Immigration news update for the AMER and EMEA regions
Americas
Canada: Immigration plan for Quebec published
The Quebec’s 2024 Immigration plan has recently been published by the Ministry of Immigration, Frenchization and Integration. Under this plan, Quebec sets out to increase immigration and balance out the aging population. Stricter French-language requirements have been put into place to help preserve the French-speaking population. The plan also aims to promote integration of the migrants and help with the economic development of the province.
This summary was prepared using information obtained from Government of Canada
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) or Rafael Pavanelli (Regional Immigration Manager, AMER).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Germany: Skilled Labour Immigration reform
On November 18, the new “Skilled Workers Immigration Act” (Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz, FEG) will come into force. The new changes in this Immigration Act allows new immigration pathways for skilled workers from non-EU countries, in order to deal with the shortage of labour force.
Following are some of the most important changes in the bill:
- For EU Blue Card holders from another EU country: the time of required residence in Germany to obtain permanent residence has been reduced from 18 to 12 months.
- For holders of EU Blue Card from any EU country – for a business-related stay up to 90 days the EU Blue Card replaces a visa or work permit for Germany.
- The minimum duration of employment contract is now 6 months.
- Reduced salary thresholds for standard and shortage occupations.
- Added shortage occupations: Skilled workers in goods production, mining, construction, and logistics; Executives in the IT and communications technology service sector; Academic and comparable nursing and obstetrics specialists; Other academic and allied health professions (e.g. dentists, pharmacists); Teaching and educational staff in schools and extracurricular activities.
- Holders of an EU Blue Card now only need to notify the immigration authority of a change of employer within the first 12 months of their employment.
- A one-year (renewable) residence permit that allows eligible applicants to seek employment in Germany. This permit is called an “Opportunity Card” and is points based.
- Easier pass-through for applicants with vocational experience: reduced requirements regarding German language and recognition of educational qualifications.
- Foreign nationals can now apply for any role they are qualified for. This is different to the past, when they could only apply to roles linked to their formal education experience.
- IT specialists or education professionals that have three years of vocational experience can apply for the EU Blue Card, regardless of not having formal education.
- Skilled workers are entitled to a residence permit if they qualify.
This summary was prepared using information obtained from the Library of Congres and the local supplier
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) or Veronika Vitkova (Team Leader).
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