Immigration news updates for AMER and EMEA regions
Americas
Canada: Suspension of Skilled Trades Stream
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has suspended its Express Entry: Skilled Trades Stream, following a review that uncovered systemic compliance and enforcement issues. The review identified widespread misrepresentation and potential fraud related to eligibility criteria, making it difficult for the program’s director to verify applicants’ qualifications.
Officials noted that the stream’s current structure leaves it vulnerable to abuse, undermining its ability to address Ontario’s immediate labour market needs within the province’s limited nomination allocation.
As a result, OINP will:
- Cease accepting new Skilled Trades Stream applications.
- Return all pending applications and refund associated fees, in line with section 7 of Ontario Regulation 421/17.
Applicants interested in other OINP streams may submit a new Expression of Interest (EOI) for consideration in future draws.
This summary was prepared using the information from the Government of Ontario
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Ireland: Legislative and policy reforms
The government has approved a series of reforms to make the country’s migration and asylum system more rules-based, efficient, and aligned with EU standards. Key changes include:
- Family Reunification: Only those with sufficient financial resources will be able to bring family members to Ireland.
- Accommodation Contributions: Individuals living in international protection accommodation who are employed will be required to contribute financially towards their housing.
- Refugee Status Revocation: Authorities will have the power to revoke refugee status if an individual poses a security threat or has committed a serious crime.
- Citizenship Rules: Applicants must demonstrate good character, be self-sufficient, and must not have received certain social welfare payments in the two years prior to applying. The residency requirement for those with international protection status will increase from three to five years before they can apply for citizenship.
- Employment Policy Updates: Waiting times for General Employment Permit holders will be reduced, and 16- to 18-year-olds will be permitted to work.
The government intends to implement these measures within 12 months, ensuring systems are in place to assess eligibility and manage contributions securely.
This summary was prepared using the information from the Government of Ireland
Poland: Immigration law updates
The Polish government has introduced regulatory changes effective from 1 December 2025. Key updates include:
- Work permit fees: Increased from 100 PLN to 400 PLN, or 800 PLN for posted workers.
- Passport requirements: Full copies of all filled passport pages are now required for work permit and “short work permit” applications.
- Residence card applications: A new application form and Annex 1 template for employer signature have been introduced. This is the first stage of changes, with a major update expected by year-end, which may require applicants to re-sign applications not yet submitted.
- Student focus: Universities hosting foreign students must now meet specific requirements for foreign student education.
- Declaration of intent to assigned work (“oświadczenie o powierzeniu pracy”): Georgia has been removed from the eligible countries list; registration is now only possible for citizens of Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, and Armenia.
- Document scrutiny: Increased attention is being paid to documents attached to work permit applications.
This summary was prepared using the information from our Service Partner.
United Kingdom: Entry requirements
Starting February 25, 2026, the UK will strictly enforce the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for eligible visitors.
Who needs an ETA?
- Travellers who do not need a visa for short stays and do not hold UK immigration status must obtain an ETA before travelling.
- Airlines and carriers will deny boarding without a valid ETA.
- Those who already require a visa or are exempt from immigration control do not need an ETA.
How to apply:
- Via the UK ETA app using the passport you will travel with.
- It is recommended applying at least three working days before departure.
- Support is available via ETA webchat (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm UK time) and webform outside these hours.
This summary was prepared using the information from 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 (Immigration Team Leader).
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