Immigration news updates for AMER and EMEA regions
Americas
Canada: Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit application process
The Canadian government has implemented a new measure to reduce “flag-poling,” a practice where temporary residents bypass online application wait times by leaving and immediately re-entering the country for same-day immigration services. As of now, foreign nationals can no longer apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) at the border. This change aims to streamline processing, enhance fairness, and allocate border resources more efficiently. The government continues to seek ways to improve application processing and maintain a smooth border with the United States.
In most cases, a study permit expires 90 days after an international student completes their study program. However, eligible graduating students can now apply online for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) before their study permit expires. While waiting for a work permit approval, they can work full-time and receive an automated letter to show employers. Once the work permit is approved, it is directly mailed to them.
Recently, flag-poling hours at 12 Canadian ports of entry were reduced. This change allows border services officers to process a high volume of travellers more efficiently during peak periods. It also enables them to focus on other priorities, including handling high-risk travellers and facilitating trade.
Additional measures to address flag-poling include speeding up processing times for in-Canada work permit applications, simplifying online application forms, and authorizing workers to start new jobs immediately without waiting for work permit processing.
This summary was prepared using information from the Government of Canada
United States: Streamlined visa process for DACA recipients and college graduates
The U.S. State Department has clarified consular guidance regarding ineligibility waivers for certain Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients and college graduates. These clarifications aim to expedite employment-based non-immigrant visas for eligible individuals. Consular officers will recommend that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) waive ineligibility on an expedited basis, while the visa processing steps remain unchanged. The updated guidance emphasizes the consideration of positive effects on U.S. public interests, such as cases where applicants have U.S. degrees or credentials for skilled labour and seek employment related to their education.
This summary was prepared using information from U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs
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 Director of Immigration) and Margarida Luis (Immigration coordinator, AMER).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Germany: Germany plans to address its labour shortages by hiring skilled workers from India
The German Minister of Labour, Hubertus Heil, announced a new “skilled labour strategy” to facilitate the recruitment of immigrants. This strategy, developed in collaboration with various authorities, seeks to streamline visa issuance and attract talented individuals, especially from India. Heil emphasized that “bright minds and helping hands” are welcome in the country, “India is an important country because it not only has the largest population in the world but also because 1.5 million additional people enter the Indian labour market every month”. Germany faces the challenge of needing seven million skilled workers by 2035, as highlighted by a study from the Institute for Employment Research (IAB).
Additionally, over 70 occupations in Germany currently experienced labour shortages, in fields like transportation, manufacturing, construction, healthcare, engineering, and IT. To address this, Germany has relaxed immigration rules, allowing experienced foreign workers with recognized degrees to work in their respective fields. Furthermore, the country has increased the number of yearly work visas issued under the Western Balkans Regulation to enhance access for citizens of specific countries coming from the Balkan region.
This summary was prepared using information obtained from the Schengen news
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 Director of Immigration).
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