Last Updated on October 24, 2024
Canada: Minimum Wage Increases for Temporary Foreign Workers
Effective 8 November 2024, the starting hourly wage for workers entering Canada through the high-wage stream will be increased to 20% higher than its current level, the median wage in the applicable province or territory of work. This represents an increase to the existing threshold of between $5 and $8 per hour, depending on the province or territory of work.
Beginning 28 October 2024, employers will no longer be able to use attestations from professional accountants or lawyers to prove their business’s legitimacy. The government will enhance data sharing by building on existing information-sharing agreements with provincial and territorial partners and employer registries. These measures aim to prevent the misuse of the foreign worker pathway and ensure stronger worker protections.
The government will introduce further adjustments, if needed, to help ensure that only compliant employers with demonstrable labor needs can access the TFW Program.
Canada: Humanitarian Immigration Measures
On 16 October 2024, the government of Canada announced that Palestinians leaving Gaza will receive transitional financial assistance to help with basic needs upon arriving in Canada. They will also access temporary health coverage, settlement services, and fee-exempt permits for study or work. Canada is proactively preparing support for those fleeing the conflict as conditions allow for their exit from Gaza.
The government of Canada announced $1.038 million in funding spanning three years (2024-2027) that will support various immigration and refugee legal services. These services include:
- Preparing mandatory Basis of Claims for refugee claimants
- Providing legal representation at Immigration and Refugee Board hearings and
- Assisting detainees at Immigration Holding Centres.
Egypt: Extension of Stay
The government of Egypt extended the amnesty period for foreign nationals residing illegally for another year. Originally set to expire on 30 September 2024, the extension will allow more time for foreign nationals to regularize their status under the guidelines of Decision No. 3326 of 2023. Foreign nationals exempt from fees must also register to receive exemption cards, with service cuts for non-compliance.
The European Union: Digital Labour Platform Launched
The European Council adopted new rules to enhance working conditions for over 28 million people employed by digital labor platforms in the EU. The platform work directive improves transparency in algorithm use for HR management, requiring monitoring by qualified staff and allowing workers to challenge automated decisions.
It also clarifies the employment status of platform workers, ensuring they receive their entitled labor rights. Member states will create a legal presumption of employment based on indicators of control and direction.
The Council and the European Parliament will sign the directive before coming into effect. Member states will have two years to incorporate the provisions into national law.
Guyana: In-Person Identity Verification
The government of Guyana updated its policy requiring foreign nationals applying for an endorsement of a CARICOM Single Market Economy (CSME) Certificate to submit applications in person for identity verification. Previously, applicants could use an authorized third party. Other requirements, like a police clearance certificate and a valid passport, remain unchanged.
Italy: EU Blue Card and Quota-Subject Work Permit Requirements
The government of Italy announced that starting 11 January 2025, employers hiring EU Blue Card or quota-subject work permit applicants must confirm their interest in the work permit after it is approved. The Visa Information System will notify the Immigration Office, which will then contact the employer via certified email. Employers have seven days to respond. Failure to confirm will result in the rejection of the authorization request and revocation of the work permit.
India: The Aadhaar Card Application Process
The Government of India decentralized the Aadhaar Card application process, with states now responsible for managing issuance and address verification. Key updates include:
- Bengaluru: New enrolments for NRIs, foreign nationals and refugees are halted until 31 October 2024. From November, NRIs and foreigners need address proof signed by a Gazetted Officer.
- Delhi/NCR: Aadhaar applications now require a Residential (FRRO) certificate with both Post Office and sub-district details. Address verification may take over a year.
- Mumbai: Aadhaar applications must include address proof signed by a Gazette Officer.
New Zealand: Visa Application Center and Working Holiday Visa Updates
The government of New Zealand announced the opening of a new Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Apia, which will improve services for Samoan clients. Starting 4 November 2024, the VAC will offer paper visa application lodgment Monday to Friday. The current INZ Apia office will close on 1 November 2024. A service fee of WST90 per application will apply. Recongized Seasonal Employer (RSE) visa applicants can submit applications to the INZ Apia until 18 November 2024. After this period, submissions must go through the VAC at WST45 per application.
New Zealand: Vietnam Working Holiday Visa Scheme
The government of New Zealand will reopen the Vietnam Working Holiday Scheme on 24 October 2024, increasing the number of available spots from 100 to 200. This program allows young people from 45 partner countries to travel and work temporarily in New Zealand. The age range of the program includes individuals between 18 and 30 (or up to 35 in some cases). Efforts are underway to allow more New Zealanders to travel and work in Vietnam under a similar scheme.
The Netherlands: New Tax Requirements
The government of the Netherlands announced changes to the 30% ruling on Prinsjesdag 2024. In 2027, the tax-free portion of qualifying employees’ wages will be reduced to 27%, down from 30%. The gradual decrease to 10% has been removed and a higher income threshold will be required to use the ruling. Employers who hire highly skilled migrants or post workers abroad will need to meet these new standards. The changes will take effect in 2025, pending approval from parliament.
South Africa: Remote Work Visa and Points-Based Immigration System
The government of South Africa introduced significant visa reforms to the remote work visitor visa and a new points-based system for work visas. These measures include:
- Outlining the new gross annual income for General Work Visa applications submitted outside of the Trusted Employer Scheme: R650,796
Until the digitalization process is completed, new work visa applications must be submitted through service providers or South African missions abroad.
Türkiye: Work Permit Exemption Updates
The government of Türkiye announced changes to work permit exemptions, effective 15 October 2024. Key amendments include:
- Significant Contribution Exemption: This exemption is extended to three years for foreign nationals contributing to the economic, socio-cultural, technological or educational sectors.
- Domestic Filing Flexibility: Applications can be made anytime, provided the applicant maintains lawful status.
- Press Exemption: Foreign press cardholders can apply for exemptions.
- AMS/CBSP Exemption: New applications for certain services can be submitted every six months.
These changes aim to streamline processes and provide more flexibility.
The United Arab Emirates: New Growth Work Platform and GCC Changes
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) launched a new platform known as ‘Growth’. The platform provides a unified economic registry for businesses across the seven emirates. This platform simplifies business setup by centralizing data on over 2,000 economic activities. It also offers easy access to business licenses and investment opportunities. The government will regularly update the platform with commercial license information.
On 14 October 2024, the UAE announced that residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can apply for a 30-day e-visa, extendable for another 30 days. Previously, GCC residents needed to leave the UAE to renew their visas. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship will be responsible for application processing. GCC residency must be valid for at least a year upon arrival and passports must remain valid for at least six months.
Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at Corporate Immigration Partners, P.C., or another qualified professional of your choosing. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult your Envoy representative, or another qualified representative of your choosing.
