United States
Work permit extension for 800,000 expatriates
On April 8, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) enacted a new rule to extend foreigners' work permits. Previously, automatic extensions could last up to 180 days. The new measure extends this period to 540 days.
Although temporary, employers are relieved. Despite their commitment to reducing processing times, immigration services still face delays. Ongoing labor shortages continue to hinder economic dynamism. The new rule is also financially beneficial for the federal government. According to USCIS, the state should collect $3.1 billion in taxes (paid by foreign workers) over 5 years. Immigration services highlight another advancement: as of December 2023, 93% of work authorization (EAD) applications were processed on time.
EADs have also steadily increased since the borders reopened: +50% between 2022 and 2023, linked to the rise in work permit requests based on asylum claims. To benefit from the 540-day automatic extension, EADs must be filed by September 30, 2025, at the latest.
Work permit for undocumented workers?
This question is on the minds of Chicago authorities and those of several other cities. Their common point is the regular increase in the number of undocumented foreigners. While immigrants arriving in late 2023 received work permits (in September, the Biden administration regularized nearly 500,000 Venezuelan expatriates under the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) provisions), advocates for undocumented regularization appealed to Joe Biden. Why not issue work permits to other expatriates who have been in the US for longer? Some have waited for over 20 years.
In Chicago, protests have been organized. More and more undocumented workers sought TPS, just like the Venezuelans. However, the issue divides, especially as the campaign for the forthcoming US elections intensifies. Opponents of regularizing all undocumented individuals fear a significant increase in immigration. Conversely, proponents of the measure emphasize combating labor shortages and demographic growth. The country allegedly receives more taxes while undermining smugglers' strategies.
Norway announced changes to financial assistance requirements for permanent residence
Since April 18, the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration has removed the requirement that applicants for permanent residence prove they have not received financial assistance in the 12 months preceding the application. Currently, applicants must prove they earned at least $26,900 during the previous year (except for certain foreigners who have benefited from loans or financial support). Other exemptions are planned for international students and expats with disabilities. The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration counts on this streamlining to grant residence to foreigners previously ineligible to apply.
Schengen Zone announced multiple entry visas for nationals from Oman, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia
Josep Borrell, the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, announced the soon-to-be-implemented measure in the Schengen countries during the High-Level Forum on Regional Security and Cooperation (on April 22). Josep Borrell chaired the Forum alongside Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar. Note that Qatar currently holds the rotating presidency of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
While the Forum aimed to strengthen "political dialogue" and "coordination" regarding security, it did not omit to mention the economic aspect. Enhancing dialogue also involves more straightforward visa procedures. The European Commission's plan involves several phases. Initially, 5-year multiple entry visas will be issued to Omanis, Bahrainis, and Saudis. Ultimately, the European Union (EU) intends to harmonize its visa policy with all Gulf countries. Currently, only nationals of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can enter the Schengen area without a visa.
Although this measure has yet to be officialized by the EU, it is estimated that this multiple-entry visa will follow already issued rules: a maximum stay of 90 days in the Schengen countries over a period of 180 days.
Canada to cap the number of temporary residents
While the Minister of Immigration Marc Miller continues to support immigration, he emphasizes his desire to welcome foreigners under the best possible conditions. According to him, the introduction of a cap is necessary. Announced in March, the cap would be reduced for the next 3 years, with a first tier as early as September 2024. International students, workers, and asylum seekers are mainly concerned. Marc Miller forecasts a slight decrease in the number of temporary residents: 5% compared to 6.2% currently.
According to official statistics (Statistics Canada), Canada has 2.4 million temporary residents in 2024. That's nearly a million more than in 2021. About 54% of temporary residents are holders of a work permit (figures from 2021), while 22% of temporary residents are students and 12% are asylum seekers. This measure is faced with firm opposition from defenders of temporary foreign workers, who regret that these expatriates are considered "scapegoats for the housing crisis." They point out a dangerous policy shift, as Miller has already limited the number of international students earlier this year.
Could this be the end of Canada's open immigration policy? Miller reassures that this is not the case, recalling the importance of welcoming new immigrants more efficiently. There are two exceptions to the new rule: the health and construction sectors, which are facing severe labor shortages.
The 2024 budget's impact on immigration
Canada's 2024 budget, announced by Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland in mid-April, allocates 53 billion Canadian dollars to combat housing shortages and boost workforce productivity. Although immigration is not a priority, funds are designated to assist immigrants in securing affordable housing. The budget aims to reduce the number of temporary residents while increasing support for the integration and protection of immigrants. Over the past ten years, foreign nationals have typically taken six years to reach the median Canadian income, eventually exceeding it by 10%.
Indonesia
The remote work visa is now a reality
Indonesia launched the "E33G remote worker visa" on April 1, 2024, allowing foreign employees of non-Indonesian companies to work remotely from Indonesia for up to one year, renewable for another year. Applicants must earn at least $60,000 annually and maintain a minimum of $2,000 in their bank accounts. The visa prohibits employment with Indonesian companies, with further eligibility criteria to be specified later.
Introduction of a Bridging Visa for foreigners
The Directorate General of Immigration in Indonesia has introduced a transitional visa called Bridging Visa to attract and retain more foreign talent. This visa is intended for holders of a limited stay permit (ITAS), a permanent stay permit (ITAP), or a visit visa (VOA) already present on the territory. Thanks to the Bridging visa, they will no longer have to leave the territory during the transition process (visa renewal or status change). Specifically, the nationals concerned by the measure are holders of a limited stay permit (ITAS), a permanent stay permit (ITAP), or a visit visa (VOA) already present on the territory. According to the Director General of Immigration, Silmy Karim, this advancement will help foreigners save time and money. Moreover, immigration services will become more responsive and efficient. Available since April 1, the transitional visa is valid for 60 days. It becomes automatically invalid if the foreigner leaves Indonesia. Applications for this visa is made online.
Kuwait modifies expat residency laws
On April 20, Sheikh Fahad Yousef Al-Sabah, the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Acting Minister of the Interior, announced a revision to Ministerial Resolution 957/2019, which governs the residence of expatriates in Kuwait. Eligible expatriates may remain in Kuwait for up to two months from their arrival date without a residence permit. However, they must initiate the process for obtaining either a temporary or permanent residence permit within this period. Other changes affect the work permit process. Employers are now required to secure approval from the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) before issuing a work permit, with a fee of 150 Kuwaiti Dinars (approximately $488) per permit. There are exceptions for certain institutions, including state-owned enterprises, hospitals, private educational facilities, sports clubs, and public utility associations.
Saudi Arabia considers lowering dependent visa costs
To attract more foreign workers, Saudi Arabia is contemplating lowering the costs of dependent visas, which have been set at 400 Saudi riyals since 2020. The Finance Minister, Mohammed Al-Jadaan, emphasizes that the fee revision is necessary to reflect the economic contributions of expatriates, highlighting the country's economic diversification efforts, including major projects like The Line.
Expatriates in Amsterdam may have to follow courses to "Become an Amsterdamer"
The Dutch Labour Party (PvdA) municipal branch in Amsterdam has proposed introducing courses aimed at helping expatriates "become Amsterdammers." This initiative arises from concerns over the city's changing demographics, where expatriates comprise 16% of the population. The PvdA views this demographic shift as a potential threat to social cohesion. The proposed courses cover language, history, culture, and include interactions with long-term residents. Funding for the program would be provided by employers of expatriates. Despite the proposal, some voices oppose the necessity of such courses, citing the successful integration of many expatriates who already speak Dutch and participate in local community activities.
South Africa launches its digital nomad visa
South Africa has recently introduced a digital nomad visa, joining other countries that offer similar provisions. Announced in early April, this visa aims to boost tourism and the economy by attracting foreign remote workers. Applicants must demonstrate an annual income of at least one million rands (about $53,000). The introduction of the visa has sparked a mixed response, with some South Africans welcoming the potential economic benefits while others express concerns over rising living costs and deepening inequalities. The visa would also necessitate changes to several national laws, including tax exemptions for foreign workers staying less than six months. However, some local laws could pose challenges, such as proposed copyright reforms affecting software reproduction.
New Zealand
New visa restrictions
Since taking office in November 2023, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has shifted New Zealand's immigration policy to the right, reversing the progressive trends set by his predecessor, Jacinda Ardern. The latest reform, announced on April 7, includes stringent language requirements for all work visa applicants and reduces the maximum duration of stay from five to three years. This move is part of a broader strategy to curb what the government considers unsustainable immigration levels, focusing on protecting foreign nationals by ensuring they understand their rights in English, thereby preventing exploitation. The policy emphasizes prioritizing local employment while maintaining avenues for highly skilled foreign workers in shortage sectors.
Plans for a digital nomad visa
While South Africa has implemented a digital nomad visa, New Zealand remains cautious, with the government currently deliberating on the matter. Minister of Immigration Erica Stanford has indicated that such a visa is under consideration but is not an immediate priority. Currently, digital nomads interested in New Zealand can use the holiday-work visa (WHV), which allows incidental work but primarily serves as a tourism visa. The government is focusing on broader immigration reforms to attract foreign talent, suggesting that any potential digital nomad visa would initially be available to a limited number of applicants to ensure it does not negatively impact the local job market.
United Kingdom
General practitioners will no longer benefit from the assistance service
The United Kingdom has recently phased out the visa assistance service for general practitioners, complicating the process for foreign doctors seeking to work in the UK. The National Health Service (NHS) has closed the dedicated service that connected general practitioners with visa sponsorship opportunities, citing staff limitations. The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) has criticized this decision, noting that foreign general practitioners now face a more cumbersome visa application process directly through the Home Office. The RCGP is advocating for more supportive measures, including indefinite leave or extended visas at the beginning of their training, to help stabilize the situation for international medical professionals.
United Kingdom raises salary threshold for family visa
The UK government has increased the salary requirement for a family visa from 18,600 pounds to 29,000 pounds—a 55% increase, effective immediately. Another increase to 38,700 pounds is expected by early 2025. Facing criticism over rising immigration levels and approaching general elections, the government aims to toughen its stance while justifying the measures as necessary to ensure foreigners can support themselves amid inflation. The policy targets reducing immigration and prioritizing local employment over foreign labor, especially in sectors not experiencing shortages.
Greece tightens criteria for Golden Visa to combat housing crisis
Greece has once again raised the investment threshold for its Golden Visa program to address its housing crisis. The parliament approved this change on April 2. Non-European residents now need to invest a minimum of 800,000 euros in real estate for a five-year residency permit in high-demand areas such as Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and other islands with more than 3,100 inhabitants. For other regions, the minimum investment required is 400,000 euros.
Previously, in August 2023, the government had increased the investment requirement from 250,000 euros to 500,000 euros for property purchases in the most sought-after areas. Additionally, the new rule prohibits short-term rentals of these properties, allowing only annual leases. This increase aims to ease the pressure on locals while boosting long-term rental availability and attracting more foreign investors. This balancing act comes amid a severe housing crisis. Since its inception in 2013, the Golden Visa has been blamed by critics for a 14.5% rise in house prices in 2023 alone, according to the Bank of Greece, with a five-year increase of 60%. In 2023, Greece saw a record 10,214 applications for the Golden Visa.
Spain ends its Golden Visa program
After years of deliberation, Spain has decided to terminate its Golden Visa program. In early April, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the program's conclusion. Introduced in 2013 to help revive Spain's economy amid a real estate and Eurozone crisis, the program has been controversial, with critics claiming it facilitated money laundering and ethically questionable practices that inflated local living costs and displaced residents. The European Union has been pushing since 2020 to end such programs, with Portugal, Cyprus, the Netherlands, and Ireland complying. However, Malta, Italy, Greece, and Austria are resisting. Despite fears, industry experts believe Spain will retain its appeal to wealthy investors due to its high quality of life, with many foreigners buying property without needing a Golden Visa. They predict minimal impact on real estate prices.
Belgium introduces new rules for foreign workers
Starting May 1, Belgium's Flanders region is prioritizing local and European foreign workers. Work permits will no longer be necessary for expatriates engaging in tourism, translation, conference participation, training, or commercial negotiations under a professional visitor status, provided they comply with a 90-day stay within a 180-day period. Recruitment of foreigners in medium-shortage occupations will require employers to provide detailed documentation of the candidate's skills and experience to the regional Ministry of Employment. Job offers must be listed on the Flemish Employment Service website and the European job search portal, with only those declared in shortage by the VDAB being approved. The new rules may decrease job opportunities for non-European workers, but the region is opening up to IT professionals who can apply for a European Blue Card with three years of experience in the last seven years, easing employer changes.
Italy launches its digital nomad visa
After two years of negotiations, Italy has finally introduced its digital nomad visa, effective March 28, 2022, with its decree published on April 4, 2024. This visa targets highly skilled foreigners with degrees or significant professional experience, particularly in IT. Applicants must earn at least 28,000 euros per year, have private health insurance, and secure stable accommodation in Italy. The application process includes presenting a clean criminal record and, if employed, a work contract. After arriving in Italy, expatriates must register with local immigration offices within eight days to obtain a renewable annual residence permit. The cost of the visa has not yet been disclosed.
Hungary enacts stricter immigration laws
Effective January 1, 2024, Hungary's new immigration reform toughens conditions for foreign workers. Those holding temporary residency permits for employment, seasonal work, study, internships, or volunteer work cannot apply for family reunification. The law also makes obtaining permanent residency more difficult, with certain exceptions for entrepreneurs, major investors, and highly skilled workers. A new ten-year investor visa, starting July 1, 2024, requires a minimum 250,000-euro investment in real estate. The reform introduces 24 types of residence permits, delineating between highly skilled and less skilled workers and limiting guest worker permits to specific roles and companies.
