Global Mobility News from VisaHQ

All Greece Visa Application Centres in India reopened on 13 February after a cyber incident shut them for nearly two months. Standard Schengen processing times of 15 days—and limited 5-day priority slots—have resumed, clearing backlogs for tour operators and corporate travellers who favour Greece as a Schengen entry point.

The Irish government has automatically prolonged all Temporary Protection permissions by 12 months to 4 March 2027, covering more than 105,000 mainly Ukrainian refugees. Existing yellow certificates remain valid for work, services and re-entry, eliminating the need for immediate renewals and easing administrative pressure. Employers gain certainty that Ukrainian staff can stay and work for at least another year, aiding workforce planning.

Hong Kong processed a record 335 million passenger movements in 2025—up 12 % year-on-year—and will begin testing a fully contactless, facial-recognition e-Channel by June. The upgrade is aimed at easing congestion at land and airport checkpoints as the city’s visitor numbers rebound. Faster clearance will benefit business travellers and cross-border commuters alike.

From 25 February 2026 dual nationals must either present a current British passport or pay £589 for a Certificate of Entitlement; otherwise airlines will deny boarding. The rule is linked to full ETA enforcement and could disrupt business travellers whose UK passports have expired. Companies should audit affected staff and assist with renewals immediately.