As Trump gears up to launch his new immigration strategies in the US, many are left wondering about the future of immigration and the fate of millions of foreigners residing in the country, as well as those planning to move there. Meanwhile, international reforms vary, with some countries tightening temporary immigration while others implement policies beneficial to skilled foreigners. Spain is noted for its welcoming approach, and despite its political upheavals, Germany is looking to attract more foreign workers. If you're considering moving abroad in 2025, here's what you need to know.
United States: Automatic extension for spouses of H-1B visa holders
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) plans to extend the automatic renewal period for spouses of H-1B and L-1 visa holders from 180 days to 540 days, effective January 13, 2025. This applies to applications filed since May 4, 2022. Spouses holding H-4 and L-2 visas will be eligible for work permits, aiming to minimize work disruptions caused by application processing delays. While this measure seeks to retain foreign talent, there are concerns about its potential revocation under the new Trump administration.
H-1B visa cap reached for 2025
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that the cap for the H-1B visa has been met for 2025. This includes 65,000 visas, along with an additional 20,000 visas for higher education graduates. USCIS will communicate the following steps to the applicants. Those not selected will be notified through their records. A notable decline in sponsorships from major tech companies has been observed; for example, Amazon's sponsorships dropped to just over 7,000 from more than 11,000 in 2023. Conversely, Meta saw an increase of 400 sponsorships, likely driven by its investments in augmented virtual reality. Experts attribute the overall decline in sponsorships to shifts in AI and the broader economic context.
Additional visas for temporary workers
The Department of Interior and the Department of Labor have announced an increase of 64,716 non-agricultural temporary worker visas (H-2B) for the fiscal year 2025. This is in addition to the standard annual cap of 66,000 H-2B visas. The announcement was made on November 15, following the election of the new American president.
Publication of the January 2025 visa bulletin
The , published on December 3, 2024, offers promising news for those seeking to relocate to the US. This follows a period in September when no bulletin was issued due to disappointing work visa outcomes. The bulletin details improvements in processing various work visa categories, particularly EB visas. It serves as a critical resource, informing immigrants of optimal submission times and the current processing status. Key dates include the filing date, the earliest one can apply for a visa change, and the final decision date, which is the cut-off for applications to remain eligible.
Revision of the exchange visitor skills list
On December 9, the US Department of State revised its Exchange Visitor Skills List, which identifies critical expertise areas for national development. Notably, the requirement for exchange visitors to remain in their home country for two years after their program has been removed, effective November 9. This update simplifies the process for eligible expatriates to secure their work visas. The skills list continues to encompass fields such as engineering, health, technology, education, and the creative sectors. This modernization is expected to enhance the utility of the J-1 visa, facilitating internships, summer jobs, and first-time employment opportunities for students and young professionals in the United States.
Canada: Extension of the restrictive measures of 2024
The federal government has confirmed its intention to continue the restrictive immigration policies initiated in early 2024. For 2025, it plans to reduce the number of permanent residents by 21%, setting the target at 395,000 compared to 500,000 in the original immigration plan. Further reductions are anticipated in 2026, with foreign worker admissions expected to decrease by 40% and foreign student numbers by 20%. The government notes that approximately 4.9 million temporary permits will have expired since September 2024 or are set to expire by the end of 2025. It is expected that the holders of these permits, including roughly 766,000 study permits, will voluntarily depart Canada. However, the Canada Border Services Agency will increase its investigations to ensure compliance from those who remain in the country beyond their permit's validity.
Québec: End of "Québec Days"
"Québec Days," a significant initiative for recruiting foreign talent in sectors like IT, nursing, engineering, and education, will no longer be held. The Québec government has paused all such recruitment missions abroad until at least June 30, 2025, pending reevaluation of its immigration and labor shortage strategies. These events, previously held in Africa and Europe, facilitated direct hiring through governmental and non-governmental partners, including Québec International, Montréal International, and Drummond Economic. Any potential future "Québec Days" are unlikely to occur before the fall of 2025. This indefinite postponement has raised concerns among employers about potential business disruptions and has sparked calls for a depoliticized approach to immigration to address the acute labor shortages better.
New work limitations and rules for study permits
Eligible international students are now limited to 24 hours of off-campus work during their course week. They must report any change of institution and wait for their file to be validated to receive a new study permit. These restrictions are intended to combat fraud and abuse (from companies and educational institutions) and better protect international students. The Ministry of Immigration calls on designated educational institutions (DEIs) to respect the study permit system and to exercise greater vigilance. Negligent DEIs risk not being able to host international students for a year.
Generous scholarships from the University of Alberta
Recognized in Canada and internationally, the University of Alberta (U of A) is among the world's top educational institutions. It stands out through its graduate programs (more than 500), specializations (250), and Nobel Prizes (Michael Houghton, Nobel Prize in Medicine/Physiology in 2020). To attract and train tomorrow's talent, the university invests in scholarship programs accessible to foreign students from the first cycle. Several million Canadian dollars are thus disbursed to support students. According to the University, one in five first-year students receives a scholarship. Some undergraduate scholarships, based on high school results, are automatically awarded upon student admission. Depending on their average, the best students can receive up to 5,000 Canadian dollars in international admission scholarships. There are several types of scholarships: reserved for certain nationalities, for "international leaders," etc. Many scholarship programs are currently open. It is advisable to check . Applications are made online. is available on the U of A website.
International Experience Canada (EIC): 2025 invitation round
The government allows young foreigners (aged 18 to 35) to travel and work in Canada for up to 2 years. Three types of programs are offered: the working holiday visa (WHV), the "young professionals" permit, and the international co-op internship. The WHV is intended for travelers who primarily want to discover Canada; they do not yet have a job offer. The other two permits are linked to a known employer beforehand (job offer confirmed at the time of application). Depending on their nationality, foreign candidates can apply in several categories. The 2025 schedule is currently being established. Prospective candidates are invited to consult the to know when to apply.
Express Entry: Launch of invitations for French-speaking candidates
On December 3, 2024, Canada sent 800 invitations to apply for permanent residence (Express Entry draw number 329) to selected candidates. A minimum of 800 points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) was required to receive an invitation. Every two weeks, the Canadian government sends invitations to candidates who have obtained the best results so that they can apply for permanent residence. The last process was set up on November 12.
Study permit: How to submit a new application after rejection
If a study permit application is rejected, applicants have a new opportunity through a Federal Court study permit pilot project launched on October 1, 2024. This project expedites the judicial review process to approximately five months, a significant reduction from the typical 14 to 18 months. Eligibility requires that the applicant has not contested any findings of inadmissibility related to the misrepresentation of personal information and that no new evidence is submitted via affidavit. Interested candidates must apply online through the . While there is no charge for participating in the pilot project, there is a 50 Canadian dollar fee for filing a judicial review application. must be submitted within 15 days of receiving the initial rejection of the study permit.
End of the Direct Stream for Studies (SDS): Consequences for international students
As of November 8, Canada has discontinued the Student Direct Stream (SDS), which previously offered expedited processing for study permit applications from nationals of certain countries, including India, Morocco, Pakistan, Brazil, Senegal, and China. The termination of the SDS, which involved higher fees such as the advance payment of one year's tuition and a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of 20,635 Canadian dollars, is described as an "ethical and integral" measure aimed at making costs more manageable and ensuring equal access for all students. However, concerns remain regarding the potential impact on processing times. For instance, in 2023, 60% of Indian applicants through the SDS achieved a permit approval rate exceeding 70%, significantly higher than the 10% approval rate via the traditional process. The effect of the SDS's closure on such disparities remains to be seen.
Europe: Two more countries in the Schengen area
On March 31, 2024, Romania and Bulgaria partially entered the Schengen Area, with plans for full integration into the free movement zone beginning January 2025. Previously, both countries experienced limited integration due to concerns over illegal immigration, with significant reservations expressed by Austria. In December 2024, a pivotal meeting involving the interior ministers of Austria, Bulgaria, and Romania, along with other European ministers, led to Austria softening its position. The European Commission has hailed this development as a positive step to strengthen the EU's external borders. For non-European expatriates, the complete inclusion of Romania and Bulgaria into the Schengen Area is set to streamline procedures, eliminate administrative barriers, and enhance freedom of movement across the region.
United Kingdom: The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for non-Europeans comes into force
Non-European nationals planning to enter the United Kingdom are required to obtain an before crossing the British border. The ETA system became operational for non-Europeans on November 27 and will become mandatory starting January 8, 2025. European nationals will be able to request their ETA from March 5, 2025, and must have it by April 2, 2025, to enter the UK. The ETA application is processed online and costs 10 British pounds. It is valid for two years or until the expiration of the traveler's passport, whichever comes first.
Immigration options for foreign professionals without a job offer
Foreign professionals wishing to immigrate to the United Kingdom without a job offer have several visa options depending on their circumstances. These include the Global Talent visa, the , the , and the . Each program caters to specific groups such as young professionals, graduates, individuals with special skills, or those with family ties to a British national. Additionally, Indian nationals have access to a tailored .
Stricter rules to combat exploitation of foreign workers
The UK government, under the Starmer administration, is intensifying efforts to combat the exploitation of foreign workers. A bill under review aims to double the duration of penalties imposed on employers who violate labor laws or visa regulations. Companies failing to adhere to minimum wage or visa requirements could face a two-year prohibition on hiring foreign workers, an increase from the previous one-year ban. Employers will have one year to rectify any non-compliance, during which state services will conduct more stringent inspections. The care sector, recognized as particularly vulnerable to worker exploitation, will receive focused attention. A newly proposed Fair Work Agency will oversee and ensure adherence to labor laws. The Home Office has ramped up its inspections, conducting 856 checks in October 2024—a 55% increase from the previous year. Initially targeting skilled worker visas, this initiative may expand to other visa categories if proven effective.
These retired British expats who escape inheritance tax
An unintended consequence of the non-domicile tax reform is its impact on inheritance tax obligations for British expatriates. The reform, which redefines "domicile" as "residence," stipulates that individuals residing outside the UK for more than 10 years are not liable for inheritance tax on their global assets. Previously, individuals considered domiciled in the UK were taxed on worldwide assets, regardless of their actual place of residence. This change, effective April 6, 2025, particularly benefits British expats in hubs like Singapore, Dubai, and Spain. It may also motivate more Britons to retire abroad, provided they plan to stay overseas for at least a decade and the tax rules remain unchanged.
Reform of the non-domiciled status
The forthcoming tax reform scheduled for April 6, 2025, will overhaul the UK's outdated non-domiciled status rules. The new system, based on residence, introduces a Foreign Income and Gains (FIG) regime for individuals who have been UK tax residents for less than four years as of that date. This regime will apply to former UK residents who haven't resided in the UK for a decade or more. Given the complexity of these changes, individuals are strongly advised to clarify their tax residence status. The 2025 reform aims to simplify the tax landscape but does not eliminate the need for individuals to understand their tax obligations fully, including any transitional arrangements for repatriating assets. The state services will maintain the authority to investigate and rectify any incorrect claims for tax exemptions.
The manufacturing sector needs foreign skilled workers
The British manufacturing sector is experiencing a significant shortage of skilled workers, with 36% of positions unfilled across key industries such as aerospace, automotive, green energies, and advanced manufacturing. In response, the sector is actively recruiting foreign professionals for roles including machinists, engineers, computer scientists, production managers, research and development scientists, skilled craftsmen, supply chain managers, and welders. To attract these talents, the sector is offering worker visas alongside competitive salaries. Prospective candidates are encouraged to review the on the government website and , signaling the industry's commitment to bolstering its workforce with skilled international labor.
Changes to the tax regime for expats in Italy
Italy has adjusted its tax regime for expatriates to continue attracting foreign residents. Previously, until the end of 2023, new tax residents moving between 2020 and 2023 enjoyed a 70% tax exemption, which increased to 90% for those settling in Southern Italy. However, starting in 2025, the general tax rebate has been reduced to 50%, and athletes and business leaders are now excluded from the program. The exemption can increase to 60% if the individual has a minor child, either biological or adopted. Expatriates must now commit to a minimum of four years in Italy—up from the previous two years—and conduct the majority of their professional activities within the country. Additionally, they should not have been Italian tax residents in the three years prior to application, an extension from the previous two-year requirement. The regime is valid for five years and can be renewed for an additional three years. Despite these changes, professors and researchers continue to enjoy a 90% exemption for six years, which can extend to 13 years if they have dependent children or invest in real estate. Retirees moving to towns with fewer than 20,000 inhabitants still receive substantial tax benefits.
Sectors recruiting and opportunities for foreign workers in Germany
A report from the Bertelsmann Foundation indicates that Germany will require approximately 288,000 immigrants annually by 2040 to offset the effects of an aging population and persistent labor shortages. Following immigration reforms enacted in June 2023, Germany issued 200,000 professional visas in 2024, marking a 10% increase from the previous year. In 2025, the sectors most actively recruiting include healthcare (nurses, doctors, elderly care providers), engineering and technical fields (civil, electrical, and mechanical engineers, plumbers, carpenters), and information technology (IT consultants, developers). The German government frequently updates its to guide recruitment efforts. The 2023 reforms have also facilitated the online application process for professional visas, which was available at over half of German consulates in 2024, with plans to expand this convenience further in 2025.
Finland considers easing rules for expats' spouses
The Finnish Chamber of Commerce is advocating for the relaxation of work permit regulations for the spouses of expatriates. They argue that the current stringent requirements detract from Finland's appeal as a destination for international talent. A significant concern is the high income thresholds set for family reunification -- currently, a foreigner must earn about 3,900 euros gross per month to sponsor their spouse and two children. This threshold, recently increased by immigration authorities, is challenging for many local and expatriate families to meet. The Chamber of Commerce suggests adopting a total family income approach rather than the individual income threshold and recommends abolishing labor market tests for spouses. They also call for a streamlined process for obtaining residence permits, which they believe will make Finland more attractive and competitive in the global market.
France: The Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE) seeks international talent
The Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE) is enhancing its efforts to expand its influence internationally as part of President Macron's Cap 2030 initiative. Launched in 2018, this plan aims to increase the number of international students in France from 398,000 to 700,000 by 2030. To achieve this, the AEFE is actively recruiting teachers and supervisory staff across its 138 countries of operation. The French government has supported these efforts by launching "," an employment platform dedicated to AEFE recruitment. The platform not only facilitates the hiring process but also offers training, particularly in human resources management. Through TALENTS and other initiatives, the AEFE hopes to enhance the visibility and attractiveness of French schools abroad, improving the conditions under which they welcome international students.
Spain extends the duration of the job seeker visa
Spain has announced an extension to the validity of its job seeker visa (visa de búsqueda de empleo) as part of broader immigration reforms to address labor shortages. The duration of the visa will be increased from the current 3 months to 1 year. This change will provide non-European foreigners with more time to secure employment and apply for their residence permits in Spain. Although the government has not specified the exact date this measure will take effect, the extended timeframe is expected to significantly ease the transition for job seekers into the Spanish labor market.
No more VAT for the self-employed in 2025
In a move that will benefit expats who own small businesses, the Spanish government plans to eliminate VAT for self-employed individuals and companies with an annual turnover of less than 85,000 euros. This decision is part of the implementation of the European directive 2020/285, effective since 2020 but not yet incorporated into Spanish legislation. The European Commission has urged member states to expedite the adoption of this directive, which aims to reduce the tax burden on the self-employed. However, the VAT exemption comes with certain limitations: small businesses will lose the ability to deduct VAT from their expenses, and their revenue growth will be limited to a maximum increase of 10%. The European Commission is considering proposals to increase this threshold to 25%.
Immigration reform: Opportunities for expat workers
Spain's latest immigration law reform, validated by a royal decree on November 20, focuses on attracting non-European workers and facilitating their integration into the Spanish labor market. The reform extends the job-seeking visa from 3 months to 1 year, allowing more time for foreign workers to secure employment and adjust their residency status. The reform aims to streamline the processes for obtaining work and residence permits and also addresses the issue of illegal immigration by offering a pathway to regularization. Over the next three years, approximately 900,000 undocumented workers (300,000 per year) already in Spain will be regularized. This is in response to the country's need for about 250,000 foreign workers annually to sustain its economic sectors, including health, construction, agriculture, IT, hospitality, and engineering.
Switzerland: Quota of foreign workers unchanged for 2025
Switzerland has decided to maintain its quota for skilled worker visas at 8,500 for 2025, identical to 2024. The allocation includes 4,500 long-stay permits (B permits) and 4,000 short-stay permits (L permits) for temporary workers whose stay does not exceed one year. This decision follows the underutilization of visas in 2024, where only 78% of the allocated B and L permits were issued, primarily to non-European expatriates. The Swiss government prioritizes nationals and foreigners already residing in the country, aiming to address labor shortages while encouraging local employment. The tourism sector, reliant on foreign labor for roles in hotels, restaurants, and ski resorts, supports this measure.
End of the blue permit: Here's what it means for expats
Switzerland has discontinued its traditional paper format driver's license, known as the "blue permit," effective November 1. Drivers are now required to use the "blue card" driver's license, aligning with European and international security standards. The cost to replace the permit ranges from 30 to 45 Swiss francs (approximately 32 to 48 euros), varying by region. This change primarily affects Swiss nationals but also has implications for expatriates. Those who have resided in Switzerland for over 12 consecutive months are required to convert their foreign driver's license to a Swiss license. This regulation also applies to cross-border workers and expatriates driving vehicles registered in Switzerland. Failure to comply may result in a fine of 20 Swiss francs (about 22 euros).
Netherlands: Warning to fake self-employed workers
Starting January 1, 2025, the Netherlands will intensify efforts to combat fake self-employment with its latest tax reform. Fake self-employment occurs when an individual, ostensibly an independent contractor, functions as an employee, thus undermining fair competition and the social security rights of genuine employees. The reform will increase penalties for companies that engage in this practice. A transitional period of one year will apply, during which sanctions are lighter, but the authorities may assess back taxes for up to five years. This tightening of regulations impacts foreign independent contractors, some of whom have already voiced concerns about the strict enforcement anticipated under the new law.
Sweden looks to ease the rules for non-European foreign talent
The Swedish Association of University Teachers and Researchers (SULF) is advocating for more accessible immigration policies for non-European researchers and doctoral candidates. They propose allowing greater freedom of movement within Sweden while applications are processed, revising the simplified permit system, and speeding up the process for obtaining permanent residence permits. However, SULF supports tightening work restrictions during studies to prevent the misuse of study permits. Since the immigration restrictions initiated in 2021, Sweden has reportedly seen a decline in international researchers, a group SULF argues is crucial for the country's growth. They also urge measures to support doctoral students who were in Sweden before the 2021 reforms and now face challenges due to these restrictive policies.
Portugal: Accelerated residence for highly qualified foreigners with D3 visa
Portugal offers the D3 visa for highly qualified activities, streamlining residency for foreign entrepreneurs who contribute directly to the Portuguese economy through business creation or investment. This visa is seen as beneficial for both expatriates and local communities. The D3 visa is a long-stay permit that can lead to Portuguese citizenship after five years, contingent upon the holder maintaining their employment. Benefits include expedited family reunification, reduced processing times (30 days for the visa and four months for the residence permit), and eligibility for the European Blue Card after 18 months. Additionally, tax exemptions are available for those who transfer their tax residence to Portugal, with further tax advantages for those in high-value-added professions.
Americans show growing interest in Portugal
The number of American expats in Portugal has significantly increased, from 7,000 in 2021 to over 10,000 in 2023, a 45% rise. This surge is part of a broader trend that includes the growth of digital nomads and retired Californians relocating, initially noted in Mexico. The D7 visa, aimed at affluent retirees and those with passive income, and the D8 visa, for digital nomads, have remained highly popular since their introductions in 2007 and 2022, respectively. Interest from Americans peaked in November 2024, increasing by 1.51%, a spike analysts attribute to the re-election of President Trump. Americans are also increasingly considering other destinations like Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland.
Greece: Labor shortages by sector
Greece is actively seeking skilled foreign workers to address significant labor shortages across various sectors. The healthcare, hospitality, catering, tourism, and agriculture sectors are particularly affected. Notably, the agricultural sector alone reports a deficit of approximately 180,000 workers. High demand is also evident for professionals such as computer scientists, cybersecurity experts, electricians, welders, and plumbers. One major challenge in addressing these shortages is the lengthy processing times for work permits, which can extend from 6 to 9 months. This delay poses difficulties for businesses, especially those reliant on non-European seasonal workers. To streamline this process, Greece has facilitated easier access to the European Blue Card, a measure aimed specifically at highly skilled non-European professionals. By easing the regulations surrounding the Blue Card, Greece hopes to attract more of these skilled workers to fill an estimated need for 300,000 additional workers.
Kuwait residence permit updates
A decree-law issued on November 12, 2024, revises the policies governing the entry, residence, and exit of expatriates in Kuwait. Visitor visas are now capped at three months, barring any extensions or transitions to a residence permit. Hotels and similar establishments are required to report the check-in and check-out of all foreign guests within 24 hours. Sponsors are mandated to inform the Ministry of Interior about any expatriates with expired visas or those overstaying their permitted duration. Expatriates must report lost or damaged passports within two weeks. Temporary residence permits are initially valid for three months, with the possibility of extending up to one year. Standard residence permits have a validity of five years, with exceptions allowing ten years for landowners and children of Kuwaiti women and fifteen years for investors. The updated law imposes fines ranging from 400 to 10,000 Kuwaiti dinars ($1,301 to $32,542) and incarceration from two to five years for those who breach these regulations. Additionally, the Ministry of Interior retains the authority to deport any expatriate, even those holding a valid residence permit.
Visas and residence permits: Additional updates
The new regulations stipulate that all entry and exit must occur through officially designated ports. Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) may enter Kuwait using their ID cards, while all other visitors must present a valid passport. Foreigners desiring a residence permit must submit their applications directly to the Minister of Interior. While Kuwaiti men can sponsor their non-Kuwaiti spouses and children, Kuwaiti women married to non-nationals face certain restrictions based on their spouse's citizenship status. Foreigners who are widowed or divorced from Kuwaiti nationals may apply for residence if they have children with their former spouse. New directives also cover expatriate household workers, whose employers are required to report any absence exceeding two weeks. Household employees seeking to stay outside Kuwait for over three months must obtain permission from the Ministry of Interior.
Decline in the number of graduate expats and consequences for work
Recent statistics reveal a decrease of 143,488 in the number of expats holding a university degree. The total foreign population is around 3.3 million, of which 2,899,191 lack a university degree, predominantly aged over 20. Only 6,561 hold a master's or doctoral degree. In response to these trends, the Public Authority for Manpower has shortened the duration of transferring foreign workers in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from three years to one, contingent on sponsor approval. This policy adjustment aims to enhance the regulation of foreign labor within SMEs.
Oman: Drop in the number of expatriates
The latest data indicates a 1.2% reduction in the number of expatriate workers from the previous year, totaling 1,811,170 in Oman. This trend aligns with the Sultanate's job nationalization policy under the Oman Vision 2040 project. The private sector, a substantial employer of expatriates, saw the most notable decline of 1.6%, except in the household employment sector, which experienced a slight increase of 0.6%. The proportion of expatriates in the public sector dropped by 1.9%. Expatriates from Bangladesh witnessed the most significant decrease of 9.8%, while those from Myanmar, Tanzania, and Egypt saw increases of 55.4%, 44.4%, and 11.1%, respectively.
Bahrain: Expats must train their Bahraini replacements
The Bahraini Parliament has enacted legislation mandating that foreign workers in the public sector train their Bahraini successors. This regulation is part of broader legislation that sets stringent hiring conditions for foreign employees: a cap of two years on contracts, a requirement for at least a master's degree, and a minimum of ten years' relevant experience. The measure is currently under review by the Shura Council, the upper house of the National Assembly. Advocates of the legislation assert that it supports the national policy of job nationalization.
Job loss: Support for private-sector expats
A major overhaul in Bahrain's labor laws now offers relief to expatriate workers through a reformed end-of-service indemnity (EOSI) system. This system ensures prompt payment of indemnities by mandating corporate contributions to the Health Insurance Organization (SIO) on a monthly basis. Expatriates can now avoid previous delays and complexities by registering with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) upon cessation of their employment and applying for their indemnities online via the . Applicants must provide their banking details and IBAN. The reform aims to increase transparency and streamline payment processes, improving the integration of expatriate workers.
Transfer of expats during contract: Push for stricter regulations
Bahraini lawmakers are advocating for stricter regulations to prevent expatriates from switching companies during their contract period, citing the negative impact such practices have on business continuity and economic stability. Many companies have voiced concerns about the financial and operational challenges caused by expatriates leaving their roles prematurely. Currently, expatriates are required to complete one year with an employer before a transfer can be considered. The proposed amendment seeks to enforce this condition more rigorously, banning transfers for those who have not met their contractual obligations. This proposal, passed by the Council of Representatives, is yet to be further deliberated.
United Arab Emirates strengthens the job Emiratization policy
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources has issued a directive mandating companies with 20 to 49 employees to employ at least two Emirati workers, effective at the start of 2025. This represents a stricter approach compared to the previous requirement, which applied only to companies with more than 50 employees. The new directive expands the scope to include numerous small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Non-compliance with this directive could result in fines of up to 96,000 UAE dirhams (approximately $26,137), with penalties reaching 100,000 UAE dirhams (around $27,225) for falsifying information about the number of Emirati employees. Furthermore, starting January 1, 2025, a new provision requires private equity companies to include women in the appointment process of board members, promoting gender representation in governance.
Certificate of good conduct for Pakistani expat workers
In response to activities classified as "undesirable" by the UAE, such as begging by some Pakistani expatriates, the Emirati authorities have tightened work permit and visa regulations for Pakistanis. The UAE previously restricted visitor visas from 24 Pakistani cities; this ban has now expanded to include 30 cities. In response, Pakistan has implemented a new requirement for its citizens: obtaining a "certificate of good conduct" from local police prior to expatriation to the UAE. This measure reflects Pakistan's diplomatic strategy to maintain strong labor relations with the UAE, a critical source of remittances for Pakistan.
Increased visa restrictions for Indian travelers
Dubai's tightening of visa regulations has raised concerns among Indian travelers, particularly families. With the Dubai Shopping Festival scheduled for December 8 to January 14—a major attraction for Indians—new requirements have been introduced. Travelers must now provide detailed information about their hosts, including the host's rental contract or hotel reservation, contact details, a copy of the host's UAE residence visa or ID card, and details of the traveler's return ticket. Indian visitors staying with relatives have been facing challenges in obtaining and submitting these documents. Many hosts express discomfort in sharing personal documents, fueling speculation that the new rules may be pushing travelers towards hotel bookings, thereby increasing their travel costs.
Thailand inspires youth with new fund
Thailand is set to inspire its youth with the Youth Overseas Dream Fund launch on November 21. Aimed at individuals aged 15 to 30, the program is structured into three categories: the "Dream Workshop," "Soaring Overseas," and the "Flagship Project." Slated to commence in 2025, the initiative plans to enroll 200 participants in the first category, 350 in the second, and 60 in the third, which will focus on environmental sustainability. Selected youths in this final category will have the opportunity to visit international organizations and engage in their activities. With a substantial budget of 10 billion Taiwanese dollars, the fund seeks to foster industry growth through innovation and international exchanges.
Malaysia introduces Digital Arrival Card
On December 1, 2023, Malaysia announced the introduction of a digital arrival card, with implementation delayed to January 1, 2024. Since then, all foreign travelers to Malaysia must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) at least three days prior to their arrival. This card is mandatory for all non-citizens except permanent residents, those transiting through Singapore without immigration checks, and holders of Malaysia's Automated Clearance System pass (MACS). Detailed application guidelines, including financial documentation requirements, are available on the .
China enhances immigration phone assistance service
China's National Immigration Administration has expanded its telephone assistance service to better meet the needs of foreigners. As of November 26, support is now available in Japanese, Korean, and Russian, in addition to the previously offered English and Chinese. Launched in 2021, the service has handled over 14 million calls, both local and international, achieving a near-perfect resolution rate of 99.9% on the first call. This improvement reflects China's commitment to facilitating smoother communication and support for its international community.
Japan: Two working holiday permits for New Zealanders
Good news for New Zealand citizens tempted by the Japanese adventure. Last December, the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that New Zealand citizens could apply twice for the working holiday visa (WHV). This new rule also concerns Canadians, Austrians, Danes, and British. Normally, it is only possible to apply for the WHV once in a lifetime. However, this new rule does not eliminate the other conditions of the WHV, starting with the age limit: the permit is limited to 18-30-year-olds.
Taiwan to introduce a new work visa to attract highly skilled foreigners
Taiwan is launching a new work visa to address chronic labor shortages and the aging of its population. The visa will target skilled and highly skilled workers in high-demand sectors: health care (especially geriatrics), engineering, IT, AI, education, green energies, finance and accounting, and technical trades (semiconductor manufacturing...). In November, the Ministry of Labor revealed that more than 66,000 positions have been vacant for over 6 months, mainly in services (about 36,000 positions) and in industry (about 31,000 positions).
New Zealand: New rule regarding Post-Study Work Visas
To attract foreign talent to sectors experiencing shortages, the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment introduced a new rule concerning applications for post-study work visas (PSW). Announced on November 19, the new rule allows international students to apply for their PSW visa regardless of the duration of their master's program. Previously, students had to justify at least 30 weeks of master's coursework. This new rule only applies to international students who have completed their postgraduate program in 30 weeks with immediate continuation in a master's program. Students concerned must apply for their PSW within 12 months following the expiration of their visa. Limited to a single application per student, the PSW visa lasts between 12 and 36 months.
Australia introduces new "Skills in Demand" visa
On December 7, the Australian government announced the replacement of the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (sub-class 482) with the new Skill in Demand visa. This new visa allows for a stay of up to four years and provides a pathway to permanent residency. Concurrently, the government released an updated Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) featuring 456 in-demand professions, reflecting a strategic shift towards simplifying immigration rules to better meet labor needs and attract skilled foreigners.
Launch of nominations for 2024-2025 visas in New South Wales
The New South Wales government has launched its skilled visa program for 2024-2025 under visa sub-class 190, targeting seven sectors facing chronic labor shortages. These priority sectors include agriculture and agribusiness, construction, care, renewable energies, advanced manufacturing, digital trades, and education. The application process has been simplified to attract more foreign talent and their families. Interested individuals can find regular updates on the .
Sub-class 482 visa: Reduced experience requirement
The Australian government is set to modify the requirements for the sub-class 482 visa, reducing the required professional experience from two years to one. This change aims to offer greater flexibility to businesses and attract more foreign professionals. Additionally, the acceptance of experience not acquired in the last five years and part-time experiences will broaden eligibility, although full-time professional experience will remain more highly valued.
Launch of the National Innovation Visa
Australia has introduced the new National Innovation Visa (sub-class 858), replacing the Global Talent visa. This visa is designed for highly skilled individuals in cutting-edge fields, such as award-winning researchers, recognized entrepreneurs, thought leaders, innovative investors, athletes, and creatives. Unlike the sub-class 482, it does not require sponsorship but does necessitate an invitation.
The construction sector needs foreign workers
In response to ongoing labor shortages in the construction sector, exacerbated by the housing crisis and market fluctuations, the updated Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) now emphasizes roles in construction and housing trades. Historically, only 2% of visas have been granted to construction professionals over the past 20 years, a rate insufficient to meet current demands. The revised CSOL aims to attract more skilled workers to Australia's construction industry, with an added focus on training.
South Africa: Extension of appeal period for visa and work permit rejections
South Africa's Ministry of Home Affairs has extended the deadline for appealing visa or work permit rejections to March 31, 2025. Applicants can choose the nearest available appointment date on the Global VFS online platform, even if it falls beyond the standard 10 business days required for filing an appeal. This extension is intended to alleviate issues stemming from current technical difficulties with the VFS system, ensuring that applications remain valid during the extended timeframe.
