News and useful information

Europe suspends biometric border control: what to know about EES system problems in 2026

The EU’s new border control system, EES, which requires facial and fingerprint scans for tourists from third countries, has already caused hours-long lines and widespread flight delays. Due to the resulting transportation chaos, some European countries have begun temporarily abandoning biometrics and reverting to passport stamps. Here’s a look at which countries have already relaxed the rules and what this means for travelers in the summer of 2026

Easiest Countries to Get Residency in 2026: Complete Guide

Obtaining a residence permit abroad has become more accessible than ever before. Find out which countries are easiest to obtain a residence permit in 2026, what requirements you need to meet, and which programs to choose

Rise in Luxury Real Estate Prices in 2025: Ranking of the World’s Top 10 Cities

In 2025, the luxury real estate market saw significant price changes across various regions of the world—from Asia to the Caribbean. The rate of price increases for luxury housing varies significantly depending on the city and local economic conditions. Learn more about which cities topped the ranking of luxury housing price growth and what lies behind these figures

Spain is tightening rules for tourists in 2026: new fines in Mallorca and Ibiza

Spain is tightening rules for tourists at popular resorts due to mass tourism, loud parties, and complaints from local residents. New fines for drinking alcohol in public places, late-night noise, and public order violations are already in effect in Mallorca and Ibiza, and hotels are changing their all-inclusive policies. Learn more about the new restrictions for tourists in Spain in 2026 and what can now result in fines of thousands of euros

Salaries in Europe in 2026: Why Incomes Are Rising but Purchasing Power Is Falling

Over the past five years, the average hourly wage in the EU has risen by 21.9%, but prices have risen even faster—by 25.6%. As a result, Europeans’ real incomes have fallen by about 3%, despite the nominal increase in wages. Learn more about which European countries have seen real wage growth and where people are now earning less

Egypt Visa Fees Increase in 2026: New Prices, Rules and How to Apply for an e-Visa

Egypt has updated the cost of tourist visas in 2026. Learn about the new prices, the difference between e-Visa and visa on arrival, entry rules and how to properly prepare documents before traveling

AI will verify work permits in the UAE starting in May 2026: what do foreign workers need to know?

The UAE is launching an AI-based system to review work permit applications—the initiative will go live in May 2026. The changes will affect the assessment process for foreign workers and the requirements for their qualifications. Learn more about the new AI-based work permit verification system in the UAE, its impact on job seekers, and current employment regulations in the Emirates

Is it safe to pay with a credit card on top-up websites like Refilled?

Paying with a credit card on top-up websites often raises questions—is it really safe, and how can you avoid losing money? In this article, we explain how payment systems work, what to look out for before making a payment, and how to distinguish a reliable service from a risky one. Learn more about secure online payments and protecting your financial data