Blog · 2024-05-11

Relocation news digest - May 11, 2024

Turkey: one of the country's largest banks tightens rules for Russian citizens

Russian citizens can now open an account with DenizBank only if they hold a deposit of $100,000 (over 9 million rubles). Without such a deposit, even Russians with a registered address and residence permit in Turkey are being turned away. Previously, a foreign passport was all that was required to open an account.

Italy: work permit applications can now be filed online

Italy has begun accepting online applications for intra-corporate work permits.

The permit allows employees from non-EU countries to work in Italy without being subject to work-permit quota limits.

The government has not yet released detailed guidance on the documents required for such applications.

Kyrgyzstan: the Mir payment system is no longer accepted in the country

As of 5 May, Mir cards no longer work in Kyrgyzstan. Users can neither make cashless payments nor withdraw money from ATMs, and money transfers are likewise unavailable.

Pakistan: authorities introduce a multiple-entry work visa for foreigners

Foreign nationals who wish to work in Pakistan can now apply for a multiple-entry work visa. It allows employees to enter the country for 90 days from the date of issue, with the option to extend to one year. Single-entry work visas permit a stay of only up to 90 days.

Applications can be submitted through the government's online portal, Nadra. Processing takes up to 30 business days for a multiple-entry work visa, compared with up to 15 business days for a single-entry one.

Turkey: Sberbank rolls out QR-code payments across the country

This payment method is available in 81 Turkish cities. Payments are made commission-free through the SberPay app. Every shop and restaurant that accepts QR-code payment displays a corresponding green sticker.

Georgia: authorities make medical insurance mandatory for tourists

From June 2024, all tourists travelling to Georgia are required to hold medical insurance. The fine for not having it is 300 Georgian lari (about 10,000 rubles).

Estonia: authorities ease the rules for obtaining an EU Blue Card

Estonia has introduced more lenient rules for EU Blue Cards. The main changes are:

a shorter minimum employment-contract duration required to obtain a Blue Card;
relaxed rules for changing employers;
relaxed rules regarding unemployment.

Brazil: authorities resume issuing RNM cards for foreigners

The Federal Police have resumed issuing RNM cards (an identity document) to foreign nationals.

Bulgaria: Schengen visas are being issued to Russian citizens without delay

VFS Global had reported delays in launching the Schengen visa program for Russian citizens. The Bulgarian embassy has denied these reports. Visas are being issued as usual, with processing taking two weeks from the date biometrics are submitted.

FAQ

Can Russians open a bank account in Turkey?

On paper yes - you need a Turkish tax number and proof of address - but banks decide for themselves who they take on. Major Turkish banks have added conditions for Russian clients, including large minimum deposits, and have turned away applicants who already hold Turkish residence permits. Policies differ by bank and change without notice, so plan to try several branches.

Where do MIR cards still work abroad?

The list of countries accepting MIR cards has narrowed sharply, with banks switching acceptance off under threat of secondary sanctions, sometimes overnight. Last year reports are a poor guide, since a card can stop working mid trip. Carry cash and keep a backup account with a local or foreign bank.

Do you need travel insurance to enter Georgia?

Georgia has required tourists to hold medical insurance, with a fine for arriving without it. Entry rules there change fairly often, so check the current requirement before you go. Either way the policy pays for itself, since healthcare for foreigners is not free.

Who qualifies for the EU Blue Card?

The Blue Card is an EU work and residence permit for highly qualified specialists: you need a degree or recognised experience, a job contract in an EU country and a salary above a set threshold. The threshold, the minimum contract length and the rules on changing employers are set nationally and revised regularly. Check the specific country terms on the day you apply.

Don’t want to figure this out alone?

We handle the whole process end to end: we check your documents, match a program to your situation and give you honest timelines and costs. Leave your details and a migration expert will get back to you. The first consultation is free.