Immigration news updates for APAC and EMEA regions
Asia-Pacific
Australia: Core Skills Occupation List
The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) will be reviewed, in conjunction with Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA). The review will examine which occupations remain on the CSOL, giving employers and industry groups the chance to provide feedback that will help shape JSA’s advice to Government. JSA will publish information on the consultation process on the Jobs and Skills Australia website shortly. This will include opportunities for stakeholder feedback. The outcome may affect employer access to sponsorship under the subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa and the subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa.
This summary was prepared using the information from the Department of Home Affairs
China: K visa introduction
China is launching a new K visa category starting October 1, 2025, aimed at attracting young science and technology professionals. The K visa offers greater flexibility in terms of entries, validity, and stay duration compared to existing visa types. The K visa holders can engage in exchanges in fields such as education, culture, and science and technology, as well as relevant entrepreneurial and business activities.
Applicants do not need a domestic sponsor, and the process is streamlined.
This summary was prepared using the information from the Ministry of Justice
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) or Roberta Carnaccini (Global Operations Director, Immigration).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Belgium: New family reunification rules with stricter requirements
Belgium has introduced stricter rules for family reunification, effective August 18, 2025, as part of the federal government’s Easter Agreement.
Under the new rules, sponsors must now earn a minimum of EUR 2,323.10 net per month, with an additional 10% required for each dependent family member. The minimum age for spouses has also been raised from 18 to 21, a move aimed at preventing forced or child marriages. Additionally, certain sponsors—such as those with subsidiary protection or temporary residence—must have lived in Belgium for at least two years before they can apply for family reunification.
A transition period is in place: applications submitted before August 18, 2025, will be assessed under the previous rules until August 17, 2027. Some exceptions remain, including those for beneficiaries of temporary protection, who are not required to prove pre-existing family ties.
This summary was prepared using the information from the Belga News Agency
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).
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