Top 10 global immigration changes for the first half of 2019

While we really have no way of knowing if this is a record for any six month period, there were numerous (seemingly a record number of) immigration changes for tracking through the first half of 2019. According to this article from Newland Chase, they alone have published 159 alerts, blogs and weekly roundups to keep HR, global mobility, immigration and travel professionals in the know.

Obviously, immigration into the U.S. and UK have been highly watched over the last sixth months. As the current U.S. administration proposes new immigration plans, Brexit continues to impact the UK and EU countries. For more on Brexit and Immigration try this: What You Need to Know.

But hit this list of the top 10 global immigration changes for the first half of 2019 where you will get insights on:

1. United Kingdom: Brexit
2. European Union: Schengen visa improvements
3. Canada: Global talent stream moves toward permanency
4. Australia: Improvements to skilled occupations lists, accredited sponsorship and new visa categories
5. Ireland: Greater immigration opportunities address skills shortages and Brexit demands
6. Mexico: Major restructuring of the INM brings major delays
7. Singapore: Tightening of foreign worker quota rules
8. UAE: Five and 10-year visas and "Golden Cards"
9. Saudi Arabia: Nitaqat changes and a new permanent residence scheme
10. Argentina: 10-year police clearances may cause long delays

Immigration requirements necessitate globally mobile employees to have proper visas and work permits. Visa violations can result in government audits, penalties and limits on the employer’s ability to deploy employees when and where needed. Staying in the know on what is changing in the countries you are moving talent in and out of is a valuable endeavor that requires focus, attention and resources. Try some of these additional resources for more:

What does the visa and immigration process look like for a relocating employee?

Considering Visa and Immigration Coordination

Having partners and processes in place to make sure this is happening effectively is a core compliance issue for all global mobility programs. You can steer clear of this risk quagmire with Plus Visa and Immigration Coordination services.