Do you have plans for international travel this year? Whether you’re a student who is looking for a fresh experience off-campus, a digital nomad who wants to fulfill their bucket list, or an entrepreneur hoping to close a deal, it's important to have an updated visa and check for visa updates. Regardless of your destination or travel purpose, understanding guidelines, limitations, and updates should be top-of-mind.

CIBTvisas’ global team monitors international travel regulations to ensure that U.S. citizens are fully prepared to travel. We do our research on each country's tailored information so we can give you the most accurate intel. Before you hop on a flight, check out some key 2023 updates you don’t want to miss!

Visa Updates for Spain & Portugal

Digital nomads, this is for you. If you’re someone who loves traveling the world while working, you’re not alone. Since the pandemic, numerous remote workers have taken advantage of their workstation flexibility. They’ve begun experiencing cultures and lifestyles that were previously unavailable. 

Spain and Portugal have recognized this surge and are now issuing digital nomad visas. If you have your heart set on living in Spain, Spain issues digital nomad visas for a one-year period with the option of renewal for up to five years. You will need the following to apply:

• Proof of employment

• Earn a maximum of 20% of your income from Spanish firms, among other requirements. 

• Proof that your annual income is equivalent to 200% of the minimum wage in Spain (roughly $26,000 USD).

If you’re more interested in Portugal, though, the requirements for a digital nomad visa are slightly different. Working professionals need to show proof of the following to apply:

• Proof of employment

• Proof that you earn a monthly income equivalent to four times Portugal’s monthly wage, which comes out to roughly $3,200 USD. 

Once you’ve processed the application and received acceptance, you will be offered a passport visa and a residence permit. The visa will be valid for one year from the start date. Please note that Portugal has discontinued their golden visa option as you apply.

Visa Updates for Australia

The Land Down Under is a dream escape for many Americans. During the pandemic, Australia relaxed work restrictions for primary and secondary student visa holders. In January 2022, they lifted the restrictions completely. However, recently the Australian Home Ministry released a statement stating that work restrictions for student visa holders will be reintroduced on July 1, 2023. Student visa holders can work in Australia for a maximum of 48 hours per two weeks. This is an effort to help students focus on their academics and support themselves financially.

Visa Updates for The Schengen Zone

The Schengen Zone consists of 27 countries. U.S. citizens love traveling to these nations, with some of the more popular destinations including Italy, Germany, and France. Currently, U.S. citizens can travel to the Schengen Zone for short-term stays without needing to apply for a visa. 

Beginning November 2023, the EU was planning to introduce ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorization System. ETIAS would affect millions of travelers across the globe, as it is an electronic system that keeps track of visitors from countries who don’t need a visa (this includes the U.S.). The launch has been delayed once more, though, and is now slated to start in 2024. Stay tuned for more information!

Connect with Our Team

We can’t wait for you to see the world and forge connections with diverse cultures. As you prepare for travel, CIBTvisas is here to provide you with visa information and more. Should you even have questions regarding health requirements, safety tips, or citizen requirements, we are here to give insight. 

Complete a visa quick check on our website for country-specific details.  If you want to connect with a team member to chat or ask questions, we’re more than happy to talk. Contact us today!