Immigration news updates for AMER and EMEA regions
Americas
United States: Proposed increase to prevailing wage levels for employment-based immigration
The US Department of Labor (DOL) has issued a proposed rule that would significantly increase prevailing wage requirements for key employment‑based immigration programs, including H‑1B, H‑1B1, E‑3 and PERM.
Importantly, the proposal does not change the underlying wage data used by the government (OEWS/BLS). Instead, it would redefine how wage levels are assigned within that data, resulting in materially higher required wages across all levels.
Under the proposal, each prevailing wage level would be shifted upward to a higher percentile within the same dataset. This would particularly affect entry‑level and mid‑level roles, which are commonly filed at Wage Levels I and II, and could require employers to offer wages closer to or above market‑median levels for relatively junior positions.
Current vs. Proposed Prevailing Wage Levels
| Wage Level | Current Percentile (Approx.) | Proposed Percentile (Approx.) |
| Level I (Entry) | ~17th percentile | ~34th percentile |
| Level II | ~34th percentile | ~52nd percentile |
| Level III | ~50th percentile | ~70th percentile |
| Level IV (Senior) | ~67th percentile | ~88th percentile |
If implemented, the changes would likely increase compensation requirements across all levels, reduce flexibility in using lower wage levels, and potentially require wages that exceed those typically paid to similarly experienced US workers. From an employer perspective, this represents a policy‑driven recalibration of wage thresholds rather than a reflection of actual market pay practices.
The proposal is currently subject to public comment, expected to close around May 26, 2026. Following review of comments, a final rule could be issued as early as late June 2026, potentially aligning with the release of the new prevailing wage survey. Employers are advised to review upcoming PERM and H‑1B filings, assess cases relying on Wage Levels I and II, and monitor developments closely.
This summary was prepared using information provided by our Service Partner and The Federal Register
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 Joanna Sogeke (European Client Services Manager- Immigration).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
European Union: Further communication on the EU Entry/Exit System rollout
The EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), which began its phased launch on October 12, 2025, is now set to become fully operational on April 10, 2026. The EES replaces traditional passport stamping with a digital process that records entries, exits or refusals of entry for non‑EU nationals travelling for short stays. It also captures travellers’ facial images, fingerprints and personal information extracted from their travel documents.
This summary was prepared using information provided from the European Commission
Saudi Arabia: Visa holders affected by regional circumstances
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has issued new guidance for individuals whose visas have expired as a result of the current regional situation. The update applies to holders of Visit, Umrah, Transit, and Final Exit visas.
Available options:
- Direct Departure (No Fees or Penalties)
Impacted individuals may leave Saudi Arabia through any designated departure port without incurring fines or additional charges. This temporary exemption allows for a smooth exit for those unable to depart before their visa expired. - Visa Extension (Fees Apply)
If remaining in the Saudi Arabia is necessary, individuals may request a visa extension through the Absher platform using the Tawasul service.
These measures are temporary and require action before April 18, 2026, to ensure compliance. Individuals and hosts are encouraged to finalize departure or extension arrangements promptly.
This summary was prepared using information provided by our Service Partner.
South Africa: A new framework for efficient visa processing
The Department of Home Affairs has launched the Meetings, Exhibitions, Events and Tourism Scheme (MEETS), a new visa framework designed to support South Africa’s role as a leading host of international conferences, exhibitions, sporting tournaments and cultural events.
MEETS provides a secure, centralised process for high‑volume and time‑sensitive group visa applications linked to major global events. By digitising and simplifying procedures, the scheme enables faster, more coordinated visa processing for large delegations travelling under strict timelines.
Domestic event organisers with proven experience may submit expressions of interest through the Department’s website. Approved organisers will enter a Memorandum of Agreement with the Department, outlining participation requirements.
This summary was prepared using information provided from The Department of Home Affairs
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 Joanna Sogeke (European Client Services Manager- Immigration).
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