Immigration news update for all regions
Americas
Canada: Proposed reforms to high skilled immigration programs
The Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRCC) establish the criteria for the Federal Skilled Worker Class, the Canadian Experience Class and the Federal Skilled Trades Class. Since the introduction of the Express Entry application management system in 2015, these criteria have effectively become the minimum requirements for candidates to enter the Express Entry pool and be considered for an invitation to apply for permanent residence.
Proposed amendments to the Regulations would introduce a new federal high‑skilled immigration class with streamlined eligibility requirements, while repealing the existing Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. The Department has indicated that it intends to consult partners, stakeholders, and the public on these proposed reforms in spring 2026.
This summary was prepared using information provided from the  Government of Canada
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).
Asia-Pacific
New Zealand: Higher income and sponsorship requirements ahead for Pacific and family visas
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced that, effective April 30, 2026, income and sponsorship thresholds will increase for several Pacific and family visa categories. The changes affect the Pacific Access category, Samoan Quota, Parent Category Visa and Parent boost visitor visa. These updates are part of routine annual reviews to ensure income thresholds remain aligned with current wages, benefit settings, and living costs in New Zealand.
Pacific Access Category and Samoan Quota
- For applicants with dependent children, the minimum income threshold will increase from NZDÂ $54,133.04 to NZDÂ $55,404.96 per year.
Parent Category Resident Visa
- The Sponsorship income threshold for this category will be updated to reflect the June 2025 median wage of NZD $35.00 per hour, up from NZD $33.56.  Sponsors must meet the income threshold that applied for the chosen two 12-month periods during the 3 years before the Expression of Interest was selected. Those who have already applied under the Parent Category Resident Visa are unaffected.
Parent Boost Visitor Visa
- The new income thresholds for Parent Boost Visitor Visa sponsors will also be updated to reflect the June 2025 median wage, as follows:
| Table 1: Minimum annual income for one sponsor from April 30, 2026 (NZD) |
| Number of Parents Sponsored | Minimum Annual Income (NZD) | ||
| One parent | $72,800.00 | ||
| Two parents | $109,200.00 | ||
| Three parents | $145,600.00 | ||
| Four parents | $182,000.00 | ||
| Five parents | $218,400.00 | ||
| Six parents | $254,800.00 | ||
| Table 2: Minimum annual income for two sponsors from April 30, 2026 (NZD) | |||
| Number of Parents Sponsored | Minimum Annual Income (NZD) | ||
| One parent | $109,200.00 | ||
| Two parents | $145,600.00 | ||
| Three parents | $182,000.00 | ||
| Four parents | $218,400.00 | ||
| Five parents | $254,800.00 | ||
| Six parents | $291,200.00 | ||
Sponsor Requirements
Sponsors must earn at least the minimum income each year. They also must have earned at least the minimum income for two out of the past three completed tax years in New Zealand (April 1 to March 31) before applying.
Applicants under the Parent Boost Visitor Visa can alternatively fund their own stay in New Zealand, either through annual income or maintenance funds. These thresholds will also increase from April 30, 2026.
- Either applicants will need to earn at least NZD $33,663.24 a year (or
NZDÂ $51,182.56 a year if they are including a partner);
- Or applicants will need to have funds in their bank account of at least NZD $170,000, (or NZD $260,000 if they are including a partner).
The minimum income and funds requirement for Parent Boost Visitor Visa applicants are based on New Zealand Superannuation rates (the equivalent annual income is required or the equivalent of five years NZ Superannuation for funds held).
This summary was prepared using information provided from the  Immigration New Zealand
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 Beynon (Director of Immigration Services, APAC).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Netherlands: Change in MVV application process
The Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) has introduced a change to the application process for the granting of a provisional residence permit (MVV). Previously applicants were required to complete an MVV form at the Dutch representation abroad as part of the MVV application process. This is now no longer required.
Effective as of last month, this change simplifies MVV issuance for both applicants and recognised sponsors.
This summary was prepared using information provided from the Ministry of Asylum and Migration
Zambia: New Immigration law
Zambia has introduced a new Immigration Law, replacing the 2010 regulations. The reform aims to modernise Zambia’s approach to labour mobility and long‑term residence, while strengthening regulatory oversight.
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Key changes include:
- A modernised framework for work permits and business visas
- Clearer residence and long‑term stay pathways for foreign nationals
- New provisions governing family reunification and dependants
- Enhanced immigration governance and compliance oversight
Entities employing or relocating foreign nationals to Zambia should review their immigration strategies to ensure alignment with the new requirements and mitigate compliance risk. Employers should also be aware of increased audit activity by immigration authorities and expanded responsibilities when engaging foreign nationals.
This summary was prepared using information provided by our Service partner.
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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