Immigration updates covering the APAC and EMEA region
Asia-Pacific
Australia: Australia and U.K. Sign Historic Free Trade Agreement
On December 17, 2021, an announcement of the Australia / UK Free Trade Agreement (AUKFTA) was made. There are many worthwhile and exciting benefits for both countries in the new FTA but the most important includes provisions to enable the mobility of people.
From this, there have been beneficial changes to the Australian migration programme for UK passport holders. Some of the changes expected include:
- Australian businesses can sponsor visas without labor market testing requirements being met
- Sponsoring business’ will not be subject to the skilled occupation list
- Accompanying spouses and children can work for up to four years
- Guaranteed access for managers and specialists across all sectors for a three-year transfer
- Business visitors will be able to visit Australia for three months in any six month period
Pilot early innovation and careers skills exchange for up to one year for UK graduates to Australia between 21 and 45 years. This also applies to highly experienced specialists focused on innovation.
This summary was prepared using information obtained from the Austrian Government.
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 Debra Jane Beynon, Regional Immigration Manager (APAC).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Russia: Visa suspension
The Russian government has suspended simplified visa issuance for journalists, diplomatic passport holders, and members of official delegations from EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, and the U.S. Note: suspension of the simplified visa process does not apply to business travelers or close relatives of foreign nationals living in Russia.
This summary was prepared using information obtained from Reuters.
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 Laxmi Vikraman, Regional Immigration Manager (EMEA).
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