Updates to Immigration News for Amer and EMEA Regions
Americas
US: Implementing an actual ID 
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially launched actual identity enforcement at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints nationwide. With 81% of travellers already complying, most passengers are unlikely to notice changes. Real ID is a federal standard designed to enhance security by verifying traveller identity and preventing fraud.
The TSA maintains the normal waiting time and screening process for those with an actual ID, passport, or other approved identification. Travelers who present their non-compliant ID without a replacement will be notified and additional screenings may be conducted. The TSA expects a continuous increase in actual identity adoption and supports additional security measures until risk is completely reduced.
This summary was created using information from Homeland Security.
Disclaimer: The above information is provided with general information only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any further inquiries regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Roberta Carnaccini, Global Operations Director of Immigration.
Europe, Middle East, Africa
France: Change EU Blue Card Key
France has introduced a major update to the immigration framework through Law No. 2025-391, coordinating European Union directions and national law. These changes primarily affect the issuance and management of EU Blue Cards, with associated residence permits for highly qualified third country citizens.
1. EU Blue Card Period (Article 1 L.411-4)
The multi-year residence permit, including the reference “EU Blue Card,” is as follows:
•If the contract is at least two years, it is valid for up to four years for the duration of the employment contract.
•If the contract is less than 2 years, the card will be issued if the contract is limited to a contract period and 3 months and 2 years.
2. Eligibility criteria (Article 1 L.421-11)
To qualify for the EU Blue Card, applicants must:
•Employed in a highly qualified position for at least six months.
• Owned:
• A diploma that accredits at least three years of higher education, or
• At least 5 years of comparable professional experience, or
• Within the past 7 years of related experience in accordance with the order, 3 years.
• Meets a salary threshold of at least 1.5 times the average total salary.
This card will be issued during the term of the employment agreement, subject to the same four-year and two-year restrictions.
3. Reasons for refusal or withdrawal
•If an employer's business is established primarily to promote entry of third-country citizens, the application must be denied.
•In the case of an employer, the application may be denied or the card may be withdrawn.
•Not comply with legal obligations related to social security, taxation, rights of work, or working conditions.
• Convicted of a crime under sections 8211-1 of the French Labor Code.
4. Eligibility for Long-Term Residence (Articles 421-12)
A 10-year EU Long-Term Residence Card may be granted to the following individuals:
• Holds EU Blue Card in France for at least 2 years.
•Legally and continuously resides in France or another EU member state at least three years ago.
•EU Blue Card (Directive 2021/1883)
•National permits for highly qualified employment
•Researcher permission (Directive 2016/801)
•Refugee or Auxiliary Protection Status (Directive 2011/95/EU)
5. Family Rights (Article 1 L. 421-22)
Families of EU Blue Cardholders are entitled to automatic renewal of their residence permit if:
• They have legally resided in the EU for five consecutive years, including the past two years in France.
This summary was created using information from the integration (available in French).
UK: New Immigration Plan
The UK government has announced a comprehensive immigration reform plan aimed at prioritizing economic contributions and reducing reliance on international recruitment.
Important measures proposed:
Skilled Workers: Lowest Skill Levels Increased to Alumni Level (RQF 6); Salary Threshold Increased. The immigration salary list will be discarded. Employer Responsibility: Employers must invest in domestic training. Overseas employment is limited to roles with long-term shortages and labor strategies. Social Care: The new overseas social care visa ends. Existing workers can extend their visas until 2028. International Students: Sponsored institutions are strict in compliance. The post-study work period was reduced to 18 months. Family Immigration: Simplified rules and restrictions on legal issues using Article 8 (rights to family life). Skilled Talent: An expanded route for top global talent, including researchers and innovators. Abuse Prevention: stricter asylum rules, visa controls and penalties for non-compliant sponsors. Deportation: A broader standard for eliminating foreign criminals, especially in cases of violence. Language and Integration: New English Requirements. The payment period doubled to 10 years. Citizenship related to contributions.
Reforms will be rolled out during this legislature, with asylum and border security measures expected to be added in the summer of 2025.
This summary was prepared using information obtained from the UK government
Disclaimer: The above information is provided with general information only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any further inquiries regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Joanna Sogeke (Immigration Team Leader) or Roberta Carnaccini (Global Operations Director of Immigration).
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