Global Immigration Trends and Highlights

Trends and highlights from April to June 2025

Executive summary

"Across the Americas, the second quarter of 2025 was defined by a tightening of immigration controls and a renewed focus on compliance. The United States introduced a series of executive orders that reinforced border security and introduced new registration requirements for foreign nationals. At the same time, countries like Colombia, Costa Rica and Ecuador modernized entry protocols and introduced health-related requirements, signaling a growing emphasis on public safety and administrative efficiency."

George Reis, EY Americas Immigration Leader

At a glance

The second quarter of 2025 illuminated the deepening interplay between geopolitics and immigration policy, with global conflicts and shifting priorities prompting governments to recalibrate their immigration systems in response to both humanitarian imperatives and national security concerns. In the Middle East, the armed conflict triggered operational and policy adjustments, including the automatic extension of visas for foreign experts currently in Israel, a measure designed to mitigate disruption caused by limited consular services and restricted travel options. In South Asia, heightened tensions between India and Pakistan prompted both countries to tighten cross-border mobility and increase scrutiny of visa applications. In Europe, the protracted conflict in Ukraine has led to the continued extension of temporary protection measures for displaced individuals.

These developments echo a broader global pattern in which immigration policies are increasingly being shaped by security concerns and crisis response, rather than solely for economic or labor market planning. The US enacted new travel restrictions on nationals of several countries, citing deficiencies in identity management and information sharing. Mozambique mandated pre-travel registration for visa-exempt travelers, enabling authorities to screen visitors before arrival. Japan announced plans to implement its Electronic System for Travel Authorization ahead of schedule and enhance enforcement measures aimed at ensuring public safety.

Meanwhile, governments continue to pursue policies aimed at safeguarding domestic labor markets, in response to economic pressures and public sentiment. Australia is forecasting a drop of over 30% in net overseas migration, net arrivals and net departures resulting from its Migration Strategy. The UK has proposed multiple measures designed to reduce net migration and ensure that foreign labor does not displace domestic workers. Poland enacted new legislation, which includes stricter controls on work authorization categories and increased oversight of non-EU hires, reinforcing the country’s commitment to prioritizing local employment.

At the same time, efforts to attract international expertise and alleviate skills shortages gained momentum through new immigration policies. The Republic of Korea launched a new visa category for skilled tech workers, demonstrating a targeted approach to bolstering innovation-driven industries. The Philippines introduced, and Kenya began accepting applications for, digital nomad visas, initiatives designed to support the evolving nature of global work and attract mobile professionals. The Chinese mainland expanded visa-free access for Latin American and Gulf nationals, potentially boosting inbound business activity and talent exchange.