In the dynamic landscape of global immigration, recent updates from various countries have significant implications for individuals seeking to migrate or work abroad. Here’s a summary of the latest developments from Canada, Hungary, New Zealand, Nigeria, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the United States.
Pilots for Rural and Francophone Communities
Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has unveiled new pilots targeting rural and Francophone minority communities. The Rural Community Immigration Pilot, launching in autumn 2024, aims to address labor shortages in rural areas by offering pathways to permanent residence for newcomers. Similarly, the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot, scheduled for the same timeframe, seeks to increase French-speaking immigrants settling outside Quebec.
Additionally, IRCC has extended the deadline for communities participating in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot to recommend candidates for permanent residence until July 31, 2024.
Hungary: Implementation of New Immigration Law
Hungary has introduced a new immigration law effective from January 1, 2024, bringing significant changes and stricter conditions for third-country nationals (TCNs). The law outlines various residence permits, including those for highly skilled workers, investors, and guest workers. Notably, guest worker permits are restricted to specified employers, countries, and occupations, with limited extension options. Moreover, a “golden visa” program is set to launch on July 1, 2024, offering residency through real estate investments.
New Zealand: Updates to Qualifications Exemption List
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has updated its List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA), effective March 25, 2024. The list now includes qualifications from countries such as Australia, Canada, China, and Fiji. Additionally, master’s and doctoral degrees from selected countries have been added to the list, streamlining the visa application process for skilled professionals.
New Zealand: Ukraine Resident Visa
INZ announced the launch of the Ukraine Resident Visa on March 16, 2024, offering permanent residency to eligible applicants, their partners, and children. This visa is available to individuals who arrive in New Zealand on a 2022 Special Ukraine Visa on or before March 15, 2024. Notably, applicants are exempt from English language testing requirements but must meet character and identity standards.
Nigeria: Suspension of Expatriate Employment Levy
The Nigerian government has suspended the Expatriate Employment Levy (EEL) pending further consultation with stakeholders. The policy, initially slated for implementation on March 15, 2024, required employers to pay annual levies for foreign national workers. However, enforcement has been postponed, providing relief to businesses and employees affected by the proposed levy.
UAE: Streamlined Work Permit Process
The UAE government has launched the “Work Bundle” initiative to simplify employee residency procedures and work permits in private sector companies. This initiative aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles by offering a single platform for employment services, enhancing efficiency, and minimizing processing times.
United States: USCIS Updates H-2B Visa Program
US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reached the congressionally mandated cap for H-2B visas for the second half of fiscal year 2024. Additionally, USCIS has announced filing dates for supplemental H-2B visas under the FY 2024 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule. The agency has also implemented a streamlined process for refugee Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), reducing processing times to approximately 30 days.
These updates underscore the evolving nature of global immigration policies and highlight the importance of staying informed for individuals navigating international migration pathways
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