Immigration Insights

CHINA – Work Permit and Social Security cards will be integrated for foreign workers from December 1, 2024

November 26, 2024

A new regulation will integrate the Foreigner’s Work Permit Card with the Social Security Card to create a unified system.

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UAE – Stricter visa guidelines take effect.

November 26, 2024

The UAE's updated visit visa requirements include financial proof, accommodation details, and return ticket policies.

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EUROPEAN UNION – Proposed digital portal will streamline Posted Worker compliance.

November 25, 2024

Proposal for a single digital portal to simplify Posted Worker notifications, reduce cost and administration, and enhance compliance.

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INDONESIA – Annual manpower reporting and key immigration changes.

November 21, 2024

An important reporting period and key immigration regulation changes have been announced by authorities in Indonesia.

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VIETNAM – Foreign utilization mandatory reporting

November 20, 2024

Employers in Vietnam who have foreign employees holding valid or current work permits are required to complete a bi-annual report regarding the utilization of foreign manpower.

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CANADA – Changes to multi-entry visa issuance.

November 18, 2024

IRCC officers are empowered to use discretion in deciding whether to issue a single-entry or multiple-entry visa and in determining the validity period.

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PANAMA: Changes are introduced for non-visa waiver nationals

November 13, 2024

Non-visa wavier nationals seeking admission to Panama without a consular visa are now required to meet fewer requirements.

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Mastering the L-1 visa: How the L-1 Blanket streamlines workforce transfers.

November 13, 2024

Learn how the L-1 Visa and L-1 Blanket Petition simplify U.S. employee transfers for multinational companies, saving time and reducing costs while ensuring compliance.

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THAILAND – A new electronic travel authorization will be required for entry. 

October 31, 2024

An ETA, expected to take effect between December 2024 and the first quarter of 2025, will be mandatory for individuals entering Thailand.

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CANADA – A reduction in immigration numbers is targeted for 2025-2027 

October 29, 2024

Reductions in both permanent and temporary resident annual targets. The plan includes controlled targets for international students and foreign workers.

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SOUTH AFRICA: New points-based system for critical skills and general work visa applications is introduced.

October 28, 2024

Details of a new points-based system for the issuance of work visas have been outlined by the government of South Africa.

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UNITED STATES – New Temporary Protected Status designation for Lebanese nationals amid ongoing crisis.

October 21, 2024

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced this week new temporary immigration benefits to Lebanese nationals currently in the United States.

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EUROPEAN UNION – Reminder of Upcoming Entry-Exit System (EES)

October 21, 2024

Changes to travelling in Europe are due to take place in 2024 and 2025 with the introduction of the Entry-Exit System (EES)

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CANADA – Work-permit instructions for intra-company transferees have been updated.

October 11, 2024

The updates are aimed at enhancing clarity and streamlining guidance for officers processing ICT applications.

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COLOMBIA – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has extended the deadline for transfer of residence visa (R).

October 11, 2024

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Colombia has extended the deadline for the transfer of residence visas (R) for holders who were issued visas before October 2022.

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MIDDLE EAST – Heightened security risks and travel disruption.

October 7, 2024

Due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, employers are advised to urgently review safety protocols and travel plans.

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INDONESIA – Random immigration inspections are expected to take place from October 7-9, 2024

October 4, 2024

Employers in Indonesia should be aware of an increased likelihood of random immigration inspections by immigration authorities on work locations.

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COMPLIANCE CORNER – The Dutch government is increasing focus on recognised sponsorship compliance 

October 3, 2024

The IND is increasing focus on compliance with general immigration regulations, and in particular with recognised sponsorship obligations.

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UNITED STATES: Citizens of Qatar will be eligible for visa-free travel to the United States no later than December 1, 2024 

September 26, 2024

Qatari citizens will be permitted to apply for visa-free travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days.  

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UNITED KINGDOM: The latest on the UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)  

September 23, 2024

This article provides provides a summary of current requirements under the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system.

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