Immigration news update for AMER and EMEA regions
Americas
United States: Ease of H-2A rules for agricultural employers
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) is proposing to amend and roll back certain regulations introduced in a final rule from April 29, 2024, concerning the H-2A visa program for temporary foreign agricultural workers. The proposed changes aim to:
- Rescind burdensome requirements imposed on employers, which the DOL now considers unnecessary and costly.
- Eliminate mandates that required employers to:
– Offer progressive discipline policies for terminating workers.
– Implement anti-retaliation protections for workers involved in organizing or collective activities.
– Accept expanded authority of State Workforce Agencies (SWAs) to deny program access without a prior hearing.
- Remove extensive data collection rules that required employers to submit sensitive personal information about:
– Foreign labor recruiters.
– Business owners, operators, supervisors, and managers.
This summary was prepared using the information from the Federal Register
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
Italy: Expansion of legal migration
Italy plans to issue nearly 500,000 new work visas for non-EU nationals between 2026 and 2028 to address labor shortages and support legal immigration. In 2026, 164,850 people will be allowed entry.
The visa quotas are based on labor market needs and past demand for permits. Italy’s aging population and declining birthrate—highlighted by 281,000 more deaths than births in 2024—underscore the urgency of attracting foreign workers to sustain the economy.
This summary was prepared using the information from the Reuters
Slovenia: Digital nomad visa
Slovenia is set to join the growing list of European countries welcoming remote workers with the introduction of a digital nomad visa, launching on November 21, 2025. The initiative aims to attract global talent by offering non-EU/EEA citizens the chance to live and work remotely from within the country.
The visa will allow eligible applicants to reside in Slovenia for up to one year, provided they are employed by a foreign company or serve non-Slovenian clients. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient income to support themselves—and any accompanying family members—who are also permitted to join, though they will not be allowed to work locally.
Applications can be submitted online or through Slovenian embassies and consulates. However, the visa cannot be renewed consecutively. Those wishing to reapply must leave Slovenia for at least six months before submitting a new application.
This summary was prepared using the information from the Schengen Visa Info
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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