Immigration Insights

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

By: Nouran Hassan The Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, presented the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, which introduces reductions in both permanent and temporary resident annual targets. The plan includes controlled targets for international students and foreign workers. Changes to permanent resident target Over the next two years, the federal government is reducing targets across […]

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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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NEW ZEALAND – AEWV exemptions will address labor needs in key sectors from September 2024. 

September 20, 2024

Certain roles within specific sectors of the New Zealand economy are now exempt from the AEWV (Accredited Employer Work Visa) minimum skill requirements.

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Harnessing the L-1 visa through strategic secondments: Why US companies should make programmatic changes to remain ahead of the curve.

September 19, 2024

Why US companies should make programmatic changes to remain ahead of the curve. By Justin Scott Kadich of Go Global Immigration PLLC.

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AUSTRALIA: Updated policy on Subclass 400 visa.

September 19, 2024

Effective August 2, 2024, the definition of 'non-ongoing' work for the Subclass 400 visa has been refined.

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MALAYSIA – Recent changes to immigration processes.

September 18, 2024

Starting from October 1, 2024, the MYXpats Centre will automatically cancel inactive applications that haven't been resubmitted within 90 days

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NEW ZEALAND – Significant filing fees begin to take effect on October 1, 2024. 

September 18, 2024

Effective October 1, 2024, visa charges will be adjusted to cover the costs of processing visas and to align with the benefits received by users of immigration services.

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EUROPEAN UNION – Reminder of upcoming European Travel and Immigration Authorisation System (ETIAS)

September 9, 2024

ETIAS is a pre-travel authorisation to enter one of the ETIAS countries for a short stay. It is understood that implementation should be in the first half of 2025. 

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IRELAND – Significant changes have been made to the Irish employment permit system. 

September 9, 2024

The Employment Permits Act 2024 introduces significant and welcome reforms to Ireland's employment permit system.

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EUROPEAN UNION – Europe has announced a firm date for the introduction of the Entry/Exit System.

August 26, 2024

Entry/Exit System will commence operations on November 10, 2024—a month later than previously anticipated. 

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