Turning the Page: Key Changes Ahead Starting January 1

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Key changes from January 1 

January 1, 2024, ushers in a number of significant developments in a number of areas that will affect people, companies, and governments in equal measure. These changes, which range from modifications to labor laws and tax policies to technological breakthroughs and environmental regulations will influence how we live, work, and engage with the world. It’s critical to understand the major changes that will go into effect on this crucial date, whether you’re navigating new financial environments, acclimating to updated healthcare systems, or adjusting to changes in social policy. 

We’ll look more closely at some of the biggest changes in this post and how they might impact you in 2024 and beyond.

Gst

India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) system has undergone a number of noteworthy changes as of January 1, 2024: 

1. GST Rate on Used Vehicles: When sold by registered dealers, all used or old vehicles, including electric vehicles, will be subject to an 18% GST rate, as determined by the GST Council. Vehicles sold directly between people, however, will not be liable to this tax.

 2. GST on Popcorn: New GST rates for different kinds of popcorn have been implemented. Non-branded salted popcorn is subject to 5% GST. 12% GST on branded and pre-packaged popcorn. Because caramel popcorn contains added sugar, it is subject to 18% GST.

Visa fees

The type of visa, the country you’re applying to, and your nationality all affect the cost of the visa. They may also change according to the processing duration and validity period of the visa. The following are some typical visa fee categories: 

1. Tourist Visa: Depending on the country of travel, these visas typically have lower costs for brief visits, ranging from $20 to $160.

 2. Business Visa: Because of the nature of the trip, these visas are typically more costly than tourist ones, sometimes costing between $50 and $250. 

3. Student Visa: Depending on the nation and length of the course, the cost of a student visa might vary, but it usually falls between $50 and $500. 

4. Work Visa: The cost of a work visa can also vary greatly and be more expensive.

Mobile data charges and more 

The cost of mobile data varies by nation, provider, and plan. Important points consist of: 

Domestic Plans: Unlimited plans with possible speed throttling, or prepaid and postpaid plans that cost $1 to $10 per gigabyte.

 International Roaming: Expensive, around $5–$15 per MB, though international plans can reduce costs. 

Mobile Hotspot: Higher charges for hotspot data, ranging from $10–$50 per month. 

Add-Ons: Extra data packs can cost $5–$30. 

Data Speed: Speed may be throttled after a set data limit is reached. To reduce costs, use Wi-Fi and monitor data usage.

WhatsApp will Stop working 

There have been reports that WhatsApp would begin to discontinue support for specific devices or operating system versions on January 1, 2024. WhatsApp regularly removes support for outdated iOS and Android versions in order to improve efficiency and security.

 WhatsApp already said that it would no longer function on iPhones running iOS 12 or earlier and Android devices running Android 4.0.3 and earlier. You might not be able to use WhatsApp beyond the cutoff date if your smartphone is running an outdated version of these operating systems. Make sure the operating system on your device is supported in order to prevent any interruptions.

 If your phone or operating system is outdated, think about upgrading or switching to a newer version.

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