The rollout is being implemented in phases:
Phase 1: Gulf Cooperation Council states (e.g., UAE, Saudi Arabia) – already mandatory.
Phase 2: Non-European countries like the US, Canada, and Australia – mandatory from 8 January 2025. Applications open on 27 November 2024.
Phase 3: European countries (e.g., France, Germany, Italy) – mandatory from 5 March 2025, with applications opening on the same day.
Given the fast pace of change, we would stress that this information is designed to be informative, not advisory and represents our understanding of English law and practice as at the date indicated. We would always recommend that you should seek specific guidance on any particular legal issue.
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