The Belgian Treasury has decided to unblock the assets of a Russian investor who does not hold a European residence permit, a move reported by Forbes. This development marks a notable shift in how regulators approach frozen or restricted assets tied to individuals without EU residence status. Until now, authorities in Europe had limited options, allowing asset dissolution or release in only a handful of cases and typically tied to specific criteria. The latest decision signals a more flexible stance, suggesting an interest in balancing enforcement with practical financial management for non-resident investors.
Observers note that this decision represents a rare compromise between the needs of clients who lack EU residency and the regulatory frameworks that govern asset congelation and release. Historically, European regulators could not easily reconcile the interests of non-resident clients with the strict rules surrounding asset handling. In the past, the options were narrow: the assets of Russian residents could be released only after a careful process, and even then, only on limited occasions. The current approach appears to create a broader pathway for certain non-resident cases, potentially setting a precedent for future negotiations between investors and authorities.
Turkey has tightened its procedures for verifying tourist residence permit applications from foreign nationals. Officials have emphasized that foreigners entering Turkey for study, family reunification, or to establish a business must apply for a residence permit that matches their purpose of stay. Even tourists are now expected to obtain a tourist residence permit when staying in the country for extended periods or under conditions that require formal documentation. The policy shift aims to improve oversight and ensure that all foreign visitors are properly registered and accounted for during their time in Turkey.
Within this evolving regulatory landscape, complaints have emerged from Russians living in Turkey who report difficulties in obtaining residence permits. Some individuals have voiced concerns that their applications are not moving forward or are being rejected under ambiguous criteria. These discussions have appeared in Turkish-language conversations and reflect broader tensions around residency processes and the rights of foreign nationals to reside in the country. The situation underscores how regulatory changes can create uncertainty for non-citizens while governments seek to enforce stricter immigration and residency controls.