Tuesday, December 10, 2024
China - Integrated 'Join in Card' launched for expats
China recently issued its first integrated foreigner's work permit and social security card to provide more convenience for foreigners living in the country.
Wednesday, November 13, 2024
Australia - Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) announced for India
Australia is introducing MATES for Indian nationals to live and work in Australia for up to 2 years.
From December 2024, graduates and early career professionals from India’s top universities can register in the pre-application ballot for a Temporary Work (International Relations) (Subclass 403) visa.
Monday, October 28, 2024
Canada - 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan
The plan provides permanent resident admissions targets for 2025, with notional commitments for 2026 and 2027.
Friday, October 25, 2024
Ireland - Launch of new, online, immigration self-service portal the Digital Contact Centre (DCC) for the immigration function of the Department, with effect from 24 October 2024
Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee TD has today (Thursday) announced the launch of the Digital Contact Centre (DCC) for the immigration function of the Department, with effect from 24 October 2024.
The DCC is a self-service portal that will enable immigration customers to book and amend first-time registration appointments, replacing the need for them to call a contact centre to arrange such an appointment.
Thursday, October 24, 2024
New Zealand - Open work rights for partners of migrant workers
The Government is making changes to provide open work rights to more partners of migrant workers, allowing them to work for any employer. This will help families stay together, and attract and retain the workers New Zealand needs to fill gaps in sectors facing skill and labour shortages.
Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Canada - Further Temporary Foreign Worker Program reforms to better protect the Canadian labour market and workers
Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program is designed as an extraordinary measure to be used when a qualified Canadian is not able to fill a job vacancy.
Monday, October 21, 2024
Ireland - Transfer of all nationwide Renewals to the Registration Office of Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) online portal will come into effect on 04 November 2024
With effect from 04 November 2024, online renewals of permissions from all applicants nationwide should be submitted using the ISD online renewal portal. Applicants will not need to attend the Burgh Quay Registration Office in person to renew an immigration permission, unless it is deemed necessary.
Wednesday, October 16, 2024
New Zealand - From 14 October 2024 changes to visa caps for the China Special Work Visa will align the visa with the New Zealand-China Free Trade Agreement upgrade
The 2008 New Zealand-China Free Trade Agreement allowed up to 800 non-labour market tested work visas for Chinese nationals in 5 specific occupations: Chinese chefs, traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, Mandarin teacher's aides, Wushu martial arts coaches, and Chinese tour guides.
These work visas have a maximum duration of 3 years, after which individuals must remain outside New Zealand for 3 years before reapplying for a visa under this category.
Thursday, August 01, 2024
Japan - The Immigration Services Agency of Japan in ensuring fair employment provides the recommendations to business owners who employ or plan to employ foreign national
New Zealand - Transit Visas moving online and changes to transit requirements for Fijian nationals
From 12 August 2024, travellers requiring a Transit Visa for New Zealand can apply online using the Enhanced Immigration Online system.
China - The Chinese capital introduced the Beijing Pass, a multi-purpose card for international visitors, facilitating their payment for transportation, tourist sites and shopping centers.
The Chinese capital introduced the Beijing Pass, a multi-purpose card for international visitors, facilitating their payment for transportation, tourist sites and shopping centers.
China - Foreign Tourist Groups from Hong Kong and Macao SARs Can Enter and Stay for 144 Hours in Hainan Without Visas, Starting from July 30
The National Immigration Administration (NIA) announced to implement a new policy from July 30, 2024, allowing foreign tourist groups from Hong Kong and Macao SARs to enter and stay for 144 hours in Hainan Province without visas.
Monday, July 15, 2024
UAE - Mohammed bin Rashid announces world’s largest logistics hub to boost trade in foodstuffs, fruits and vegetables
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, announced the development of the Logistics Hub for Foodstuffs, Fruit and Vegetable Trade, the largest such facility in the world, serving the world’s largest market for foodstuffs, fruits and vegetables.
China pilots port e-visa for Shanghai's Lin-gang Special Area
China has launched a port e-visa service in Shanghai for foreigners invited by enterprises at China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone Lin-gang Special Area from July 12, according to China's National Immigration Administration.
Thursday, July 11, 2024
Ireland - Visa Requirement for nationals of Botswana and South Africa
With effect from 10th July 2024 holders of South African and Botswanan passports will be subject to Irish visa requirements which means that they will need to obtain an Irish visa before travelling to Ireland.
Monday, July 08, 2024
China - Visa-free transit policies for foreign nationals
China has implemented a 24-hour visa-free transit policy for foreign nationals from all other countries around the world at all its accessible exit-entry ports.
Denmark - New rules under the Authorisation Scheme – right to work
On 1 July 2024, the Danish Aliens Act is amended, which means that foreigners with a residence permit under the Authorisation Scheme are exempt from the work permit requirement.
Friday, July 05, 2024
China - Non-Chinese Permanent Residents of Hong Kong and Macao SARs Eligible to Apply for Mainland Travel Permits from July 10
The 27th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China was celebrated on July 1, 2024. On the same day, the Exit and Entry Administration, P.R.C. announced that the Mainland Travel Permits for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (Non-Chinese) would be issued to non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macao SARs from July 10, 2024, as part of the efforts to improve communication and exchanges between the residents of the Chinese mainland and the two SARs, and to facilitate the integration of the two SARs into the broader national development framework.
China - Announcement of the Exit and Entry Administration of P.R. China on Implementing Policies to Facilitate Permanent Residents of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
The Exit and Entry Administration of P.R. China has decided to issue the Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (non-Chinese Citizens) (hereinafter referred to as the "Permit") among permanent residents in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Macao Special Administrative Region who are non-Chinese citizens (hereinafter referred to as non-Chinese Hong Kong and Macao permanent residents) from July 10, 2024, to further facilitate exchanges between mainland Chinese people and people in Hong Kong and Macao, and to help Hong Kong and Macao better integrate into the overall national development.
Friday, June 28, 2024
Australia - New citizenship application fees from 1 July 2024
From 1 July 2024, new citizenship application fees will apply. Fees are changing to reflect the cost of processing applications. On 1 July each year, indexation is applied to citizenship application fees based on the consumer price index (CPI).
Thursday, June 27, 2024
China extends visa exemption for New Zealand, Australia, Poland
China's Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday 25 June 2024 that it will extend its visa-free policy to New Zealand, Australia, and Poland.
Monday, June 24, 2024
Ireland - Transfer of registration responsibility for Cork and Limerick from the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) to Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) of the Department of Justice will come into effect on 8 July 2024
The transfer of responsibility for first time registration and renewal of Irish immigration residence permissions for persons residing in counties Cork and Limerick from the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) to Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) of the Department of Justice will come into effect on 8 July 2024.
Friday, June 21, 2024
Australia - Visa conditions 8107, 8607 and 8608 are changing / A new version of the myVEVO app is coming
From 1 July 2024, visa conditions 8107, 8607 and 8608 are changing in response to the Australian Governments Migration Strategy. These changes address the commitment to help tackle worker exploitation and drive productivity.
myVEVO provides a fast and convenient way for visa holders to check their Australian visa details. This includes visa expiry date, work and study rights, and travel conditions.
Thursday, June 13, 2024
Australia - Restricting onshore visa hopping to the Student visa program
The Government is focused on strengthening the integrity of the Student visa program. This will ensure it grants visas to genuine students and give students who receive qualifications in Australia opportunities to contribute to Australia’s economic growth.
New Zealand - Immigration Employment Infringement Scheme
The infringement scheme was introduced to support the changes outlined in the Worker Protection (Migrant and Other Employees) Act. This Act strengthens enforcement measures to deter employers who exploit migrant workers, and ensure these workers are protected by both immigration and employment laws.
Monday, June 10, 2024
Denmark - New rules for residence permits in the healthcare sector from 1 July 2024
The new rules mean, among other things, an extension of the authorisation scheme, that people on the authorisation scheme are exempt from work permits and that social and healthcare workers are added to the Positive List for Skilled Work with a quota of 1,000 residence and work permits.
Denmark - New residence permit scheme for accompanying family members to expatriate Danes
Accompanying family members to returning expatriate Danes with certain job related qualifications are given the opportunity to be granted a residence permit in Denmark. The new rules will come into effect on 1 July 2024.
Japan - Guidelines regarding special permission to stay
The revised guidelines will be implemented from June 10, 2024.
Thursday, June 06, 2024
New Zealand - Making it easier to invest in New Zealand
The Associate Minister of Finance David Seymour has issued a new Ministerial directive letter to Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) to make consent processing timeframes faster under the Overseas Investment Act.
Denmark - New residence scheme based on educational attachment
On 1 July 2024, a new scheme will come into effect for foreign nationals who lose or have previously lost their grounds for residence in Denmark.
New Zealand - Key information about the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The AEWV is the main temporary work visa in New Zealand.It is designed to ensure New Zealanders are first in line for jobs and makes it easier for employers to hire skilled migrants where genuine skill or labour shortages exist.
It also helps combat migrant exploitation by ensuring only employers who are accredited can hire migrant workers.
Monday, June 03, 2024
China - Beijing passes regulation to optimize foreign investment environment
Beijing passed its first special regulation on foreign investment on Friday, representing the Chinese capital's latest effort to promote further opening up and boost its appeal to global investors.
This regulation was passed on Friday 31 May at the 10th session of the Standing Committee of the 16th Beijing Municipal People's Congress, the local legislature. It is scheduled to become effective on July 1.
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
Australia - (Updated) Increase in the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) to $73,150
From 1 July 2024, the TSMIT will increase from $70,000 to $73,150. New nomination applications from this date will need to meet the new TSMIT of $73,150 or the annual market salary rate, whichever is higher.
Thursday, May 23, 2024
US - US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Updates Guidance for Family-Based Immigrant Visas
Effective May 22, 2024, USCIS is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on family-based immigrant visa petitions (including Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative and, in limited situations, family-based Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant), including explaining how USCIS handles correcting approval notice errors, requests for consular processing or adjustment of status on the beneficiary’s behalf, and routing procedures for approved petitions.
Friday, May 17, 2024
Ireland - Announcement Regarding Eligible Spouses and Partners of General Employment Permit and Intra-Corporate Transferee Irish Employment Permit holders
The Ministers for Justice and Enterprise, Trade and Employment have announced that eligible spouses and partners of General Employment Permit and Intra-Corporate Transferee Irish Employment Permit holders, who have applied for, and have been granted family reunification, in accordance with the Non-EEA Family Reunification Policy, will now be registered on a Stamp 1G permission, rather than a Stamp 3.
This will allow the holder to take up employment, without the need to obtain a separate Employment Permit, of their own. In addition to this announcement, spouses and partners of Critical Skills Employment Permit holders and Researchers on a Hosting Agreement currently on a Stamp 3 are also now eligible for a Stamp 1G.
Thursday, May 09, 2024
Thailand to extend visa waiver for Taiwan nationals additional 6 months
The Thai government announced Tuesday that it will extend its visa waiver program for Taiwanese travelers to six months, expecting the move to attract 700,000 Taiwanese visitors this year.
Wednesday, May 08, 2024
China extends visa exemption for 12 countries to promote exchanges
China has decided to extend the visa-free policy for short-term visits to China for 12 countries until the end of 2025, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Tuesday 7 May.
New Zealand - Update on employer accreditation renewals
New guidance is available to support employers and their advisers with renewing their accreditation.
Australia - Increase to the Financial Capacity Requirement for Student and Student Guardian visas
From 10 May 2024, the amount of money that Student and Student Guardian visa applicants need to have to be eligible for the visa is increasing.
Monday, April 29, 2024
Key milestone for Pacific Engagement Visa program
Pacific Island and Timor-Leste nationals will be able to register for Australia's new Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) program from 3 June 2024, providing new opportunities for Pacific and Timorese nationals to live, work and study in Australia.
Hong Kong, Macao SAR governments welcome updated policies to facilitate mainland business, talents' travels
The governments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Macao SAR on Sunday welcomed an announcement earlier in the day by the Chinese mainland authorities to facilitate business and skilled staff travel overseas.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
China - A Guide to Working and Living in China as Business Expatriates launched in the WeChat mini program of the State Council app
State Council jointly with the Ministry of Commerce, have launched A Guide to Working and Living in China as Business Expatriates (2024 Edition) in the WeChat mini program of the State Council app.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
U.S. Department of Commerce and Samsung Electronics (Samsung) have signed a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) to provide up to $6.4 billion in direct funding under the CHIPS and Science Act
Proposed CHIPS Investment of up to $6.4 Billion Would Complement More than $40 Billion in Private Investment to Support a Comprehensive Semiconductor Cluster for Leading-Edge Logic, Advanced Packaging, and R&D in Taylor, Texas, and Expansion of Austin Fab in Texas.
Monday, April 15, 2024
Japan - Life orientation video introducing the rules of life in Japan for foreign nationals
Japan Immigration Services Agency have created a life orientation video that introduces the rules of life in Japan so that foreign national who are thinking about living in Japan or who are living in Japan can live in Japan more smoothly.
Friday, April 12, 2024
Beach Time @ Sentosa
Beach time on a weekday at Sentosa and experiencing hot sunny weather to heavy downpour in a matter of hours.
United Kingdom - Net migration package delivered as family visa tightened
Income required to bring family to the UK increased as final measure of package to reduce legal migration comes into force.
Thursday, April 11, 2024
New Zealand - Tenancy rules changes to improve rental market
The coalition Government has on 11 April announced changes to the Residential Tenancies Act to encourage landlords back to the rental property market, says Housing Minister Chris Bishop.
United States/Taiwan - TSMC Arizona To Receive US$6.6 Billion In Direct Funding Under CHIPS and Science Act
The Biden-Harris Administration announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce and TSMC Arizona Corporation (TSMC Arizona), a subsidiary of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC), have signed a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) to provide up to $6.6 billion in direct funding under the CHIPS and Science Act.
This proposed funding would support TSMC’s investment of more than $65 billion in three greenfield leading-edge fabs in Phoenix, Arizona, which will manufacture the world’s most advanced semiconductors.
Tuesday, April 09, 2024
Scotland - Income tax changes
People urged to check their tax code as new financial year begins.
From Saturday (6 April 2024) a new Advanced income tax band will apply a 45% rate on annual income between £75,000 and £125,140. An additional 1pence will be added to the Top rate of tax meaning income over £125,140 will be taxed at 48%.
Ireland - Update to eligibility requirements for Stamp 4 upgrades
Eligibility for a Stamp 4 upgrade has been under review by ISD since the effective date of this change to the application process. This review has since concluded with the below-listed change to eligibility now effective.
Employees residing in the State on a Stamp 1 or 1H permission are eligible for a Stamp 4 upgrade upon completion of 21 months from commencement of employment in the State, on the basis of:
(i) a Critical Skills Employment Permit
(ii) a Hosting Agreement as a Researcher
(iii) a Multi-Site General Employment Permit as a Non-Consultant Hospital Doctor
Or, upon completion of 57 months from commencement of employment in the State on the basis of:
(iv) General Employment Permits
Monday, April 08, 2024
New Zealand - Changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
If you currently have an AEWV, these changes could affect how long you can stay before you need to spend time outside New Zealand or your eligibility to be granted a further AEWV.
If you applied for your first AEWV before 21 June 2023 and are in an ANZSCO level 4 and 5 job paying at or above the required AEWV wage rate, and currently hold a three year AEWV, you will no longer be able to access the maximum time of five years.
If you are in an ANZSCO level 4 and 5 job on a pathway to residence, you will not be affected by these changes.If you apply for a further AEWV on or after 7 April 2024, you will have to meet the updated criteria.
If you are in an ANZSCO level 4 and 5 job you may not be able to stay and work in New Zealand for the maximum time of five years.
Friday, April 05, 2024
UK - New laws to cut migration and put British workers first in force
UK businesses are now required to pay overseas workers coming to the UK on a Skilled Worker visa significantly more, as the government clamps down on cut price foreign labour and continues to deliver on its commitment to drive down net migration.
Part of a robust and fair package of measures announced by the Home Secretary in December, which will mean 300,000 people who arrived in the UK last year would now not be able to, the general salary threshold for those arriving in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa has now increased by 48%, from £26,200 to £38,700.
Tuesday, April 02, 2024
Taiwan / Republic of China - Detailed Handling of Salary Tax Withholdings due to Resident Status Change in the Middle of the Year as a Result of the Departure of a Foreign Employee
Some have asked what to do if a company employs foreign workers who, according to their residence permits, are supposed to stay in the Republic of China for 183 days or more in a taxable year and therefore the company determines that they are residents and withholds tax at the rate of 5% of the resident's income tax on the total amount of their monthly salary, but the foreign worker left the country and resided in the country for less than 183 days. What should be done about the withholding of their salary?
Japan - Expansion of Visa Quota for Japan-UK Working Holiday Program
In November 2023, expansion of the visa quota issued under the Working Holiday Program was confirmed between Japan and the UK.
In light of the above, effective on April 1, the number of UK nationals (visa quota) eligible to use the Working Holiday Program has been increased from 1,000 to 6,000 annually.
(Note: The number of Japanese nationals (visa quota) eligible to use the UK's Youth Mobility Scheme has been increased from 1,500 to 6,000 annually, effective January 31, 2012.)
Expanding the visa quota for the Working Holiday Program further encourages exchange and mutual understanding between the youths of Japan and the UK and is expected to further strengthen the relationship between Japan and the UK.
Expanding the visa quota for the Working Holiday Program further encourages exchange and mutual understanding between the youths of Japan and the UK and is expected to further strengthen the relationship between Japan and the UK.
Monday, April 01, 2024
A Love Story with Paris 2024 Now Out On My YouTube Channel!
Happy Easter! No plans for the Easter weekend? Enjoy this travelogue of mine for pleasure.
Scotland’s Migration Service launched
Scotland’s Migration Service has launched its first phase, which will give people who have recently moved here and employers looking to hire workers from abroad access to bespoke advice.
Friday, March 22, 2024
US - USCIS Extends Initial Registration Period for FY 2025 H-1B Cap
USCIS has extended the initial registration period for the fiscal year (FY) 2025 H-1B cap.
The initial registration period, which opened at noon Eastern on March 6, 2024, and was originally scheduled to run through noon Eastern on March 22, 2024, will now run through noon Eastern on March 25, 2024.
USCIS is aware of a temporary system outage experienced by some registrants, and is extending the registration period to provide additional time due to this issue.
Monday, March 18, 2024
[TRAILER] A Love Story With Paris 2024
This is the trailer to my upcoming video [A Love Story with Paris 2024] anticipated to debut on my YT channel on March 29, 2024!
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
UK - Shortage Occupation List (SOL) will be abolished, to be replaced with a new Immigration Salary List on 4 April.
The Shortage Occupation List (SOL) will be abolished, to be replaced with a new Immigration Salary List on 4 April. This follows a recommendation from the independent MAC, which has also advised the government on which occupations should be temporarily added to the new list initially.
From 4 April, the minimum salary required for those arriving on the Skilled Worker visa will increase from £26,200 to £38,700 – a 48% increase.
The minimum income requirement for family visas will also rise, starting at £29,000 from 11 April. By early 2025 this will be increased to £38,700, helping to ensure dependants brought to the UK are supported financially.
Tuesday, March 05, 2024
Singapore - Foreign Workforce Policy Announcements: Employment Pass Qualifying Salary To Increase in 2025
The benchmark for the Employment Pass (EP) qualifying salary is based on the top one-third of local PMET1 wages, to ensure that EP holders are of high quality. The EP qualifying salary is reviewed annually against the benchmark. In line with how the benchmarks have moved, Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will be increasing the EP minimum qualifying salary from $5,000 to $5,600 per month. The qualifying salary will continue to increase progressively with age, up to $10,700 for a candidate in their mid-40s. This maintains a level playing field for locals across all age groups.
For the Financial Services sector which has higher wage norms, a higher EP qualifying salary will continue to apply. The EP minimum qualifying salary for the Financial Services sector will be raised from $5,500 to $6,200 per month. This will also continue to increase progressively with age, up to $11,800 for a candidate in their mid-40s.
The revised EP qualifying salary will apply to new EP applications from 1 January 2025, and to renewal applications from 1 January 2026. This will provide businesses more time to adjust to the changes.
Friday, March 01, 2024
Denmark - Working holiday quotas for citizens of Chile and Argentina
On 1 March 2024, a new quota period for Working Holiday for citizens of Chile and Argentina begins.
Thursday, February 29, 2024
US - FY 2025 H-1B Registration Period and myUSCIS Organizational Account Reminders
On Feb. 28, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services launched new myUSCIS organizational accounts that will allow multiple people within an organization, as well as their legal representatives, to collaborate on and prepare H-1B registrations, H-1B petitions, and any associated Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service.
A new organizational account is required to participate in the H-1B Electronic Registration Process starting in March 2024.
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
Taiwan - For individuals who reside overseas and have been moved out of a registered residence in the Republic of China, the tax withholder shall withhold the income tax payable in accordance with prescribed withholding rates for non-residents
For individuals not residing within the territory of the Republic of China（hereinafter referred to as non-residents）but who have earned income within the territory of the Republic of China, the tax withholder shall withhold the income tax payable in accordance with prescribed withholding rates.
UAE - Ministry of Finance announces AED10,000 penalty for late Corporate Tax registration
The Ministry of Finance on 27 February 2024 announced the issuance of Cabinet Decision No. 10 of 2024, amending the schedule of violations and administrative penalties of Cabinet Decision No. 75 of 2023 on the administrative penalties for violations related to the application of Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 on the taxation of corporations and businesses.
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
Korea - Digital Nomad (Workcation) Visa
Read more about the Korea's Digital Nomad (Workcation) Visa HERE
Monday, February 26, 2024
Taiwan - Regulations for Newly Revised Immigration Act (Effective as of March 1, 2024)
READ MORE HERE on the summary of key changes to the newly revised Immigration Act, effective March 1, 2024.
Japan/Taiwan - Japanese government to subsidize 2nd JASM fab / TSMC's Kumamoto plant opens as most advanced fab in Japan
Japan's Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) Minister Ken Saito on Saturday 24 February 2024 confirmed that the Japanese government has agreed to grant a subsidy of 732 billion yen (US$4.86 billion) to Japan Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing's (JASM) to build a second fab in Kumamoto.
Taiwanese contract chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) officially opened Japan's most advanced wafer fab in Kumamoto on Saturday 24 February 2024.
Thursday, February 22, 2024
New Zealand - The new median wage rate of $31.61 an hour will be adopted into parts the immigration system on 28 February 2024
Wage thresholds for the Skilled Migrant Category, the Green List Straight to Residence and Work to Residence visas, and the Parent Category residence class visa will increase in line with the median wage (NZD$31.61 an hour) on 28 February 2024.
Exploring Edinburgh 2024 Video To Debut On My Youtube Channel on March 2, 2024 at 12:15am SGT!
Exploring Edinburgh 2024 Video, a Stars in A Jar production, to debut on my Youtube channel on March 2, 2024 at 12:15am SGT!
Thursday, February 15, 2024
Denmark - New application form for sideline employment and work permit for accompanying family
On 13 February 2024, Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) will make a new printable application form available which is tailored to those who wish to apply for a work permit for sideline employment, or wish to apply for a work permit as an accompanying family member because they have been offered a job within the same company as their sponsor.
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
China - The National Immigration Administration (NIA) to Expand Allowed Purposes of Visa-Free Entry into Hainan Province for Citizens of Some Countries
The National Immigration Administration (NIA) released an announcement since February 9th, 2024, the announcement allows citizens of Albania, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, the Republic of Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, the Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, etc., to enter Hainan Province for commercial activities and trade, visit and exchange, and family reunions, receiving medical treatment, attending exhibitions,taking part in sporting events and other needs(excluding long-term working and studying) for up to 30 days without a visa.
Monday, February 05, 2024
Canada - Government announces two-year extension to ban on foreign ownership of Canadian housing
The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, announced on February 4 the federal government’s intent to extend by an additional two years the existing ban on foreign ownership of Canadian housing.
Business groups from Taiwan and the Czech Republic on Thursday signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on semiconductor cooperation.
Business groups from Taiwan and the Czech Republic on Thursday signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on semiconductor cooperation.
During a seminar on semiconductor investments in the Czech Republic held in Taipei, Taiwan semiconductor material supplier TOPOC Scientific Co. teamed up with the Taiwan Eastbound Alliance - Landing America (TeaLa) to ink the agreement with the Czech National Semiconductor Cluster (CNSC).
Friday, February 02, 2024
Taiwan - Unpaid Taxes May Cause Restriction on Exiting the R.O.C., Disturbing Overseas Travel Plans During Lunar New Year Holiday
A 7-day Lunar New Year holiday is coming. For tax debtors being restricted from exiting the Republic of China (hereinafter “the R.O.C.”) but planning to travel abroad during the said holiday, don't forget to pay the tax due and fine, or furnish property equivalent to the tax payable as security in advance so as to ensure a smooth traveling experience without exit restrictions.
Ireland - Introduction of email application form for Reactivation Employment Permit Scheme
From 1 February 2024 Domestic Residence will accept applications for Reactivation Employment Permit Scheme on our helpdesk DRPcustomerservice@justice.ie.
As part of our ongoing review of our processes, we have simplified and streamlined the application in order to ensure a better service for our customers. Please use this application form. It is important that you read the qualifying criteria before you submit an application.
Thursday, February 01, 2024
UK and Japan expand mobility schemes for young people / New international arrangements expand opportunities for UK youth
More young British and Japanese nationals will be eligible to experience life-changing opportunities in each other’s countries thanks to the mutual expansion of visa schemes between the UK and Japan.
Young Brits will have more opportunities to live, work and study abroad, as changes to the UK’s international arrangements with 6 countries come into effect 31 January.
Wednesday, January 31, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Announces Strengthened Integrity Measures for H-1B Program / USCIS Issues Final Rule to Adjust Certain Immigration and Naturalization Fees
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on January 30 announced a final rule to strengthen the integrity of and reduce the potential for fraud in the H-1B registration process, including by reducing the potential for gaming the registration system and ensuring each beneficiary would have the same chance of being selected, regardless of the number of registrations submitted on their behalf. USCIS is also announcing the initial registration period dates for the fiscal year (FY) 2025 H-1B cap, and the launch of an online filing option for Forms I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, and Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, for H-1B petitioners.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published a final rule to adjust certain immigration and naturalization benefit request fees for the first time since 2016. The final rule will allow USCIS to recover a greater share of its operating costs and support more timely processing of new applications.
Monday, January 29, 2024
China, Thailand sign mutual visa exemption agreement which will come into effect from March 1
China and Thailand signed a mutual visa exemption agreement on Sunday, which will come into effect from March 1, according to the Chinese foreign ministry.
H.E. Mr. Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and H.E. Mr. Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs and Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, co-signed the “Agreement between the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Government of the People’s Republic of China on Mutual Visa Exemption for Holders of Ordinary Passports and Passports for Public Affairs”, at Narathip Room, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on the occasion of H.E. Mr. Wang Yi’s official visit to Thailand between 26 - 29 January 2024.
Friday, January 26, 2024
Mutual 30-Day Visa-Exemption Arrangement Between Singapore and The People’s Republic Of China
With effect from 9 February 2024, holders of ordinary passports issued by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) will be exempted from visa requirements for a stay of up to 30 days in Singapore.
There will be no refund of the visa processing fee for those who had earlier submitted an application.
Thursday, January 25, 2024
The Pacific Engagement Visa – Australia’s new permanent visa
The Australian Government has heard the calls from Pacific leaders for deeper connections and easier movement around the region and are taking steps to improve access, mobility and migration opportunities. Boosting Pacific permanent migration to Australia is an essential part of our plan to build a stronger Pacific Family.
Exploring Edinburgh 2024 Trailer
Dropping the trailer to my upcoming YT video - Exploring Edinburgh 2024!
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
UK and South Korea expand Youth Mobility schemes for young people
The expansion takes effect 31 January 2024, with increased annual quota, increased age range and the removal of the ballot process.
Monday, January 22, 2024
Signing of the Japan-Austria Social Security Agreement
According to the provisions of this agreement, temporarily dispatched employees whose dispatch period is less than five years are, in principle, covered by the pension system of the sending country.
Additionally, you will be able to establish your pension entitlement by adding up the insurance periods in both countries.
Taiwan - TSMC's Kumamoto fab to open on Feb. 24
Mark Liu (劉德音), chairman of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC), the world's largest contract chipmaker, said Thursday Jan. 18 that the company's overseas expansion is proceeding as planned with a wafer plant in Kumamoto, Japan slated to open on Feb. 24.
Friday, January 19, 2024
Ireland - Processing of Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP) applications on hand following the closure of the Programme
Following the closure of the Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP) on 14 February 2023 it was agreed that arrangements in relation to the orderly winding down of the Programme would be put in place. These arrangements have now been finalised.
Thursday, January 18, 2024
China - National Immigration Administration (NIA) Releases Five New Measures to Facilitate Entries of Foreigners
The National Immigration Administration (NIA) has officially implemented five measures on January 11, aimed at simplifying the process for foreign nationals seeking to visit China. The measures are designed to make business activities, education, and tours in China more accessible for foreign nationals. The measures will further eliminate hurdles related to doing business, studying, and traveling in China and better serve China's high-level opening up and high-quality development.
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