularly increase a few percentage points per year. This also means it’s very hard to buy good housing in Paris. Paris real estate sells for at least 10,000€/m², which means a small apartment with a living room and a bedroom may go for 500,000€. Then, there are notary fees the buyer pays (usually 8%) and real estate agent fees (the seller pays, usually 3%).

As you’ve just read, salaries aren’t high. This means Paris is a place where proportionally the salaries to [cost of living is most disproportional](https://www.thelocal.fr/20201118/paris-back-on-top-as-worlds-most-expensive-city-to-live-in/). 

Housing in France is going to be more affordable in any other town than Paris – although the banlieues proches, the neighboring towns like Versailles, Vincennes, or Boulogne-Billancourt will be just as pricy as Paris. 
 
![2-bois-vincennes1-c7572.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/bois-vincennes-c-ThvhEDla8P.webp)
*Bois de Vincennes, Source: Paris office de tourisme*

#### 3.	France is not a country made for entrepreneurs 

In my article on the [top 5 reasons to move to France](https://www.relocate.world/articles/5-reasons-france), I mention that France is a country where the Employee is king. I think that applies not just to employee/customer interactions, but the entrepreneur/employee distinction. 

The process of a non-EU national becoming an entrepreneur is long. The [checklist is incomprehensible,](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/loda/id/JORFTEXT000033318595/) the [form](https://cn.ambafrance.org/IMG/pdf/cerfa_13473_01.pdf) to fill out is long and confusing, the [work authorization website](https://administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr/immiprousager/#/authentification) crashes if you don’t submit the application in one sitting:
  
The application can take 2-4 months; on one application it took the Paris prefecture 9 months to approve a change of status to entrepreneur. Once you receive work authorization, the [website to create a micro-entreprise](https://www.cfe.urssaf.fr/saisiepl/) looks like it was made in the 90’s. 

France has made efforts to be innovative – it has over 60 start-up incubators, including the famous Station F. But Station F’s acceptance rate for new start-ups is less than 9%, making the “French tech” visa allusive. 
 

![Station F.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/station-f-rWa5RfCAfR.webp)
*Station F. [Source](https://www.lesgensdeberkeleymagazine.com/post/east-of-eden-the-best-of-thailand-s-markets)* 

Importantly, the social charges for an entrepreneur are high – 20% value added tax on transactions, then 22% (or 40%) social charges on your turnover, then income taxes. A law professor once told me over coffee, “for every 3€ I earn, I keep 1€ of it.”
This ties in nicely to my personal philosophy about this country: France is a better country to spend your money in, than to earn your money in.

#### 4.	France as a country of “No, no, yes”. 

France has a national motto: “C’est pas possible”, it’s not possible. Overcoming the French immigration authorities requires – and an understanding of what you can and cannot insist on. 

Take the example of a work authorization request. You want to work for a French employer – and you’ve finally found one who wants to hire you! The authorization is going to have to go to the French labor authority for approval first. If the job posting is to work as a waiter, amongst the 500 million EU nationals who could take that job, the French labor authority is going to say no. But if that job is to be a rocket scientist, requiring a PhD in Astrophysics, they’ll likely say yes. In-between those two points is a spectrum, and it’s up to you to prove to the French authorities that this job application is in fact exceptional enough to push past the “No’s” and get to the “Yes”. 

Often, when the French say “c’est pas possible,” it’s an invitation to show them under what dire or exceptional circumstances it is in fact possible. Tom Wilscam, the Director Serve the City Paris calls this the “no, no, yes” attitude in French culture. It’s the starting point of a negotiation where the presumption is no, unless otherwise convinced. 

#### 5.	You’re going from being an insider to being an outsider 

This applies for any country. In short, you’re leaving behind a country where you are an insider, where you can vote to change policies you don’t like, where you have automatically the right to work and the right to travel as you please – and you’re making it all conditional. You’re entering a land with a different set of customs and culture, and likely a language barrier – and then you’re asking for various rights: the right to stay, perhaps the right to work, and ultimately, the right to join the private club and become French. It can be very frustrating, at times, to become an outsider. 

#### Conclusion? 

Ultimately, we chose to move to France because it’s worth it, on the scale of things: the positives outweigh the negatives. Personally, I love the free open-air cinéma of movies projected in front of my small village’s town hall on late summer evenings, the long weekend trips to Bretagne, and I’ve accepted being an entrepreneur in this country even with the high costs and frustrations. 

It is a personal choice, and it is up for you to decide. 

**Born and raised in San Diego, California, Daniel is a dual-qualified French-US attorney, and practices exclusively French in-bound immigration, with a focus on private clients.**

Should you feel like France is the right fit for you  👉 [reach out to Daniel today!](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/68)


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Five Realities to be Aware of Before Moving to France 

Every country provides an immigration pathway that is catered to visitors and travelers. These “short-term” visa options are typically designed to be hassle-free with quick processing times. 

eVisas are commonly used by governments to permit short-term visits. We have addressed some of the major aspects of eVisas, as well as the trends in this article. 

#### What is an eVisa?

An eVisa is an Electronic-Visa. The processing for eVisas is primarily conducted through online channels and platforms. This avoids lengthy processing times and burdensome document collection requirements that are traditionally part of the visa process.

There are several major eVisa “frameworks” around the world:

- **ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization):** This is the most common short-term visa option for those who wish to travel and visit the United States of America, and typically permits 180-days duration of stay.
- **Schengen Visa:** This is a short-term stay visa that permits you to travel and stay for 90-days within the Schengen Region.
- **eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization):** This is Canada’s eVisa for travelers and visitors in eligible countries, and typically provides 180-days duration of stay. 

👉 [Interested in applying for an eVisa?](https://apply.joinsherpa.com/explore/USA?affiliateId=relocate&language=en-US)

#### Am I Eligible for an eVisa?

Your nationality will determine your eligibility for eVisas. Every country maintains its own policies for processing eVisa applications, as well as determining other key eligibility aspects.

This includes duration of stay, length of eVisa validity, processing times, and other core requirements.

👉 [Learn more about eligibility requirements for the eVisa](https://apply.joinsherpa.com/explore/USA?affiliateId=relocate&language=en-US)

#### How can I apply for an eVisa?

Depending on your destination, there are multiple ways to apply for an eVisa, including directly on the government website. And some government agencies are better than others.

[![Screenshot 2022-10-13 at 10,38,46.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-eTctZqT__H.webp)](https://apply.joinsherpa.com/explore/USA?affiliateId=relocate&language=en-US)
*Relocate has partnered with Sherpa to provide easy eVisa applications to 140+ countries*

#### What is the duration of stay for eVisas?

The duration of stay refers to the amount of time you are permitted to stay or remain in a respective country or region. 

For example, the Schengen Visa permits you to remain in the Schengen Region for up to 90-days. Typically, the ESTA will permit you to remain in the United States for up to 180-days. 

There are of course important considerations, such as the total number of days you can remain in a country/year, as well as other practical considerations when crossing the border. 

Furthermore, you should note that there is a difference between the duration of stay and length of the visa authorization.

![eVisas2.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/evisas-_1yxxR5JxP.webp)

#### How long are eVisas valid for?

The duration that an eVisas is granted will depend on several factors, most importantly your nationality.  

Typically eVisas can range anywhere from 1-year to 10-years. 

👉 [Find the right eVisa for you in 40+ Countries](https://apply.joinsherpa.com/explore/USA?affiliateId=relocate&language=en-US)

#### What is the difference between a regular visa and eVisa?

An eVisa is simply a way to process a normal visa application online. Since 2020, many governments have provided new ways to submit and process applications online. 

#### Do all Governments offer an eVisa option?

No. Major regions of the world do provide eVisa options. This includes major destinations like the [United States](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/usa), [Canada](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/canada), EU Schengen-Region Countries and elsewhere.

#### Can I work or study on an eVisa?

Generally, no. The eVisa framework is designed to particularly for those who are traveling and visiting a country. Although you cannot work, you are still permitted to travel for business purposes.

#### Can I travel for business on an eVisa?

Yes! Most countries will permit you to travel for short-term business trips on an eVisa. It is important to note that you are not legally authorized to work and obtain a salary in that country for this type of work.

 In other words, you do not have “formal work authorization”, rather you are being permitted to enter the country on a short-term and temporary basis for work purposes (i.e. business meetings, events, etc.). 

#### Are there other eVisa options that permit me to work?

eVisa is another way to say “electronic visas”. In fact, since 2019, a new [remote work and digital nomad visa](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/digital-nomad-visas) category has been emerging throughout the world. 

Some Governments process these visas online, so a remote worker and digital nomad visas are technically also an eVisa.

With Remote Work and Digital Nomad Visas you are given work authorization and permitted to live and work in that respective country. It is still considered a temporary visa option, but unlike other Tourist or Visitor visas, this will provide you other long-term benefits.

**Some of the benefits of remote work and digital nomad visas include:**

- Ability to live and work legally in a country;
- Minimal processing requirements and short processing times
- Permission to establish a local bank account;
- Options to extend and renew your remote work/digital nomad visa
- Minimal or no income tax liability (this depends on the country!)

👉 [Learn more about Remote Work and Digital Nomad Visas](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/digital-nomad-visas) 

##### Relocate is an independent marketplace for global migration. Submit free inquiries, connect with leading professionals and dig-deeper into timely topics....all in one place.

Apply for an eVisa in over 140+ Countries👉 [Get Going Today](https://apply.joinsherpa.com/explore/USA?affiliateId=relocate&language=en-US​)

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Short-Term Visa Options for Travelers and Visitors

Portugal has always been ahead of the game when it comes to immigration. 

The Golden Visa program, one of the oldest investment programs in Europe, stirs up significant debate (and jealousy) among Portugal’s neighboring EU countries and fellow immigration practitioners. Simply put, the Portuguese immigration system has the unique ability to adapt to immigration patterns, as well as implement immigration framework in an effective and efficient manner.

#### Portugal Digital Nomad and Remote Work Visa

It is no surprise that the recent announcement of Portugal’s Digital Nomad and Remote Work visa is already spinning the globe. As one of the most desirable destinations in Europe – Portugal has now just made it even easier to live and work full-time along the Golden Coast of Europe. 

Traditionally, the D7 visa was the best option for this demographic of live and work from anywhere professionals. This ranges from short-term freelancers to managers of companies. With the introduction of the digital nomad and remote work visa for Portugal, it seems that this new visa category is much more tailored to fit this demographic even better.

#### Is there a digital nomad visa in Portugal?

In October 2022 the Portuguese government formally introduced the digital nomad visa for Portugal.

👉 [Apply Today](https://relocateportal.com/get-started.html)

#### Can I live and work remotely in Portugal?

Definitely. Even before the introduction of the digital nomad visa, it was possible to live and work remotely in Portugal. The introduction of the digital nomad visa now makes it much easier and provides additional incentives to live and work remotely within Portugal.

#### How do I apply for a Portuguese digital nomad visa?

You can submit an application directly with the Portuguese authorities. If you need support in filing this application you can [schedule a consultation with a qualified migration practitioner](https://relocateportal.com/get-started.html) who can support your visa application.

#### Do remote workers pay taxes in Portugal?

Portugal provides significant tax-incentives for digital nomads and remote workers. This includes 0% tax on worldwide income, including any capital gains tax made on cryptocurrencies.

#### Is Portugal a good place for digital nomads and remote workers?

Portugal has been welcoming foreign nationals for centuries. A warm and energetic Portuguese culture, combined with seemingly endless coastlines, rolling vineyards and cobblestone villages makes this one of the most desirable destinations in the world to live and work.

![Portugal Coastline.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/portugal-coastline-yOzRhyskTh.webp)
*Algarve Coastline in Portugal*

#### How long does it take to get a visa for Portugal?

This depends on the visa category and where you are applying. The digital nomad and remote work visa for Portugal is untested, and recently there have been backlogs, due to a shortage of immigration authorities processing visa applications for Portugal. Like we said, Portugal is the #1 destination in Europe for immigration at the moment. 

That said, you should anticipate your visa processing taking anywhere from 2-5 months, depending on the visa category.

#### Is it expensive to live in Portugal?

Compared to other European Union countries, Portugal is rapidly becoming one of the more expensive destinations to be situated…if you are in a city. This is reflected in real-estate and property prices that have been rising throughout the last decade, as a result of a successful immigration by investment scheme that has attracted significant foreign investment. In addition, Portugal’s connection to the European Union, as well as potential visa pathways to other destinations, such as the United States, puts Portugal at the #1 spot for immigration in Europe.

That said, if you dig-deeper you can still manage to find a suitable place to live and work in Portugal that meets your financial requirements. There are many secondary and tertiary cities, such as Sintra and Porto, that provide a cultural hub for foreign nationals and other global citizens. Not to mention, there is no shortage of picturesque countryside villages scattered throughout Portugal stuck in time and just waiting to be discovered. 

#### Relocate.world is the leading independent marketplace for global migration. Do you need more information about living and working in Portugal?

**👉[Submit your inquiry for free](https://relocateportal.com/get-started.html) to vetted migration practitioners in Portugal and get answers today!**


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Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

Attention Global Mobility Professionals! How can you use SEO to create digital content that best reaches your target audience? Find out in this what you need to know guide from Copy House. 


## What You Need to Know About SEO

Search Engine Optimisation, or SEO, is integral to driving digital traffic and engagement to your brand. With [68%](https://videos.brightedge.com/research-report/BrightEdge_ChannelReport2019_FINAL.pdf) of online activity driven by organic and paid search, SEO is the key to ensuring the right people find your content and, in turn, find you.  

But if you’re not sure where to get started with SEO, we can help. 

In this article, we’ll cover what you need to know about SEO, including what SEO is, how to use it, and how integral it is to content marketing.  


#### What is SEO?

As we’ve mentioned, SEO is short for Search Engine Optimisation. It's the process of improving digital content marketing (such as websites, articles, or research) to grow organic search results and drive website traffic.  

In other words, optimising your content helps you rank higher on search engines when people use relevant keywords. Rather than reaching people through paid advertising methods, you can grow a following just by posting optimised material online. 

As search engines like Google collect published content, they “crawl” that information to index it and decide how to best serve it to internet users. SEO helps you show Google how to crawl your content intentionally so you can better control where it ends up and how it stands out. 

Ultimately, SEO is a cost-effective, long-term solution to brand growth and success, which [66%](https://www.hubspot.com/hubfs/2022_State-of-Inbound-Marketing-Trends_71b.pdf) of marketers rely on to enhance their strategy.

#### Why is SEO Integral to Content Marketing? 

Digital marketing is integral to reaching and growing a steady audience for your brand, so it’s no surprise that [72%](https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/-gartner-says-marketing-budgets-have-plummeted-to-6-4--of-overal) of marketing budgets go towards digital channels. 

With strong SEO practices, you can stand out in the overcrowded digital space and reach the people that could benefit from your brand most. 

Today, publishing digitally is essential to growing your brand awareness. But the content you release matters. The internet is overflowing with search results, so it’s easy for information to get lost at sea if you don’t know how to make it stand out. 

What you need to know about SEO is that it helps you enhance and fine-tune your content, so you can offer high-quality material that appears in the right places and add value to your audience. 

#### How to Use SEO in Content Marketing

An essential part of what you need to know about SEO in content marketing is how you can implement it into your marketing strategy and make it work for you. Let’s look at some key components of how to use SEO. 

##### Target audience

To optimise your content properly, you must first understand who you want it to reach. Your target audience are those who would most likely find interest in or benefit from your offerings. 

Consider what demographic you hope to target and create ideal customer profiles to better understand who is in this audience, how they might behave online, and what they might search for or enjoy. 

*Quick Tip: Look at what audiences comparable or competitor brands seem to target to gain insight into your ideal audience.*

##### Keywords

Keyword research is a major part of how to use SEO. If you want your content to rank on search engines, it's vital to include relevant keywords and phrases. 

To identify good keywords, start by searching for relevant brands or topics that might relate to you. 

Additionally, use an SEO tool such as [Semrush](https://semrush.sjv.io/c/3016480/1150662/13053) or [UberSuggest](https://neilpatel.com/ubersuggest/?utm_source=ppc&utm_medium=google%20ads&utm_campaign=brand&utm_term=ubersuggest&utm_campaign=2022%7CQ1%7CSearch%7CABS_TOP_Brand&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=9016992746&hsa_cam=16967634604&hsa_grp=132654079661&hsa_ad=593698223688&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=kwd-300528092335&hsa_kw=ubersuggest&hsa_mt=e&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gclid=CjwKCAjwq5-WBhB7EiwAl-HEkqPLCa2xwpZk8Kh-9oQzhW2TbFlCrhu7-4ZWY48kGS11uTtB0x2q6xoC_zwQAvD_BwE) to search for relevant words and phrases. These tools show how often people search particular keywords (search volume) and how difficult they may be to rank on page one of search results (keyword difficulty). 

As you create a list of keywords, you can use a few different types, including:

- **Short tail** – 1-2 words that are typically broader with high search volumes and high competition or difficulty. 
- **Medium** – slightly more specific keywords with medium search volumes and competition.
- **Long-tail** – longer phrases that are more specific with lower search volumes and less competition. 

Once you’ve collected a list of potential keywords, you build your content strategy around them or incorporate these words into your copy. 

Here are a **few key** rules to follow: 

- Try to include a keyword about four times in a 1000-word article. 
- Fit keywords into your content's page title, copy, and headlines. 
- Don’t overuse keywords in your content, as keyword stuffing can negatively impact your search ranking. 
- Incorporate your keywords naturally and organically, so they flow well.  
 
##### Formatting

Formatting is another critical thing to know about SEO in content marketing. How you format your content affects how search engines can crawl and index that information. So, if you use proper and efficient SEO formatting, people can easily find and access your material. 

There are a few components to SEO formatting, which include: 

- **Page title** – this is the title that appears on search engine results. Make sure it’s less than 60 characters, and include your brand name at the end of the title. 
- **Meta Description** – this is a short description of your content on the search results. Try to make this engaging and keep it under 155 characters. 
- **Headers** – to organise the content on your page, use an H1 as the header or title. Then break the copy up into sections using H2, H3, and H4 depending on length.
- **Bullet Points** - alongside well-structured headings, make sure lists are correctly bullet-pointed or numbered so they can appear in snippets.

##### Internal linking

To connect digital publications to your other brand content, include internal links. For example, if you write one article about choosing the right house plants, you might link to another article on plant care.  

As these internal links build, it can create a web for search engines to understand how your links relate. 

*Quick tip: Try to include 2-5 internal links in each publication, and add a “call to action” (CTA) link in the content. CTAs guide readers into taking action, such as downloading a guide, contacting the sales team or signing up for a webinar.*

##### Quality content

Creating quality content is another essential aspect of SEO. 

No matter how well you use SEO tactics in your copy, the final result should effectively add value to the reader. The higher quality copy you create, the more luck you’ll have with reaching your audience. 

Here are a few quick tips for enhancing your content: 

- Plan and outline your content before writing it to ensure you include useful and valuable information. 
- Research your content to ensure it’s well supported, updated, and accurate. 
- Edit and proofread your content before publishing anything online (tools like [Grammarly](http://grammarly.com/) are great for this). 

#### Enhance your marketing SEO on Relocate.world with Copy House.

Copy House can unlock your brand’s potential with its SEO content marketing services. 

Our team are experts in SEO and can help you strategise and create optimised content that resonates with your audience and starts conversations. 

Our SEO services will help you generate leads, become a thought leader within the global mobility industry, and grow your online presence throughout Relocate.world and beyond.

👉 To find out more, [contact us today](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/437) and book a free 30-minute consultation!

[![logosquare (1).webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/logosquare-0Rf3nQbYAe.webp)
](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/437)

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What You Need to Know About SEO

The way we define "destination" is evolving. When it comes to migration, where we seek to live, work and call home is oftentimes not as simple as choosing a country.

The emergence of Remote Work and implementation of visa categories for [Digital Nomads](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/digital-nomad-visas) has made this essence of travel-work migration a reality.  All around the world communities of co-living spaces are providing a home for those seeking a new destination. Some are infused with [cultural elements of the surrounding country](https://www.instagram.com/mandalacasita/), and some are more autonomous, existing as a [hyper-relevant community](https://www.hackerparadise.org/) for a certain professional or demographic. 

In fact, there is only one constant: Destination Remote is a constantly evolving, ever-changing landscape within international mobility. The notion that a *destination* may no longer be constrained to traditional borders, and understood as a community where interests and values intersect is a true phenomena.  

## Remote - A New Destination.

Similar to the powerful rise of [Digital Nomadism](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/digital-nomad-visas), palpable movements towards living and working remotely are completely unprecedented. [Paradigm shifts within the employer-employee relationship](https://www.series.relocate.world/the-hague-premier) have generated new definitions of how we define productivity in the workspace.  And as our global economy emerged from a heartless pandemic, it became crystal clear that outdated precepts of corporate-management and work-life culture would not survive.

#### The Future of Work...and how we live.

The result – a universally sweeping movement towards a new wave of work. The Future of Work arrived in 2022 with a revolutionary BANG. Corporate Prophets, Industry Gurus and self-proclaimed Futurists predicted it. The relentless progress of technology demanded it. A world that suffered found itself more interconnected than ever before, and was primed for it.  And now, here we are – in the midst of a revolutionary way for defining how we live and work.

And how fortunate we are to find ourselves here! For those that not only have the virtue of being capable of removing unnecessary barriers in the workspace, but being incentivized to pursue this sense of life-freedom. Gone with the dreadful urban commute. Let us think twice about employee happiness and what this means. Gone with wasted expenses for corporate office space. Let us embrace the hybrid-model and provide employees with the opportunity to work from anywhere … with good network connectivity of course.

#### Remote Work is Here to Stay

You don’t have to search far and wide to find this fortune cookie statement. Statistics will pop-out like spring, and one can easily get convinced about how beautiful it all is. And how sweet it is, this fragrance of corporate freedom. Unshackled from sterile cubicles to live that postcard dream! The most amazing part of it all, is that it is true. Well most of it at least. Both employers and employees are actively discovering new methods of working together. Attentive employers are implementing new incentives for retaining their top-tier talent in the new-age. And loyal employees are valuing their longevity and convenience of being with an organization that supports them in this new-age of workspace productivity. 

[![Screen Shot 2022-10-19 at 7,03,12 AM.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screen-shot-at-,,-am-4sTP3NT41F.webp)](https://youtu.be/8EFRuVn53-E)
*Annual [Relocate Series](https://www.series.relocate.world/) featuring thought leaders in the Future of Work ecosystem. Stay tuned for our 2023 dates!*

#### Transitioning into the Future of Work for Enterprises and Employers

This ability to live and work beyond our individual borders is both inspiring and challenging. In reality, it presents as many opportunities as it does real-world issues to address. Even enterprises with good-faith intentions for transitioning into a hybrid-remote work model need to fully understand costs and implications. And there are many: Corporate Taxation, HR & Payroll, Talent Retention, Visas and Immigration, Work-Permits, Labor Compliance, and the list goes on. And will continue to go on. 

**Dear Employees:** Be sensitive to these real challenges employers face. It's not all WiFi and sea-breeze. 

**Dear Employers:** There are solutions. There is compromise. 

#### Remote Work & Future of Work Professionals

While not a brand-new phenomenon – there is a formidable niche service-sector rapidly on the rise and gaining attention within the Future of Work ecosystem. Chief of People ✈ The Head of Remote ✈ Head of Human Resources ✈ Global Mobility Managers .... you will know what we’re talking about….and it is inspiring.

As part of the Relocate Ambassador program you can now engage the leading professionals providing exceptional services within the hybrid-remote work space. These vetted [future of work experts](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/105), [remote work consultants](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/424), [hybrid workspace advisors](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/323), and [distributed work professionals](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/332) have a diverse background – from supporting private enterprise remote-work transitions to consulting governments on implementing national policies for attracting international talent - and they are here for you.

#### Connect with Leading Migration Practitioners throughout the World 

Relocate features leading migration practitioners in 45+ destinations. If you have a specific country in mind, you can [check out Featured Advisors on each Destination Page](https://www.relocate.world/destinations), or [filter through vetted Relocate Advisors](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/page/1) based on destinations.

**[Relocate](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/relocate) is the worlds leading independent marketplace for global migration. [Learn more](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/relocate) about how we are easing the burdens of migration and [get started today](https://relocateportal.com/get-started.html)**

[![Relocate.gif](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/relocate-D89r2mYMaQ.gif)](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/119)

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Destination Remote

France attracts people for a wide variety of reasons. Those interested in finding unmatched cultural opportunities will enjoy France’s many cities steeped in history and art, while those looking for a place to raise a family will appreciate its well-regarded education and the high-quality of life. A strong job market and an excellent work-life balance also attract those interested in professional opportunities.

## Relocate to France

There are a few ways that foreigners can come to live in France legally. Working with a qualified immigration lawyer (*avocate*), is one of the easiest strategies that you can use to help you pursue your goals of living in France.

### Meet Clarisse 

[Clarisse Delaitre](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/433), is a French Lawyer, specialized in Immigration and Employment Law. 

[![Screenshot 2022-10-24 at 10,12,11.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-L5eub-AUdH.webp)
](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/433)

### Practicing Immigration Law in France

**Relocate**: What kind of services do you provide as a French immigration lawyer?

**Clarisse**: I help people to move and travel to France for work purposes. I also advise French and foreign companies, as well as employees in all matters related to employment law. This includes social security and commercial or contractual aspects of the law, such as: Employment contracts, termination, non compete clauses, remuneration, paid leaves etc.

**Relocate**: Where do you provide these services?

**Clarisse**:  All throughout France, but my clients are international. For example, I recently supported an American Company launch its business activities in France.

👉 Read more about [successful client cases here](https://majorelle-rh.com/cas-clients/).

![Paris in the Fall.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/paris-in-the-fall-M2ofDLqjD-.webp)
*The Passeport Talent Residence Permit allows you to stay and work in France for up to four years.*

**Relocate**: What is your "favorite" visa category in France?

**Clarisse**: The Talent Passport

**Relocate**: Who is generally eligible for the talent passport visa in France?

**Clarisse**: Talent passports are designed to help France attract foreign workers who can help develop its economy. This visa is available for those who fit into several groups. This includes:

- Those who have been hired by certain French companies or organizations
- Those who are self-employed and can show that their work will contribute to France
- Those who carry a particular national or international reputation
- Certain types of artists and performers

**Relocate**: What inspires you about practicing immigration law?

**Clarisse**: Meeting international people and helping them realize their dream to live in France!

##### 💡 If you are not from the European Union, a talent passport can provide a means for people to move to France and pursue work opportunities. These passports are good for four years, and then they must be renewed. If you qualify for a talent passport, you can also request that the eligibility extends to include the rest of your immediate family💡

#### Get Support Relocating to France

Overall, sorting through the French visa system requires considerable planning and guidance. In France, the language barrier can often be intimidating for non-French speakers, as French nationals take pride in their mother-tongue (and rightfully so!).

Find support in your journey through Relocate. Dig-deeper into important topics for immigrating to France, and connect with qualified Advisors who can confidently address your immigration needs. Connecting with a bi-lingual and qualified Avocate (i.e. French Lawyer) is generally a good idea to ease the transition into this coveted country.

Get started with a 30-minute consultation 👉 [Connect with Clarisse Today](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/433)!

#### Who are Relocate Ambassadors?

Relocate Ambassadors are highly-qualified migration professionals and practitioners. On Relocate, you can find a diverse range of global mobility experts, including: immigration lawyers, remote work consultants, international tax advisors, cross-border corporate lawyers, and other niche professionals in the global migration space.

[![Screenshot 2022-10-24 at 09,58,16.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-KvuQtCN4wk.webp)](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/france)

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Relocate Ambassador ✈ Clarisse Delaitre

When South Africa implements a Digital Nomad Visa, they need to get it right! In this article, we outline what a Digital Nomad Visa is, the standard international requirements and trends, and what South Africa should be doing in order to launch their best visa option possible.

#### What is a Digital Nomad and a Digital Nomad Visa?

A [Digital Nomad](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/digital-nomad-visas) is a person who earns a living working online in various locations of their choosing rather than a fixed business location.

Digital Nomad Visas are a permit type that allows the applicant to work remotely in a foreign country. In the digital age we currently find ourselves in, this is an attractive prospect for many workers, especially those in the technology sector.

The Digital Nomad Visa usually requires you to work for a company outside of your host country.

Numerous countries have introduced this visa type, and countries offering the opportunity have experienced an injection of foreign investment into economies due to this. For the applicant, the visa allows you to explore other countries, without having to go through the rigorous process to obtain a long-term visa.

#### A History of the Digital Nomad Visa

Two years ago, [Estonia](https://www.e-resident.gov.ee/nomadvisa/) paved the way in immigration by introducing the first Digital Nomad Visa. Now, in 2022, numerous European countries have followed suite, notably Croatia, Greece, Malta, and more, with Italy, Latvia, Portugal, and Spain in the process of adding their own.

#### What Trends Do We See in Digital Nomad Visas Offered?

**Length:** Since the concept is relatively new, there is no industry standard for the length of a Digital Nomad Visa. Estonia and Croatia offer one year, Greece is offering one year initially and then a possible additional two years, and Spain is planning to offer three years initially with a two-year renewal. We can see the trend is becoming to lengthen the duration of the visa, and have foreign workers stay in the country for far more extended periods of time.

**Salary Requirements:** While each country is very specific about this figure, we are seeing an increase in the salary qualification for the visa. This makes sense, as governments want Digital Nomads to be spending their earned money on the host country’s economy. 

**Qualification Requirements:** Much like the question of salary, the qualification requirements differ from country to country. However, the trend is becoming toward the more highly skilled and qualified applicant. Certain countries also look more favourably to applications in certain sectors, like the fintech industry.

![lions head.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/lions-head-uaYs3svAfe.webp)
*Lions Head in Capetown is just one epic view of South Africa*

#### Does South Africa Have a Digital Nomad Visa?

Sadly, not yet. The President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, said in [his February 2022 address](https://www.gov.za/SONA2022) to the nation that South Africa will offer this visa in the future, and is working closely with the Department of Home Affairs on the new legislation that would be required.

#### Why Would the Digital Nomad Visa be a Good Fit for South Africa?

South Africa is highly attractive as a country, due not only to the beautiful scenery and lovely Southern Hemisphere weather, but also to its time zone (UTC+2) being so well aligned with those of Western Europe.

##### To be a possible destination for a Digital Nomad, South Africa would need to make its Digital Nomad Visa as attractive, if not more attractive, than countries like Italy and Croatia. This would mean having a longer visa length, lower salary and qualification requirements, and allow the applicant to be accompanied by their spouse and/or dependents.

As mentioned before, talks began in February 2022. But the longer it is not released, the further the country falls behind the immigration trends of the world, having already found itself two years behind when it comes to Digital Nomads.

#### IBN and Digital Nomad Visas

[At IBN](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/337), we already offer Digital Nomad Visa services to Mauritius, titled the [Mauritius Premium Visa](https://www.ibn.co.za/blog-and-news/digital-nomads-mauritius/). When South Africa does launch a Digital Nomad Visa, we will be first out the gate and ready to assist all applicants wanting to live and work in our beautiful country.

Until then, we will keep all readers and clients informed and up to date on all immigration news!

👉 Want to speak to an expert regarding your immigration needs? [Contact us!](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/337)

[![IBN Logo.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/ibn-logo-rn5XllIVr4.webp)](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/337)

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Digital Nomad Visas: How South Africa Has to Get This Right

Japan has kept the border closed for 2.5 years after the outbreak of Covid-19 in early 2020. On October 11th, 2023, the Government of Japan finally decided to open the border and welcome all tourists without restriction on activities as long as they have been vaccinated three times.

## Japan Immigration Systems - Finally Digitalized!

The news about the reopening of border was truly amazing for everyone longing to enter Japan. In addition, the Government of Japan has “finally” digitalized some of the immigration and visa processing systems!

From November 1st, 2022, all travelers, workers and residents will be able to use “[Visit Japan Web](https://vjw-lp.digital.go.jp/en/)”, an Online service for quarantine, immigration and customs procedures.

#### Can I travel to Japan?

The border is open for short-term business travelers. If you want to stay longer in Japan, you can apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) in Japan and change your status within Japan, as long as the CoE is issued by the Immigration Bureau before the visa expiry date.

#### Japan Startup Visa Program 

One of the most attractive visa categories in Japan for startup founders is the Startup Visa.

Navigating through Japanese immigration requirements is extremely complicated and foreign. The Hokkaido Government has addressed this problem by launching the first digital application system for Startup Visa applicants in Japan - all in English!

![Hokkaido.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/hokkaido-rCmz6sTAlE.webp)
*The Hokkaido prefecture is a fertile test ground for primary sectors such as AgriTech and FoodTech.*

#### Hokkaido and the Startup Visa Program for Japan

Around the same time the Government of Japan decided to open the border for all travelers, Hokkaido Government launched a digital application platform for the Startup Visa. This is the very first of its kind in Japan.

While many municipalities and cities only accept visa and immigration applications in Japanese, the Hokkaido Government accepts applications in English.

#### What are the Japan Startup Visa Requirements?

To begin with, all startup founders need to prepare the following items:

1. Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
2. Business Plan
3. Three-year Financial Forecast

#### Who qualifies for the Japan Startup visa?

The Startup Visa is a special visa for startup founders who are planning to launch a company, operate a business and become a Business Manager in Japan. Traditionally, all foreign business managers in Japan need to have a residential status through the “Business Manager Visa”, but acquiring this visa has proven extremely difficult because the applicants must demonstrate the following:

- Have a dedicated office space within Japan to apply for the visa 
- Establish a company prior to applying for Business Manager Visa
- Invest a minimum of 5,000,000 JPY (~34,000 euro) or hire two (2) full-time employees

**The Japan Startup visa does not require an applicant fulfill these criteria prior to the application.**

#### Launching a Company in Japan

Forming a business entity in Japan takes at least 2 weeks. Unlike many other countries that have successfully digitalized administrative procedures, Japan still requires a significant amount of paperwork. In addition, transferring capital and opening a bank account in Japan are becoming extremely difficult, as financial institutions in Japan are becoming more sensitive towards the risk of money laundering.

**Startup Visa in Japan provides a one-year preparation period for startup founders who are planning to change the status to Business Manager Visa within the next 12 months.**

#### What documents are required for the startup visa application in Japan?

The three most important items for the startup visa application are: (1) Proof of an MVP; (2) Business Plan; and (3) a three-year financial forecast. In addition, the applicant must include:

- CV / Resume to demonstrate your expertise
- Graduation Certificate
- Employment Certificate
- Bank book to show you have enough cash to expense your living cost 
- Housing information about where you are planning to reside after you land in Japan
- Pitch Deck

Basically, all applicants are required to prove “why your skillset and previous experiences enable you to launch your own startup in Japan, and how to survive in Japan until the startup starts taking off and making money”.

Stay tuned for the next article about Hokkaido's start-up scene and new business opportunities in [Miho Tanaka's](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/112) next article!

**Miho is a founder & CEO of Startup Work Inc. based in Tokyo, and Shibuya's Startup Visa Lead in Shibuya. From incorporation to immigration, she can guide you through the entire process of starting your business in Japan. With bilingual support staff and extensive, practical experience working with startups, she provides a leading source for supporting individuals and startup businesses in Japan.**

🚀 [Connect with Miho Today](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/112)

[![Screenshot 2022-10-25 at 10,15,16.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-I_yHhZb5Ak.webp)](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/112)


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Japan Border Opening and the Hokkaido Startup Community 🚀 

Costa Rica has always been a hot-spot destination for expats.  Retirees enjoy the pace of life and high-quality of living, and the recent introduction of the digital nomad visa now provides a new immigration pathway for younger professionals, remote workers and thrill seekers alike.

## The Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa

A Digital Nomad is a person who works or offers his services remotely. In recent years this definition is increasingly used by people who want to have the option to learn about different cultures while continuing to work from their computers. This category of remote workers became more attractive after the year 2020 due to border-closures related to the COVID-19 pandemic. After this period it became evident that Costa Rica needed to make migratory processes more flexible for non-resident foreigners, where they would be granted legal status, without having the obligations of a temporary or permanent resident in Costa Rica.


#### Who Can Apply for a Digital Nomad visa in Costa Rica?

To be eligible for the Costa Rica digital nomad visa you must meet the minimum income requirements. Income requirements for the Costa Rica digital nomad visa depend on the number of applicants. 

- Individual Applicant: must demonstrate $3,000 USD of monthly income
- Individual + Family: must demonstrate $4,000 USD of monthly income

[![Screenshot 2022-10-28 at 09,10,42.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-nL3QXbILyM.webp)
](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/124)

#### How do you demonstrate the income requirements for the Digital Nomad visa in Costa Rica?

Several important items are required to prove the minimum income requirements for the Costa Rica digital nomad visa. This includes a bank statement and affidavit demonstrating the last 12-months of consistent income. These documents must be certified by a public accountant or contain an apostille if coming from abroad. 

[![Screenshot 2022-10-28 at 09,17,16.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-cl5PxihmHN.webp)
](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/124)

#### How do I apply for the Costa Rica digital nomad visa?

The Costa Rica digital nomad visa can be submitted through two main channels: (1) In-person at the *DIRECCIÓN GENERAL DE MIGRACIÓN Y EXTRANJERÍA*; or (2) online through the [TRÁMITE YA](https://tramiteya.go.cr/) digital platform. 

#### Main Requirements for the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa

A list of the most important items for the Costa Rica digital nomad visa include:

• Fee of $100.00 per application
• Copy of Passport Bio Page and last stamp of entry into the country 
• Document providing the link with your family (apostilled)
• Signature of the informed consent document.
• Valid Medical Insurance policy


#### Relocate to Costa Rica as a Digital Nomad

Learn more about your immigration and relocation options for Costa Rica and [schedule a consultation with Eugenia](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/124) today!

**[Eugenia](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/124) is an Associate Attorney and Partner of GLC Abogados. As an immigration lawyer, Eugenia has successful experience working with both businesses and individuals for cross-border matters in Costa Rica.** 


[![Screenshot 2022-10-28 at 09,31,46.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-_7OZUvFIHQ.webp)
](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/costarica)

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Costa Rica: New Regulations for Digital Nomads

The birthplace of many Roman emperors, including Constantine the Great, you are never too far from a mountain or a winding river in Serbia. The capital city of Belgrade has a population of 1.5 million people, and is one of the oldest and continuously inhabited cities in Europe and the World. It also served as the capital of former Yugoslavia from its creation in 1918 to its dissolution in 2006.

The city has seen a tech, and digital nomad boom in recent years – According to some estimates, the tech accounts for at least six percent of Serbia’s GDP, while employing some 45,000 people. Since 2015, Serbian startups have raised over $500 million.

Interested in moving to Serbia? Learn more about your immigration options through our featured Relocate Ambassador, Damjan Despotović.

## Relocate to Serbia

There are a [several ways that foreigners can immigrate to Serbia](https://www.relocate.world/articles/serbia-employment-incentives) for work, employment, business or investment. Given the significant language (and cultural) differences, and depending on the importance of your immigration goals, it might be advisable to consult with a bilingual, qualified Serbian lawyer.

### Meet Damjan 

[Damjan Despotovic](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/294), managing partner of DNVG Attorneys, and a licensed corporate immigration lawyer in Serbia. 

[![Screenshot 2022-11-02 at 15,49,41.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-Nt6MCGA3-W.webp)](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/294)


### Practicing Corporate Immigration Law in Serbia

**Relocate**: What kind of services do you provide as a Serbian lawyer?

**Damjan**: At DNVG, our attorneys provides legal services and supports businesses across different industries. We provide guidance and assistance in immigration procedures, such as residency and work permits, and with all other legal issues relevant for relocation of businesses as well as individuals. For those looking to set up a business in Serbia (or relocate an existing one), we offer all necessary assistance and advice, such as formation of company, financing, M&A, banking issues, employment matters, as well as information on available subsidies and benefits. Via external consultants we provide advice on tax optimization and accounting matters.

**Relocate**: Where do you provide these services and who are your typical clients?

**Damjan**:  We provide these services throughout Serbia, but our clients are international. We also represent a diverse range of clients, including multinational companies, tech companies, individuals, digital nomads, and start-ups.

👉 Learn more about [DNVG Legal Services here](https://dnvg-law.com/ecommerce-law/).

![Serbia.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/serbia-jv2hbu6zBx.webp)
*Belgrade is quickly emerging as one of the newest destinations to live and work remotely in Eastern Europe.*

**Relocate**: What is one of the most important visa categories for living and working in Serbia?

**Damjan**: Temporary Residence based on the establishment of a company or agency. It is a subset of employment-based visa in Serbia

**Relocate**: Who is eligible for the employment-based visa?

**Damjan**: Temporary residence through this category of the employment based visa is suitable for individuals looking to relocate their business or start a new business in Serbia. No special conditions are required (apart from health insurance, minimum amount of money for living expenses and residence address), and incorporation of company/agency is straightforward. For extension of the visa, it is necessary to obtain a working permit, for which the applicant is required to provide information about its business activities, qualifications etc. Procedure typically takes 1-2 months and the visa is approved for up to 1 year.

**Relocate**: What are your top-three reasons to relocate to Serbia?

There are many reasons to move to Serbia, but here are my top-three practical reasons for entrepreneurs and business-oriented applicants:

(1) Easy to incorporate a company and flexible immigration procedures. (2) Subsidies and tax-breaks for newly founded tech companies and newly settled highly qualified individuals (both salary tax and income tax for employees can be reduced significantly). For larger investments which involve fixed assets and new jobs, non-refundable cash subsidies are provided. (3) Growing and developing tech community with a lot of start-ups and digital nomads. Improving start-up environment with mentorship and financing programs introduced by the state and the European Union.

**Relocate**: What inspires you about practicing immigration law?

**Damjan**: I enjoy the sense of accomplishment when we help people achieve their goals and realize their ideas.

##### 💡 If you are not from the European Union and looking to establish a business presence for living and working throughout Serbia or other parts of Europe, the employment-based visa category for Serbia might provide you with a potential solution. 

#### Get Support Relocating to Serbia

Overall, navigating through the Serbian immigration system requires considerable planning and guidance. As a non-native, you might find Eastern European culture to be hard-pressed and intimidating, including the obvious language barrier. Yet, don't let this discourage! Serbia, like many of its neighboring countries, provide a warm welcoming for those courageous enough to make the move and have a great deal of respect for foreigners.

Find support in your journey through Relocate. Dig-deeper into important topics for immigrating to Serbia, and connect with qualified Advisors who can confidently address your immigration needs. Connecting with a bi-lingual and qualified lawyer is generally a good idea to ease the transition into this emerging country.

Get started with a 30-minute consultation 👉 [Connect with Damjan Today](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/294)!

#### Who are Relocate Ambassadors?

Relocate Ambassadors are highly-qualified migration professionals and practitioners. On Relocate, you can find a diverse range of global mobility experts, including: immigration lawyers, remote work consultants, international tax advisors, cross-border corporate lawyers, and other niche professionals in the global migration space.

Relocate Ambassador ✈ Damjan Despotovic

Today, many people are working remotely, but this isn’t just a condition of the current pandemic. It is a trend that is growing because people are choosing a better quality of life over congested city living. 

When the pandemic began, we saw a huge migration of people moving from large cities into resort communities. The real estate aggregator, Redfin recently published an article about how the coronavirus has driven New Yorkers and San Franciscans to greener pastures. In 2020, listings were receiving multiple offers and selling for over 10-15% of asking price.

Popular resort towns like Cape Cod, Jersey Shore, Bend, Oregon and Lake Tahoe saw a huge reduction in available inventory as the buyer demand overwhelmed the amount of homes for sale. International vacation destinations in Portugal, Bulgaria, Mexico, South America and Asia will receive the overflow of this demand once people realize how easy it is to migrate internationally.

[Emily Bron](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/344), of International Lifestyle Consultants, has been helping people fulfill this dream through the careful curation of information about living and working in international destinations. When people are asked about the biggest benefits of becoming a remote worker, studies demonstrate that flexibility and freedom are key.

Have a look at some of the most relevant reasons for working remotely:

#### What are the biggest benefits to becoming a remote worker?

- 40% Flexible Schedule
- 30% Working from Any Location
- 14% Time with Family
- 13% Working from Home
- 3% Other

We’ve seen how the 20 and 30 year olds began the Digital Nomad trend because unlike the Yuppies, younger generations choose quality of life over the pursuit of possessions. They are attracted to a more minimalist lifestyle that allows for a richer experience of different cultures.

#### Why did you choose to work remotely?

1. Flexibility and work-life balance.
2. Working remotely allows me to choose quality of life over work.
3. Reducing my carbon footprint.
4. Not losing time on commute.
5. Higher Productivity
6. Working remotely allows me to travel and see the world.
7. Retirees have always enjoyed the benefits of reducing their expenses by living abroad, but the ability to easily find remote work is opening this trend to people of all ages.

International Lifestyle Consultants partners with many of the largest remote working platforms to guide clients in finding remote work opportunities. The added benefit of working with Emily Bron is that she is also an expert on the process of relocating. Not only can she help you make the move, but she also has connections to accommodation opportunities that you will not find elsewhere.

[![Screenshot 2022-11-07 at 09,39,53.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-jiayVqVrKW.webp)](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/344)


Imagine waking up and answering emails before you go off scuba diving. Have lunch in a charming European seaside restaurant, while crunching numbers. Rather than use a phony tropical background while making Zoom calls, you can work from your patio with palm trees actually swaying behind you.

Many companies will share information on why living internationally and working remotely can improve your life experience, but beyond that, you are on your own. At [International Lifestyle Consultants](https://emilybron.com/), we offer the complete packet with a step by step plan that eliminates the stress and uncertainty.

👉 Contact Emily to discover how to make your dream of working and living abroad a reality. 

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Finding Remote Work Opportunities While Living Abroad

The Golden Coast of Europe has a name that embodies it all. Infused by sea, Portugal’s majestic coastline is an honest reflection of her inner-beauty. From timeless cobblestoned villages nestled within rolling vineyards to snow-capped peaks and a world-class capital city, Lisboa, it is hard to imagine a more welcoming destination and place to live. Historically known for financing the most far-reaching, royal seafaring expeditions that have influenced our world, it’s no wonder why so many have returned home to their port.

## Portugal's Immigration System

Portugal's immigration system is notoriously one of the most advanced in the European Union. As one of the first nation's to adopt the Golden Visa Program, Portugal continued to deploy and craft visa categories that would attract investment and foreign talent to its shores. The D7 visa for remote workers, company executives and other eligible candidates is one of the most popular visa categories in Portugal and throughout Europe!

And of course Portugal would not be left behind in the race to attract digital nomads, with the [recent introduction of its own temporary stay visa](https://www.relocate.world/articles/digital-nomad-visa-portugal), making it even easier for remote workers and freelancers to live and work from Portugal. 

Interested in moving to Portugal? Learn more about your immigration options through our featured Relocate Ambassador, Carolina Sobrinho.

## Relocate to Portugal

There are [several ways that foreigners can immigrate to Portugal](https://www.relocate.world/en/articles/digital-nomad-portugal) for work, employment, business or investment. 

Learn more about what visa option is best for you from leading Portuguese immigration lawyer and Relocate Ambassador Carolina Sobrinho.

### Meet Carolina 

[Carolina Sobrinho](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/383) is an Immigration and Real Estate Lawyer with experience in Residency by Investment and Relocation Programs in Portugal.

[![Screen Shot 2022-11-17 at 3,26,02 PM.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screen-shot-at-,,-pm-v6Av1KtCek.webp)](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/383)


### Practicing Immigration Law in Portugal

**Relocate**: What kind of services do you provide as a Portuguese lawyer?

**Carolina**: I currently run my own boutique law firm practice and focus specifically on Immigration and Relocation matters for Portugal.

**Relocate**: Where do you provide these services and who are your typical clients?

**Carolina**:  My legal practice serves remote workers, digital nomads, retirees and entrepreneurs. 

![Porto.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/porto-eKDZVTEVMW.webp)
*Portugal is a country rich with culture and picturesque destinations, including this port city, Porto.*

**Relocate**: What is one of the most important visa categories for living and working in Portugal?

**Carolina**: The D7 Visa for Portugal was one of the most utilized visa categories for freelancers, managers of companies, entrepreneurs and many more.  While the requirements are similar, the new Digital Nomad Visa for Portugal will likely shift applicants in a new direction. 

**Relocate**: Who is eligible for the digital nomad visa in Portugal?

**Carolina**: Generally speaking, individuals must earn a minimum of $2850 USD / month to be eligible. The main applicant must also have a minimum balance of $8,500 in their bank account. This amount is different if you have dependents (i.e. spouse). You should also demonstrate that you have health care coverage.

**Relocate**: What are your top-three reasons to relocate to Portugal?

There are many reasons to move to Portugal, but my top-three reasons would include: Security, Cost of Living, Geo-location that is strategic for those who need to work remotely.

Overall, relocating to Portugal might be challenging, but by the end the applicants regret why they didn't move to Portugal before 😊

**Relocate**: What inspires you about practicing immigration law?

**Carolina**: I enjoy working with people to support them in making life changing decisions. 

##### 💡 If you are not from the European Union and looking to live, work or retire throughout Portugal or other parts of Europe, the D7 and new Temporary Residence Permit for Portugal might provide you with a potential solution. 

#### Get Support Relocating to Portugal

Overall, navigating through the Portuguese immigration system requires considerable planning and guidance. As a foreigner, you might find there to be a variety of potential options to emigrate, so finding the right option will be your greatest challenge!

Find support in your journey through Relocate. Dig-deeper into important topics for immigrating to Portugal, and connect with qualified Advisors who can confidently address your immigration needs. Connecting with a bi-lingual and qualified lawyer is generally a good idea to ease the transition into this beautiful country.

Get started with a 30-minute consultation 👉 [Connect with Carolina Today](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/383)!

#### Who are Relocate Ambassadors?

Relocate Ambassadors are highly-qualified migration professionals and practitioners. On Relocate, you can find a diverse range of global mobility experts, including: immigration lawyers, remote work consultants, international tax advisors, cross-border corporate lawyers, and other niche professionals in the global migration space.

Relocate Ambassador ✈ Carolina Sobrinho

Portugal has a lot to offer American expats and retirees, including favorable tax regimes, great weather, a low cost of living, and relatively easy immigration pathways. In order to best take advantage of all that Portugal has to offer, including the NHR tax regime, expats and retirees should build a financial plan around their move. Here are a few tips to help Americans thinking about moving to Portugal:

#### What is the NHR (Non Habitual Resident) Tax Regime?

Overall, the NHR regime has significant benefits for retirees and some workers, including a 10% tax rate on all pension income. This includes US Social Security and 401k and IRA distributions.

#### Do I need to pay US taxes under the NHR Tax Regime?

As an American, your tax liabilities do not end with paying Portuguese taxes under NHR. If your US tax liability exceeds your Portuguese tax liability, you may owe US taxes, as well.

#### How long is the NHR regime? Is it indefinite?

NHR only lasts for 10 years. After 10 years, you revert to Portuguese income tax rates which quickly scale up to 48%.

**💡 If you are currently working, it is best to contact a tax advisor ahead of your move to determine your tax liabilities in Portugal and the best tax strategy and structuring**

![ruas-mais-bonitas-de-lisboa-1.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/ruas-mais-bonitas-de-lisboa-AJHnO6V877.webp)
*Rua da Bica. Lisbon is the most populous city in Portugal and also one of the oldest in Europe. Known for being vibrant and charismatic, the capital is full of life and animation, and just a few minutes walk through its streets to be able to absorb its contagious energy.*

## Considerations for Investments and Structuring Accounts in Portugal

#### Is there any benefit to moving my US qualified accounts (i.e. 401k, IRA) into a European or Portuguese Structure?

It’s a frequently asked question – there is no benefit to moving your US qualified accounts (401k, IRA) into a European or Portuguese structure. There is no US compliant equivalent, and ‘moving’ these accounts is just a distribution taxed at income tax rates (and possibly penalized).

#### Does Portugal recognize Roth IRAs?

Portugal does not recognize Roth IRAs, and the tax benefits of a Roth are not relevant in the Portuguese system.

#### Does investing through a Portuguese company have any tax benefits?

While investing via Portuguese company structures may be tax efficient in Portugal, it could create unforeseen tax problems in the US.

#### Can I invest in local Portuguese mutual funds or ETFs? Are these US tax compliant?

Investing in local Portuguese mutual funds or ETFs will not be US tax compliant. These are considered Passive Foreign Investment Companies (PFICs) in the US and are not tax efficient.

## Paying Taxes in Portugal as a U.S. Citizen

The interaction between the US tax regime and the Portuguese tax code is complex and often requires specialist planning. With the right financial plan, you can live financially secure in Portugal even after the initial 10-year NHR period. Although Americans do not get the full tax advantage of NHR, there are plenty of financial planning opportunities available with the right advice and structures. Feel free to get in touch for a free initial consultation.

**[Alex Ingrim](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/311) is a financial advisor specialized in helping American expats plan their financial future while living in Europe. He help clients with financial planning, tax optimization strategies, and investment management, always taking into account their US tax situation.**

 👉 [Contact Alex today](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/311)


*[Chase Buchanan](https://chasebuchanan.com/) is authorised and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission with Licence No: 287/15*



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Financial Planning Tips for Portugal

Maltese residency is ideal for ambitious and driven individuals wishing to enjoy the benefits of EU membership while basing themselves in such an outstanding strategic location. The island has a highly trained and linguistically agile workforce, very friendly tax regime, superb weather, beaches that are among the best in the world, and that has excellent air and sea links to all global hubs.

## How to Obtain Residency in Malta?

There are several immigration pathways available for those interested in obtaining residence in Malta. We have outlined some of the most common residency programs below, including: Malta Permanent Residency Program; Malta Retirement Programme; and Malta Ordinary Residence Permit.

### What is the Malta Residency Program (MPRP)?

The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) was launched in 2021 and is a residency programme open to non-EU nationals by means of investment in Malta. MPRP offers third-country nationals the opportunity to acquire a second residency in Malta which is a member state of the EU. This new programme has effectively replaced the previous programme known as the Malta Residence and Visa Programme (MRVP).

#### What are the benefits of the Malta Residency Program?

There are several benefits to become a Maltese resident:

- Successful applicants and their dependants will obtain a permanent residence status in Malta valid for life;
- Successful applicants and their dependants have the right to reside indefinitely in Malta; and
- Visa-Free travel within Schengen Area, with a right to stay in one place for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

**What are the Schengen Region Countries?**

As a Maltese Resident, you will gain free movement within the 26 countries comprising the Schengen Area. This includes:

🇦🇹Austria 🇬🇷Greece 🇳🇱Netherlands 🇧🇪Belgium 🇭🇺Hungary 🇳🇴Norway 🇨🇿Czech Republic	🇮🇸Iceland 🇵🇱Poland 🇩🇰Denmark	🇮🇹Italy 🇵🇹Portugal 🇪🇪Estonia  🇱🇻Latvia 🇸🇰Slovakia 🇫🇮Finland	🇱🇮Liechtenstein 🇸🇮Slovenia 🇫🇷France	🇱🇹Lithuania	🇪🇸Spain 🇩🇪Germany	🇱🇺Luxemburg	🇸🇪Sweden 🇨🇭Switzerland

#### What are the Maltese Residency Program Requirements? 

Eligibility and Requirements:
The main applicant must be at least 18 years of age;
Must be a third-country nationals, therefore, Maltese, EEA and Swiss nationals are excluded and cannot apply;
Must have assets amounting to at least €500,000, out of which a minimum of €150,000 must be in the form of financial assets;
Has stable and regular resources which are sufficient to maintain him/herself and any of his/her dependents;
Be in possession of valid travel documents;
Be in possession of health insurance in respect of all risks covered for Maltese Nationals.


### What is the Malta Retirement Programme?

The Malta Retirement Programme is for retirees or adults nearing retirement age and who are considering taking up residence overseas. Malta is situated in the middle of the Mediterranean sea; its warm climate, culture, health care has made the island an attractive retirement location. Retirees can also benefit from a flat rate of 15% on all foreign source income which is remitted to Malta, subject to a minimum annual tax.

#### What are the benefits of the Malta Retirement Program

Applicants that decide to take up residence in Malta through the Malta Retirement Programme will benefit from a flat tax rate of 15% on a pension remitted and a minimum tax payable amount of €7,500 in annual tax. An additional €500 is to be paid annually for every dependent or special carer engaged.

#### Who is eligible for the Malta Retirement Program?

- EU/EEA or Swiss national;
- Receive your pension income in Malta and must constitute at least 75% of your chargeable income;
- Applicants cannot be in an employment relationship, however, may hold non-executive roles on the board of a Maltese company;
- Purchase a property with a minimum value of €275,000 (situated in the north and central areas of Malta), or €250,000 (situated in Gozo or the south of Malta) or rental of a property for a minimum of €9,600 per annum (situated the north and central areas of in Malta), or €8,750 (situated in Gozo or in the south of Malta);
- Be covered by an EU Health Insurance Policy;
- Be a fit and proper person with no criminal record. Also, a due diligence exercise is carried out by the Maltese Inland Revenue Department before the granting of the special tax status.

![Malta Streets.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/malta-streets-UBwhSl2asL.webp)
*Malta is full of winding white sandstone streets that are never too far from the sea.*

### What is the Malta Ordinary Residence Permit?

Any EU, EEA, Swiss nationals or third-country nationals who wish to reside in Malta for more than three months, is required to apply for an e-Residence card with the Department for Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs. Before applying for an e-Residence card, applicants should look into renting or purchasing a property in Malta, as well as opening a Maltese bank account. This is done to provide prospective applicants substance within Malta.

#### What are the benefits of the Malta ordinary residence permit?

- Tax Residence in Malta;
- Any capital gains arising from outside of Malta, and is not received in Malta, is not subject to tax in Malta;
- Any income arising from outside of Malta, and is not received in Malta, is not subject to tax in Malta.

Subject to capital gain and income arising from outside of Malta, the “remittance basis” of taxation does not apply to individuals who apply for long-term residence or a permanent residence certificate. Such individuals would be subject to tax in Malta on a “worldwide income basis”.

#### Do I have to pay income tax in Malta?

Individuals who are ordinarily resident, but not domiciled in Malta, are subject to income tax on income arising in Malta, on income arising outside Malta but received in Malta and on capital gains arising in Malta. No tax is chargeable on capital gains that arise overseas but which are remitted to Malta.

Personal income tax is charged at progressive rates from 0% up to a maximum of 35%

#### Who is eligible for the ordinary residence permit in Malta?

The Ordinary Residence Permit is an attractive residence scheme with many benefits. There are different grounds on which applicants may become ordinarily resident in Malta, such as:

EU/EEA or Swiss nationals have the right to enter, remain and reside in Malta. The most common scenarios being:

- Self-sufficiency;
- Employment/self-employment in Malta;
- To study.

Third-country nationals may also apply, but their rights are not automatic. Also, there are restrictions and conditions imposed, especially regarding employment/self-employment rights.


#### What are the requirements to obtain the Maltese Ordinary Residence?

- Provide evidence of financial self-sufficiency needs to be demonstrated to ensure the applicant will have a high standard of living in Malta;
- Applicants need to provide proof that they have the required available funds of at least €14,000 for single persons. In the case of married couples provide evidence that they have the necessary available funds of at least €23,500 or over, and an additional €3,500 for every dependent included in the application;
- Applicants must either purchase or rent property in Malta before submitting the Ordinary Residence application.

**[Michealle Oaks](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/461) is the Business Development Director at [Zeta](https://zeta-financial.com/), a boutique firm offering corporate services, specialize in assisting our clients with company formation, relocation services, assist with any tax planning through our preferred Tax Advisors, advise on structuring and estate planning solutions.**

👉 [Contact Michealle today](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/461)!

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Obtaining Residency in Malta

It is no secret that Ukraine is fighting a war against Russia and that this has a devastating impact on the Ukrainian economy. The number of foreign investments to Ukraine has decreased significantly, as not many foreigners are ready to come and open a business under Russian bombs. Before the war, Ukraine offered so much in terms of business opportunities.  Businesses were blooming and some industry-sectors were becoming leaders on the global market.  
 
The good news is that since October 2022, foreigners have obtained access to Ukrainian advantages without a need to be present in the country, as President Zelenskiy approved the so-called “E-residence law”.

#### What is the e-residence law in Ukraine?
 
This new law allows foreigners to get registered in Ukraine as private entrepreneurs, open bank accounts and deal with Government institutions 100% online. So, you don’t need to come here to open a business, but you still can run it by paying a 5% profit tax! 

And these are not all the advantages of the Ukrainian e-residence status. Let’s find more about what benefits you will get from being a Ukrainian e-resident.
 
#### Who is eligible for e-residence in Ukraine?
 
E-residence is a special legal status in Ukraine allowing foreign individuals to open and run their private business without any presence on the Ukrainian territory.
 
An e-resident is a foreigner 18 or older, who is not a Ukrainian tax resident and registered with the special governmental online system called “E-resident”.
 
#### What are the benefits of the e-residence program in Ukraine?
 
Ukrainian e-residence offers the following main benefits:

1) 	ability to export any services from Ukraine;
2) 	5% profit tax provided that your annual profit doesn’t exceed UAH 7,805,500.00 (around USD 212,000.00 as of the date of this article);
3) 	15% profit tax if your annual profit for export of services from Ukraine exceeds UAH 7,805,500.00;
4) 	business registration and operation online;
5) 	opening and managing bank accounts online;
6) 	obtaining qualified and certified digital signature (aka e-signature) online;
7) 	no need of accounting as your Ukrainian bank will be your tax agent taking care of your bookkeeping;
8) 	all communication with the Tax Office and other state institutions is done online.

![Screenshot 2022-11-29 at 10,05,29.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-shziNEZRmM.webp)
*Learn more about the new e-residency program in Ukraine* 
 
#### Who is NOT eligible for e-residence in Ukraine?
 
The following categories of individuals CANNOT be e-residents:

·   	who is already a tax Ukrainian resident;
·   	Ukrainian citizens;
·   	holders of Ukrainian permanent residence;
·   	stateless persons;
·   	who receives income from Ukraine for goods, works and services (except of passive income like dividends, interest, royalty);
·   	citizens or residents of Russia, off-shore states listed by FATF and of other countries that can be added to that list.
 
#### How do I apply for e-residence in Ukraine?
 
To become an e-resident you need to take the 4 simple steps:

a) 	Submit your online application on the “E-resident” platform
b) 	Visit a Ukrainian consulate so the consular could verify your identity. After a background check you will receive in the consulate: (1) Ukrainian tax ID; and (2) your qualified and certified digital signature (aka e-signature)
c) 	Register online as a private entrepreneur; and
d) 	Open online a bank account in a Ukrainian bank.
 
**Note: the E-residence Law takes force on April 01, 2023. By that date the E-residence portal will be launched and will start accepting online applications.**

[Serhii Aleksandrov](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/130) is Ukrainian legal practitioner since 2006. He has worked at 4-top Ukrainian law firms and is the Founder of Legal Ideas law firm, with a prime focus on immigration services. Traveler. Business expat. Vision: Immigration must be safe, fast and reasonably priced.

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Ukraine Introduces the E-Residency Program

When renting an office in Hong Kong, one of the toughest challenges is finding the right blend of space, convenience, privacy, cost and amenities. If you opt for a private office, you will often have to fork out large amounts of money for things like décor, renovation, amenities and much more. On the other hand, a shared space might be cheaper, but it is too informal and more of a public space than an office. 

Here are 6 reasons why a serviced office strikes the right balance and might be just what your business needs:

#### 1. A Professional Working Environment

When you need to present your company in a positive and trustworthy light, the way your office space looks matters. Be it via Zoom meetings or in person, if your clients see a messy office, they’re less-likely to give you their business. Serviced offices are designed to look welcoming and professional with receptionists ready to point customers right to you. There are also cleaning staff to make sure your office space and the common areas are spotless, which is definitely a benefit with COVID-19’s ability to halt productivity.

#### 2. Serviced Offices Are Fully-equipped

Instead of renting out and renovate an entire office and having to kit it out to perfection, you can use the great equipment usually provided for free by a serviced office like [Compass Offices](https://www.compassoffices.com/en/locations/hong-kong/). Your staff will be thankful to have access to a great kitchen, clean toilets and even comfortable communal areas. In short, such provider offers private offices in shared workspaces, generally located in premium locations and business districts.

When it comes to your office space itself, things like furniture, Wi-Fi and printers will already be available. Finally, to really wow your customers, meeting rooms are often also bookable so that you can make a powerful impression and seal that all-important deal!

#### 3. Cost Effective 

One of the great things about renting a serviced office is that it can scale up with you. When you first move in, your company may only have four or five employees, but a year later, you might require space for ten employees. You can simply pay for the space you need, exactly when you need it. No need to shell out extra on offices that are too big, or have to worry about downscaling. Moreover, with [nearly 90% of workers preferring remote and hybrid work](https://www.pwchk.com/en/consulting/people-and-organisation/hopes-fears-2022-hongkong-report-aug2022.pdf), serviced offices offer you even greater flexibility than traditional offices. There are a variety of office sizes to suit your budget and needs. Then, there are the little money-savers that are already set up for you like printers with ink, utilities, office furniture and much more. 

#### 4. Space for Clients And Employees

A serviced office really offers your business the best of both worlds. Your own office space is the perfect location to discuss projects and sensitive information with employees. It offers a safe and secure environment in which your company can work just like it would in a private office space. In addition to this, you will have access to meeting rooms where you can entertain clients. This means that your clients don’t need to be stuffed into a tiny office or informal coworking space when you meet them. You can create a great impression and pay less to do so. 

![serviced office hong kong.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/serviced-office-hong-kong-1oYxP7Qpnw.webp)
*Rise above the noise in Hong Kong with all the amenities of a serviced office-space*

#### 5. Your Employees Will Feel Comfortable

An office space needs to be somewhere that your employees find conducive to be productive. In your office, they can have their own cubicles with great Wi-Fi and comfortable office furniture already provided. A clean environment and professional look will also heighten the confidence of your employees since they work in a great office space! A [well-designed workplace](https://www.forbes.com/sites/alankohll/2019/01/24/how-your-office-space-impacts-employee-wellbeing/?sh=1dfe301164f3) has a positive impact on employees’ health, wellbeing, satisfaction, and productivity. Kitchen areas, clean toilets and quality facilities will also help to keep your employees feeling valued and comfortable whenever they’re at work.

#### 6. Serviced Offices Are Often Located Centrally

While serviced offices offer great value for money, they are also businesses at the end of the day and need to attract reliable companies to use their office spaces. This is why serviced offices often give themselves the best chance of success by locating their premises in centrally-located areas. In Hong Kong, for example, you will find serviced offices in all the major central business districts like Central, Admiralty, Sheung Wan, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, Tsim Sha Tsui and even Kwun Tong. All these districts are great for business, but are also easy to commute to with convenient access by bus, MTR, car and even trams or ferries in some areas!

### The Office Service You Deserve

If what you’re in the market for is an office that’s premium without a premium price tag, then a serviced office is a great option for you. With greater chances of negotiating a shorter lease, you can even rent for smaller durations of time to see if serviced offices are the right fit for you and your business.




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Six Reasons You Need a Serviced Office in Hong Kong

The “L1 Blanket” is an immigration framework offered by  US authorities to ease intra-group transfers to the United States. If you are a large corporate entity that frequently transfers employees to the United States, applying for an L1 Blanket can help you gain time, money and efficiency. 

#### What is the L-1 Visa?

The [L-1 visa](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/usa/L1-visa) offers an immigration pathway for companies to transfer employees to the United States. This visa category is applicable for both smaller companies, scaling up to multinational enterprises. Typically, smaller companies (as well as entrepreneurs and business owners) should typically consider the L-1 as a viable option. However, for larger, multinational companies that might have a higher volume of corporate-employer mobility into the United States, the L-1 Blanket immigration framework might be a good option. 

#### When should I apply for a L1 Blanket?

For L1 work permits – intra-group work permits, i.e. from one subsidiary to another within the same group. This concerns L1A (directors/managers) and L1B (proven experts).

#### Who is eligible for the L1 Blanket Application?

The company applying for the L1 Blanket must:

- have had an operational office in the United States for more than a year;
- demonstrate commercial or service operations;
- have at least three branches, subsidiaries or affiliates (national or international);
- or have at least 1000 employees; or have a U.S. annual revenue of at least $25 million; or having filed and obtained at least 10 L permit in the 12 months preceding the application.

In addition to this, applicants considering the L1 application must meet the following criteria:

- Be able to justify a high level of direction, management or expertise;
- Be able to justify 12 consecutive months of seniority in the group at the time of the request;
- Be sent to one of the group’s entities in the United States.

⚠️  Caution! –  the L1 Blanket does not guarantee obtaining the work permit!

#### Benefits of the L1 Blanket Application for the United States

**Efficiency & Time-Saving**: The L1 Blanket avoids filing each application with USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). It is filed directly with the competent U.S. Consulate, which decides whether or not to issue the visa. The time saved is considerable;
 
**Visa Duration**: The L1 Blanket is generally issued up to 3 years, renewable without limit. In case of renewal outside the deadline or refusal, a waiting period of 3 years is imposed;
 
**Global Enterprises**: Once the Blanket is approved, all global entities registered under that Blanket can benefit from it.
 
**Application Procedures** Going directly through the Consulate avoids a [Request For Evidence (RFE)](https://www.relocate.world/articles/rfe-explained). NOTE: this does not mean that the permit is issued automatically: a strict study is also conducted by the Consulate.
 
#### How to Submit an L-1 Blanket Application

The L-1 Blanket Application petition is made to the USCIS office closest to the main office of the American company;
Processing times vary from a few weeks to several months;
The list of documents to be provided can be intimidating – it is advisable to go through specialist of the subject.

**Would you like more information about the L1 Blanket or US immigration in general? 👉 [Contact Virginia Le Baler](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/413), a global mobility expert based in France offering U.S. immigration services.**

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L-1 Blanket Visa Application for the United States

Japan's immigrant population has radically increased over the years, and many have made Japan their permanent home.
 
For many immigrants, renting or purchasing a new house seems like a daunting task. But with the rise of abandoned homes in Japan, it has led many to wonder if foreign expats can purchase them?
 
Today, we will discuss all about the things you need to know when purchasing a house from the "Akiya bank" and what documents you need to translate from English to Japanese.
 
Let's get started!
 
#### Why Are Abandoned Homes on the Rise in Japan? 

There are several reasons why "abandoned homes" or *Akiya* has been on the rise in Japan over the years. One of the most influential factors, however, is largely due to the aging population of Japanese nationals.
 
Japan is considered one of the countries with the lowest fertility rates in the world. With most of the younger population opting to live in metropolitan areas, many communities have struggled to maintain their population.
 
[Insider](https://www.insider.com/japan-ghost-towns-population-vacancy-rates-akiya-banks-2021-6) reported that because of the limited job opportunities, closed communities, and declined states of provincial areas, the majority of youth choose to stay in cities like Tokyo and Osaka.
 
Another reason these homes are unappealing is that in some provincial areas, "ghost towns" have sprung up. So even if you bought a cheap property in the area due to the house's conditions still being livable, you would be surrounded by Akiya houses, having little human interaction.
 
Because of this, the Japanese government has found it difficult to attract younger couples and youth to move back to the province. This has led to many local governments developing Akiya banks.  
 
#### What is an Akiya Bank? 

An Akiya Bank is not a bank per se, but a property information service that local governments run to attract occupants to vacant houses in their area. Depending on the prefecture, some areas provide real estate tax breaks and various subsidies to owners purchasing Akiya properties.
 
#### Can Foreigners Buy Akiya in Japan?

Like with any real estate property, foreigners or "gaijin" can purchase Akiya homes. The [same rules in purchasing real estate applied to both Japanese and foreigners](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/japan/buying-property-in-Japan). Unlike other Asian countries, there aren't restrictions, and you can own land on a freehold basis.
 
However, when purchasing Akiya homes, they might have special requirements for interested buyers. For example, they might prefer selling the property to those younger than 40 years old and offer incentives for couples with children.
 
Most often, the pre-requisite to purchasing an abandoned home, especially in rural areas, is that the homeowners will be living in those houses and renovating them. Because of dwindling populations in the provinces, it's not surprising that many provinces have this as a requirement as they want to increase the number of residents and improve their communities.
 
This largely depends if you're purchasing from the property's owner, a real estate agent, a national tax agency, or Akiya bank. Some Akiya is being auctioned online and at the Akiya bank's office or tax collection agency. You will have to outbid other interested buyers, which could increase the cost of your dream house.
 
The national tax collection agency is in possession of abandoned homes due to previous owners not paying real estate property tax. Sometimes, inheritors of the property don't want to pay mortgages or debts linked to the property and so disinherit themselves from it. It is how the property ends up in an Akiya bank or the national tax collection agency.

![japan countryside.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/japan-countryside-Hi_bSzfdGn.webp)
*Rural Japan is bountiful with unique beauty and natural landscapes*

#### Should You Translate Your Documents to Japanese on Your Own?  

Besides being able to understand and speak Japanese, you will also need to have all your documents translated from English to Japanese. But what if you're fluent in the Japanese language? Would it be okay if you were the one to translate the documents?
 
Even if you're proficient in the Japanese language, it's not advisable to translate official documents on your own for various reasons. Translating documents requires the following formats that Japan's public and private institutions would accept.
 
Translating documents requires expertise in understanding the legal and government systems and the cultural nuances of the documents' origin and target country. This is why many agencies and institutions dealing with real estate and legal proceedings require certified translators to translate official documents.
 
With how sensitive and critical official documents dealing with the purchase of real estate properties are, like Akiya, working with professionals in certified Japanese translation services will ensure it makes the process fast and efficient while complying with the Japanese real estate and legal system. Many certified Japanese translators work under strict protocols that guarantee quality and are up to international standards, like the ISO.
 
**List of documents you will have to consider when purchasing an Akiya house:**

- Personal Documents (Passport, Visa, etc.)
- Mortgage document
- Registration certificate
- Tax-related documents
- Stamp Duty
- Financial Documents (Bank statements, Income Reports, etc.)
- Contract
- Documents establishing the property's boundary
- Building or Renovation Permits
 
Some of the documents mentioned above will need to be translated by a certified Japanese translation expert, while others you can file yourself.
 
Suppose you're not proficient with the Japanese language. In that case, it's always good to talk with language experts and get the opinion of a real estate property agent or lawyer to assist with all matters pertaining to your real estate property purchase.
 
#### The Pros and Cons of Purchasing Akiya  

Like with all things when investing, whether it's for real estate properties or stocks, it's best that you weigh the Pros and Cons before purchasing them, which we have listed below.
 
##### The Advantages of Purchasing an Abandoned Home in Japan 

For families wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, owning an Akiya will be perfect for you. It will also allow your family to live on a bigger property wherein you can garden, and your kids can run around, which in big cities it's not possible.
Even if you're an immigrant with a working visa, you can still purchase an Akiya property, especially if you have been living in Japan for several years.

Many of the Akiya homes are traditional Japanese homes. If you're a big fan of traditional Japanese architecture and not so much modern Japanese homes, you might consider purchasing an Akiya.

As previously stated, many rural areas are trying to attract more people to their communities. Because of this, they provide special offers, like subsidies and tax exemptions, when purchasing an Akiya from their district or prefecture. For example, in some provinces, for each child you have, they will provide deductions on your monthly mortgages or provide additional monetary subsidies.

If you're a strong believer in the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child." Purchasing an Akiya will allow your family to be a part of tight-knit communities where you can develop a close relationship with your neighbors.

##### The Disadvantages of Purchasing an Abandoned Home in Japan

Renovation costs can be expensive. For example, the most common problem old abandoned homes face is termites. You will need to hire exterminators and refurbish the wooden parts of the structure.

There might be hidden costs. For example, some Akiya may be free, but when you apply for the registration, you might be shocked to find that before it became an "Akiya," its "fixed asset" was valued at a high price. And so when you register it, you will be taxed for registration, property acquisition, fixed asset, city planning, and stamp duty. All of this could cost you 174,000 JP Yen and above.

Very far from major cities. It's problematic because this means you might have a lot of job opportunities when you move to your new home.

Closed communities. There are drawbacks to having tight-knit communities, such as locals being wary of new occupants. It's best that before you purchase a home, you get to know your future neighbors so that the transition wouldn't be much of a problem.

#### Is Buying an Abandoned Home in Japan right for you?

Finding a place where you can call your home as a foreigner might seem like an unlikely dream, but in Japan, your dream can become a reality. But like all dreams made into reality, you will have to put in the effort to turn an abandoned home into your dream house.
 
Besides overcoming cultural and language barriers by working with professionals in certified Japanese translation, you will also need the help of local government officials and real estate experts in drawing out plans and preparing for your purchase from an Akiya bank.
 

**[Myko Mendoza](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/458) has formerly worked in customs transactions, and maintains an in-depth knowledge of global immigration and business trading. She has written several articles on immigration, language barriers, and tips for living and working abroad.** 

👉 [Contact Myko Today ](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/458) and make your relocation dreams to Japan that much closer to a reality!




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 Can Foreigners Purchase Abandoned Homes ("Akiya") in Japan? 

​​Are you a foreign-national living in multiple countries (👋  Digital Nomads!)? Are you working in multiple countries (👋  Remote Workers)? How about investments in multiple countries?

If you fall into one of the above categories, you may trigger tax obligations in several countries. Navigating international tax systems can be complex, however, as a rule of thumb, where you are liable to pay taxation, will ultimately depend on a variety of factors.

Below I have outlined some of the most important elements to determining your global tax liability:

#### 1. Domestic taxation systems

Globally, there are 4 different types of tax system that a country may use to collect tax, as follows:

- **Zero tax system** - these countries do not levy personal tax on any income or gains, irrespective of your resident status.
- **Territorial tax system** - these countries will only levy tax on local income and local gains derived from its territory, irrespective of your resident status.
- **Residence tax system** - these countries will levy tax on worldwide income and gains if you are tax resident.
- **Citizenship tax system** - these countries will levy tax on worldwide income and gains if you are a citizen of the country, irrespective of where you are living/working in the world.

Each country has a test or tests that will determine whether you are considered a tax resident in the county or not, in a given tax year. This will be the starting point - to assess where you are tax resident (this may be in multiple countries).

Once you have established where you are tax resident, your exposure to taxation in that country, will depend on the type of tax system the country imposes to collect tax.

#### 2. The situs of the income or gain

If the income or gain is derived in a country that you are not tax resident, that country may still wish to tax the income or gain on the basis that it is a local income or local gain.
 
#### 3. Double taxation agreements
 
There are certain situations whereby two tax systems will tax the same income or gain, which creates double taxation.

Countries worldwide have entered into agreements to provide guidance and agree rules that can be relied upon, to mitigate double taxation.
There are typically two outcomes, as follows:
 
- both countries will tax the income at domestic level, but one country will give a credit (deduction) for tax suffered overseas; or
- only one country will tax the income.
 
There may still be reporting obligations, even if the double taxation agreement, dictates that a country can no longer tax an income or gain.
 
Double taxation agreements also provide guidance on the rate of tax that may be applied to incomes or gains and therefore, should always be reviewed irrespective of double taxation or not, to ensure that your tax bill is reduced accordingly.

**[Emma](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/463) is the Founder of Global Tax Consulting, a bespoke tax planning firm designed to assist individuals who are facing cross border tax issues. Emma works with expats, remote-workers and digital nomads with an overall aim  to provide solutions that achieve efficiency and ensure compliance on a global level**

👉 [Schedule a consultation](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/463) with Emma Today!


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Tax Planning for the Global Citizen 

The United States maintains one of the most complex and comprehensive frameworks for immigration. Over the last decade there have only been several attempts to introduce new immigration pathways for foreign nationals, including the [International Entrepreneur Parole](https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/international-entrepreneur-parole) (IEP) and even the [Dream Act](https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/research/dream-act-overview), introduced during the Obama-era. Sure, there have also been some modifications to the existing framework, including increasing the Immigration Investor Program from $500,000 to $900,000 (woo-hoo).

The takeaway.....It's a long road towards a dedicated remote work or digital nomad visa category for the United States. Changes to the U.S. immigration system are pretty much nonexistent or move at glacial speed.

For anyone who has genuine interest in living and working remotely abroad, well, you don’t have to look far to find the headlines: *Digital Nomad Visa. Remote Work Visa. Remote Work is here to stay. 40+ Countries Introduce the Digital Nomad Visa.* And so on. 

So....if there is no formal visa category for this, what about living and working remotely in the United States? Let’s dig a bit deeper into a potential short-term solution:

#### Can I live and work remotely in the United States?

Yes, you can live and work remotely in the [United States](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/usa). In fact, there are many [vacancies for comfortable work from home](https://jooble.org/jobs-work-from-home) opportunities in today's job market. Is there a specific visa category that permits this, not really. Herein lies the ultimate gray zone that many digital nomads or remote workers with hearts set on the United States find themselves. So what is the solution?

#### What is the best visa for digital nomads and remote workers in the United States?

The B-1 visa is the best visa category for remote workers and digital nomads who wish to live and “work” in the United States (emphasis on “work”). And let me preface this by saying, not all immigration lawyers will agree, nor will they feel comfortable giving formal legal advice along these lines. There is a good reason for that, which we can address later.

For now, let me explain why the B-1 Business visa could be a solid (temporary) immigration solution.

#### B-1 Visa for Remote Workers and Digital Nomads?

The B-1 Business Visa is temporary. In fact, the official title is B-1 Temporary Business Visitor – so USCIS makes it pretty clear that there is nothing permanent about this visa category (hence the "temporary" and "visitor").

That said, there are a handful of business activities that you are permitted to carry-out in the United States, and this includes consulting with business associates. Still, let’s make one thing crystal clear: **The B-1 business visa does not grant you the right to work in the United States. You DO NOT get legal work authorization.** 

But do you really need this to work remotely? Again, depends who you ask.

#### What are the eligibility requirements for remote workers and digital nomads in the United States?

If you are interested in using the B-1 visa as a pathway for working remotely in the United States, you must demonstrate the following:

- **Business Purposes.** The purpose of your trip is to enter the United States for business. This can be demonstrated through a variety of supporting documents, including a detailed letter of intent. Most importantly, you should demonstrate how this work is tied to your visit.
- **Temporary Stay.** It is necessary to demonstrate your intent to remain in the United States for a limited period of time. This should  be specific, and  include supporting documents such as round-trip flight tickets.
- **Sufficient Funds.** You will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover the expenses of the business-oriented trip and your stay in the United States. This can include bank statements as supporting documents.
- **Foreign Residence.** Proof that you have a residence outside the United States is necessary to meet these elements of “dual-intent”. In addition, it is also smart to demonstrate that you have other binding ties that will ensure your return abroad at the end of the visit (i.e. gainful employment, family, etc.).

*Please note that this is just a general list for eligibility requirements to obtain a B-1 business visa for the United States and by no means exhaustive.*  

**🛫 Interested in learning more about entering the United States as a digital nomad or remote worker? [Drop me a line and schedule a consultation](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/315)!**

![DSC_1273.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/dsc_-xCROV_7WTy.webp)
*The introduction of a new visa category for digital nomads and remote workers in the United States is….a long road ahead. But don't stop exploring!*

#### Important Considerations and Limitations for the B-1 Visa

Once you have a B-1 visa, it is critical that you understand the limitations. It is also critical that you know how to fully explain your situation, if asked. And let’s imagine a scenario where you ARE ASKED…by an immigration official.

As an immigration lawyer for over a decade, I know that one of the most anxiety-driven moments for any foreign national crossing the border into the United States is, well, crossing the border. You simply never know what a customs official might ask. You have no idea how they woke-up that morning, or if they have been on the night shift. Customs officials, believe it or not, are also people with emotions…or not. 

Anyway, let’s have a quick glance at some of the most frequently asked questions about the B-1 Business Visa, the black-letter law behind it and common language answers.

**Can I work in the United States on a B-1 visa?**

The short answer to this question is, no. However, the official language states that the B-1 visa permits you to participate in business activities of a commercial or professional nature in the United States. Still, as emphasized above, the B-1 visa does not grant you legal work authorization. 

In other words, you cannot tell an immigration officer you are coming into the United States to live and work remotely as a digital nomad. Why? Because “live” implies something more than temporary, and remember, this is a temporary visa. Be nomadic.

**Can I work for a U.S. employer on a B-1 visa?**

Absolutely NO. The B-1 visa does not grant you work authorization, and you cannot obtain a salary from a U.S employer. 

You might, however, be able to perform certain independent work for U.S. employers and businesses as long as this is structured properly. You can also conduct business negotiations, and perform a healthy-range of business activities while in the United States.

**How long can I remain in the U.S. as a digital nomad or remote worker?**

If you have B-1 visa, this question will be answered when you cross the border. In other words, when you pass through customs the officer will likely ask you specific questions about the purpose of your stay and grant you a period of time based on this. 

There are a lot of factors that go into this, but with a B-1 visa you are generally eligible to “request” up to 1-year of a stay. Other durations are typically granted for 3 or 6 months.

**How long is a B-1 visa good for?**

The validity period of the B-1 visa will depend on your nationality. Every single country maintains a [reciprocity schedule](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/Visa-Reciprocity-and-Civil-Documents-by-Country.html) with the United States. This is a formal bilateral arrangement that grants visas for different validity periods based on your nationality.

For example, an Indian national will be eligible to receive a multiple entry B-1 visa for 120 months (10-years) – this is the best case scenario for the B-1. On the other hand, a Nigerian national would be eligible for a 24-month (2-year) validity period. You also should consider the number of entires that you are eligible for.

**Can I open a bank account in the USA as a digital nomad or remote worker?**

Yes. Typically, you will need to be present in the United States in order to open a U.S. bank account – and you will also need certain tax-identification documents, including either an ITIN or EIN for a U.S. entity. 

**Does the B-1 visa give me residency?**

You do not become a temporary or permanent resident in the United States for purposes of immigration. However, if you do remain in the United States for longer than 183 days, you might want to better understand what your tax-liability is for purposes of residency.

**Does the B-1 visa lead to residency?**

No. If you are interested in becoming a resident and obtaining work authorization in the United States, you will need to change or adjust your status and/or apply for a new visa category. Simply maintaining a B-1 visa does not necessarily translate to being beneficial or helpful for obtaining residency. 

**Can I purchase a home or a car in the United States on the B-1 visa?**

Yes. In fact you can make a range of asset and securities-based purchases or investments. Please note that there are other considerations, such as obtaining a mortgage and lines of credit that are financial in nature, and do not extend to the immigration aspects of this. 

**B-1 Visa or the ESTA?**

This will depend on your goals. Neither permit you to live or work remotely in the United States as a resident – in other words, both are temporary. However, the B-1 visa does have certain advantages if you are looking to remain in the United States for a longer period of time. Simply put, the ESTA is a visa-waiver that is super easy to apply for, however, you can only remain in the United States for 90-days (3 months) within a 180-day period. 

By comparison, the B-1 visa will permit you to remain in the United States for the duration granted by the immigration officers (i.e. 6 months or 1-year, etc.) without any restrictions other than the total validity period of the visa and number of entries (i.e. single v. multiple). 

⚠️ *DISCLAIMER: This article is not meant to be “legal advice”. While there is no formal digital nomad visa category for the United States, this article is meant to illustrate that living and working in the United States as a digital nomad or remote worker is still feasible. You will not obtain work authorization or residency through the B-1 business visa category, however, there is still a significant range of authorized activity that you can enjoy as a digital nomad and remote worker in the United States. It all depends on your circumstances.*

**[David](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/315) is an immigration attorney and regularly advises clients on global mobility issues. He is also the Founder of Relocate.world, an independent marketplace for global migration.**

👉 [Schedule a consultation](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/315) with David today!

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Digital Nomad and Remote Work Visa for the United States?

The surge of interest in remote work is only going to continue, and if companies want to hire and retain employees, they’re going to have to listen to what people want! 
 
In response to our recent newsletter, one remote rebel responded: “Most people don’t honestly want to return to the office. I’d rather be unemployed indefinitely.” We couldn’t agree more fellow Rebel! 
 
It sounds like he’s not alone- [Semrush](https://www.linkedin.com/company/semrush/) recently conducted a study that showed  interest (and possible demand) for remote work continues to surge.
 
What do the most popular remote work search terms look like? Just to give you an idea, here are a few of the statistics from this research 🔎:
 
-  Remote work search queries jumped 300% from July 2021 to July 2022.
- The popularity of searches for "remote jobs near me," "part-time remote jobs," and "entry-level remote jobs" has almost quadrupled.
- "Remote jobs" are the most searched query related to remote work.
- "Remote jobs near me"  received 260k monthly searches and 234% YoY growth.
- "Part-time remote jobs" received 28.3k searches and 308% YoY growth.
 

#### Remote Work is not only here to stay....it is on the RISE

As someone intimately involved with remote work as a mentor and coach, I’m definitely not surprised! 
 
Remote jobs advertised on LinkedIn receive over 200 applications, compared to on-site jobs receiving around 20 applicants.
 
Companies such as [Deel](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/439) and [WorkMotion](https://hubs.la/Q015Xn1M0) make it easy for employers to hire and pay anyone, anywhere. So for companies citing ‘tax and legal reasons’ as an excuse not to hire people from anywhere- that simply doesn't ‘fly’!
 
If you’re tired of being made to feel like you’re being too picky looking for a fully remote- you are definitely NOT!
Stand up for what you want and join the Remote Rebellion.

**With over 8 years of recruitment experience, [Michelle](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/424) can help you navigate remote-work opportunities. Learn more about finding fully remote jobs and how to position yourself so that you land the right role for you!**

Would you like to learn more about how to land a remote job successfully? 👉 [Contact Michelle Today](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/424)


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Remote work rises by 300%! 📈

🏄 If you have ever visited or seen photographs of Costa Rica, you already know that this Central American country boasts lush rainforests, towering mountain ranges, active volcanoes and 780 miles of coastline. Add in the country’s temperate year-round climate, and it is no wonder that many (especially North Americans) consider Costa Rica an ideal place to relocate.

Interested in moving to Costa Rica? Learn more about your immigration options through our featured Relocate Ambassador, Daniela Diaz.

## Relocate to Costa Rica

People from around the world move to [Costa Rica](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/costarica) their home for a variety of reasons: to retire, to remote work, to travel through as a backpacker or digital nomad, and to learn Spanish or simply to experience another vibrant and diverse culture. While there are many reasons people make the move to an overseas location, Costa Rica is the choice of people attracted to:

- Costa Rica’s culture of “pura vida”
- A lower cost of living
- High-quality, affordable health care

In addition, Costa Rica is a great choice for remote workers and digital nomads seeking:

- Safety and political stability
- Good internet and cellphone connectivity
- Geographical diversity and climate

### Meet Daniela 

[Daniela Diaz Polo](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/87), is an english-qualified solicitor with more than 10 years of experience advising clients in corporate and immigration law. Daniela works at [ERP Lawyers](https://erplawyers.com/), a leading Costa Rican immigration law firm with extensive experience representing foreign nationals.

[![Screenshot 2022-12-22 at 11,14,36.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-5ZhsTDIYAK.webp)](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/87)


### Practicing Immigration Law in Costa Rica

**Relocate**: What kind of services do you provide as a Costa Rican Immigration lawyer?

**Daniela**: For more than ten years we have been providing a wide range of immigration Services to our clients. During that time we have even seen many of them turning into citizens, which really make us proud, because we did not only assist them achieving their residency but we also helped them becoming established in a place they fell in love so much that they even took the opportunity to apply for citizenship! 

**Relocate**: Where do you provide these services and who are your typical clients?

**Daniela**:  Our law firm, ERP provides a wide-range of Legal Services throughout Costa Rica with a specific focus on Immigration Law and Relocation matters. We work with individuals and their families as well as with corporations that relocate employees to Costa Rica. 


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*Costa Rica is rapidly emerging as the top-destination to live and work remotely in Central America.*

**Relocate**: What is one of the most important visa categories for living and working in Costa Rica?

**Daniela**: The Digital Nomad Visa for Costa Rica.

**Relocate**: Is the Costa Rican digital nomad visa the same as the Rentista visa?

**Daniela**: No they are different. The Digital Nomads Visa has very straight forward requirements and the decision is ready in less than 1 month, contrary to other residency categories (Investor, Rentist, Pension, etc.) which has much more formal requirements and take longer to be studied and resolved.

**Relocate**: Who is eligible for the digital nomad visa?

**Daniela**: Right now anyone that has made a minimum monthly average of US $3,000.00 or $4,000.00 when traveling with the family, for the last 12 months is eligible. Everything is filed online and normally none of the requirements will need to be apostilled.

**Relocate**: What are your top-three reasons to relocate to Costa Rica?

**Daniela**: (1) Your income will not be taxed in Costa Rica during all your stay as a Digital Nomad; (2) For US and Canadian citizens time zone will not be a great issue, as the difference is minimum depending on the time of the year; and (3) Great weather all year long and excellent infrastructure to carry out your tasks from here without technical issues.

**Relocate**: What inspires you about practicing immigration law?

**Daniela**: Giving our clients the opportunity to live in a place that I love and respect, and that I know they will be actively caring for it as well during their time in Costa Rica.

#### Get Support Relocating to Costa Rica

Overall, navigating through the Costa Rican immigration system requires considerable planning and guidance. As a non-native speaker, you might navigating the Costa Rica regulatory environment complex and overwhelming. Yet, don't let this discourage you! Costa Rica, like many of its neighboring Central American countries, provide a warm welcoming for those courageous enough to make the move and have a great deal of respect for foreigners.

Find support in your journey through Relocate. Dig-deeper into important topics for immigrating to Costa Rica, and connect with qualified Advisors who can confidently address your immigration needs. Connecting with a bi-lingual and qualified lawyer is generally a good idea to ease the transition into this emerging destination in Central America.

Get started with a full consultation for your relocation options to Costa Rica 👉 [Meet with Daniela](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/87) 

#### Who are Relocate Ambassadors?

Relocate Ambassadors are highly-qualified migration professionals and practitioners. On Relocate, you can find a diverse range of global mobility experts, including: immigration lawyers, remote work consultants, international tax advisors, cross-border corporate lawyers, and other niche professionals in the global migration space.

Relocate Ambassador ✈ Daniela Diaz 

Congrats, you’ve obtained the job of your dreams abroad! Whether it is your first mobility or you are a regular, an expatriation is always a moment of great solicitation since many aspects must be anticipated and managed: immigration, taxation, social security, moving, finding housing and / or school for children, not to mention the professional and personal questions that it implies.

And with all that, what about Oscar the cat, Pitbull the chihuaha or Peanut the ferret? In this article, Oui Immigration gives you some important tips to deal with global mobility for pets!

#### 1. Plan Ahead if you are relocating with pets.
 
As usual with any topic related to global mobility, anticipation is key, even for your pets!

Some formal documents will have to be obtained in advance via your vet, others will have to be translated/legalized and some vaccines or treatments, including rabies or deworming, must be carried out within a specific time before the departure date.

Anticipate these steps at least 2 months before your arrival in the country!

#### 2. Check the legislation of the host country for updated information on moving with pets.

Domestic animals are generally considered dogs, cats, ferrets, domestic rodents and rabbits, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish. Specific rules for certain birds and category 1 or 2 dogs apply.

Each country has a specific jurisdiction regarding the transport of pets depending on the species, breed and age of your companion.

Generally, the minimum requirements are as follows:

- Identification by electronic chip (the tattoo remains allowed if it was made before 03/07/2021 and is legible)
- Possession of the identification passport issued by a veterinarian
- Vaccination against rabies (this is possible when the animal is more than 3 months old, and only takes effect 3 weeks later) & up-to-date reminders from an EU-validated laboratory
- An international health/health certificate issued by a veterinarian
- You can obtain country-specific information from the Consulate of the country concerned, or from the customs website of that country.

If you are moving to France with your pet, here are a few useful sites:

[Voyager avec un animal de l’étranger (non UE) vers la France – Mes Démarches](https://www.mesdemarches.agriculture.gouv.fr/demarches/particulier/vivre-avec-un-animal-de-compagnie/article/voyager-avec-un-animal-de-l) 

[Animaux de compagnie | Portail de la Direction Générale des Douanes et Droits Indirects](https://www.douane.gouv.fr/particuliers/vous-voyagez/animaux-de-compagnie)

[Coming to France with your pet | Portail de la Direction Générale des Douanes et Droits Indirects](https://www.douane.gouv.fr/fiche/travel-coming-france-your-pet)

##### Relocate to Europe, Switzerland, UK or Norway with your Pet!

For EU countries’ specific information and regulations you can visit the following website: europa.eu

#### 3. Private & Public Transport Restrictions and Regulations for Traveling and Moving with Pets

It is also important that you check the airline’s or railway’s specific conditions. Not all airlines accept pets on board or as cargo, and conditions vary from one company to another: documents, travel conditions, transport box, etc. Companies manage the transport of pets according to specific IATA standards that must be respected, at the risk of not being able to board your pet.

It is recommended to validate 72 hours before your trip that the transport of your companion has been taken into account by the airline.

#### 4. Quarantine regulations for pets.
 
Quarantine is the act of placing the animal in isolation to verify that it does not have a contagious disease. The majority of countries no longer impose quarantines on animals. Nevertheless, this varies greatly depending on the destination and the country of departure. Some stricter countries when it comes to quarantine are Australia, New Zealand, Singapore or New Caledonia.

The quarantine is usually about ten days, and requires providing specific documents that need to be translated/legalized – this can take some time.

#### 5. Notify your immigration/relocation expert.

Customs procedures must be carried out so that your pet follows you on your journey. If you use a relocation agency, they must be notified that an animal is accompanying you – the same goes for your immigration specialist, since it is likely that your work/residence permit is required to clear your pet through customs in certain countries.

Note that there are companies specializing in the international mobility of your animals: they will be of great help to you.

**For everything related to the translation/legalization of documents for the trip of your furry, feathery or tortoiseshell friend, get in touch 👉 [Contact Virginia Le Baler](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/413), a global mobility expert based in France offering U.S. immigration services.**

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Relocating with Pets

🇯🇵 Visiting Japan for a few months but do not know where to live? Tokyo is a bustling metropolis, but the city can be daunting and confusing to navigate. This is especially true when it comes to finding accommodation in Tokyo. There are so many different service providers, hostels, share houses, and apartments that it is difficult to choose the best option. This is why we have written this guide to help you find the perfect Tokyo accommodation option for you.

#### What are the different types of Tokyo accommodation for a longer-term stay?

Tokyo, Japan is the most populous city in all of [Japan](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/japan), with over 13 million people living in the city. The city is a perfect place to explore and has a lot to offer. Tokyo is a major business and transportation hub, so it is important to choose a Tokyo accommodation that is located in a central location. Tokyo is also a very expensive city, so you want to find the best Tokyo accommodation that fits your budget. 

Tokyo is a very diverse city, so you should choose an accommodation that matches your interests and lifestyle. There are many different Tokyo accommodation types, including hotels, apartments, share houses, and homestays. There are also many different Tokyo accommodation types that have specific purposes.

#### Apartment

Renting an apartment in Japan can be an interesting experience. It is not just about finding the right place to live. It is also about finding a place that you can afford, because apartment is the most expensive one among all the options. There are not only basic fees such as the deposit, the real estate agency commission fee, plus the first months rent, as well as other fees for property insurance, maintenance fee and a key exchange fee, but also the fees for purchasing all the furnitures you need. Because most of the cases, it’s very difficult to find an apartment that includes all the furnitures and appliances.

The best way to find an apartment in Tokyo is to go with a local agent. They can help you find the right place that matches your needs and budget. Most agents will have a list of apartments they are able to rent out and they will take care of all the arrangements. If you want to find your own place, it's important to have a clear idea of what you're looking for. 

![japan shared home.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/japan-shared-home-aVtpWT5SxD.webp)
*In recent years, the culture of living in a shared house in Japan has witnessed a boost.*

#### Shared House 

It has been observed that the ex-pats and students who come to Japan for the very first time for reasons like for searching job opportunities, for completion of their studies, for taking a detailed tour of the nation, prefer renting a share house. 

This especially rings true for people who are visiting Japan for a brief period, they show more interest in settling in a share house for their stay over booking a hotel or renting a whole flat in the new place. There are some of the important reasons that share house has become the [most popular accommodation among young Japanese and international people](https://www.borderless-house.com/jp/), such as lower renting costs when compared to the cost of renting a hotel or flat; easy process of locating and renting a share house; the increased sense of security offered to the residents by share houses as they shelter many people under the same roof, and the fact that living in a share house allows you to reside with other ex-pats and prevents you from feeling alienated and alone in an alien space. For these reasons, newcomers in Japan feel enticed to rent a share house.
Hostels

Hostels is one of the economical accommodation options. There are also different types of hostels, such as western-style or Japanese-style hostel. Typically, a hostel features a large room with separate beds, a shared bathroom, and a communal kitchen. Tenants pay for a bed and a shared space, making it a more affordable room than a hotel room. It’s popular among international travelers, you could meet new people from all over the world through community for a nice social experience.

However, as people come an go, it may not be an ideal place if you want to stay for more than a month, because you will need to constantly adjust your living routine and habits with your new roommates. So, if you like to socialize and interact with people, and want to have a more stable living environment, share house is a better option, since the minimum stay for a share house is usually at least one month. 

#### Homestay

In Japan, it is not uncommon to stay with a family during your travels. In fact, this is the norm. Most Japanese people live in a house with their parents, grandparents, and other relatives. For example, you can stay with a local family and experience their daily life for the duration of your stay. You will have an opportunity to learn about Japanese culture and customs from a local perspective and get a glimpse of what it would be like if you were Japanese. 

Make sure you have a plan of what you need and what kind of space you are willing to live in. There are many different types of housing in Japan, so it's important to do some research before deciding where you want to live!

##### Interested in moving to Japan? Connect with leading global migration professionals and get started today!

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Where to Stay in Japan - Finding the Perfect Tokyo Accommodation

Every occupation has its specific vocabulary, and practicing immigration is no exception to the rule – especially since, from one country to another, the same word will not mean the same thing! 

In this article, Immigration Practitioner, [Virginie Lebaler](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/413) at Oui Immigration, offers  a summary of the most common terms:

#### What is a Visa?

It is a document that allows its holder to enter the territory of a given country, for a specific activity and duration: tourism, business, work, family reunion.

One often hears that “a visa is needed” to work in a particular country (this is usually where the immigration specialist’s face changes). In reality, for a long-term professional mobility, it is a work authorization that will be required, which will be converted into a visa, which will be converted into a work permit or even a residence permit.  The visa is only one step in a procedure that can take several months!

#### What is a Visa Waiver?

One benefits from a visa waiver when one is a citizen of a country that has signed a bilateral agreement with another country, on the non-need for their citizens to obtain a visa before arriving in the said countries.

Clearly: there is a visa waiver agreement between France and Brazil => a French person can travel to Brazil and a Brazilian citizen can come to France without doing anything else than showing his valid passport upon arrival in the country: no visa application will have to be filed with the Consulate before the flight.

On the other hand, a German citizen wishing to travel to China will need to obtain a visa from the Chinese Consulate before departure: there is no visa waiver agreement between Germany and China.

#### What is Work Authorization?

It is an authorization issued by the government of a country after analyzing a file containing various documents, usually attesting to the skills of the person, the need to hire this talent and the legality of the sponsoring company. This work authorization usually precedes the issuance of the visa.

#### What is a Work Permit?

A work permit is a document authorizing its holder to work for a specific company, position and duration. Depending on the country, it also serves as a residence permit. It is generally renewable through local authorities.

#### What is a Residence Permit?

It is a document authorizing its holder to reside in a country for a specific period of time and reason. Be careful, it does not systematically authorize to work!

Some countries issue documents that serve as work authorization/work visas/work permits all in one, others add other steps…. In addition, the term “work permit” in Australia can sometimes be understood as “work authorization” in England, or as “Employment Visa” in India.

##### Have we lost you here? Normal! Feel free to reach out, schedule a consultation or ask us any immigration related questions you might have 👉 [Contact Virginie Today](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/413)

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The Language of Immigration 

One of the paradoxes in the French immigration system is for spouses of EU nationals moving to France. Ostensibly, it should be free and easy, receiving a 5-year card with full work authorization. 

The reality is often otherwise. The reason is because it’s the one category filed directly at the prefecture instead of at the French consulate abroad. There are 99 different prefectures in France, and each prefecture processes this category differently, and this will continue until they put this application on the national French immigrant website [ANEF](https://administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr/particuliers/#/).

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*Carte de sejour / French Residence Permit*

#### How Difficult is Obtaining the Spouse of EU National Residency Permit in France?

Here’s the top 9 problems the French authorities can give an applicant of this category: 

**1.	Timing–** one client, the spouse of an EU national filing at the local prefecture in the Département de la Loire (42) waited for 8 months before the prefecture finally summoned them for the initial filing.

**2.	Prefecture variation–** some require an online submission, some mailing in, some booking an appointment online (with none available online), and not every prefecture lists instructions for filing on the website. 

**3.	Recognition of the existence of this category–** one client in Aix en Provence went and filed in person, only to be rebuffed by a prefecture agent that this category doesn’t exist. I then went in person with them, and we refiled (with the exact same agent!) with no problem. 

**4.	Getting approval–** one client filed in Nice, and received the temporary residency permit (called a récépissé). The prefecture then decided, after they already approved it, to cancel the application, and they refused the applicant without informing them. I then went (last week) and refiled with them with a stronger proof of housing (which was the problem), and the prefecture accepted the application.  

**5.	Impossibility of filing –** the Paris prefecture uses an online website, Démarches Simplifiées, to process the filings. Up until Nov. 2022, it had been the best prefecture for EU spouses. But in December, they closed the Démarches Simplifiées website, redirecting all applicants to the ANEF website (which as I stated earlier, doesn’t process spouse of EU nationals yet). So currently, the Paris prefecture website doesn't indicate where one can submit the application. 

**6.	Required proof of financial stability –** the EU spouse is the “host spouse” and must prove, to their satisfaction, that they have enough financial resources. The best way to prove that is when they have a French job – and this is often not the case. 

**7.	Ambiguity regarding PACS (civil union) versus marriage –** it’s easy to prove a marriage certificate, but the agents aren’t always aware if PACSed partners qualify for this category (they do). 

**8.	Requiring proof of living together –** one agent, reviewing documents of proof of housing of a PACSed couple, said she wanted to see 12 months of communal living (this is the rule for a different immigration category, for PACSed partners of French nationals). I pointed out this rule doesn’t apply to EU spouses, and the agent relented. 

**9.	Cost -** the head of the office at the Nice prefecture charged a 50€ fee to “regularize” one applicant’s immigration status. I contested, there is no “regularization” fee, because my client is not “irregular”. The agent said the applicant should have gotten a “EU spouse visa” first, and I told the agent this simply doesn’t exist for countries that don’t require Schengen visas to enter. “Paris prefecture doesn’t require this,” I told the agent – “this isn’t Paris, this is Nice,” the head of service replied. 

In the end, this category is one of the most favorable immigration statuses in France, and is worthwhile to have for those moving to France long-term. 

##### Born and raised in San Diego, California, Daniel is a dual-qualified French-US attorney, and practices exclusively French in-bound immigration, with a focus on private clients.

Interested in moving to France as the spouse of an EU national 👉 [reach out to Daniel](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/68) to schedule a consultation to discuss further!

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Obtaining the "Spouse of EU national" Residency Permit in France

As of today, the Ukrainian passport is ranked 32nd among global passports despite the ongoing Russian war against Ukraine. As a [law firm with a solid visa and immigration practice ](https://www.legal-ideas.com/)we are observing a surprising statistic – the number of requests we receive for legal help in obtaining Ukrainian citizenship has increased more than twice since March 2022. 

#### Interest in Immigration and Citizenship for Ukraine Remains Strong

We believe there are several compelling reasons for this continued interest in immigration and Citizenship for Ukraine. In this article we would like to further outline when a foreigner can obtain a Ukrainian passport and what is needed for this. So, let’s go!

#### How to obtain Ukrainian Citizenship?

Unlike other countries, Ukraine does not grant its citizenship to anyone who can pay for it, or who has lived in the country a certain number of years. In other words, there is not Citizenship by Investment program for Ukraine. 

As described below, there are only 10 situations when a person can become a Ukrainian citizen. These cases are clearly numbered in Article 6 of the Law of Ukraine On Ukrainian Citizenship. 

#### 10 Ways to become a Ukrainian Citizen

A person can obtain Ukrainian citizenship when he/she:

1.	Was born in Ukraine;
2.	Has Ukrainian ancestor or parent;
3.	Restored their Ukrainian citizenship previously renounced;
4.	Was accepted to Ukrainian citizenship.

We do know how to count, so you're probably asking: “Why are there only 4 grounds for citizenship while we said there are 10 ways to obtain citizenship?” 

The above groups together various grounds for Ukrainian Citizenship in broad categories. Simply put, it is easier to comprehend and the differences between those legal grounds is merely in legal terminology and slight legal nuances. There is also one ground that we are not going to review in this article due to its exceptional nature – when citizenship is granted in accordance with international treaties of Ukraine.

#### The Process to Obtain Ukrainian Citizenship 

The first 3 grounds from our list are very straightforward and self-explanatory. We assume it is pretty easy to guess whether your case falls under them or not. Hence, let us look deeper into the last legal ground – "when a foreigner can be accepted to Ukrainian citizenship."

There are some preconditions for being accepted to Ukrainian citizenship:

-	Absence of another citizenship or undertaking to renounced (Ukraine doesn’t allow dual citizenship);
-	Permanent living in Ukraine for a certain period of time;
-	Comprehension of the Ukrainian language;
-	Legitimate financial resources;
-	Valid an immigration permit.

You may find these preconditions rather vague. That’s because we are referencing to them here to provide a general understanding. In fact, each of them has several possible options and exemptions. Thus, for your particular case they can vary and some of those may not be applicable at all.

#### Immigration to Ukraine as a Precondition for Citizenship

The most important precondition from the above list is the immigration permit. All the rest are doable, but an immigration permit is granted only in some particular cases and if none of them applies to you then nothing can be done.

There are a few exceptions from this rule as well. For example, an immigration permit is not required for refugees, asylum seekers, foreigners who served in the Ukrainian army for over 3 years, and some groups of citizens from Vietnam, Abkhazia, and orphans. 

**Do I qualify for an Immigration Permit in Ukraine?**

In general, if you cannot match yourself with the below list, then this likely means that you can’t get an immigration permit and as a result – you can’t get Ukrainian citizenship.

So, do a self-check to decide in you can become a Ukrainian citizen:

1) I’m a scientist or artist and my immigration is in Ukraine’s interest.
2) I’m a highly skilled specialist or worker who are in high shortage in Ukraine.
3) I invested in Ukraine not less than USD 100 000.
4) I’m a sibling, grandchild or grandparent to a Ukrainian citizen.
5) I was a Ukrainian citizen previously.
6) I’m a parent, spouse or a minor child of a Ukrainian immigrant.
7) I obtained the status of a human trafficking victim and have been living continuously in Ukraine for over 3 years since then.
8) I’ve served in the Ukrainian army for over 3 years.
9) I’ve been married to a Ukrainian citizen for over 2 years.
10) I’m a child or parent of a Ukrainian citizen.
11) I’m a foster parent of a Ukrainian citizen.
12) I’m adopted by a Ukrainian citizen.
13) I have a right to become a Ukrainian citizen by the territorial origin.
14) My immigration is in the national interest of Ukraine.
15) I’m a foreign (aka overseas) Ukrainian or his/her spouse or child.

#### How long does it take to obtain Ukrainian Citizenship? 

The final decision to grand citizenship is taken by President of Ukraine. Merely this fact implies that the whole journey towards citizenship is not a sprint. In general, it takes around a year but it can also take longer.

At the end let us emphasize that this article provides a general overview of possible options for obtaining Ukrainian citizenship. As you can see now, there are many exceptions and peculiarities so each case should be considered separately.

It is also very important to clearly understand what rights and obligations citizenship bestows. Maybe citizenship is not the thing you should pursue and a better option for you is permanent or temporary residence in Ukraine.

**[Serhii Aleksandrov](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/130) is Ukrainian legal practitioner since 2006. He has worked at 4-top Ukrainian law firms and is the Founder of Legal Ideas law firm, with a prime focus on immigration services. Traveler. Business expat. Vision: Immigration must be safe, fast and reasonably priced.**

Interested in Ukrainian Immigration & Citizenship Pathways 👉 [Contact Serhii Today](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/130)

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Ukrainian Immigration Remains Strong 

The global immigration framework is going through an unprecedented transformation. A remote work revolution and appetite for post-pandemic travel created the perfect elixir. And it’s not going to stop anytime soon. Below, I explore some of my recent findings at the intersection of immigration law and the processing of digital nomad and remote work visas. 

#### Digital Nomad and Remote Work Visas

Depending on who you ask, there are nearly 50 countries providing remote workers and digital nomads with tailored immigration and residency options. This explosive growth started with Estonia back in 2019, and has since sparked a competitive global arena to attract this demographic.

#### Top-3 Advantages of the Digital Nomad and Remote Work Visa

**1. Minimal Requirements.** Compared to traditional immigration pathways, there are significantly less core-requirements to obtain the digital nomad and remote work visa. In fact, there are really three elemental requirements that apply across the global digital nomad and remote work framework: (a) Proof of meeting the minimum income requirements; (b) Demonstrating the ability to work remotely; and (c) access to sufficient healthcare.

**2. Ability to Work.** While you cannot work for an employer within the destination country, nor conduct your business activities or render services for local businesses, you can work remotely. Unlike traditional tourist visas that do not permit you to legally work while in a country, the remote work visa gives you this right. And unlike traditional “work or employment” visas you are not bound to a specific sponsoring company in that country. 

NOTE: This does not mean you will obtain formal work authorization – it simply means you have the privilege to work using telecommunications technology (as governments like to say).

**3. Mobility & Taxes.** Call a spade a spade. Digital nomads and remote workers crave freedom of movement. Many also seek the holy-grail of reducing tax-liability on income to 0%. The digital nomad and remote work visa category caters towards these objectives. Regarding taxation, countries realize that having this desirable demographic of income-earners resident will result in local economic spending – and there is no shortage of tax-incentives being presented along with the visa. Typically granted for a minimum of 12-months, successful applicants will also find doors open for mobility. This is particularly true for Schengen region destinations, such as Portugal, Greece, Malta and Spain. And this is especially true for applicants with less favorable passports in terms of global mobility – Chinese, Nigerian, Iranian, South African, Pakistani and Indian – to name a few. 

There is a laundry-list of other advantages to the remote work and digital nomad visa category, such as: Flexibility for long-term immigration planning, ease of extensions and renewals, as well as lower application costs and affordability. 

But the top-3 reasons outlined above are enough to be game-changers and shake up the global migration framework.

 #### Top-3 Misconceptions of the Digital Nomad and Remote Work Visa

As I like to say, it is still very much the wild, wild west when it comes to remote work and digital nomad visa applications. That is, when you get down into the nitty gritty details of actually filing an application, more often than not, surprises emerge. 

This is no surprise, either. Governments are literally attempting to plug remote work and digital nomad visas into their traditional migration framework for processing them. Couple this lack of operational guidance with the omnipresent global demand to get these visas and well, it's a nice recipe for (as they say in the legal immigration industry) “backlogs.” In other words, it can be a hot mess.

Therefore, let’s get real and set some expectations from the start:

**1. It’s Easy to Process a Digital Nomad and Remote Work Visa.** This depends on a variety of factors. Specifically (a) Your destination; (b) Nationality; and (c) Where you process the visa.

While the requirements for obtaining a digital nomad and remote work visa might be somewhat uniform, the processing of digital nomad and remote work visa applications is extremely nuanced. Traditional methods of applying for this visa are still ubiquitous for most of the top-destination nations – i.e. you still need to go through Consular Processing routes. This means being forced to use monopolizing frameworks like VFS to schedule appointments, and being at the whim of other national systems still stuck in a DOS era with no English language translations. This is unfortunate, but not surprising, given that countries are just figuring out how to implement these visa categories. 

Notably, however, some countries have built a model processing framework around this visa category, seemingly setting the gold-standard – this includes destinations like Belize, Malta, Malaysia, and Costa Rica – to name a few. 

**2. Obtaining Work Authorization.** As mentioned above, remote work and digital nomad visa applications do not provide work authorization. It does not give you the right to work for an employer in that destination country. It does not give a visa holder the right to render services to an entity established in this destination country. The purpose of this visa category is to enable you to live and work remotely – using telecommunications technology (as governments like to label it) to perform this work. The moment you tell an immigration official you are working in the traditional sense of the word you will encounter issues and no doubt receive a rejection on your application. 

**3. Automatic Residency and more Permanent Immigration Options.** Immigration generally involves two distinct and oftentimes overlapping processes: (a) Obtaining a visa; and (b) Establishing residency. Each country has its own requirements for this process and sometimes they are mutually exclusive. And oftentimes there are additional requirements after receiving the remote work visa approval. This includes, but is not limited to furnishing further proof of a local address that will serve as your residence for the duration of your visa and performing biometrics upon arrival in your destination country. In other words, even after an initial approval of your visa you may have additional steps on the ground in your destination country to fulfill with local authorities.

Furthermore, it is safe to say that digital nomad and remote work visas are typically granted for an average duration of 12-months. There are definitely avenues to extend and renew this visa, but it is not automatic, nor does it guarantee any path to permanent residency. Still, it is safe to say that this visa category does open doors for those who ultimately want to find a more permanent solution – and at least gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the country before making this decision. And please don’t even mention Citizenship, yet. That’s a long road to travel for nomads, unless of course you meet someone along the way.

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*David has been working remotely as an immigration lawyer since 2012*

#### The Digital Nomad Lawyer

I’m hoping that this article provides some unique insights for remote workers and digital nomads who are going through (or considering) this visa as a viable immigration pathway. 

On a personal and professional level, I also believe it to be an apt title:

**Digital:** Still figuring this existential one out, as I’m a horse-and-carriage romantic with two young daughters. I still enjoy readings books - real ones with paper. I guess being at the ground-level of some [amazing tech-companies](https://citizenremote.com/) is probably enough to qualify me for this one, right? Still, probably more lawyer than digital, though. 

**Nomad:** For those that know me, they know about my shoe-string wanderings and encounters with nomadic life. They likely know about my nomadic heart and stories from Patagonia to Autonomous Tibetan regions. 

**Lawyer:** For those that know me professionally, they know I am a passionate advocate for the freedom of movement as a legal practitioner. Still, definitely less lawyer than nomad though.

##### David is a global immigration lawyer and Founder of Relocate. He currently resides in Italy with his spouse and two young daughters.


🏄 Need help with a Remote Work or Digital Nomad Visa Application?  

Be sure to check-out what our partners are doing at [Citizen Remote](https://citizenremote.com/visa-help/) in this emerging space and join a global community of remote workers and digital nomads.

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The Digital Nomad Lawyer

Argentina has the ability to offer something for everyone. From crypto-market hustlers to retirees. That said, there are some very important considerations to understand if Argentina is the right place for retirement for you.

### Is Argentina a good place to retire?

Argentina can be a good option for retirement for some people, depending on their preferences and individual circumstances. Here are some factors to consider:

**Cost of living:** Argentina has a lower cost of living compared to many other developed countries, which can make it an attractive option for retirees looking to stretch their retirement budget.

**Climate and lifestyle:** Argentina has a diverse climate and culture, with many retirees drawn to its vibrant cities, beautiful landscapes, and relaxed lifestyle.

**Healthcare:** Argentina has a well-established public healthcare system, which provides universal coverage for all citizens and residents. There are also private healthcare options available, although they can be more expensive.

**Political and economic stability:** Argentina has had a history of political and economic instability, including high inflation rates and currency fluctuations. This can make it a risky option for retirees who depend on a fixed income, as their purchasing power could be affected by economic events.

**Language and cultural barriers: **Argentina is a Spanish-speaking country, and retirees who do not speak the language may face challenges with daily communication and integration into local communities.

Overall, Argentina can be a good option for retirement for those who are comfortable with the language, cultural differences, and potential economic risks

#### Top-5 Places to Retire in Argentina

Argentina is a large country with diverse regions, and the best places to live can vary depending on an individual's preferences and needs. Here are some popular options:

**Buenos Aires:** Argentina's capital and largest city is a vibrant and cosmopolitan metropolis with a rich cultural scene, world-renowned cuisine, and a bustling nightlife. Buenos Aires is also a great option for retirees who enjoy city living and want easy access to cultural and entertainment activities.

**Mendoza**: Located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, Mendoza is known for its world-class wineries, stunning landscapes, and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. Mendoza has a relatively mild climate, with hot summers and cool winters, making it an attractive option for retirees who enjoy the outdoors.

**Cordoba:** The second-largest city in Argentina, Cordoba is located in the heart of the country and is known for its historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and excellent universities. Cordoba has a mild climate with four distinct seasons and a lower cost of living compared to Buenos Aires.

**Bariloche:** Located in the Andes Mountains in the Patagonia region, Bariloche is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The town offers excellent opportunities for skiing, hiking, and fishing, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

**Rosario:** The third-largest city in Argentina, Rosario is located in the Pampas region and is known for its historic architecture, lively arts scene, and lively nightlife. Rosario is also an important transportation hub, with easy access to other parts of the country.

These are just a few of the many great places to live in Argentina, and retirees should consider their individual preferences and needs when choosing a location to retire. It's also a good idea to visit potential locations to get a sense of the local culture and lifestyle before making a final decision.

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*Tango is just one cultural exercise in Argentina that will keep you going!*

#### Paying Taxes in Argentina - For Retirees.

Retirees living in Argentina may be required to pay taxes on their income, depending on their individual circumstances. Here are some important things to know:

**Tax residency:** Retirees who spend more than 183 days per year in Argentina are considered tax residents and are subject to income tax on their worldwide income.

**Pension income:** Retirement income received from sources outside of Argentina may be subject to income tax in Argentina, although there may be tax treaties in place that reduce the tax burden.

**Social security benefits:** Social security benefits received from the United States and other countries are generally not taxable in Argentina, although there are some exceptions.

**Property taxes:** Retirees who own property in Argentina may be subject to property taxes, which are calculated based on the value of the property.

**Inheritance and gift taxes: **Argentina has inheritance and gift taxes, which can be significant. It's important to consult with a local tax professional to understand how these taxes may apply to your individual situation.

Overall, the tax situation for retirees in Argentina will depend on their individual circumstances. It's important to consult with a tax professional and do thorough research to understand the tax obligations and opportunities in Argentina.

#### Retirement Visa for Argentina - What is the best visa option for retirees in Argentina?

Argentina offers a retirement visa program for foreign retirees, which is called the "rentista" visa. This visa is designed for people who are able to prove that they have a reliable source of income, such as a pension or investment income, and who want to live in Argentina for an extended period of time.

To be eligible for the rentista visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

- Have a minimum monthly income of at least 4 times the minimum wage in Argentina, which is currently around 29,160 Argentine pesos (as of February 2023).
- Prove that the income comes from a stable source, such as a pension or investment income.
- Obtain a medical certificate showing that the applicant is in good health.
- Provide a police clearance certificate from the applicant's home country.
- Have a valid passport and other necessary travel documents.
- Once the visa is granted, the retiree can live in Argentina for up to one year, with the option to renew the visa for an additional year. After two years, the retiree can apply for permanent residency in Argentina.

It's important to note that the visa process can be complex, and it's recommended to work with a reputable immigration lawyer or visa service provider to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

Interested in speaking with a qualified immigration lawyer in Argentina? [Get started](https://relocateportal.com/get-started.html) today!


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Retire in Argentina

Are you thinking about that next move? Given the range of immigration and fiscal incentives for retirees it is no surprise you might be looking abroad. In fact, statistics clearly demonstrate that an increasing amount of U.S. retirees are looking overseas for their next adventure.

#### Top-10 Destinations to Retire in 2023

The top countries to retire can vary depending on individual preferences, but here are some popular options based on factors such as cost of living, healthcare, safety, and lifestyle:

**1. Costa Rica**: Known for its warm climate, natural beauty, and friendly locals, Costa Rica is a popular retirement destination. The cost of living is relatively low, and the country has a good healthcare system.

**2. Panama:** Another Central American country, Panama offers retirees a low cost of living, a stable government, and a favorable tax system. It has a tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and a strong expat community.

**3. Portugal:** Located in southern Europe, Portugal is known for its warm climate, rich history, and affordable cost of living. It has a good healthcare system and a high quality of life.

**4. Mexico:** With its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture, Mexico is a popular retirement destination for North Americans. It offers a low cost of living and high-quality healthcare.

**5. Spain:** Known for its sunny weather, rich history, and vibrant culture, Spain is a popular retirement destination for Europeans. It has a good healthcare system and a high standard of living.

**6. Thailand:** Known for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and friendly people, Thailand is a popular retirement destination for many. It offers a low cost of living, delicious food, and excellent healthcare.

**7. Malaysia**: Located in Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a popular retirement destination for its low cost of living, excellent healthcare, and diverse culture. It has a warm climate, beautiful scenery, and a high standard of living.

**8. Ecuador:** Located in South America, Ecuador is known for its natural beauty, friendly people, and affordable cost of living. It has a good healthcare system and a low crime rate.

**9. Belize:** With its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and English-speaking population, Belize is a popular retirement destination for North Americans. It offers a low cost of living and a relaxed, Caribbean lifestyle.

**10. Colombia:** Known for its warm climate, beautiful scenery, and friendly people, Colombia is becoming an increasingly popular retirement destination. It has a low cost of living and a good healthcare system.

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#### Retirement in Italy

We wanted to carve out a special place for Italy. While not on the top-10 list above, it is increasingly popular with U.S. and U.K nationals. [Americans retiring in Italy](https://www.thelocal.it/20230222/americans-in-italy-getting-a-visa-and-the-italian-retirement-experience/) has increased since 2020, and is likely to continue. There is little surprises here, as Italy still boasts one of the most affordable and welcoming places in Europe for retirees.

👉 Learn more about the [Elective Residency Visa and Retirement in Italy](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/italy/retire-in-italy).

#### Retirement Destinations in the European Union

Retirement within the European Union has some specific benefits to consider. One of the most attractive reasons to obtain a retiree visa in Europe would be mobility. Obtaining residency as a retiree in Europe will permit you mobility throughout the EU and Schengen region, opening up corridors of travel and experience that will keep you going for lifetimes.

There are many retirement options within the European Union (EU), with each country offering its own unique benefits and challenges. Here are some retirement options to consider:

**Portugal:** Known for its sunny climate, affordable cost of living, and high-quality healthcare system, Portugal is a popular retirement destination within the EU.

**Spain:** With its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture, Spain is a popular retirement destination for Europeans. It has a good healthcare system and a high standard of living.

**France**: Renowned for its cuisine, wine, and culture, France is a popular retirement destination for those who love the arts and history. It has an excellent healthcare system and a high quality of life.

**Italy:** With its rich history, beautiful scenery, and delicious food, Italy is a popular retirement destination for those who appreciate culture and art. It has a good healthcare system and a high standard of living.

**Malta:** Located in the Mediterranean, Malta is a popular retirement destination for its warm climate, relaxed lifestyle, and English-speaking population. It has a good healthcare system and a low cost of living.

**Ireland**: Known for its lush green landscapes, rich history, and friendly people, Ireland is a popular retirement destination for those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle. It has a good healthcare system and a high quality of life.

**Germany:** With its strong economy, efficient healthcare system, and high standard of living, Germany is a popular retirement destination for those seeking a modern, cosmopolitan lifestyle.

**Austria:** Renowned for its beautiful scenery, rich cultural heritage, and excellent healthcare system, Austria is a popular retirement destination for those seeking a high quality of life.

**Belgium:** Known for its delicious cuisine, beautiful architecture, and high standard of living, Belgium is a popular retirement destination for those seeking a comfortable, cosmopolitan lifestyle.

**Netherlands:** With its bike-friendly cities, vibrant culture, and efficient healthcare system, the Netherlands is a popular retirement destination for those seeking an active, urban lifestyle.

#### Immigration and Visa Options for Retirees

There are several important considerations for planning your retirement and immigration is one of them. While every single country provides a unique visa and pathway for retirees, there are usually several common requirements. This includes proof of minimum retirement funds, healthcare coverage, age eligibility, and a clean criminal record.

Retirement visas usually allow individuals to stay in the country for a longer period of time than a standard tourist visa, often up to several years, and may provide the holder with the ability to work part-time or not at all. In addition to providing a legal basis for residency, retirement visas may also offer access to local healthcare systems, tax benefits, and other perks.

The eligibility criteria and requirements for retirement visas vary depending on the country issuing the visa. Some countries require applicants to demonstrate a minimum income or savings, while others require proof of health insurance coverage or a medical examination. It's important to research and understand the requirements of each country before applying for a retirement visa.

#### Immigration Advisors for Retirement Visas and Retirees

Navigating immigration and visa matters for retirees can certainly be challenging. Given the importance and duration that retirement visas might be granted, it is advisable to find a qualified and reputable immigration lawyer that has the experience to support you with the next adventure.

Start for free here 👉 [Retirement Visa Inquiry](https://relocateportal.com/get-started.html)

##### Relocate.world is proud to provide you access to hundreds of qualified immigration lawyers throughout the world, including the top retirement destinations. Find your advisor today and get going!


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Top Retirement Destinations Around the World

Do you already live in France, or are you thinking of moving there to start a business? If so, what are your immigration and visa options? If you are not an EU, EEA or Swiss national (in which case no immigration formalities are necessary), you must obtain the appropriate residence permit. Find out below about the different options available to you!

#### Starting a Business While Inside France

First you need to check if your current status allows you to set up your business. Only some legal statuses allow you to do so. These include:

- Job Search and Business Creation (RECE)
- Liberal profession entrepreneur Talent Passport
- Company creation entrepreneur Talent Passport
- Investor Talent Passport Passport
- Private and family life
- Permanent resident
- 10-years residence permit
- Spouse of a European citizen
- If you have another status, a change of status to the correct status will be required.

#### Starting a Business While Outside of France

Your visa application must be lodged at the Consulate of France of your country.

##### The “Company Creation” Talent Passport

The basic requirements for issuing this Talent Passport are as follows:

- Hold a master’s degree or equivalent and/or be able to prove professional experience of at least 5 years;
- Be able to prove the viability of the business creation project;
- Invest at least €30,000 in the company;
- Be able to justify sufficient financial resources (€20,511.40, i.e. 12 times the legal minimum wage)

**The Company Creation Talent Passport falls into the category of Talent Passports and, as a result, allows its holder:**

- To benefit his family (married spouse / children under 18 years of age), who will thus benefit from visas / residence permits authorizing them to live and work in France;
- To obtain a residence permit generally issued for 4 years

**Timeline:**

The Company Creation Talent Passport requires an advance of several months, due to the number of documents to be provided and the nature of these documents. The purpose of the authorities is to check that your file meets the requirements of this talent passport: viability of the project, investment, experience / professional skills.

You will first need to obtain an agreement from the Ministry of the Economy which validates the validity of your project after examining the file. This can take up to 2 months.

Simultaneously, the application file must be prepared and must include all the documents related to your professional experience, your income but also to the creation of the company: Kbis, domiciliation contract, lease contract,…. The assembly of the file may take a few weeks.

You will also need to prove that the creation of the company includes a minimum investment of € 30,000, and that these funds have been paid into the account of a bank in France. Finding a French bank accepting a customer not living in France must also be anticipated.

Once the file is ready and submitted, the authorities can take several months to give their decision.

##### The “Holder of an innovative economic project” Talent Passport

If you do not wish to invest 30K in this project, you have the possibility to apply for the Talent Passport for an innovative economic project recognized by a public body.

For this, you will have to prove the innovative nature of your project, its recognition by a French public body and financial resources equivalent to the SMIC ( minimal wage).

You can be supported in this project by a French Tech incubator, as part of the “French Tech Visa for Founders” program.

This Talent Passport is faster to obtain than the Company Creation one, because it requires a little less documents. Nevertheless, documents proving its viability and recognition by a public body require several months of preparation in advance.

##### The “Entrepreneur/liberal profession” residence permit

If you wish to carry out a commercial, craft or industrial activity in France, this permit is also an option to consider, especially since it does not involve a financial investment as substantial as the Company Creation Talent Passport.

You will need to prove the long-term viability of your project, and explain how your professional skills and experience relate to the project.

The big difference with the talent passports offered previously is the duration of the title obtained (1 year renewable if the conditions are met) and the non-possibility of being accompanied by your family before a certain time.

#### Other Important Considerations for Starting a Business in France

Starting a business in France can be a rewarding experience, but it also requires careful planning and adherence to legal and bureaucratic requirements. In addition to the immigration and visa options listed above, here are some general considerations:

**Legal structure**: In France, you have several legal structures to choose from when setting up a business, such as Sole Proprietorship (EI), Limited Liability Company (SARL), Simplified Joint Stock Company (SAS), etc.

**Registration**: To register your business, you will need to visit the Centre de Formalités des Entreprises (CFE) or Business Formalities Center, where you will need to submit your application and obtain your business registration number.

**Business Plan:** It is essential to create a business plan that outlines your goals, strategy, financial projections, and other critical aspects of your business.

**Taxes:** You will need to register for taxes, including value-added tax (VAT), corporate tax, and social security contributions.

**Employment:** If you plan on hiring employees, you will need to comply with labor laws and regulations, including contracts, insurance, and benefits.

**Business Bank Account:** It is necessary to open a French bank account in the name of the business to conduct transactions.

**Administrative Procedures:** French administrative procedures can be complex and time-consuming. You will need to be patient and organized to navigate the various requirements.

Overall, starting a business in [France](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/france) can be challenging, but with the right resources and guidance, you can succeed.   

**[CONTACT US TODAY](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/413) to discuss your project and explore the different options!**

**Global Immigration Expert, V[irgine Le Baler](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/413), has been in the global mobility industry for 13 years. Virginie created [Oui Immigration](https://oui-immigration.com/en/) to provide an expert yet human management of immigration, globally.**


Starting a Business in France

On 1 February 2023, the French government presented to the Council of Ministers a bill aimed at controlling immigration and improving the integration of immigrants in France. More than four years after the Asylum and Immigration Act of 10 September 2018, which aimed to strengthen immigration and asylum measures, Emmanuel Macron once again wants to reform this sensitive issue.

This text, spearheaded by Labour Minister Olivier Dussopt and Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, contains several articles on "better integration of foreigners through work and language", which clearly shows that migratory movements in Europe have increased significantly. Faced with this reality, it is necessary to take measures to meet the challenges ahead, such as the fight against illegal immigration, the protection of legitimate asylum seekers and the effective integration of legal immigrants. This means better control of our borders and proper management of the current situation.

This draft law contains a few innovations, particularly in labour migration:

#### French Residence Permit « job in demand »: Regularizing irregular migrants through work

*58% of recruitments are considered difficult by companies; the main difficulty cited is the lack of candidates » according to the survey* [Besoins en main d'œuvre 2022](https://statistiques.pole-emploi.org/bmo) by Pôle emploi.

Currently, only the exceptional admission procedure allows for the regularization of foreigners in an irregular situation in France through work. Foreigners can apply for an "employee" or "temporary worker" residence permit, depending on their "work" contract, provided they meet the conditions of length of stay and duration of paid employment set out in the circular of 12 November 2012. An entry visa is not required.

Exceptional residence through work is currently the only way to regularize the situation of foreign workers in an irregular situation. However, this process requires the foreign worker to provide evidence, such as forms filled in by the employer (CERFA) and pay slips, which can create an imbalance between the employer and the foreign worker, who is then dependent on the employer for regularization. In addition, although the employment of foreign workers without authorization is punishable by five years' imprisonment, this process allows the employer to contribute to the administrative regularization of the situation, which is a crime.

The list of shortage occupations in the CESEDA has only a limited impact on obtaining a residence permit. It only simplifies the formalities for the employer who wants to hire a foreigner by exempting him from publishing the job offer for 3 weeks. The difficulties have increased for the professions of nurse, specialist teacher and public transport driver.
The bill proposes to test a new residence permit for workers in "shortage occupations". This permit, valid for one year, will allow these irregular workers to apply for a residence permit on their own initiative and to work legally. The experiment will last until 31 December 2026 and a report on the results will be presented to Parliament to decide whether this title should be maintained.

**The residence permit for "work in shortage occupations" has three objectives:**

1. To allow foreigners already present on the national territory to stay and work on their own initiative, without the intervention of the employer during the procedure;
2. To prevent and punish violations of workers' rights by employers and to protect the rights of all workers (during the examination of the application for a permit, the employer's situation is subject to the checks and controls provided for in Article R. 5221-20 of the Labour Code, after which a report may be sent to the competent authorities) ;
3. Contribute in a subsidiary way to reducing labour market tensions in certain professions or geographical areas, in addition to other means of improving job supply and demand (training, working conditions).

**The temporary residence permit "work in jobs in demand" would be issued directly to the foreign worker if he can prove by any means that he has:**

- Worked for at least 8 months in a job and in a geographical area defined by law. Activities as an asylum seeker, seasonal worker or student are not taken into account;
- Lived in France continuously for at least 3 years. They can then obtain a temporary residence permit for one year, which also allows them to work in the profession for which it was issued.

The French government also wants to amend the CESEDA.

#### Reforming "talent passports" and creating a "talent - medical and pharmaceutical professions" residence permit
 
The multi-year "talent passport" residence permit was created by the law of 7 March 2016 on the rights of foreigners in France. It contributes to France's policy of attracting skilled immigration by facilitating the stay of the most qualified foreigners and their families. To attract and retain them on French territory, foreign nationals who can prove their qualifications or experience are granted a multiannual residence permit (CSP) "talent passport" for a maximum of four years on first entry to the country. The Code de l'entrée et du séjour des étrangers et du droit d'asile (CESEDA) lists ten categories of "talent passport", grouped under the following six headings :

- Skilled workers
- Researchers
- Business creation and investment
- legal representatives of an establishment established in France
- artistic professions
- International reputation.

This "talent passport" residence permit allows its holder to work without having to apply for a work permit and is accompanied by a right of residence for the same period for family members.

However, the bill stresses that the term "passport" creates confusion as to the nature of the document issued to the target population and to the companies that recruit them.
The current "talent passport" residence permits are not adapted to the specific situation of certain health professionals, in particular with regard to the remuneration conditions, which appear to be too high in relation to the salaries actually received. In addition, foreign nationals with a degree from outside the European Union can only obtain the "talent passport - EU blue card" residence permit. The residence permit "talent passport - qualified worker" is reserved only for foreign talent with a degree from a state-recognized higher education institution or from a list established by decree.

It is proposed to make the multiannual "talent passport" residence permits more understandable by changing their name and to make them more attractive to project sponsors by creating a single permit and merging the different types of permits under this new "talent" name.                            
                  
It is also proposed that health professionals with non-EU diplomas be allowed to come and practice in France for a limited period without having to wait if they undertake to pass a competition. Finally, it is proposed that health professionals with non-EU qualifications be given the benefits of the multiannual "talent passport" residence permit, including family reunification, to attract them to France.

The project therefore intends to change the current name of the "talent passport" scheme to "talent" in order to remove any ambiguity about the nature of the document issued. To avoid any confusion and to rationalize the number of categories of residence permit, the project intends to merge all residence permits linked to the creation of a company, an innovative economic project, and an investment in France under a single title "Talent - project holder". This choice will allow project or investment holders to move from one ground to another without being held back by the conditions for obtaining the permit. The aim of this reform is to make the right of residence for foreign talent easier to understand and read.

In order to make the right of residence for health professionals more readable and attractive, a new residence permit called "talent - medical and pharmaceutical professions" has been created for these professionals and their families who are recruited by public or private non-profit health or medico-social institutions. This card is intended for doctors, midwives, dentists, and pharmacists working as employees. It makes it possible to establish conditions of access and duration of validity adapted to the specificities of these professions and to consider the career paths of foreign health professionals who have obtained their qualifications outside the European Union.

The granting of the "talented medical and pharmaceutical professions" residence permit is subject to an employment contract of at least one year in a not-for-profit health or medico-social institution, a provisional authorization to practice, if necessary, and compliance with a salary threshold. This card is valid for a maximum of 4 years and can be issued on first application to foreign health professionals who have passed the aptitude tests. Family members of the card holder may also benefit from a residence permit for family reunification.

The CESEDA will be amended to replace the term "talent passport" with the word "talent".                        	

Article L. 421-16 will be amended to merge the various residence permits for holders of economic projects into a single title "talent - project holder".  A new article will be created to facilitate access to residence and work for highly qualified medical professionals and pharmacists.

#### Make the granting of the multiannual residence permit (CSP) conditional on a minimum level of French in order to promote integration

"The labour market and access to employment are insufficient and unsatisfactory for immigrants in France", explained the Minister of Labour on leaving the Council of Ministers.

To obtain a first multi-year residence permit (CSP), the foreigner must prove that, unless exempted, he or she has taken part seriously and diligently in the compulsory training courses of the Republican Integration Contract (CIR) set up under article L. 413-2 of the CESEDA, and that he or she has not demonstrated any rejection of the essential values of French society and the Republic. The Republican Integration Contract (CIR) is signed between the French State and any non-European foreigner admitted residing in France who wishes to settle there permanently, unless exempted. The signatory undertakes to attend courses designed to promote his or her integration into the State. Civic training is compulsory and language training may be required depending on the signatory's level of French.

At present, language requirements are not included in the admission procedure.  Approximately 25% of the foreign nationals who must undergo compulsory language training under the EIF do not reach level A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) at the end of the training. Of the 27,016 signatories who completed their language training in 2020, almost 7,000 did not reach the A1 level. CIR trainees, even if they are subject to the language training obligation, can now be issued with a multi-year residence permit without even reaching the A1 level.

As a result, the professional integration of immigrants, especially women, is significantly lower than that of other people due to a lack of knowledge of the French language. To ensure successful integration, the government considers it necessary to have stronger budgetary and legal tools, to carry out a structural reform of our asylum system and to strengthen the requirements for successful integration through language.

In order to ensure successful integration and access to autonomy for foreigners wishing to live in France, the government considers it necessary to require a minimum knowledge of French as a condition for obtaining the first multiannual residence permit.

#### Objectif Poursuivi

The aim of the project is to make the issue of a residence permit conditional on a minimum level of French. This measure makes it possible to ensure the integration of foreigners who benefit from it, while at the same time assessing the level of language proficiency and the fulfilment of the commitments made when signing the Republican Integration Contract (CIR).

The introduction of a language requirement as a criterion for obtaining a multiannual residence permit (CSP) aims to:

- restrict the granting of multiannual permits to foreigners who have demonstrated their willingness and ability to integrate in France, except for beneficiaries of international protection, who have the right of residence by virtue of their status;
- make the system more incentive-based by encouraging foreigners subject to the CIR to make a greater effort to learn French and by making their right of residence more favorable (fewer administrative procedures, reduced fees, and stamp duties for renewing temporary residence permits).

The government is proposing to amend Article L.433-4 of the CESEDA, which relates to the issue of a first multiannual residence permit, by introducing in paragraph 2 the requirement to demonstrate a level of French language proficiency. The level requirement will be specified in Article R.433-5 of the same code.

#### Obligation for employers to provide French language training

*Learning French is one of the priorities of integration policy. A guarantee of autonomy, a basis for cohabitation, a passport to employment, it is the sine qua non for the integration of foreigners who have been granted long-term residence in France,* according to article 2 of the bill.

In the French workplace, knowledge of French is essential to understand job-related instructions and to assert rights in contractual relations with the employer. Improving language skills can also enable the employee to have his/her skills recognized, to acquire new skills and to progress professionally with a view to long-term integration in France.

In addition, French legislation requires the employer to maintain the employee's ability to perform his or her job, even if the employee has not requested training. This reinforces the requirement to have a certain level of language skills to obtain a multi-annual residence permit and provides more opportunities for foreign workers to learn French, which improves their employability and long-term professional integration.

Currently, the only way to assess the level of French is through the Republican Integration Contract (RIC), signed by newcomers to France who wish to settle permanently. If the level is insufficient, compulsory language training may be required and paid for by the state. By diligently following this training and making progress, the foreigner can then fulfil one of the conditions for obtaining a multi-year residence permit.

In addition, all persons aged 16 or over, whether employees, job seekers or self-employed, can benefit from a personal training account without any nationality restrictions. French language courses for foreigners are listed in the CPF catalogue.

The aim of the proposed measure is to strengthen the obligations of employers towards their non-native employees to promote their social and professional integration in France by enabling them to improve their knowledge of French in order to secure their situation with regard to the right of residence.

In the professional field, the aim is to make it easier for them to understand the instructions and standards (quality, safety at work) applicable to their job, but also to assert their rights in the context of the contractual relationship they have with their employer. Improving language skills also determines the employee's ability to acquire new skills and to progress professionally.

The employer is obliged to adapt the employee to his or her job, to ensure that the employee can hold a job, and to propose measures contributing to the development of skills and the fight against illiteracy. It is therefore proposed to enrich these actions by adding the possibility for the employer to offer training in French as a foreign language.

In the context of continuing vocational training, the Labour Code organizes the implementation of training courses on the initiative of the employer, in particular within the framework of the skills development plan. To provide a framework for the new measure aimed at enabling an allophone employee who has signed a republican integration contract (RIC) and who has undertaken to undergo training in French as a foreign language to do so during his or her actual working hours, it is proposed to create a Chapter II.

In order to provide a framework for the new measure allowing allophone employees who have signed a Republican Integration Contract (CIR) to receive French as a Foreign Language (FLE) training during their actual working hours, it is proposed to create a Chapter II in the Labour Code.

Employers will be able to provide training in order to achieve a level of French language proficiency defined by decree. This training will be organised as part of the employer's skills development plan and will take place during working hours, in accordance with the Labour Code.

Employers will be able to provide training to achieve a level of French language proficiency defined by decree. This training will be organised as part of the employer's skills development plan and will take place during working hours, in accordance with the Labour Code.

Finally, if allophone employees use their personal training account to finance training aimed at achieving a level of French at least equivalent to that laid down by decree, they will be granted leave of absence as of right, within the limits of a period laid down by decree of the Council of State.

The law amends the articles of the Labour Code and reintroduces Article L.6321-3 in Section 2 of Title II of Book III of Part VI of the Labour Code. Language training courses offered by employers can be financed by the OPCO responsible for the company from the contribution paid for the development of continuing vocational training.

##### Clarisse is a french lawyer specialized in employment law, international mobility and professional immigration. She assists companies in all their issues relating to the hiring of foreign employees, relocation of employees overseas, and the use of foreign subcontractors in France.

👉 [Contact Clarisse Today](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/433)

French Immigration Law: An Outlook of Potential Changes in 2023

While Italy introduced the Remote Work and Digital Nomad Visa in March 2022, the implementation decree for this specific Visa has not yet been published. In other words, you cannot apply for the Remote Work and Digital Nomad visa in Italy at the time of this writing. 

Therefore, if you are a non-EU citizen looking to relocate to Italy as a freelancer, remote worker or digital nomad, you will need to consider alternative options. 

One of the best options for those looking to live and work in Italy might want to consider a self-employment visa, or the *Visto per Lavoro Autonomo*.

#### Visto per Lavoro Autonomo - The Visa for Remote Workers, Digital Nomads, Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals.

The *Visto per Lavoro Autonomo* is a self-employment visa that allows entry into Italy for the purposes of working as a self-employed individual. This visa is issued for both short and long-term stay durations and does not entitle you the right to work for an Italian employer.

While this might be the perfect visa for those who have the freedom to work for themselves or remotely, there are several important considerations and restrictions for this visa, including when you need to apply.

#### Applying for the Visto per Lavoro Autonomo

A limited number of visas are issued each year for the self-employment visa in Italy. This quota reserved for self-employed individuals are redetermined on an annual basis by the “Flows decree” or *Decreto Flussi*, which is published each year and defines entry quotas for immigration of non-EU nationals, as well as requisites for entry and application procedures. 

For this reason, it is not possible to apply for a self-employment visa year round, and applications are limited to the timeframe as defined in the annual Flows Decree, which opens for a few months each year. The Flows Decree is usually published towards the end of the year or the beginning of the following year, and applications normally open in the first few months of the year. However, since there is no fixed publication date, it is important to periodically check for any updates through Italian press or [Italian governmental official websites](https://integrazionemigranti.gov.it/en-gb/).

In some, very limited, cases it is possible to enter Italy outside of the Flow Decrees planning quotas. Specific exceptions, for example, apply to very limited categories of workers, such as visiting university professors or professional athletes. In practice, however, this is an extremely residual option.

#### Requirements to Apply for a Self-Employment Visa - *The Nulla Osta*

In order to apply for a Self-Employment Visa, individuals must meet the same professional and moral requirements that Italian law requires of Italian citizens. The first step is to request a *Nulla Osta* (Certificate of No Impediment), from the territorially competent *Questura* (Police Headquarter).

Italy immigration regulations distinguish between regulated and non-regulated professions, and non-regulated professions are further subdivided into activities which require registration with the Italian Business Register.  According to the category the profession falls into, the paperwork and procedure for the *Nulla Osta* will vary. For example, a Certification of Economic Parameters, issued by the Chamber of Commerce, will be required for all those activities which require registration with the Business Register.

In general, however, it is always necessary to present the following documents:
Application addressed to the *Questura*, with a 16.00 euro stamp tax;
ID document of the applicant (e.g. valid passport)
Registered rental or purchase contract of the property intended for housing or, alternatively, a declaration, signed by an Italian citizen or foreign national legally residing in Italy, that he or she has made suitable housing available to the applicant. A photocopy of the registered rental or house purchase contract in the name of the person who signed the declaration and a photocopy of the identity document of the person who signed the declaration must be attached to this declaration. Alternatively, proof of reservation at hotel facilities, apartments or residences.

#### Submission of the Nulla Osta Application for purposes of Obtaining the Self Employment Visa

The *Nulla Osta* application must be submitted online but requires a subsequent appointment to be attended in person, if the applicant is already in Italy (e.g. for education purposes); however, the applicant can appoint an attorney to represent them throughout the procedure. In this case, it is necessary to obtain a power of attorney, which must be translated and legalized by the Italian diplomatic authority in the applicant’s Country of Residence (Consulate or Embassy).
The aforementioned documentation must be supplemented by the documentation pertaining to each specific case, for which a professional consultation is highly recommended.

Following the issuance of a *Nulla Osta*, it is then possible to apply for the Self-Employment Visa at the Italian Representation in your Country of Residence (Consulate or Embassy).

#### Next Steps for Obtaining The Residence Permit - *Permesso di Soggiorno*

The Italian Self-Employed Visa, issued by the territorially competent Italian Representation, grants entry to Italy but is not sufficient to live and work in Italy legally.

Within 8 days of entry into Italy, it is necessary to apply for an Italian residence permit, or *Permesso di Soggiorno*, to be able to legally work and live in Italy.

The application is filed through a specific postal kit, available at postal offices with a *Sportello Amico* counter. In general, the postal kit is the means by which a foreign national present in Italy must apply for the issuance, renewal, updating and conversion of a residence permit.

The following documents will be required to obtain the Permesso di Soggiorno:
a valid passport (original document and a copy)
the compiled and completed postal kit
four passport-sized pictures
all other documentation pertaining to the self-employed visa application.

The postal kit will therefore also be necessary to renew the residence permit once it has expired. A residence permit for self-employment lasts for two years and can be converted to a residence permit for employment if the requirements are met.

Once all documentation is submitted, it will be possible to book an appointment at the competent police station (Questura) for the release of the residence permit.
 
#### Living and Working in Italy for Remote Workers, Digital Nomads and Freelancers.

As you can tell from the above information, there are several steps in obtaining the legal right to live and work in Italy through the self-employment visa. As with many formal immigration and residency procedures in Italy, it can seem overwhelming, especially if you do not speak Italian.

While Italy has not formally launched a visa for digital nomads and remote workers, there are still options to explore!

##### Martina specialises in Italian immigration and labour law, and advises clients for relocation options, including residency, setting up a business, start-ups and employment.

👉 [Contact Martina](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/234) and schedule a consultation today!


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How to Work as Freelancer in Italy: The Italian Self-Employment Visa

Navigating immigration regulations and formal procedures in Japan can be overwhelming. If you do not read or write Japanese, this will further complicate matters.

When applying for a visa or residence permit in [Japan](https://www.relocate.world/destinations/japan/how-to-get-a-work-visa-in-japan) there are several layers involved in the overall processing. If you are working with a professional lawyer or law firm to help support your immigration needs, it is very likely that there is someone very integral involved in your application. That special someone is called a Gyōsei shoshi or Lawyer (mostly Gyosei shoshi), having a certificate for being able to provide services as an Immigration Specialist, generally called“Pink Card”.

In Japan, visa regulations are governed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Generally speaking, you will need a visa to enter Japan unless your nationality is part of the visa waiver treaty program. A Residence certificate is required for the foreigners who want to stay more than 90 days. To obtain Residence certificate, you need to submit the application form by yourself or through qualified immigration specialist, having pink card. 

*Information in this article was updated for accuracy by Relocate Ambassador [Junko Ishibashi](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/490) (March 27, 2022)*

#### Why a Gyōsei Shoshi is important for immigration applications in Japan.

A Gyōsei shoshi is similar to a UK Solicitor, or US lawyer. Gyōsei shoshi's are licensed professionals who assist individuals and businesses with various administrative and legal procedures, such as preparing and submitting legal documents, supporting the establishment of corporate entities, and obtaining business licenses from the Japanese government.

In order to become a Gyōsei shoshi, an individual must complete a specialized training program and pass a national certification exam. Gyōsei shoshi are regulated by the Japanese government, and are required to adhere to strict ethical standards and continuing education requirements to maintain their license.

A Gyōsei shoshi is rarely employed by law firms and mostly work as independent consultants. They play an important role in facilitating business operations and helping individuals navigate Japan's complex bureaucracy. They play an important role in facilitating business operations and helping individuals navigate Japan's complex bureaucracy.

Additionally, to maintain a pink card, a Gyosei Shoshi (or Lawyer) is required to take nationwide examinations every three years and achieve more than 70% grade on these tests.

![Screenshot 2023-03-27 at 12,31,38.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-oc_DJFJAOZ.webp)
*A certified Gyōsei shoshi "pink card" permits this type of immigration specialists to provide these professional services*

#### Can I hire a Gyōsei Shoshi for my visa application?

For immigration and legal purposes, you can compare a Gyōsei Shoshi to a Paralegal in the western world. This is a trusted and oftentimes, very detail oriented professional. As mentioned above, a Gyōsei Shoshi typically works with other professionals, such as a *Shiho Shoshi*, Tax Lawyer, and other general lawyers.

To provide services as a Gyōsei Shoshi, you must be licensed and have pink card issued by Local Immigrant Management Bureau. Therefore, if you are able to find a qualified Gyōsei Shoshi that specializes in Japanese visa and immigration matters, it might be a good idea to hire their services.

#### Benefits of working with a Gyōsei Shoshi.
If you manage to find a qualified Gyōsei Shoshi that can support your immigration and visa needs for Japan, it might make sense to engage their services directly. One of the most obvious benefits of this is costs. 

Typically, qualified bi-lingual legal professionals in Japan come at a higher-rate than others. This shouldn’t be a surprise, as finding a reliable immigration lawyer or global mobility professional in Japan is not easy. Just type in “immigration lawyer in Japan” and see what comes up. We can guarantee that at some point you will encounter more Kanji and anime images than lawyers.

Overall, Gyōsei Shoshi’s are the ones performing the grunt work for immigration and visa filings. These are the ones putting the pen to paper and leading the submission process. Of course, finding a qualified, bilingual Gyōsei Shoshi will be a major part of the challenge. Furthermore, you want to ensure that this Gyōsei Shoshi has skills that are specifically relevant to the needs of your case.

#### Do Gyōsei Shoshi’s specialize in visa and immigration filings?

Yes, some Gyōsei shoshi, having a pink card, specialize in visa and immigration filings. In Japan, there are various types of residence permits for different purposes such as work, study, and residency, and the application process can be complicated and time-consuming. Gyōsei shoshi who specialize in visa and immigration filings can assist individuals and businesses with preparing and submitting visa applications, as well as providing guidance on the required documentation and procedures.

Additionally, Gyōsei shoshi who specialize in visa and immigration filings can also provide advice and assistance with residency and citizenship issues, such as obtaining permanent residency or Japanese citizenship. They may also provide support for issues related to family reunification, such as spouse visas and dependent visas.

It's important to note that not all Gyōsei shoshi specialize in visa and immigration filings, and individuals seeking assistance with visa applications should look for a Gyōsei shoshi who has a pink card and experience in this area.

##### Not sure where to start? 

A special thanks to Relocate Ambassador, [Junko Ishibashi](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/490), for confirming the accuracy of the information in this article. Junko is a dual-qualified US-Japanese immigration lawyer, and of course, a licensed Gyōsei shoshi.

Browse [qualified advisors in Japan](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/page/1?d=10) or [get matched with a professional advisor](https://relocateportal.com/get-started.html) through Relocate.world today!



What is a Gyōsei Shoshi?

French companies may need to hire foreign workers, but the hiring of foreign workers is regulated and requires caution. For example, if the worker is not from the European Economic Area and does not reside in France, a hiring authorization procedure must be initiated. In return for this authorization, the employer must pay a tax to the French Office for Immigration and Integration (OFII), commonly known as the OFII tax. This tax has recently changed - read on for more details. 

#### The OFII tax payable by employers of foreign workers changes in 2023

Who pays what taxes in an employer-employee relationship can be complicated. Under the OFII regulations, the taxpayer is the employer who hires:

- a foreign worker; or
- an employee temporarily posted by a company not established in France. 

The OFII tax is not payable on the recruitment of European foreign workers under the freedom of movement rules. 

Previously managed by the French Office for Immigration and Integration (OFII), which gave the tax its name, its management has been transferred to another organization. Since 1 January 2023, the [Direction Générale des Finances Publiques](https://www.impots.gouv.fr/accueil) (DGFIP) has been responsible for managing and collecting the tax provided for in Article L.436-10 of the Code de l'entrée et du séjour des étrangers et du droit d'asile (CESEDA).

#### How are employers taxed in France through the OFII?

OFII tax is now declared and paid once a year. The way in which the tax is declared and paid depends on the employer's VAT tax regime:

- Employers subject to the normal taxation scheme must declare their tax for 2023 in Annex No. 3310 A of the VAT return to be submitted in January 2024 or in the first quarter of the following year, i.e. in the first quarter of 2024;
- Employers subject to the simplified VAT scheme or the simplified agricultural VAT scheme must declare their tax for 2023 on form 3517, to be filed in the year in which the tax is due;
- Employers who are not subject to VAT must declare their tax for 2023 by 25 February of the following year, i.e. by 25 February 2024, by means of Annex No. 3310 A to the VAT return;

In this way, the tax will be due for hires made during the year, declared, and paid with the VAT return for the following year. The first steps for 2023 hires will take place in February 2024.
The amount of the OFII tax varies according to the length of the employment contract and the salary, based on the current SMIC, which has been increased in 2023. The amounts are as follows:

<u>**For contracts of 3 to 12 months:**</u>

- If the salary is less than or equal to €1709.28 : €74
- If the salary is between €1709.28 and €2563.92: €210
- If the salary is higher than €2563.92: €300

<u>**For contracts of more than 12 months:**</u>

- If the salary is less than €4273.21 : 55% of the gross monthly salary
- If the salary is equal to or higher than €4273.21 : €2350.26

A calculation sheet is also available to help you determine the amount of tax to be declared on the VAT form. 

👉 For further information, [reach out to Clarisse today](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/433)!

[![Screenshot 2023-03-17 at 09,55,09.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-8b-QFI3dJs.webp)](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/433)




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Paying Taxes In France for Foreign Workers

Getting accurate advice for relocating to a new country can be challenging. You would think the internet makes this search easier, as you can rely on Google to quickly find information you are seeking. And sometimes it does. However, when it comes to getting advice that you will rely on to make a move abroad, it is also proving to be the opposite.
 
#### Immigration on the World Wide Web
 
Simply put, there is an overwhelming amount of information floating around on the internet. Oftentimes you might encounter conflicting sources of information, or information behind locked doors, conditional on you paying fees. Next thing you know, you find yourself heading into a rabbit-hole for getting answers to your specific questions, or financially anchored to head in one direction because you’ve already committed.
 
Regardless of how you ultimately seek out this information, there is one universal truth about immigration – it is a decision that carries serious weight. It is not like buying a subscription to Netflix, or booking a round-trip flight with a travel insurance policy. It is oftentimes a life-transforming decision that will have impact on your future.

We get it.
 
#### Find a Trusted Source
 
This might seem obvious, yet in practice it is difficult. If you are looking for information about government regulated matters – such as immigration requirements, visa procedures, tax regulations – primary sources are the golden egg.
 
Unfortunately, for us common folk, this means government managed and operated domains (“.gov”) that publish official information about these important foreign affairs subjects. And while it is easy to say – “go straight to the source” – the truth is that most government websites, especially those in foreign languages, are extremely difficult to navigate. And even if you find what you are looking for, you might have doubts about how to interpret the information that is officially published. Afterall, immigration regulations are anchored in legislation.
 
At this point, you will likely do one of two things: (a) Continue down the Google search rabbit hole; or (b) find a professional advisor who can answer your questions.
 
![Estonia.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/estonia-Tq3-D4IwR6.webp)
*🇪🇪 Estonia is notable for having one of the most efficient immigration frameworks in the world*

![japan.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/japan-wwpdh2xiTC.webp)
*🇯🇵 Japan is not*
 
#### Find an Independent Source
 
Let’s be fully transparent. Your inquiries related to immigration and relocation fall within several “industry-sectors”. *Travel and Hospitality. Cross-Border Professional Services. Relocation. Citizenship and Investment.* And so on…
 
The point being, if you are looking to move to another country, there is an industry that wants to get your attention. This industry wants to offer you products and services that will help enable that. From white glove moving services to golden visas and villas. We all know what this means: Profit = Private Interest.
 
But maybe you’re savvier than this, and you find yourself on some Facebook chat forum with other people asking the same questions. A bunch of expats chatting. That seems like an independent source, right? Maybe. Could be. Depends on who is answering.
 
What about a website that just has all the information I need? Could be. First litmus test – are there advertisements popping up on the screen? If so, they probably have some solid SEO traction – which means putting keywords and phrases ahead of high-quality information with people like you at the heart of it. The worst kind of private vested interest – Vegas style, really.

So what about a law firm website? Probably a solid source, as they are bound to professional ethical standards – every lawyer from Panama City to Chinatown – right? First litmus test – do I need to pay for advice? And is it advice I can trust? Of course they are the best at what they do, it says so on their website. Either way, it is not “independent”.
 
In a perfect world, you stumble upon a place where you can easily encounter answers to your questions that have the weight of a primary source. Even better, an independent source where you can ask more questions that are addressed and answered by experienced professionals….all in one place. And in this perfect world, you might not even have to pay for this *initial* advice. Yet because this advice was so valuable, it helps you make a decision for what to do next.
 
#### Make Informed Decisions 

All considered, there is no shortage of qualified advisors to provide you advice for immigration and relocation matters of importance. In fact, there are many high-quality professionals that you can and should rely on. Yet, just like searching for visa information on the internet, finding the *right* advisor can be overwhelming. And there are likely a lot of factors that go into this decision: Cost of services, language abilities, location, reviews, and so on. 

As mentioned above, the decision to emigrate is usually a serious one. It might involve your family, or shifting of employment. Regardless of the reason, the immigration process typically has several stages. In the 21st century, we believe that it should be easy to get to the heart of your immigration objectives from the very beginning. And whether this means getting high-quality information from a trusted source or advisor…that it can happen in one place.

The truth is that anyone can call themselves “the best”.  At Relocate.world we believe that you have a right to a bite of the pizza before paying for the whole pie.

🍕 Don't believe us? Click the pizza below to find out more 

[![bestadvisorintheworld.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/bestadvisorintheworld-R2J1A7k2Rn.webp)](https://relocateportal.com/get-started.html)


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Tips for Finding the Perfect Immigration Advisor

As an expat (inbound or outbound), you may wish to reduce your exposure to UK taxation and at the same time, ensure that you remain compliant with your UK tax obligations for the period that you are living in or outside the UK.

Are you moving to the UK? Are you leaving the UK? Have you considered your UK tax position?

Generally, it is best practice to organise your tax affairs in good time, to avoid any unnecessary complexities, in the present, future or when you return the UK.

How can we help with Global Tax Planning? Let's start with some basics:

#### Are you tax resident?
 
Your resident status will determine the UK’s right to tax your income. Global Tax Consulting can assess your travel pattern and personal circumstances in line with the Statutory Resident Test to determine your resident status in the UK.

#### How much UK tax will you pay?

The amount of tax that you will pay depends on your resident status, the type of income, the availability of tax allowances to offset against the income and whether there is any relief under a double taxation agreement. Global Tax Consulting can confirm the tax treatment of your income and can complete an estimated tax calculation to help you manage your cash flow. 

#### How can you achieve tax efficiency?

There are a number of onshore and offshore tax planning opportunities that can be explored with the goal of reducing your UK tax bill. Global Tax Consulting can create a UK tax strategy to help you reduce your exposure to UK taxation. 

#### Do you need to file UK tax returns?

There are a number of reasons why you may have an obligation to file a UK tax return such as if you are in receipt of UK rental income, if you file on the remittance basis or if you want to re-claim tax. Global Tax Consulting can assess whether you have a requirement to file a UK tax return and if you do, we can prepare and submit the tax return to HMRC on your behalf.

### What happens next?

Start your journey with Global Tax Consulting today.

Arrange a free tax consultation to discuss your UK tax affairs 👉 [moving to the UK](https://calendly.com/emma-gtc/movingtotheuk?month=2023-03) OR [leaving the UK](https://calendly.com/emma-gtc/leavingtheuk?month=2023-03).


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Global Tax Consulting for the United Kingdom

What does “Opposability of Employment” mean in French work visa applications? The principle known in French as the “*opposabilité à l’emploi*” means that the French authorities are going to want to refuse a work authorization request unless one can overcome their high burden of proof, in the name of protecting the French labor market.

Let’s explain with an example: let’s say you are American, and a friend who runs a Parisian café wants to hire you as a waiter. So, they put in an application for work authorization so that they can hire you. What will the French government say, do you think?

They’re going to want to say “non,” because there are 500 million people in the European Economic Area, French unemployment is at 7%, and they think there is a French or EU national who could likely take that job before you. This is then the application of this concept of “opposability” when it comes to your work authorization request.

There are several ways to overcome this burden of opposability. If, for example, you’re applying for a rocket scientist job, and you have a PhD in astrophysics, then there’s a good chance they aren’t going to oppose it, because you are demonstrating you are “skilled enough” to take on this role, and that you aren’t really taking the job that belonged to a French/EU national, because it’s such a specific job role.

There is then a spectrum of jobs between waiter and rocket scientist, depending on the specificity and skillset in question for a job, that will determine if you overcome the burden of the opposability of employment.

#### How does it work to hire a foreigner?

The general process is that a job must appear online on the French unemployment website [Pôle Emploi](https://www.pole-emploi.fr/accueil/) for 3 weeks. Then, once the company has a shortlist of candidates, they determine that you, the foreigner, are the very best one for the job, and they submit that to the French work authority. If they decide in your favor (which is a big if!), then you can file for an employee visa and move to France.

#### What about Talent Passport?

One exception to this whole process is if your salary and educational background are high enough to skip the work authorization, such as for the Talent Passport European Blue Card visa. In this case, they think you’re “highly skilled” enough to not need to ask first for work authorization. There are 10 types of Talent Passport visas.

#### What about a young graduate of a French master’s degree?

This is another way to skip the work authorization process – if you studied in France, obtained French master’s degree, and receive a French contract at a salary more than 1.5 times minimum wage, then you can skip the job posting online. However, you still must ask for work authorization, but can assume it will be approved.

##### Born and raised in San Diego, California, Daniel is a dual-qualified French-US attorney, and practices exclusively French in-bound immigration, with a focus on private clients.

👉 [Send Daniel a message or book a consultation today](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/68)!

Image Above (c) *"Paris, France, Mozilla work week, March 2014" by Robert Nyman is licensed under CC BY 2.0.*

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Obtaining Work Authorization in France

Back in February, the Portuguese government made a decision to end the Golden Visa program, as part of the *Mais Habitação* housing measures. The plan is still in its discussion phase; however, the end - or, at least, the severe alteration - of the Golden Visa is likely. 

Nevertheless, your dream of moving or investing in Portugal is still very much possible through other methods. Let’s go through them together!

### What are the Visa Option for Portugal?

For highly qualified workers, entrepreneurs, freelancers, remote workers, digital nomads, and investors with passive income, moving to Portugal is quite easy and simple. Non-EU citizens can live, work, and even apply for citizenship after a few years in the nation through a number of advanced visa schemes. 

#### D7 Visa for Portugal

Because of being based around passive income, the D7 Visa was initially targeted towards retirees, but can apply to anyone who shows proof of sufficient passive income. These earnings can come from real estate rentals, pensions or general investments, for example. As long as there’s a minimum passive income of €9,120 per year, it should be fine. 

As part of the family reunification law, your family members are allowed to tag along. However, there are some specificities to it. If you’re married, your partner must also provide proof of passive income of at least €4,560 per year. So the both of you should have a minimum of €13,680 in total per year. Dependent children should each have at least €2,736/year.

For the application, you must provide proof of residency in Portugal. Most applicants choose to purchase a home but a long-term rental contract also works. The D7 Visa is quite cheap when compared to the Golden Visa and is usually pretty straightforward and fast. However, there is one thing that makes it a little more complicated - you must apply for it in your home country. So be aware of the logistics when applying. 

Once you’re approved, the Visa will be valid for two years, after which it can be renewed for an additional three years. After these five years, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship!

#### D3 Visa for Portugal

The D3 is aimed at all highly qualified professionals, such as executives, engineers, teachers and administrators - basically anyone with an advanced education. But you must show proof of an official job offer or contract from a Portuguese company in order to be approved. Moreover, its expected monthly salary needs to be at least 3 times the Index of Social Support (IAS), so €1441,29 in 2023. 

You also need to verify your qualifications via diploma or certificate, but they won’t be helpful if you don’t have an offer or contract waiting for you. Still, you should embellish your CV as much as possible as it secures your application.

The D3 visa is typically the fastest to obtain - usually processed in 30 days. Once you’re approved, you can expect to obtain a Residence Permit within four months. 

[![Portugal Coastal Town.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/portugal-coastal-town-iA_VhTy0QG.webp)](https://earlytraveler.com/coastal-towns-in-portugal/)
*Azenhas do Mar is a quaint seaside town perched on a spine-tingling cliffs edge in the Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais.*

#### D2 Visa for Portugal

Aimed at entrepreneurs, independent service providers and freelancers, the D2 was specifically made with the objective of advancing the Portuguese job market. This is a good option for people looking to either open a company in Portugal or expanding their already existing business to the country. Because of all of its specificities, the D2 is the most complicated. 

If your intention is to start a company, you need to submit a declaration of the investment you plan on making - including its value, nature and duration. Plus, a structured business plan that includes your reasoning for deciding to do business in Portugal. Additionally, you must provide proof of your financial capacity to both start the business and sustain yourself while living in the country. This is analysed case by case, so we advise you to get in contact with an Immigration Lawyer in Portugal first. 

For freelancers and independent service providers, you need to show proof of a partnership or service provision contract. Your profession must also be within the scope of services that are ‘relevant to the country’. Again, this is specific to each case. 

#### Digital Nomad Visa for Portugal

Remote work has been growing and growing in popularity. So, in response to that, the Portuguese government announced the beginning of the new Digital Nomad Visa program in October of 2022. There are two variations to this program: Temporary Stay Visa and Residence Visa. 

The **temporary stay visa** is aimed at the truest ‘nomads’ - it’s granted for only a year, (although renewable) and its application process is simpler, since you don’t need an interview with the SEF (Immigration and Border Services). However, you must meet the same conditions as the residence visa.

For your application to be approved, you need to submit a statement of responsibility that proves your means of subsistence, plus evidence of a work contract from a foreign company. Your salary must be four times the Portuguese minimum wage - so at least €3040 per month (as of March 28, 2022)- and this must also be verified. 

For the **residence visa**, the conditions are the same but the process is a little more complicated - quite similar to the D7. After your DNV is approved and you move to Portugal, you’ll need to apply for the residence permit at the SEF. During this 4 month period, you must find a home and get registered as a Portuguese tax resident. 

Portugal has a great infrastructure for remote workers. There are several coworking facilities in the cities with cheap pricing and fast internet is common all over the country. Little groups of digital nomads who live in different homes but share amenities like pools can also be found in the interior regions.

#### What is the best Portuguese Visa for me? 

The overall advantages and considerations of these visas include:

- Option to apply for the NHR tax program, that provides significant fiscal benefits
- Possibility to become a Portuguese citizen after five years
- Family reunification
- No restrictions on where to rent or buy a house 
- Cheaper costs

Regardless of the Golden Visa program, people from all over the world continue to migrate to Portugal. The country not only provides a safe and welcoming environment, but it also has a low cost of living, warm weather, and a fantastic quality of life. Many families are also relocating to Portugal to take advantage of the free education system. So join our growing community in Portugal!

##### Diogo Vedes in a qualified Immigration Consultant. With a innovative and responsive approach, Diogo helps individuals throughout their journey of immigration to Portugal, offering them tailored solutions. Whether you're looking for a temporary or permanent visa option, real estate investment or relocation related services.

[![Screenshot 2023-03-28 at 09,47,53.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-oJf8wL6sBW.webp)](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/479)


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How to move to Portugal without the Golden Visa 

When you choose to live abroad, administrative matters (immigration, taxation, social security, children's school, housing, driving license, etc.) can keep you quite busy! There is, however, one point that is sometimes forgotten during a mobility: the consular registration. And yet, it can be very useful!

#### What is Consular Registration?
 
Consular registration consists of registering with the Consulate of one's country of origin, in one's new country of residence. For the French, it is registration with the "Register of French established outside France", Brazilians will receive a Matrícula de Cidadão Brasileiro, Americans a Consular ID Card....

It is a formality that may be mandatory for some nationalities, but is generally not an obligation. Nevertheless, it greatly facilitates exchanges with its Consulate. 

*Note: this is in no way a proof of legal residence in the country* 

#### Should I Register with my Consulate Upon Arriving in a New Country?

This registration has two main goals, aside from having you in their databases: 

**In case of emergencies:** It allows authorities to prevent/locate the person in the event of an emergency (political crisis, natural disaster....) and to contact his relatives, but also to send him information (safety instructions, places of gathering, evacuation plan).

**For everyday life:** It allows its holder, depending on the country, to carry out administrative procedures, such as exercising his right to vote, applying for identity documents, facilitating exchanges and issuing a laissez-passer in case of theft / loss of passport, obtaining civil documents, obtaining scholarships for children, being registered for the day of appeal to the defense and applying for social assistance (for French citizens) and help you within the limits of its means in case of serious situation (illness, death, imprisonment).

A concrete example?  If you wish to obtain French nationality through marriage with a French citizen, the period is 4 years of living together. If these 4 years took place abroad, you will be asked for proof of registration with French nationals abroad: without being able to produce this document, the time increases to 5 years.

#### I'm an Expat - How do I Register with Consular Authorities?

This varies from country to country, but generally, consular registration is now done online, providing identity documents, contact information (address, email, telephone). This is usually a free process. Remember to unsubscribe when you leave the country!

*Additional information for French citizens:* 

Do you know the Ariane platform? If you are going to a country considered "at risk", this platform set up by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs allows you to notify the authorities of your trip and its duration, and to be warned in the event of a serious political crisis or natural disaster. 

You will be informed of rescue and repatriation operations.

Unlike consular registration, which takes place beyond 6 months of residence abroad, the Ariane platform is accessible for short-term stays. 
Here is the link to access it: [Connexion - Ariane - France-Diplomatie](https://pastel.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fildariane/dyn/public/login.html)

##### Travel safe 😊 and for more information contact Virginie at Oui Immigration!

[![Screenshot 2023-03-30 at 13,11,55.webp](https://storage.googleapis.com/relocate-production-store/screenshot-at-,,-WHfalQgfrm.webp)](https://www.relocate.world/advisors/413)



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Consular Registration When Living Abroad

The United States of America has always been a beacon of hope. Our identity to the world, or at least the one that we wanted to project as a nation, was one of freedom. 

As an immigration lawyer I’ve represented a wide range of individuals seeking to make the United States home. I’ve sat in countless meetings with clients committed to the principles and values that the United States represents. Economic opportunity. Political freedom. Social acceptance. Firm beliefs that would serve to propel families across the ocean to start anew and build a better life, for themselves and future generations.

What I’ve experienced in the past several years (and particularly in the last several months), once again as an immigration lawyer, has been enough to make Lady Liberty bow her head in grief.

#### Across the Atlantic

In 2019, I moved from the United States to Italy with my wife and two children. It was a privileged choice to be making, and our reasons for leaving were mainly personal and lifestyle oriented. We had already lived and experienced Europe and other parts of the world. We knew the quality of life that you could have outside of an exciting, grinding cosmopolitan like New York City.

And so, for the last several years I’ve been looking at the United States from the outside. At first, I was still practicing as a private U.S. immigration lawyer, propelling me to far corners of the world where the desire to migrate to the United States for a better life was stronger than ever. Yet, by virtue of being in Italy, another migration pattern started to emerge. This crystallized into a realization that there was no shortage of U.S. nationals that were starting to look across the Atlantic….and not just as tourists.
 
#### The Perfect Storm

The world emerged from the pandemic as a different place. As people, we had all gone through something brutal and unforgiving. The United States was no exception, yet there was something notably unique about the way America did surface into a post-pandemic world.

As an immigration lawyer I am experiencing something that I never anticipated to be part of my career trajectory. Before the pandemic, I realized that the United States was a “blue ocean market”. From a business lens, it was clear that being able to provide clear, bilingual information and services tailored to the West about immigration opportunities abroad (specifically Europe) would be valuable.

##### Yet this article is not about about business opportunities and emerging markets. It is about the reasons why U.S. nationals are leaving the New World. And these reasons are not easy to digest.

I recently consulted with a family living in Texas. They had two young-children and were inquiring about moving to Spain. They had never been, but they were fluent in Spanish. After determining that Spain was a viable option, the conversation shifted into other practical aspects of relocation: Health insurance, education, and reasons for leaving.

It went something like this:

**Healthcare.**

**Me:** “You will also need healthcare coverage in Spain to qualify.”

**Client:** “Okay, I pay nearly $1,500 per month for healthcare coverage - do you know how much it will be in Spain?”

**Me:** “No. I cannot tell you exactly how much, but I know other clients have paid this amount for one year of coverage.”

**Education.**

**Client:** “Can my child go to school in Spain?”

**Me:** “How old is he?

**Client:** “Four”

**Me:** “Well, he can definitely go to public school when he is the minimum age for kindergarten or pre-school.”

**Client:** “Is that free.”

**Me:** “Yes.”

**Client:** “What about private school?”

**Me:** “I can’t really tell you about the private schools in Spain, but I can tell you that we enrolled our kids in an international school when we arrived in Italy.”

**Client:** “How much did that cost, if you don’t mind me asking.”

**Me:**: “I don’t mind. We moved here from New York where we were paying for their preschool. Now it is around $800/month for two kids. They get a three course meal though.”

**Client:** “We pay double, and our kid gets corndogs.”


#### Reasons for Leaving the United States

Our conversation wavered between a sense of helplessness and hopeful optimism. In many ways, this range of emotion is very similar to many of my client conversations. *I don’t want to leave, but I feel like I have no other option. We’re ready to leave and excited about this new challenge. It’s a big life change, but now is the time. It’s a great opportunity.* And in many ways, this particular client consultation was unlike any other for one specific reason.

 **Client:** “We’re scared.” 

When our conversation reached this point, I felt something that I never experienced before in my professional life. No doubt, I’ve been in very difficult situations as an immigration advisor. I’ve experienced desperation in client situations - from the slums of India to Federal Asylum proceedings in the Courts in New York. But this had a shade of its own. This was a fellow American, with children, telling me that they were scared.

**Client:** “We heard the gunshots from our home.”

The client went on to express that in two different occasions – once in New York and another in Texas – these shootings happened in close proximity to their home and children's school.

#### The Exodus

After this call last week I felt compelled to write this article. As an immigration advisor, I never imagined the waves of migration being reversed in *this way* – with the catalyst for needing to leave the United States of America being fear and grave concerns with safety. As a parent, this chills me to the bone. As an American, this pains me deeply to the point of seeking patriotic revenge. 

Revenge for what America has done to itself. Revenge for the system that is fueling an alarming and untenable crisis. Revenge for the values and principles that have been lost and forgotten. Revenge for the blood that has spilled in order to protect, honor and liberate these fundamental declarations of independence.

So it is with a heavy heart that I share this personal story. And sadly, I know this is not some anomaly. In the past several months, I’ve had these conversations with increasing frequency – one compounding the other. It's not just headline news. There is a deep wound inside the heart of America that is bleeding. And there is only one universal truth that follows, with time being the only way for this bleeding heart to mend. And mend it will. Mend it must. But how long will it take?

##### David is a passionate advocate for the freedom of movement and licensed immigration lawyer. In his private practice, he advises individuals and businesses regarding global immigration and mobility solutions. 

United Arab Emirates

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