Immigration news update for APAC and EMEA regions
Asia-Pacific
Indonesia: Indonesia introduces a new Bridging Visa
The Directorate General of Immigration (DGI) in Indonesia has introduced a 60-day Transitional Stay Permit, commonly referred to as a Bridging Visa. This permit aims to grant legal immigration status to foreign nationals who apply for another residence permit after their original permit has expired. With this new policy, several changes have been implemented.
Foreign nationals currently holding Visas on Arrival, Limited Stay Permits or Permanent Stay Permits can now obtain a transitional Limited Stay Permit without needing to leave Indonesia. Applications for this new visa are expected to commence at the end of May 2024. This allows individuals to continue their stay legally while they apply for a different type of residence permit. Bridging Visas will allow holders to continue residing in Indonesia for up to 60 days after the expiry of their current document and cannot be extended.
However, it’s important to note that the DGI has not yet published the list of allowable activities under this visa.
This summary was prepared using information from our local service providers.
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 Debra Jane Beynon (Regional Manager, APAC).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
United Kingdom: Visa applications decline amid tighter measures in the UK
Visa applications in the UK have dropped significantly due to stricter measures implemented by the Home Secretary. These measures, aimed, according to the Government, at reducing “unsustainable” migration, have particularly impacted student visas. International students starting courses this year are, for example, no longer able to bring family members with them. Additionally, students cannot switch their visas before completing their studies anymore. The reduction in student dependent applications during the first four months of 2024 is staggering 79% compared to the same period in 2023.
The impact also extends to care worker dependents. Restrictions on care worker visas have led to a 58% decline in Health and Care dependent applications. The government’s comprehensive package to reduce legal migration includes raising salary thresholds for Skilled Worker visas and increasing income requirements for family visas. These new efforts involve the requirement for firms sponsoring migrant care workers to register with the industry regulator.
This summary was prepared using information from the Government of UK
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 Joanna Sogeke (Team Leader, EMEA).
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