Latest news with #citizenship
The National
4 hours ago
- Business
- The National
Best photos of June 2: From a tomato fight to fog over Sydney
Under the UK government's proposals, migrants will have to spend 10 years in the UK before being able to apply for citizenship. Skilled worker visas will require a university degree, and there will be tighter restrictions on recruitment for jobs with skills shortages. But what are described as "high-contributing" individuals such as doctors and nurses could be fast-tracked through the system. Language requirements will be increased for all immigration routes to ensure a higher level of English. Rules will also be laid out for adult dependants, meaning they will have to demonstrate a basic understanding of the language. The plans also call for stricter tests for colleges and universities offering places to foreign students and a reduction in the time graduates can remain in the UK after their studies from two years to 18 months.
The Guardian
9 hours ago
- Business
- The Guardian
I got British citizenship via the five-year route. Labour's new 10-year rule will cause untold pain
There are many lies told by politicians when it comes to immigration in the UK, but none is bigger than the claim that it's all too easy. Too easy to enter Britain; too easy to be given handouts; too easy to acquire citizenship. The UK is presented as an inert country, passively receiving future Britons that it does not charge, test or, indeed, invite. The government's latest raft of policies to deal with the 'failed experiment' of 'open borders' is heavily influenced by this lie, as it is intended to make things harder for immigrants. One of those policies went broadly under the radar, a small technicality amid Keir Starmer's unsettling rhetoric, but it will have serious consequences. That policy is extending the period you're required to be settled in Britain before you can get permanent residency, and then citizenship, from five years to 10 years. As someone who became naturalised under the five-year route, my stomach sank when I saw the news. There is no automatic route to citizenship in the UK for foreigners, not through marriage to a British citizen or even birth on British soil to non-British parents; there has long been a residency requirement component. The 'settlement' route to citizenship is – or was – open to those who have worked and lived in the country legally for five continuous years, and their dependants. After that five years, one can apply for 'indefinite leave to remain' (ILR). After a minimum of a year on that status, one can apply for naturalisation, and then a British passport. If the government's new policies come to pass, the route to settlement will now take a minimum of 11 years, not including any time spent in Britain as a student or on other visas that don't count towards the settlement component. I know from experience that five years are already one long trial of keeping jobs against all odds and fighting sudden changes in the law. Doubling that time has ramifications that encompass everything from professional security to that supposed holy grail of immigration anxieties, 'integration'. The panic about settlement is misinformed by temporary patterns and faulty premises. After Brexit and the pandemic, the need to support struggling health and care sectors led to a short-term increase in work visas. And what counts towards immigration numbers includes category errors, such as students, as well as an underlying assumption that all those who enter on long-term visas with a potential for settlement will remain. A report from 2023 indicates that, of those on work routes in 2018, only 38% still had valid or indefinite leave to remain five years later. By this measure, not all workers and their families, not even half, are likely to remain in the UK and apply for citizenship – the punitiveness of the extension is disproportionate to the pain it will inflict. It is particularly gratuitously cruel as the 10-year limit will be applied retroactively. Those who came to the UK based on the understanding that naturalisation was an option, and made big life arrangements on that basis, now find themselves literally unsettled. Once the proposed new rules were announced, I received a flurry of correspondence and calls. 'I feel it is unfair,' Christine (not her real name), a skilled worker who was one year away from securing ILR, told me. 'Moving to a new country is not a life decision that anyone takes lightly,' she said. These are people who are keenly aware that they have no recourse to public funds and risk having to pack up and leave if they lose their jobs. Christine understood that uncertainty was part of the deal – but thought it could be weathered if she followed the rules, with the promised reward at the end of being 'accepted into British society'. Vulnerability is a point that recurred in conversations. Even for those happy in their work, the prospect of being in bondage to their employer for double the anticipated time seized them with a sense of precariousness. Workers' visas are tied to their employers. They can't just leave or look for another job, unless the new employer is willing to take on the cost and effort of sponsoring them. The new rules limit career prospects, and will expose people to the whims of bosses and employers. Every bad day at work becomes not just that, but a worry that your whole life in the UK may be over. Long-term sickness becomes not just a health calamity, but an existential one. Then there is the cost and administrative burden. Each extension or renewal of a visa can cost up to almost £2,000, in addition to the £1,035 annual NHS surcharge that migrants need to pay (on top of national insurance contributions). Over a period of 10 years, a family of four could pay almost up to £35,000 in health surcharges alone. There are other potential cascading costs. Children without ILR, for example, will enter the university system as overseas students, and may be treated as such for fees purposes. Many of these human consequences have not been thought through. We know this because one chilling aspect of the new policies is the lack of specificity beyond the headline summary. The extension comes with the caveat that some people will qualify 'sooner based on criteria yet to be decided', and that there will be a 'consultation' later this year. To anyone who has dealt with the Home Office, this working-it-out-as-you-go-along language augurs the sort of unclear process that one immigrant in the throes of challenging a Home Office error once told me was akin to 'climbing a crumbling staircase'. Above all, the rule changes show how little our politicians really care about integration. They constantly cite it as the epitome of what earns the right to be in the country and accuse immigrants of not holding up their end of the bargain. But being stuck on work visas for year after year amounts to the opposite of integration. It means you can't vote, cannot have recourse to public funds if needed, cannot fully lean in to British society and participate with a sense of safety and belonging, as you're constantly trying to minimise costs in case a change in circumstances means relocating. The policy creates a tier of second-class worker, a sort of migrant labourer welcomed for their work and paying of taxes, but shut out from the privileges enjoyed by British nationals. That's the real cost of this shortsighted and heartless change. Those who come to the country and build a life, have or bring children, become part of the fabric of society, and work continuously throughout their naturalisation time might soon be prevented for more than a decade from having a relationship with the British state that is defined by anything more than fear and anxiety. If there were ever a 'failed experiment', this is it. Nesrine Malik is a Guardian columnist
Daily Mail
a day ago
- General
- Daily Mail
The hilarious reason you can be denied citizenship in Switzerland
A little known rule could deny people being granted citizenship in Switzerland, it has been revealed. Moving to the country offers numerous perks, including stunning natural scenery and a strong economy with great job opportunities. However, those who try to enter may be denied if they are too 'annoying', Pubity first reported. The decision will be made based on whether or not locals feel an applicant is well integrated enough. Nancy Holten, a Dutch-born woman, was once rejected for being 'annoying' as a result of her her activism against Swiss traditions such as cowbells. Ms Holten had previously campaigned against cowbells, stating that cows wearing them were too loud and a form of animal cruelty. She also reportedly questioned piglet racing, church bells, as well as other noise or forms of animal distress. Ms Holten met all legal requirements, but locals voted against her as they did not feel she was the correct fit. Her application was later approved by higher authorities, who could not find a valid reason to deny her entry. Reacting to the bizarre rule on Instagram, one user wrote: 'Swiss guy here, absolutely true.' Another said: 'Sounds like a dream to live there!'
Forbes
a day ago
- Business
- Forbes
U.S. Estate Tax Follows Expatriates Under Section 2801
T Tina Turner (Photo by Blick/RDB/ullstein bild via Getty Images) ina Turner's death in May 2023 sparked an interesting consideration for the estates of expatriates. She relinquished her citizenship in late 2013, approximately ten years before her death and resided in Switzerland at her death. Despite being a noncitizen of the U.S. at her death, Turner may have been subject to U.S. income and estate taxes depending upon whether she was considered a covered expatriate and whether she had assets that would be considered U.S. assets taxable in her estate. The impact of the estate tax could deplete 40% of the assets subject to tax at her death. Given her substantial wealth, it is likely that she engaged in significant planning that minimized or eliminated any tax exposure regardless. However, if she had made transfers either during her lifetime or at death to any U.S. beneficiaries, significant tax compliance and payment obligations could have resulted for both the beneficiaries and her estate. The following is a brief overview and some of the common considerations for expatriates in similar situations where they may not consider having the U.S. tax system apply even where they have no direct investments in the U.S. IRC Section 2801 imposes a tax on U.S. citizens or residents on the receipt of "covered gifts" or "covered bequests" from individuals who fall within the definition of a covered expatriates. The tax is imposed on all transfers, whether during the expatriate's lifetime or at death, as an estate tax. The law provides that the individual would be a covered expatriate if any of the following apply: (1) Had an average annual net income tax liability exceeding a specified threshold aligned with an inflation adjusted amount for five years preceding the date of expatriation, (2) Had a combined net worth of $2 million or more on all assets globally on the date of expatriation, or (3) Was noncompliant with U.S. tax obligations for five years preceding expatriation. Tax obligations extend beyond income tax to certain excise taxes as well that may be considered with personal income tax obligations. Section 2801 imposes the highest estate tax rate in effect at the time of the gift or bequest. This rate is currently 40%. In January 2025, the U.S. Congress issued final regulations on the taxation of gifts and bequests from covered expatriates. These regulations introduced the filing of a new Form 708 to report these transfers. Form 708 must be filed by U.S. recipients of covered gifts or bequests by the 15th day of the 18th month following the end of the year in which they received the covered gifts or bequests. Noncompliance subjects the recipients to significant penalties. The trust classification controls whether transfers made to trusts by covered expatriates fall within the purview of the reporting requirements and tax: In addition to other factors, compliance and tax exposure for transfers from covered expatriates should be considered in structuring trusts and making elections. Regulations under Section 2801 were passed nearly seventeen years after the statute and the scope of some provisions, especially their retroactive applicability remains uncertain. To prevent cumbersome audit issues and potential noncompliance complications, it is prudent to consider: Continued increase in expatriation makes consideration of the broader tax implications and application of covered expatriate rules significant. Celebrities and public figures face additional challenges in terms of asset location and valuation because of rights of publicity (name, likeness, and image rights) which may be deemed to be located in the U.S. even though all their assets are abroad. These issues also arise with other intangibles such as cryptocurrency, artificial intelligence, and technology. Careful asset protection and planning well before any expatriation can be critical to avoid unexpected surprises.
Travel Daily News
3 days ago
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Fastest Golden Visa programs worldwide
Golden Visa with fast processing provides fast-track residency or citizenship. Investors looking for the quickest options can find programs that grant approval within four to six months. Golden Visas offer residency by investment. These programs allow investors to secure residency or even citizenship in a country by making a qualifying financial contribution. Processing times vary, but some countries grant residency or citizenship in just a few months. Albert Ioffe, Legal and Compliance Officer at Immigrant Invest, explains Golden Visa Programs terms and conditions and Golden Visa Programs with fast approval. What is a Golden Visa Golden Visa programs grant residency in exchange for investment. Investors typically choose real estate, government bonds, or business investments. The main advantages include visa-free travel, tax benefits, and a pathway to citizenship. Some programs process applications faster than others, making them attractive for those seeking quick relocation. Cheapest Golden Visa options are in the 5 Caribbean countries offering pathway to second citizenship. Quickest Golden Visa options in Europe Hungary Golden Visa — fastest in Europe. Hungary's new Golden Visa grants residency in about five months. Investors must place €250,000 into a local investment fund. The program does not require physical presence and offers a five-year renewable residence permit. Cyprus Permanent Residency — issued within two months. Cyprus offers residency for a €300,000 real estate investment. The processing time is about 9 months. While it does not lead directly to citizenship, residents can apply for naturalisation after five years. Greece Golden Visa — fast track option. Greece provides residency in 4 months for a €250,000 property investment. The program does not require physical stay and allows visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone. Italy Investor Visa — quick and flexible. Italy's investor visa is processed in 4 months. Investors must contribute at least €250,000 to an innovative startup or €500,000 into an Italian company. The visa grants a two-year renewable residence permit. Fastest Golden Visa programs in the Caribbean St Kitts and Nevis. A minimum contribution of $250,000 to the Sustainable Island State Contribution is required. Dominica. The Dominica program offers a passport in exchange for a $200,000 donation or a $200,000 real estate investment. The application process is straightforward, and no residency is required. Grenada. Grenada's citizenship-by-investment program requires a $235,000 donation or a $220,000 real estate investment. The passport allows visa-free access to China and the UK. St Lucia. St Lucia grants citizenship for a $240,000 government donation or a $200,000 real estate investment. The process is efficient and does not require physical presence. How to apply for the fastest residence-by-investment program Step 1. Choose the right program. Investors should compare residency and citizenship options based on processing time, investment amount, and long-term benefits. Step 2. Prepare the necessary documents. Common requirements include passports, proof of funds, background checks, and investment agreements. Step 3. Submit the application. Most countries allow applications through authorised agents. The process usually involves online or in-person submission. Step 4. Make the investment. The investment must be completed before residency or citizenship is granted. This can involve real estate purchases, fund deposits, or government donations. Step 5. Receive approval and residency/citizenship. Once the application is approved, investors receive their residence permit or passport. 9 benefits of the fastest Golden Visa programs Quick approval process. Residency or citizenship in as little as 6 months. Minimal physical presence requirements. Many programs do not require long-term stays. Visa-free travel. Residency or citizenship grants access to the Schengen Zone, UK, or other regions. Tax advantages. Some countries offer low or no tax on foreign income. Pathway to citizenship. Many Golden Visa holders can apply for citizenship after a few years. Secure investment options. Investments in real estate, funds, or businesses with potential returns. Family inclusion. Most programs allow spouses, children, and sometimes parents to apply. No language or education requirements. No need to pass exams or meet educational criteria. Flexible relocation options. Investors can maintain residency while living elsewhere. Additional Considerations When Choosing a Golden Visa Program Investment return potential. Some countries provide more stable or high-yield real estate investments, while others focus on government bonds or business contributions. Investors should assess the potential for appreciation and returns before committing funds. Tax implications. Each country has different tax regulations. Some Golden Visa programs offer zero taxation on foreign income, while others may require investors to pay local taxes. Consulting with a tax expert is advisable before selecting a program. Residency and citizenship timeline. While some programs grant residency immediately, others offer a direct path to citizenship within a few years. Investors should consider long-term residency and naturalisation options when making their decision. Reputation and international mobility. Certain passports provide stronger visa-free travel privileges. Caribbean programs, for instance, offer access to the UK and Schengen Zone, while European residency can lead to an EU passport after a few years. Conclusion Golden Visa with fast processing provides fast-track residency or citizenship. Investors looking for the quickest options can find programs that grant approval within four to six months. Whether in Europe or the Caribbean, these programs offer flexibility, security, and long-term benefits. Investors should consider investment return potential, tax implications, and mobility benefits when selecting a program. Photo by Claudia Altamimi on Unsplash
