Immigration news updates for APAC and EMEA regions
Asia-Pacific
Australia: Visa eligibility for applicants under A-UKFTA
Australia’s Ministry of International Affairs recently offered clarifications regarding visa eligibility for British citizens and permanent residents under the Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Pact (A-UKFTA). Qualified applicants, encompassing groups such as intra-company transferees, independent executives, and contractual service providers, can now submit applications for the Temporary Labor Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 visa for a period of four years, deviating from the conventional two-year term.
This summary was prepared using information from the Australian Ministry of International Affairs
Hong Kong: Move of Immigration Headquarters
The Immigration Headquarters in Hong Kong will move to Tseung Kwan O on June 11, 2024.
The Registration of Persons – Hong Kong Office will continue to provide services at the current address in Wan Chai.
The Registration of Persons – Kwun Tong Office will cease operation. The Registration of Persons – Tseung Kwan O Office will commence operation immediately afterwards.
This summary was prepared using information from the Hong Kong Government 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) and Debra Jane Beynon (Regional Immigration Manager, APAC).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Saudi Arabia: Second phase of Saudization
The Saudi government has initiated the second phase of nationalizing consulting services, targeting 40% of roles in financial, engineering, architectural, health and senior management consultancy from March 25. Key professions affected include financial consultants, business consultants, cybersecurity experts, project managers, and project engineers.
This effort aims to enhance employment prospects for Saudi citizens across regions. Collaborating with finance, procurement and human resource development authorities, the initiative strives to boost workforce participation aligning with industry needs.
Incentives for private firms hiring Saudis encompass support for recruitment, training, career continuity and access to nationalization programs. Guidelines outline localized roles and implementation mechanisms, warning of penalties for non-compliance.
This summary was prepared using information obtained from the Saudi Gazette
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 Sabrina Crespo (Team Leader, EMEA).
United Kingdom: New electronic visas
Starting December 31, 2024, the United Kingdom will be replacing all Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs) with electronic visas (eVisas). This change will not affect individuals’ immigration status, but eVisas will constitute a new method to verify immigration status from 2025 onwards. The BRP holders will need to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to access eVisa and upload information about immigration status and conditions. This can also be shared with third parties, such as employers or landlords.
Holders of BRCs who have been granted status under the EU Settlement Scheme already have an eVisa and do not need to take any action.
This summary was prepared using information obtained from the UK 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 Roberta Carnaccini (Global Director of Immigration) and Joanna Sogeke (Team Leader, EMEA).
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