Immigration news update for AMER and EMEA regions
Americas
Canada: New rules for spousal work permit
In the fall of 2024, the Canadian government announced upcoming restrictions on the ability of spouses of foreign workers and students to obtain open work permits. These new rules came into effect on January 21, 2025. Here are the key aspects of the new regulations:
For Foreign Students
Spouses of foreign students will be eligible for open work permits only if the student is enrolled in one of the following programs:
- A master’s degree program of 16 months or longer
- A doctoral program
- Designated areas of study (Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Engineering, Law, Optometry, Pharmacy, Veterinary Medicine, Education)
- An eligible pilot program:
– Outside Quebec: Francophone Mobility Communities Student Pilot
– In Quebec: Le projet de reconnaissance des compétences d’infirmières et d’infirmiers recruté-e-s à l’international
For Foreign Workers
Spouses of foreign workers will be entitled to open work permits only if the foreign worker is:
- In a TEER 0 or 1 occupation
- In certain TEER 2 or 3 occupations in sectors with labor shortages, including applied sciences, construction, health care, natural resources, and others.
These rules do not apply to spouses of foreign workers covered by free trade agreements or individuals transitioning to permanent residence. The foreign worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit for their spouse to seek an open work permit. Dependent children of foreign workers will not be eligible for open work permits. Holders of open work permits approved under previous rules will continue to be able to utilize their work permits.
This summary was prepared using information obtained from our local 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 Director of Immigration).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Lithuania: Quota for foreign workers in 2025
In a strategic move to balance its labor market needs, Lithuania has set a quota of 24,830 Â for foreign nationals arriving for employment purposes in 2025. The quota was set to 40,250 in 2024. This quota aims to regulate the influx of foreign workers while ensuring economic growth for the country.
Key Points:
- The quota specifically targets foreign nationals going to Lithuania for employment.
- Highly qualified professionals, who earn more than 1.2 times the national average (which is set at 2013,80 EUR) , are exempt from this quota. Their significant contributions in terms of tax revenues and expertise are deemed invaluable to the economy.
This approach reflects Lithuania’s commitment to attracting highly-skilled professionals who can drive economic growth, while also addressing some of its labor market requirements.
A reminder employees of legal entities of a Member State of the European Union or the European Free Trade Association, seconded to the Republic of Lithuania for temporary work, must present an A1 certificate stating that they are subject to the social security legislation of the sending Member State.
This summary was prepared using information obtained from our local 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 Director of Immigration).
United Kingdom: Proposal of increase in immigration fees
The UK government has recently announced proposals to increase various immigration fees, including the cost of issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship. This certificate is essential for employers sponsoring foreign nationals under the Skilled Worker route. The proposed changes would see the cost of a Certificate of Sponsorship more than doubled.
These proposals are currently awaiting approval by the UK Parliament, along with other necessary legal processes. As a result, there is no definitive date for when these increases will take effect.
Employers in the United Kingdom who plan to hire foreign nationals should consider these potential additional costs in their budget planning. This change highlights the importance of staying informed about immigration policy developments and preparing for any financial implications thereof.
This summary was prepared using information obtained from the UK Government
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 (Team Leader, UK) and Roberta Carnaccini (Global Director of Immigration).
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