Key Points Canada conducted its first all-programs Express Entry draw for 2023 on 15 March 2023 Overview The government of Canada conducted its first all-program Express Entry draw of 2023 on 15 March. Through this draw, around 7,000 invitations to apply (ITAs) were sent to eligible candidates under the Federal Skilled Worker program, Canadian Experience […]
Key Points Russia introduced new vaccination requirements for foreign nationals currently working or applying for a work permit in the country Overview The government of Russia introduced new vaccination requirements for foreign national employees. Under these new requirements, foreign nationals and their employers must submit proof of vaccination against measles prior to 31 December 2023. […]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has extended a temporary final rule (TFR) mandating the use of a USCIS interpreter at certain asylum interviews. Overview The TFR is extended through Sept. 12, 2023. While the rule remains in effect, applicants must use a USCIS interpreter. Collectively, USCIS interpreters speak 47 languages. Applicants who cannot find […]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has updated the USCIS Policy Manual with new guidance on how it analyzes an employer’s ability to pay wages for certain immigrant beneficiaries. Overview The updated guidance applies to employers who are paying wages for first, second and third-preference employment-based categories. It indicates that USCIS reviews all evidence on […]
Key Points Italy introduced a new law that will require quota numbers for residence permits and work permits to be issued every three years instead of on an annual basis Overview The government of Italy introduced a new law that will require quota numbers for residence permits and work permits to be issued every three […]
Key Points China lifted COVID-19 entry restrictions for tourists on 15 March 2023 Overview The government of China lifted COVID-19 entry restrictions for tourism on 15 March 2023. As a result, foreign nationals will be permitted to apply for all visa types, including tourism and medical visas. Any multiple-entry visas that were issued prior to […]
Key Points New Zealand introduced recommendations for travelers intending to attend the FIFA women’s world cup event Overview The government of New Zealand advises foreign nationals who plan to travel to New Zealand in July and August 2023 for the FIFA women’s world cup to submit a visitor visa application prior to the end of […]
Key Points Estonia increased the minimum funds needed for primary applicants applying for short-term employment with a D visa to EUR 1,200 Overview The government of Estonia updated the minimum fund requirements for primary applicants registering for short-term employment under a D visa. The new minimum amount is set to EUR 1,200 at the […]
Key Points The Netherlands modified the locations in which foreign nationals can submit family reunification applications Overview As of 6 March 2023, family members traveling to the Netherlands for family reunification can apply at the immigration office in Zevenaar after they arrive. According to the government announcement, this change is intended to ease the burden […]
Key Points The United Kingdom and New Zealand will introduce changes to the Youth Mobility and Working Holiday schemes at the end of June 2023 Overview The government of the United Kingdom (UK) and the government of New Zealand will expand the age range from 30 to 35 for applicants under the Youth Mobility and […]