Immigration news updates for APAC and EMEA regions
Asia-Pacific
Australia: Parent visa applications
Parent visa applicants who submit a paper-based application can now benefit from a range of online services. Although the initial application must still be submitted on paper, applicants can import their application into ImmiAccount once it has been acknowledged.
By importing their application into ImmiAccount, applicants gain access to various online services designed to simplify the management of their application. These services include the ability to:
- Upload supporting documents
- View messages from the immigration office
- Update personal details
- Check the status of their application
This summary was prepared using information obtained from 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 Debra Beynon (Regional Immigration Manager, APAC).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
France: Digital apostille and legalization reform
Starting from May 1, 2025, the Notaries of France will become the competent authority for issuing apostilles, replacing the Court of Appeal. By September 1, 2025, the Notaries of France will also take over the legalization of public documents, a responsibility currently held by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The public documents concerned include those issued by administrative or judicial courts, bailiffs, civil status officers, administrative authorities, notaries, as well as diplomatic and consular agents. Official declarations such as registration mentions, and signature certifications are also included.
Apostilles and legalizations will be issued in electronic form, known as e-Apostille and e-Legalization. The qualified electronic signature of designated notaries will be used for these documents.
15 Regional Councils or Interdepartmental Chambers of Competent Notaries will offer physical counters in addition to the REAL digital portal, accessible via the www.notaires.fr website. Requests can be made online or in person and will be processed digitally.
The issuance process involves verifying the authenticity of the signature, seal, or stamp of the authority that issued the document. Once verified, the document will be available on the dedicated portal.
A fee of 20 euros per document will be applied for issuing the apostille or legalization within three days, and 40 euros for urgent issuance within 24 hours.
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 Roberta Carnaccini (Global Operations Director, Immigration).
Ireland: New employment permits system
The new cloud-based system was launched to transform how employment permits are submitted, processed, and issued, offering a better customer experience and more efficient service.
Key Changes:
- Portal Accounts: Separate accounts for employers, employees, and agents, providing up-to-date application status and greater account management control.
- Improved Application Process: More secure, intuitive, and streamlined, reducing inaccuracies and speeding up processing.
- Registration: Users must set up a portal account with email verification and Multi-Factor Authentication. Employers need to provide additional documents like Revenue and CRO details.
- Enhanced Data Protection: Secure communication and profile updates through the portal.
- Joint Applications: Applications are completed online by all parties involved, using e-signatures.
- Trusted Partner Initiative: No longer needed as all employers operate from portal accounts, ensuring efficient processing.
This summary was prepared using information obtained from Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment
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 (Immigration Team Leader) or Roberta Carnaccini (Global Director of Immigration).
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