The Estonian government has limited its issuance of visas to Russian nationals.

Key Points:

  • As of Augh. 18, Estonian authorities are no longer issuing visas to Russian nationals. Russian nationals who hold a Schengen visa issued by another Schengen Area country will not be allowed to enter Estonia.
  • Russian nationals who hold Estonian long-term residence permits will be allowed to enter the country if they work in the international transport sector or are visiting close relatives, engaged in diplomatic services or traveling for humanitarian reasons.
  • Estonian authorities extended Russian nationals’ student residence permits for one year if they will compete a higher education degree while in the country.

Additional Information: More information regarding the Estonian government’s decision to suspend visa services to Russian nationals is available here.

BAL Analysis: Estonia has joined other European countries that have suspended certain visa services for Russian nationals. Employers and employees are reminded that actions taken as a result of the invasion of Ukraine may change with little or no notice. BAL will continue to follow the global response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and will provide updated information as it becomes available.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2022 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries, please contact copyright@bal.com.

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Hong Kong has relaxed visa requirements for Cambodian nationals.

What does the change mean? Cambodian nationals are now eligible to travel to Hong Kong for work, investment, training or study. Previously, Cambodian nationals could only enter Hong Kong as visitors or dependents.

  • Implementation time frame: March 1.
  • Who is affected: Cambodian nationals looking to work, reside or study in Hong Kong.
  • Business impact: The change makes it easier for Hong Kong businesses to recruit and hire Cambodian nationals.
  • Next steps: Additional information is available at this Immigration Department website.

Background: The new policy was announced in February and took effect this month.

Under the new policy, Cambodian nationals may apply to enter Hong Kong for employment under the General Employment Policy, the Supplementary Labour Scheme or as foreign domestic helpers. Cambodian nationals may also enter Hong Kong for investment (to establish or join in a business), training or study. Finally, Cambodian nationals may apply under the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates and the Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents.

The relaxation of visa requirements for Cambodian nationals will help foster co-operation and exchange between Hong Kong and Cambodia.

BAL Analysis: Companies interested in recruiting or hiring Cambodian nationals should consult with BAL about which route is the best option.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

Copyright © 2017 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.