Mexico: Immigration application delays
Due to the resignation of several immigration officers in Mexico (Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey), and the changes caused by the last presidential elections, please expect a two-week delay 
for the following:
- Work permit applications
- Residency renewals
- Permanent residence applications
- Employer’s certificate (approvals and renewals)
The two-week delay is an estimate; it could take more time depending on who is handling the case at the National Institute of Migration.
Key considerations
Applicants should expect further delays due to a backlog of cases and the possibility that immigration officers may return.
Crown’s Immigration team is available to support employers and their relocating employees, and will advise on any procedural changes or issues that arise.
This summary was prepared using Information obtained from Crown Mexico.
Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any further inquiries regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Roberta Carnaccini, Global Operations Director, Immigration.
Slovakia: Appointment delays at the Slovak Embassy in New Delhi
The Slovak Embassy in New Delhi, India is experiencing appointment delays due to an increase in applications. Appointments are delayed as follows: 
- Submitting Residence Permit applications: approximately seven months; the first appointments are now scheduled for March 2019.
- Visa appointments: approximately one month; appointments are currently being booked for September 2018.
Key considerations
Foreign nationals as well as employers filing applications in New Delhi should consider the delays and postpone assignment start dates, if necessary. We also advise employers to start immigration applications as soon as possible.
This summary was prepared using information obtained verbally from the Slovak Embassy in New Delhi, India.
Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any further inquiries regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Michele Giordani, Regional Immigration Manager EMEA.
Thailand: Single Window system implemented for visas and work permits
The Board of Investment (BOI) in Thailand has brought forward the implementation date for the new “Single Window” system. 
Single Window system
The system succeeds the e-Expert system and replaces hard-copy blue book work permits with a digital work permit.
The BOI now requires BOI-registered companies applying for work permits or long-term visas at the Bangkok one-stop service (OSSC), or immigration centers at Chaing Mai and Phuket, to submit applications via the new online system. This will streamline initial and renewal work permit applications.
Until further notice, applications in all other provinces will still be made with hard-copy supporting documents and an old style blue book will be issued.
Key considerations
Processing times are expected to remain unchanged.
BOI registered companies who have already been issued with a user ID and password can now access the new system.
This summary was prepared using information obtained from the Thailand Board of Investment.
Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any further inquiries regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Debbie Beynon, Regional Immigration Manager, APAC.
