Global Immigration Report

Trends and highlights from July to September 2025

Executive summary

“The US continues to tighten its non-immigrant visa programs, ending interview waivers for many applicants, and launching a visa bond pilot program targeting countries with high overstay rates. Other governments in the region are also tightening immigration controls. Ecuador now requires transit visas for nationals of 45 countries and online customs forms, while Colombia introduced a visa requirement for Israeli nationals.”

George Reis
EY Americas Immigration Leader

At a glance

Governments worldwide are intensifying efforts to protect local labor markets and continue to enact measures that significantly impact organizations relying on foreign workers. The US further tightened its nonimmigrant visa programs, ending interview waivers and launching a visa bond pilot program targeting countries with high overstay rates. Saudi Arabia introduced a new work permit classification system designed to strengthen the local workforce through knowledge transfer and training opportunities. Malaysia restricted eligibility for Professional Visit Pass applications to reduce the risk of international workers displacing local talent. The Netherlands and the UK are increasing salary and eligibility thresholds for applicants to reduce net migration.

In a bid to strengthen talent pipelines, jurisdictions across Asia passed targeted measures to attract foreign specialists, signaling a shift toward more business-friendly policies. Vietnam streamlined work permit rules, broadened exemptions and created a special card that grants executives, investors and experts visa-free stays over a five-year period. Hong Kong launched a new Technical Professional Stream for skilled individuals without academic degrees. Indonesia simplified its immigration classifications to support employers with accessing foreign workers.

Business visa policies continue to critically impact how multinational companies manage short-term talent deployments. In a move that signals a push toward deeper integration with emerging markets, the Chinese mainland and Ghana expanded visa-free access for nationals of Azerbaijan, Russia and travelers from Africa and Latin America. In contrast, Colombia and Ecuador tightened entry requirements for visitors and individuals in transit, reflecting shifting diplomatic allegiances and rising security concerns.

Digital systems are increasingly driving efficiency in immigration procedures while reinforcing surveillance and control mechanisms. New online platforms in Kuwait and Nigeria, as well as Malaysia’s digitization of company interviews and “document sighting” requirements, are expected to simplify onboarding and other employer obligations. The phased rollout of the EU’s Entry/Exit System marks a new chapter in digital border control across Europe.