New rules, fewer limits, and smoother travel—What’s changing worldwide?
Switzerland launches new short-term work notification system
The new EasyGov portal for submitting short-term work notifications in Switzerland went live on March 17, 2025, replacing the previous system which closed on March 14. During the brief transition from March 14 to March 17, notifications could not be submitted. This change is part of Switzerland’s ongoing digitalisation efforts to streamline administrative processes. Employers must submit notifications about foreign workers, with processing times generally taking one to two days. No new documentary requirements have been introduced, and no delays to standard processing times are expected
Singapore to lift work duration limit and increase hiring age
Effective July 1, 2025, foreign workers in Singapore will no longer face a limit on how long they can stay under a work permit. This change means they can work in the country indefinitely. The government will also raise the maximum age for foreign workers from 60 to 63, and the age for new work permit applications will increase to 61 for all nationals (up from lower limits for some). These updates, aimed at tackling labour shortages, don’t apply to migrant domestic helpers.
Ireland expands work permits for carers and town planners
From March 10, 2025, Ireland is making it easier for home carers and town planners to work in the country. The government has increased the quota for home carers by 1,000, recognising their essential role in supporting communities. At the same time, ‘town planners’ have been added to the Critical Skills Occupations List to help tackle housing and infrastructure challenges. These changes aim to fill labour gaps and support Ireland’s long-term development. More updates on work permits and salary requirements are expected later this year.
UK updates travel rules: ETA exceptions and new visa requirement for trinidad and tobago nationals
The UK is making changes to its travel rules in 2025. From March 12, nationals of Trinidad and Tobago will need a visa to enter the UK, even for tourism or business. Previously, they could visit without one. However, there’s a transition period until April 23—those who booked travel before 15:00 (local time) on that date can still enter without a visa. Additionally, Trinidad and Tobago nationals transiting through the UK must now get a Direct Airside Transit Visa.
Meanwhile, starting April 9, certain travellers will be exempt from the UK's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement. This includes British Nationals (Overseas) and children under 18 in
French school groups. However, from April 2, the ETA will apply to all remaining eligible nationalities. These updates aim to strengthen UK border security while allowing limited exemptions for specific groups.
UAE expands visa-on-arrival for Indian nationals
Indian nationals with valid residence permits from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, or South Korea can now get a visa-on-arrival in the UAE for tourism or business stays of up to 60 days. Those travelling for work, study, or other purposes still need to apply for a visa before arrival. This change makes travel more convenient for eligible Indian travellers while maintaining visa rules for other categories.
Qatar adds new step to residence permit cancellation process
Foreign workers in mainland Qatar now face an extra step when cancelling their residence permits. Applications must first go through the Ministry of Labour before reaching the Ministry of Interior, whereas previously, only the Ministry of Interior was involved. Employers must also provide the employee’s locally registered Qatari mobile number to confirm consent. As a result, processing now takes two to four business days instead of one. This change does not currently apply to companies in the Qatar Financial Centre free zone, but it’s unclear if it will in the future.