The vast majority of highly skilled migrants coming to the UK under the Tier 1 visa are from India. A recent High Court ruling has resulted in the interim immigration cap imposed in the summer no longer being valid; There are currently no limits on the number of Tier 1 visas and Tier 2 visas that can be issued to Indians looking to live and work in the UK under Britain's points based immigration system. However, this situation will probably not last for more than another one or two months.
In July of 2010, the Home Secretary announced a temporary cap on immigration. This cap was meant to prevent an expected surge in applications before a permanent immigration cap is imposed in April of 2011. The temporary cap on Tier 1 visas was administered on a monthly basis, which in recent months has meant that the immigration cap has been used up in the first ten days of the month.
However, the Home Secretary did not put the temporary cap to a vote before Parliament, effectively sidestepping wider Parliamentary approval for the highly controversial measure. The Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants (JCWI) and the English Community Care Association (ECCA) lodged a legal challenge in opposition to the immigration cap. The UK High Court ruled in their favour on 17 December 2010 and declared the immigration cap unlawful.
The cap may be imposed again in January or February 2011, but until then, Indians looking to immigrate to the UK with or without a job offer can apply without worrying that Tier 1 visas or Tier 2 visas will run out soon.
If you are a highly skilled individual wishing to live and work in the UK, applying now for a Tier 1 (General) visa or Tier 2 visa is strongly advised. You can fill out one of our free assessment forms or contact an office near you.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Japan urged to increase skilled immigration
A leading international think tank is urging Japan to open up its traditionally restrictive immigration system to incoming skilled immigration.
The proposal by the Japan Forum on International Relations (JFIR) proposes that Japan adopt a skills-based immigration system, similar to immigration systems in leading immigration destination countries in the West.
In addition, JFIR proposes that Japan implement social integration policies alongside the skills-based immigration system to avoid tensions related to immigration that occurs in certain Countries in Europe.
Japan has historically shunned immigration, but voices are now saying that skilled immigration is the only way to head off skills shortages and re-energize the Japanese economy.
Kenicho Ito, chairman of the JFIR's policy council, said he considered Australia, Canada, and the US as models for a new Japanese immigration system.
"If Japan wants to survive in a globalised world economy and to advance its integration with the burgeoning East Asian economy, it essentially has no other choice but to accept foreign migrants, while making full use of domestic human resources," he said.
"A key question is not whether we should accept foreign migrants or not, but how we should accept them," he added.
Australia has a points-based system that grants permanent residence to skilled migrants who gain enough points under their points based system. The UK has a a tier based immigration system, which has some similarities to the Australian immigration system, which also allows skilled immigrants to enter the country without the need for a job offer. The United States has a complicated system that allows entry of skilled immigrants on a number of employment-based visas.
Whether Japan will implement similar policies remains to be seen. The number of foreigners moving to Japan has increased in the last decade, but only very slowly: from 1.5 million ten years ago to 2 million today.
"The annual intake is estimated to be 50,000 to 60,000 as far as the last 10 years is concerned. We think such a number is too small," Ito said.
The proposal by the Japan Forum on International Relations (JFIR) proposes that Japan adopt a skills-based immigration system, similar to immigration systems in leading immigration destination countries in the West.
In addition, JFIR proposes that Japan implement social integration policies alongside the skills-based immigration system to avoid tensions related to immigration that occurs in certain Countries in Europe.
Japan has historically shunned immigration, but voices are now saying that skilled immigration is the only way to head off skills shortages and re-energize the Japanese economy.
Kenicho Ito, chairman of the JFIR's policy council, said he considered Australia, Canada, and the US as models for a new Japanese immigration system.
"If Japan wants to survive in a globalised world economy and to advance its integration with the burgeoning East Asian economy, it essentially has no other choice but to accept foreign migrants, while making full use of domestic human resources," he said.
"A key question is not whether we should accept foreign migrants or not, but how we should accept them," he added.
Australia has a points-based system that grants permanent residence to skilled migrants who gain enough points under their points based system. The UK has a a tier based immigration system, which has some similarities to the Australian immigration system, which also allows skilled immigrants to enter the country without the need for a job offer. The United States has a complicated system that allows entry of skilled immigrants on a number of employment-based visas.
Whether Japan will implement similar policies remains to be seen. The number of foreigners moving to Japan has increased in the last decade, but only very slowly: from 1.5 million ten years ago to 2 million today.
"The annual intake is estimated to be 50,000 to 60,000 as far as the last 10 years is concerned. We think such a number is too small," Ito said.
Change to immigration cap could be 'disastrous for the UK'
The skilled immigration cap announced by the UK Government on 23 November 2010 is already coming under fire. The permanent skilled immigration cap will reduce the number of Tier 1 (General) visas, so called "highly skilled" visas, from 13,000 a year to 1,000 when it is implemented in April 2011.
Gedeon Rachman, blogger for the Financial Times, calls the cap "pointless and self-defeating". Rachman feels that the British public is upset with high levels of immigration coming from within the EU and through other routes such as asylum that he says the British Government has little contol over. So instead, the Government cracks down on the one area for which it can -- skilled immigration.
"So, unable effectively to tackle the kind of immigration that actually upsets people, the British government is taking aim at the one group of migrants that are largely uncontroversial and that unambiguously contribute to the country's well-being," Rachman wrote.
Writing in The Guardian, Imran Khan, director of the Campaign for Science and Engineering said that the UK is only shooting itself in the foot by slashing highly skilled immigration. Khan stated that "there has been considerable and consistent concern from the science and engineering community that the cap on non-EU immigration could be disastrous for the UK."
The oil and gas industry is also concerned with the immigration cap, specifically changes to the intra-company transfer route, one of the Tier 2 visas in the UK's points based system. The industry feels that the new limits would hurt the ability of oil and gas companies to assemble teams of specialists.
Speaking in the Oil Voice, a website devoted to the oil and gas industry, employment law expert Linda Beedie criticised the changes to the intra-company transfer scheme. Beedie feels that the new £40,000 salary limit for employees staying in the UK for more than a year is just "a cap by the back door."
"The intra company transfer route is essential to the continued strength and competitiveness of British industry," Beedie said.
If you wish to gain entry to the UK under the Tier 1 visa or Tier 2 visa scheme it may be best to apply as soon as possible. It will be more difficult in future.
Gedeon Rachman, blogger for the Financial Times, calls the cap "pointless and self-defeating". Rachman feels that the British public is upset with high levels of immigration coming from within the EU and through other routes such as asylum that he says the British Government has little contol over. So instead, the Government cracks down on the one area for which it can -- skilled immigration.
"So, unable effectively to tackle the kind of immigration that actually upsets people, the British government is taking aim at the one group of migrants that are largely uncontroversial and that unambiguously contribute to the country's well-being," Rachman wrote.
Writing in The Guardian, Imran Khan, director of the Campaign for Science and Engineering said that the UK is only shooting itself in the foot by slashing highly skilled immigration. Khan stated that "there has been considerable and consistent concern from the science and engineering community that the cap on non-EU immigration could be disastrous for the UK."
The oil and gas industry is also concerned with the immigration cap, specifically changes to the intra-company transfer route, one of the Tier 2 visas in the UK's points based system. The industry feels that the new limits would hurt the ability of oil and gas companies to assemble teams of specialists.
Speaking in the Oil Voice, a website devoted to the oil and gas industry, employment law expert Linda Beedie criticised the changes to the intra-company transfer scheme. Beedie feels that the new £40,000 salary limit for employees staying in the UK for more than a year is just "a cap by the back door."
"The intra company transfer route is essential to the continued strength and competitiveness of British industry," Beedie said.
If you wish to gain entry to the UK under the Tier 1 visa or Tier 2 visa scheme it may be best to apply as soon as possible. It will be more difficult in future.
Australian education needs more foreign students
Australian education groups are optimistic that the government will help fix Australia's ailing education industry.
Educators traveled to Canberra on 22 November to meet with Immigration Minister Chris Bowen, Trade Minister Craig Emerson, and the coalition government's universities spokesman, Brett Mason to lobby for changes that will support the education sector.
The education industry is Australia's most valuable export industry worth more than AUD $18.5 billion to the Australian economy. Unfortunately, the industry has seen a dramatic decline in foreign student enrolments.
Student visas granted to offshore applicants has declined 30 percent in the past year, causing universities to cut staff and budgets.
The education industry wants the Australian government to relax student visa rules and to implement faster and more transparent processing of applications. They also feel more can be done to promote Australia as a study abroad destination.
Claire Field of the Australian Council for Private Education and Training was encouraged by the Australian government's reaction to the current situation in the education sector.
"They understand that Australia is out of step with competitor countries and they understand the consequences of no further change. We are looking forward to and hopeful of both short-term and long-term changes," Field said.
Educators traveled to Canberra on 22 November to meet with Immigration Minister Chris Bowen, Trade Minister Craig Emerson, and the coalition government's universities spokesman, Brett Mason to lobby for changes that will support the education sector.
The education industry is Australia's most valuable export industry worth more than AUD $18.5 billion to the Australian economy. Unfortunately, the industry has seen a dramatic decline in foreign student enrolments.
Student visas granted to offshore applicants has declined 30 percent in the past year, causing universities to cut staff and budgets.
The education industry wants the Australian government to relax student visa rules and to implement faster and more transparent processing of applications. They also feel more can be done to promote Australia as a study abroad destination.
Claire Field of the Australian Council for Private Education and Training was encouraged by the Australian government's reaction to the current situation in the education sector.
"They understand that Australia is out of step with competitor countries and they understand the consequences of no further change. We are looking forward to and hopeful of both short-term and long-term changes," Field said.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Canadian immigration to accept Immigrant Investor applications again
Starting on 1 December 2010, Citizenship and Immigration Canada will again start accepting applications under the federal Immigration Investor Program.
Applicants under the Immigration Investor Program will need to have a personal net worth of $1.6 million CAD, which doubles the previous net worth requirement of $800,000. Moreover, applicants will be required to make an investment of $800,000. Under the previous rules, only a $400,000 investment was needed.
According to Immigration Minister Jason Kenney, changes to the criteria for the immigration investor program were overdue.
"These changes were necessary," said Kenney. "The requirements had not been increased in more than a decade and we need to keep pace with the changing economy."
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) said that Canada had the lowest requirements for their investor immigration schemes compared to other countries with similar programs. To reduce the backlog of applications and to avoid a rush of applications before the changes take place Canada suspended the Immigration Investor Program in June 2010.
"The new criteria now align it more closely with other immigrant-receiving countries," CIC said in a statement.
CIC said that the previous requirements were leading to a backlog of applications. By raising the net worth and investment requirements, Canada hopes to reduce the number of applicants and only let in those who can make a substantial investment in the Canadian economy.
"Higher investment amounts mean provinces and territories will receive more investment capital to put toward job creation and economic development projects," Kenney said.
Canada's Immigration Investor Program grants applicants a permanent residence visa and a guaranteed repayment of their investment. The immigrant investor program was already an expensive way of gaining permanent residence in Canada. Doubling the investment requirements is bound to put off some people. It remains to be seen if the changes will in reality result in increased investment into Canada. There are already a number of ways in which you can emigrate to Canada and a number of other Countries around the World without having to invest any money.
Applicants under the Immigration Investor Program will need to have a personal net worth of $1.6 million CAD, which doubles the previous net worth requirement of $800,000. Moreover, applicants will be required to make an investment of $800,000. Under the previous rules, only a $400,000 investment was needed.
According to Immigration Minister Jason Kenney, changes to the criteria for the immigration investor program were overdue.
"These changes were necessary," said Kenney. "The requirements had not been increased in more than a decade and we need to keep pace with the changing economy."
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) said that Canada had the lowest requirements for their investor immigration schemes compared to other countries with similar programs. To reduce the backlog of applications and to avoid a rush of applications before the changes take place Canada suspended the Immigration Investor Program in June 2010.
"The new criteria now align it more closely with other immigrant-receiving countries," CIC said in a statement.
CIC said that the previous requirements were leading to a backlog of applications. By raising the net worth and investment requirements, Canada hopes to reduce the number of applicants and only let in those who can make a substantial investment in the Canadian economy.
"Higher investment amounts mean provinces and territories will receive more investment capital to put toward job creation and economic development projects," Kenney said.
Canada's Immigration Investor Program grants applicants a permanent residence visa and a guaranteed repayment of their investment. The immigrant investor program was already an expensive way of gaining permanent residence in Canada. Doubling the investment requirements is bound to put off some people. It remains to be seen if the changes will in reality result in increased investment into Canada. There are already a number of ways in which you can emigrate to Canada and a number of other Countries around the World without having to invest any money.
New Australian immigration points test in July 2011
Australia has announced changes to its independent skilled migration points test which will go into effect on 1 July 2011. The new immigration points system will put increased emphasis on work experience and high level educational qualifications. For a complete overview of points awarded under the new points test, please see this page.
Points will continue to be awarded for study in Australia, regional study, community languages, partner skills, and for completing an approved Professional Year. However, points will no longer be awarded for a particular occupation, but an applicant must still nominate an occupation on Australia's Skilled Occupation List.
One significant change to the points test is that people aged 46 to 49 will now be able to apply, although no points can be earned under age for applicants from 45 to 49 years of age. The age related points will be as follows:
Age 25-32: 30 Points
Age 18-24 and 33-39: 25 Points
Age 40-44: 15 Points
Age 45-49: 0 Points
Moreover, points can be earned for English language proficiency above Competent English, which is a minimum score of 6 on each of the four components of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Points earned for higher levels of English language proficiency are as follows:
Superior English (a score of at least 8 in each of the fourcomponents of the IELTS): 20 Points
Proficient English (a score of at least 7 in each of the fourcomponents of the IELTS): 10 Points
The pass mark for the points test will change as well and is expected to be set at 65 points.
"These changes to the points test are an important next step in the series of reforms to the skilled migration program announced by the Government in February this year," said Immigration Minister Chris Bowen.
"The reforms set the foundations for a skilled migration program that will be responsive to our economic needs and continue to serve Australias interests in the medium to long term," he added.
A review of the current points test found it had resulted in applications from people in only a small number of occupations and a growing backlog of people waiting for a skilled immigration visa.
"The existing points test has not always led to outcomes consistent with the objectives of the skilled migration program," Bowen said.
"For example, the current test puts an overseas student with a short term vocational qualification and one year's work experience in Australia ahead of a Harvard educated environmental engineer with three years' relevant work experience."
Bowen said the new points test should ensure that Australia admits the "best and brightest people" from the pool of applicants.
The new points test will only affect skilled independent immigration and not employer-sponsored immigration. Anyone lodging an application after 1 July 2011 will come under the new points test. If you meet the requirements for skilled immigration to Australia it may be best to apply now and come under the current immigration scheme. You may not qualify under the new immigration scheme from 1 July 2011.
Points will continue to be awarded for study in Australia, regional study, community languages, partner skills, and for completing an approved Professional Year. However, points will no longer be awarded for a particular occupation, but an applicant must still nominate an occupation on Australia's Skilled Occupation List.
One significant change to the points test is that people aged 46 to 49 will now be able to apply, although no points can be earned under age for applicants from 45 to 49 years of age. The age related points will be as follows:
Age 25-32: 30 Points
Age 18-24 and 33-39: 25 Points
Age 40-44: 15 Points
Age 45-49: 0 Points
Moreover, points can be earned for English language proficiency above Competent English, which is a minimum score of 6 on each of the four components of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Points earned for higher levels of English language proficiency are as follows:
Superior English (a score of at least 8 in each of the fourcomponents of the IELTS): 20 Points
Proficient English (a score of at least 7 in each of the fourcomponents of the IELTS): 10 Points
The pass mark for the points test will change as well and is expected to be set at 65 points.
"These changes to the points test are an important next step in the series of reforms to the skilled migration program announced by the Government in February this year," said Immigration Minister Chris Bowen.
"The reforms set the foundations for a skilled migration program that will be responsive to our economic needs and continue to serve Australias interests in the medium to long term," he added.
A review of the current points test found it had resulted in applications from people in only a small number of occupations and a growing backlog of people waiting for a skilled immigration visa.
"The existing points test has not always led to outcomes consistent with the objectives of the skilled migration program," Bowen said.
"For example, the current test puts an overseas student with a short term vocational qualification and one year's work experience in Australia ahead of a Harvard educated environmental engineer with three years' relevant work experience."
Bowen said the new points test should ensure that Australia admits the "best and brightest people" from the pool of applicants.
The new points test will only affect skilled independent immigration and not employer-sponsored immigration. Anyone lodging an application after 1 July 2011 will come under the new points test. If you meet the requirements for skilled immigration to Australia it may be best to apply now and come under the current immigration scheme. You may not qualify under the new immigration scheme from 1 July 2011.
UK will relax immigration cap to help businesses
According to the Daily Telegraph, UK Prime Minister David Cameron is expected to significantly increase the number of non-EU immigrant skilled workers allowed to enter the United Kingdom each month.
Businesses have been among the groups criticizing the UK Government for imposing the cap, which they say prevents badly needed highly skilled immigrants from working in the UK.
The current limit of 2,600 skilled worker immigrants from outside the EU is likely to be increased which will benefit both Tier 1 and Tier 2 visa applicants. By the tenth day of November all visas were used up for the UK's highly popular Tier 1 (General) Visa, a points based immigration visa aimed at highly skilled workers. The Tier 1 visa is so popular because you do not need a job offer to come under the Tier 1 visa and you can work for any employer.
The UK Government is expected to increase the immigration cap next year to more than 4,000 per month; UK businesses have said that they need more immigrants with the right skills to fill labour shortages.
The current cap is a temporary arrangement until a permanent cap is introduced next year. Details on the permanent cap are expected to be announced later this month.
This week, the Migration Advisory Committee is expected to publish its recommendations for the level at which the permanent cap should be set. A number of scenarios will be put forward, ranging from a liberal immigration cap to a more hardline immigration cap.
It is expected that the Government will reject the more hard-line immigration cap proposals from the Migration Advisory Committee. However this is not certain. If you meet the current immigration requirements for say a Tier 1 visa or Tier 2 visa it may be best to apply sooner rather than later.
If you apply in the future for immigration to the UK it may also be more difficult to gain permanent residence. If you apply now you will hopefully come under the current immigration rules for gaining permanent residence (indefinite leave to remain) instead of stricter rules in future.
Businesses have been among the groups criticizing the UK Government for imposing the cap, which they say prevents badly needed highly skilled immigrants from working in the UK.
The current limit of 2,600 skilled worker immigrants from outside the EU is likely to be increased which will benefit both Tier 1 and Tier 2 visa applicants. By the tenth day of November all visas were used up for the UK's highly popular Tier 1 (General) Visa, a points based immigration visa aimed at highly skilled workers. The Tier 1 visa is so popular because you do not need a job offer to come under the Tier 1 visa and you can work for any employer.
The UK Government is expected to increase the immigration cap next year to more than 4,000 per month; UK businesses have said that they need more immigrants with the right skills to fill labour shortages.
The current cap is a temporary arrangement until a permanent cap is introduced next year. Details on the permanent cap are expected to be announced later this month.
This week, the Migration Advisory Committee is expected to publish its recommendations for the level at which the permanent cap should be set. A number of scenarios will be put forward, ranging from a liberal immigration cap to a more hardline immigration cap.
It is expected that the Government will reject the more hard-line immigration cap proposals from the Migration Advisory Committee. However this is not certain. If you meet the current immigration requirements for say a Tier 1 visa or Tier 2 visa it may be best to apply sooner rather than later.
If you apply in the future for immigration to the UK it may also be more difficult to gain permanent residence. If you apply now you will hopefully come under the current immigration rules for gaining permanent residence (indefinite leave to remain) instead of stricter rules in future.
Increased Australian immigration unavoidable for Australia
An Australian Treasury warning has been issued which states that increased immigration in Australia is 'inescapable'.
During Prime Minister Julia Gillard's election campaign, she said that Australia should not "hurtle" towards a big population. She thought that the 36 million people by 2050 as forecast by the Treasury was excessive.
However, a recent Treasury briefing warns that the 36-million people projection factored in a significant reduction in migration to an annual average of 180,000. Immigration recently peaked at 300,000.
According to the briefing, even by limiting net migration to 60,000 people per year Australia would reach 29 million people by 2050.
"Given the powerful global forces driving the Australian economy, net immigration figures well in excess of that low number are probably inescapable," the briefing said.
"Strong population growth is not necessarily unsustainable," the briefing continued. "It need not adversely affect the environment, the livability of cities, infrastructure and service delivery, provided the right plans and policies are put in place now in anticipation of it."
According to a senior Labor source, the government has accepted that they cannot cut migration to such an extent that population growth is reduced.
The Treasury has also predicted that unemployment will fall to 4.9 percent in the future, resulting in more skills shortages and so making the case for reducing levels of immigration that much more difficult to justify.
Future immigration changes will favour people with degree level education and good English. If you are a tradesperson or do not have good enough English to meet the new requirements you may wish to consider applying for immigration before the changes take place.
During Prime Minister Julia Gillard's election campaign, she said that Australia should not "hurtle" towards a big population. She thought that the 36 million people by 2050 as forecast by the Treasury was excessive.
However, a recent Treasury briefing warns that the 36-million people projection factored in a significant reduction in migration to an annual average of 180,000. Immigration recently peaked at 300,000.
According to the briefing, even by limiting net migration to 60,000 people per year Australia would reach 29 million people by 2050.
"Given the powerful global forces driving the Australian economy, net immigration figures well in excess of that low number are probably inescapable," the briefing said.
"Strong population growth is not necessarily unsustainable," the briefing continued. "It need not adversely affect the environment, the livability of cities, infrastructure and service delivery, provided the right plans and policies are put in place now in anticipation of it."
According to a senior Labor source, the government has accepted that they cannot cut migration to such an extent that population growth is reduced.
The Treasury has also predicted that unemployment will fall to 4.9 percent in the future, resulting in more skills shortages and so making the case for reducing levels of immigration that much more difficult to justify.
Future immigration changes will favour people with degree level education and good English. If you are a tradesperson or do not have good enough English to meet the new requirements you may wish to consider applying for immigration before the changes take place.
Australia immigration changes will help older workers, graduates and fluent English speakers
In July 2011, Australia will implement significant changes to its points based Australian immigration system. One important change is that people up to the age of 49 will now be able to apply for skilled immigration to Australia.
If you are a tradesperson and/or you are not so fluent in English it may be worth applying now. If you are a graduate with excellent English and in your mid to late 40s you may benefit from the July 2011 changes; Australian immigration realizes that many people in their mid to late 40s are just reaching the peak of their careers.
The Migration Institute of Australia (MIA) welcomed the increased age limit, stating that the planned changes are "reflecting both shifts in the workforce age and the Australian value of fairness."
The Australian economy stands to gain significantly from increased immigration. Unemployment is expected to fall in many parts of Australia, leading to skills shortages; This means that Australia will have to allow in more overseas workers.
Australia has a skilled immigration policy that in recent years has attracted hundreds of thousands of skilled immigrants to Australia. The new changes from July 2011 will make it more difficult for tradespeople and for those who are not fluent in English to emigrate to Australia.
Australia has benefitted enormously be letting in both tradespeople and professional level people. The emphasis on immigration of professional level workers in preference to tradespeople may not be in the long term interests of Australia. On the other hand allowing more people in their forties to emigrate to Australia is probably in the long term interests of Australia.
If you are a tradesperson and/or you are not so fluent in English it may be worth applying now. If you are a graduate with excellent English and in your mid to late 40s you may benefit from the July 2011 changes; Australian immigration realizes that many people in their mid to late 40s are just reaching the peak of their careers.
The Migration Institute of Australia (MIA) welcomed the increased age limit, stating that the planned changes are "reflecting both shifts in the workforce age and the Australian value of fairness."
The Australian economy stands to gain significantly from increased immigration. Unemployment is expected to fall in many parts of Australia, leading to skills shortages; This means that Australia will have to allow in more overseas workers.
Australia has a skilled immigration policy that in recent years has attracted hundreds of thousands of skilled immigrants to Australia. The new changes from July 2011 will make it more difficult for tradespeople and for those who are not fluent in English to emigrate to Australia.
Australia has benefitted enormously be letting in both tradespeople and professional level people. The emphasis on immigration of professional level workers in preference to tradespeople may not be in the long term interests of Australia. On the other hand allowing more people in their forties to emigrate to Australia is probably in the long term interests of Australia.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
European Educational Consultants by European Connections
European Educational Consultants by European Connections: "Concise Ad title will improve the chance of being clicked. So, to make your Ad easily searchable"
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
New 'Entrepreneur Visa' to be announced by the UK
The UK Government is expected to announce a new "entrepreneur visa" aimed at attracting investor-backed businessmen who wish to immigrate to the UK to start high-tech companies. The goal is to better position London as a hot-bed for startups; The UK Government hopes that East London will become the "Silicon Valley" of the UK.
The United States, particularly the San Fransisco Bay area, is known for its leading position in encouraging high-tech innovation, something the UK hopes to emulate. Europe in general is often seen as lagging behind America in encouraging entrepreneurship, particularly in the technology arena.
UK Prime Minister David Cameron is announced plans for the new entrepreneur visa on 4 November 2010, which if successful will transform part of East London into a High Tech Centre; Investors include companies such as Google, Intel, and Facebook.
Businessmen applying for an entrepreneur visa are expected to have significant backing from investors for their new business. How much investment will be required remains to be seen.
The new visa announcement comes at a time when the UK Border Agency has a cap on highly skilled immigration. Many would say that making it easier for people to come into the UK on a Tier 1 Visa or Tier 2 Visa would do much more to encourage innovation and investment in the UK than a new high-tech area in East London.
It also remains to be seen just how this new visa will be integrated into the UK's existing tiered immigration system.
The United States, particularly the San Fransisco Bay area, is known for its leading position in encouraging high-tech innovation, something the UK hopes to emulate. Europe in general is often seen as lagging behind America in encouraging entrepreneurship, particularly in the technology arena.
UK Prime Minister David Cameron is announced plans for the new entrepreneur visa on 4 November 2010, which if successful will transform part of East London into a High Tech Centre; Investors include companies such as Google, Intel, and Facebook.
Businessmen applying for an entrepreneur visa are expected to have significant backing from investors for their new business. How much investment will be required remains to be seen.
The new visa announcement comes at a time when the UK Border Agency has a cap on highly skilled immigration. Many would say that making it easier for people to come into the UK on a Tier 1 Visa or Tier 2 Visa would do much more to encourage innovation and investment in the UK than a new high-tech area in East London.
It also remains to be seen just how this new visa will be integrated into the UK's existing tiered immigration system.
Home Secretary vows to reduce UK immigration numbers
In her first major speech on immigration, UK Home Secretary Theresa May stated that her goal was to bring in more high-value migrants to the UK, such as investors and research scientists, while at the same time encouraging employers to fill vacant jobs with local unemployed workers.
"The government intends to control immigration by focusing on all aspects of the immigration system, not just the points-based system," May said.
"So over the coming months action will be taken on students, families and settlement as well as people coming here to work," she added.
According to a statement released by the UK Border Agency, her priorities include:
encouraging entrepreneurs and investors to come to the UK
stopping abuse of the student visa route
'cutting the link' between temporary immigration and permanentsettlement
Encouraging entrepreneurs to come to the UK may come in the form of a new business visa announced recently.
May concluded her speech by stating that net migration will be reduced from the current level of hundreds of thousands to tens of thousands by the end of the Parliamentary term.
"It will take hard work and a great deal of political courage. But the British people want us to do it and it is the right thing to do. So we will do it," she said.
It looks as if UK immigration will become more difficult in future, you should seriously consider applying now before the changes.
"The government intends to control immigration by focusing on all aspects of the immigration system, not just the points-based system," May said.
"So over the coming months action will be taken on students, families and settlement as well as people coming here to work," she added.
According to a statement released by the UK Border Agency, her priorities include:
encouraging entrepreneurs and investors to come to the UK
stopping abuse of the student visa route
'cutting the link' between temporary immigration and permanentsettlement
Encouraging entrepreneurs to come to the UK may come in the form of a new business visa announced recently.
May concluded her speech by stating that net migration will be reduced from the current level of hundreds of thousands to tens of thousands by the end of the Parliamentary term.
"It will take hard work and a great deal of political courage. But the British people want us to do it and it is the right thing to do. So we will do it," she said.
It looks as if UK immigration will become more difficult in future, you should seriously consider applying now before the changes.
UK: New English language requirements for partners from 29 November 2010
Starting 29 November 2010, migrants who are the spouse or partner of a British citizen or resident and who wish to live in the UK will be required to prove that they can speak and understand English.
The new immigration rules will affect the spouse or partner of a British citizen or resident from countries outside the European Economic Area (including Switzerland).
To prove English language ability, you will need to show one of the following:
come from a majority English-speaking country; or
pass an acceptable English language test approved by the UK Border Agency (UKBA); or
have a degree taught in English which is accepted by the UKBA.
The UKBA accepts the following countries as being majority English-speaking countries:
Antigua and Barbuda
Australia
the Bahamas
Barbados
Belize
Canada
Dominica
Grenada
Guyana
Jamaica
New Zealand
St Kitts and Nevis
St Lucia
St Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago
the United States of America
If you have a bachelors degree taught in English determined by UK NARIC to be equivalent to a UK Bachelor's degree this will meet the English language requirements. The UKBA will not accept Master's degrees or PhD degrees taught in English as evidence of English ability because UK NARIC can only assess whether Bachelor's degrees were taught in English. It also seems to be the case that in future it will be more difficult to meet the English language requirements for those applying under say the Tier 1 visa or Tier 2 visa of the points based system. It will no longer be the case that Tier 1 and Tier 2 visa applicants will be able to show English language ability by having a Masters Degree or PhD taught in English.
If you are affected by these changes and you wish to immigrate to the UK as a partner of a British citizen or resident you may want to apply for a visa before the changes go into effect.
workpermit.com can help you with your application. We have over 22 years experience helping people from all over the world live and work in the UK. Please contact us for more information.
The new immigration rules will affect the spouse or partner of a British citizen or resident from countries outside the European Economic Area (including Switzerland).
To prove English language ability, you will need to show one of the following:
come from a majority English-speaking country; or
pass an acceptable English language test approved by the UK Border Agency (UKBA); or
have a degree taught in English which is accepted by the UKBA.
The UKBA accepts the following countries as being majority English-speaking countries:
Antigua and Barbuda
Australia
the Bahamas
Barbados
Belize
Canada
Dominica
Grenada
Guyana
Jamaica
New Zealand
St Kitts and Nevis
St Lucia
St Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago
the United States of America
If you have a bachelors degree taught in English determined by UK NARIC to be equivalent to a UK Bachelor's degree this will meet the English language requirements. The UKBA will not accept Master's degrees or PhD degrees taught in English as evidence of English ability because UK NARIC can only assess whether Bachelor's degrees were taught in English. It also seems to be the case that in future it will be more difficult to meet the English language requirements for those applying under say the Tier 1 visa or Tier 2 visa of the points based system. It will no longer be the case that Tier 1 and Tier 2 visa applicants will be able to show English language ability by having a Masters Degree or PhD taught in English.
If you are affected by these changes and you wish to immigrate to the UK as a partner of a British citizen or resident you may want to apply for a visa before the changes go into effect.
workpermit.com can help you with your application. We have over 22 years experience helping people from all over the world live and work in the UK. Please contact us for more information.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
UK Tier 1 visas issued again from 1 November
The UK Border Agency has started issuing Tier 1 (General) Visas again from 1 November 2010.
On 19 July 2010, the UK Government introduced an interim limit on the number of initial Tier 1 (General) Visa applications that can be issued each month; On 20 October 2010 the monthly limit had been reached and the UK Government stopped issuing Tier 1 (General) Visas.
As of 01 November, the Government is again issuing Tier 1 General Visas. Applicants who were put on hold due to the limit will now be processed in the order in which their visa application was received.
Tier 1 (General) is part of the UK's points-based immigration system. Applicants are scored on criteria such as age, past earnings, and qualifications. If you are a highly skilled individual, you may be eligible to receive a visa which will allow you to work for any employer in the UK or be self-employed. A job-offer from a UK employer is not required under the Tier 1 (General) visa.
Due to the new interim limit on Tier 1 (General) Visa applications, Tier 1 General Visa processing times are likely to go up in future. If you wish to avoid future delays in the processing of your visa application it would advisable to apply sooner rather than later.
workpermit.com has over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the immigration process and live and work in the UK. If you would like some help with your application, please fill out our Tier 1 (General) form and a workpermit.com representative will contact you shortly.
On 19 July 2010, the UK Government introduced an interim limit on the number of initial Tier 1 (General) Visa applications that can be issued each month; On 20 October 2010 the monthly limit had been reached and the UK Government stopped issuing Tier 1 (General) Visas.
As of 01 November, the Government is again issuing Tier 1 General Visas. Applicants who were put on hold due to the limit will now be processed in the order in which their visa application was received.
Tier 1 (General) is part of the UK's points-based immigration system. Applicants are scored on criteria such as age, past earnings, and qualifications. If you are a highly skilled individual, you may be eligible to receive a visa which will allow you to work for any employer in the UK or be self-employed. A job-offer from a UK employer is not required under the Tier 1 (General) visa.
Due to the new interim limit on Tier 1 (General) Visa applications, Tier 1 General Visa processing times are likely to go up in future. If you wish to avoid future delays in the processing of your visa application it would advisable to apply sooner rather than later.
workpermit.com has over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the immigration process and live and work in the UK. If you would like some help with your application, please fill out our Tier 1 (General) form and a workpermit.com representative will contact you shortly.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Positive List of Shortage Occupations for Danish Work Permits
The Positive List is a list of occupations that are in shortage in Denmark. Foreign workers from outside the European Union and the European Economic Area/Switzerland are eligible for work and residence permits under the Positive List scheme if they have a job offer in one of these occupations from a Danish employer.
In addition, applicants under Denmark's Green Card scheme are eligible for bonus points on their points test if they have experience in an occupation on the Positive List.
Occupations whose requirements are marked with an asterisk require Danish authorization.
Academic work
Occupation Requirement
Accountant Master's degree
Assistant professor, social sciences Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Associate professor, natural science and technology Master's degree
Associate professor, social sciences Master's degree
Building engineer Master's degree
Business controller Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Chemist Master's degree
Construction engineer Master's degree
Consulting physician Master's degree*
Dentist Master's degree*
Electric engineer Medium-cycle higher education
Financial controller Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Fresh water biologist Master's degree
General practitioner Master's degree*
Geologist Master's degree
Geophysicist Master's degree
Hospital doctor Master's degree*
Hospital physicist Master's degree
Lawyer Master's degree*
Legal assistant Master's degree
Mechanical engineer Medium-cycle higher education
Medical consultant Master's degree*
Medical specialist Master's degree*
Music teacher Master's degree
Physical geographer Master's degree
Secondary school teacher, natural sciences physical education Master's degree*
IT and telecommunication
Occupation Requirement
Database developer Documentation of at least three years' IT education
IT consultant Documentation of at least three years' IT education
IT project manager Documentation of at least three years' IT education
Network consultant Documentation of at least three years' IT education
Software developer Documentation of at least three years' IT education
System developer Documentation of at least three years' IT education
Management
Occupation Requirement
Accounting manager Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Deputy head of institution Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Head of department Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Head of institution Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Head of institution department Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Production manager Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Sales manager Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
School department head Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Social and health department head Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Educational, social and religious work
Occupation Requirement
Remedial teacher Professional Bachelor's degree
Social educator Professional Bachelor's degree
Social educator of children, young people and adults with special needs Professional Bachelor's degree
Social worker Professional Bachelor's degree
Sales, purchases and marketing
Occupation Requirement
Account manager Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Product specialist Industry relevant professional Bachelor's degree
Health, healthcare and personal care
Occupation Requirement
Anaesthetic nurse Professional Bachelor's degree*
Bioanalyst Professional Bachelor's degree*
Chiropractor Professional Bachelor's degree*
Head physiotherapist Professional Bachelor's degree*
Head midwife Professional Bachelor's degree*
Head nurse Professional Bachelor's degree*
Head radiographer Professional Bachelor's degree*
Head bioanalyst Professional Bachelor's degree*
Health visitor, Visiting nurse Professional Bachelor's degree*
Midwife Professional Bachelor's degree*
Nurse Professional Bachelor's degree*
Physiotherapist Professional Bachelor's degree*
Operating theatre nurse Professional Bachelor's degree*
Optician Professional Bachelor's degree*
Radiographer Professional Bachelor's degree*
Surgical appliance maker Professional Bachelor's degree*
Education and tuition
Occupation Requirement
Continuation school teacher Professional Bachelor's degree*
Primary and lower secondary school teacher Professional Bachelor's degree*
In addition, applicants under Denmark's Green Card scheme are eligible for bonus points on their points test if they have experience in an occupation on the Positive List.
Occupations whose requirements are marked with an asterisk require Danish authorization.
Academic work
Occupation Requirement
Accountant Master's degree
Assistant professor, social sciences Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Associate professor, natural science and technology Master's degree
Associate professor, social sciences Master's degree
Building engineer Master's degree
Business controller Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Chemist Master's degree
Construction engineer Master's degree
Consulting physician Master's degree*
Dentist Master's degree*
Electric engineer Medium-cycle higher education
Financial controller Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Fresh water biologist Master's degree
General practitioner Master's degree*
Geologist Master's degree
Geophysicist Master's degree
Hospital doctor Master's degree*
Hospital physicist Master's degree
Lawyer Master's degree*
Legal assistant Master's degree
Mechanical engineer Medium-cycle higher education
Medical consultant Master's degree*
Medical specialist Master's degree*
Music teacher Master's degree
Physical geographer Master's degree
Secondary school teacher, natural sciences physical education Master's degree*
IT and telecommunication
Occupation Requirement
Database developer Documentation of at least three years' IT education
IT consultant Documentation of at least three years' IT education
IT project manager Documentation of at least three years' IT education
Network consultant Documentation of at least three years' IT education
Software developer Documentation of at least three years' IT education
System developer Documentation of at least three years' IT education
Management
Occupation Requirement
Accounting manager Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Deputy head of institution Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Head of department Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Head of institution Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Head of institution department Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Production manager Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Sales manager Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
School department head Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Social and health department head Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Educational, social and religious work
Occupation Requirement
Remedial teacher Professional Bachelor's degree
Social educator Professional Bachelor's degree
Social educator of children, young people and adults with special needs Professional Bachelor's degree
Social worker Professional Bachelor's degree
Sales, purchases and marketing
Occupation Requirement
Account manager Documentation of at least three years' education at university level
Product specialist Industry relevant professional Bachelor's degree
Health, healthcare and personal care
Occupation Requirement
Anaesthetic nurse Professional Bachelor's degree*
Bioanalyst Professional Bachelor's degree*
Chiropractor Professional Bachelor's degree*
Head physiotherapist Professional Bachelor's degree*
Head midwife Professional Bachelor's degree*
Head nurse Professional Bachelor's degree*
Head radiographer Professional Bachelor's degree*
Head bioanalyst Professional Bachelor's degree*
Health visitor, Visiting nurse Professional Bachelor's degree*
Midwife Professional Bachelor's degree*
Nurse Professional Bachelor's degree*
Physiotherapist Professional Bachelor's degree*
Operating theatre nurse Professional Bachelor's degree*
Optician Professional Bachelor's degree*
Radiographer Professional Bachelor's degree*
Surgical appliance maker Professional Bachelor's degree*
Education and tuition
Occupation Requirement
Continuation school teacher Professional Bachelor's degree*
Primary and lower secondary school teacher Professional Bachelor's degree*
Danish Work Permits
Introduction
Denmark, like many nations, has a large number of occupations for which they are experiencing a shortage of qualified workers. Denmark maintains a large listing of shortage occupations called the Positive List. If you have a job offer from a Danish employer in an occupation on the Positive List, you can obtain a work and residence permit immediately under the Positive List scheme.
Other conditions also apply. If your occupation requires Danish authorization (such as practicing medicine), you must obtain this authorization before a work and residence permit will be granted. In addition, you must have a written job offer that states your expected salary and employment conditions. Salary and employment conditions must meet Danish standards.
The Positive List
Work and residence permits can be obtained for up to three years under the Positive List scheme with the possibility of extension of up to four years. The Positive List contains occupations in a wide range of fields, such as health care and information technology. You can still live and work in Denmark under the Positive List scheme if your occupation is no longer on the Positive List when you apply for an extension to your work and residence permit.
The Positive List is broken into a number of fields of work:
Academic Work (includes project management, engineering occupations, lawyers, doctors, and other professional occupations)
Construction
Hotel, Restaurant, Kitchen, Canteen
IT and Telecommunication
Management
Educational, Social and Religious Occupations
Sales, Purchases and Marketing
Health, Healthcare and Personal Care
Freight Forwarding, Postal Services, Storage and Engine Operation
Education and tuition
Family Members
If you have been granted a work and residence permit under the Positive List, your spouse or partner is also eligible for residence permits. Any children under the age of 18 who live with you are also eligible for residence permits. Your spouse or partner would be eligible to work for the entire period his or her residence permit is valid.
Denmark, like many nations, has a large number of occupations for which they are experiencing a shortage of qualified workers. Denmark maintains a large listing of shortage occupations called the Positive List. If you have a job offer from a Danish employer in an occupation on the Positive List, you can obtain a work and residence permit immediately under the Positive List scheme.
Other conditions also apply. If your occupation requires Danish authorization (such as practicing medicine), you must obtain this authorization before a work and residence permit will be granted. In addition, you must have a written job offer that states your expected salary and employment conditions. Salary and employment conditions must meet Danish standards.
The Positive List
Work and residence permits can be obtained for up to three years under the Positive List scheme with the possibility of extension of up to four years. The Positive List contains occupations in a wide range of fields, such as health care and information technology. You can still live and work in Denmark under the Positive List scheme if your occupation is no longer on the Positive List when you apply for an extension to your work and residence permit.
The Positive List is broken into a number of fields of work:
Academic Work (includes project management, engineering occupations, lawyers, doctors, and other professional occupations)
Construction
Hotel, Restaurant, Kitchen, Canteen
IT and Telecommunication
Management
Educational, Social and Religious Occupations
Sales, Purchases and Marketing
Health, Healthcare and Personal Care
Freight Forwarding, Postal Services, Storage and Engine Operation
Education and tuition
Family Members
If you have been granted a work and residence permit under the Positive List, your spouse or partner is also eligible for residence permits. Any children under the age of 18 who live with you are also eligible for residence permits. Your spouse or partner would be eligible to work for the entire period his or her residence permit is valid.
UK reaches Tier 1 visa limit for October 2010
The UK Government will not issue any more Tier 1 (General) visas for the month of October 2010 to first time applicants from outside the UK. The limit does not affect applications from dependents, applications from people in the UK switching into Tier 1 (General) from another category, or people extending their current Tier 1 (General) visas.
The UK implemented an interim cap on immigration on 19 July, 2010. There is a monthly UK immigration limit on Tier 1 (General) Visas; new applications will start to be accepted again on 1 November 2010.
People applying from outside the UK can still lodge a Tier 1 (General) visa application in October 2010. However, if the application is successful, a visa will not be issued until the limit allocation reopens.
The Tier 1 (General) Visa is a highly skilled immigration visa which allows non-EU citizens, if they successfully pass a points-based test, to live and work in the UK The points test is based on criteria such as age, previous earnings, English language ability, and academic qualifications.
The processing delays for Tier 1 visas are likely to increase in future. Each month it is likely that the visas will run out earlier and earlier. Uncompleted applications will then have to be considered under the visa allocation for the following month. Then in April 2011 the permanent immigration cap will mean that even fewer visas are available. Unless the Government changes it's immigration policy the situation will become worse and worse.
If you are interested in applying for a Tier 1 (General) visa, test your chances using our free Tier 1 (General) points calculator. If you qualify and wish to avoid lengthy processing delays in the future you should consider applying soon.
The UK implemented an interim cap on immigration on 19 July, 2010. There is a monthly UK immigration limit on Tier 1 (General) Visas; new applications will start to be accepted again on 1 November 2010.
People applying from outside the UK can still lodge a Tier 1 (General) visa application in October 2010. However, if the application is successful, a visa will not be issued until the limit allocation reopens.
The Tier 1 (General) Visa is a highly skilled immigration visa which allows non-EU citizens, if they successfully pass a points-based test, to live and work in the UK The points test is based on criteria such as age, previous earnings, English language ability, and academic qualifications.
The processing delays for Tier 1 visas are likely to increase in future. Each month it is likely that the visas will run out earlier and earlier. Uncompleted applications will then have to be considered under the visa allocation for the following month. Then in April 2011 the permanent immigration cap will mean that even fewer visas are available. Unless the Government changes it's immigration policy the situation will become worse and worse.
If you are interested in applying for a Tier 1 (General) visa, test your chances using our free Tier 1 (General) points calculator. If you qualify and wish to avoid lengthy processing delays in the future you should consider applying soon.
Canada: Immigrants facing citizenship delays
Immigrants in Canada are waiting from 15 to 19 months to have their Canadian citizenship applications approved due to a large backlog of applications.
In 2009, changes to the Immigration Act meant that more people were eligible for citizenship, leading to an increase in citizenship applications.
"Really it's just a question of enough resources to process all the applications we receive," said Citizenship and Immigration Canada operations manager Paul Snow in an interview with CBS News.
"Citizenship and Immigration as a department has a fixed amount of resources and we're facing increasing applications in all of our program areas," he added.
Immigration and Naturalization fees are an important source of funding for Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Many nationality applicants are unhappy with the processing delays. This could put off prospective migrants in future.
"I don't think this is a good way of welcoming our fellow Canadian citizens-to-be, considering the fact that they pay all kinds of taxes," said Edward Chung, president of the Korean Association of Prince Edward Island.
"One particular member of my association, it took her two years and I find this to be extremely long," he added.
This year Canada has been struggling with an increasing backlog of immigration Applications. One reason for this is because Canada has become more and more popular with skilled workers wishing to live and work abroad.
To obtain Canadian citizenship, an applicant must have been a permanent resident for at least two years and have lived in Canada at least three of the four years preceding an application. In addition, applicants, amongst other requirements, must be able to show knowledge of English and/or French.
In 2009, changes to the Immigration Act meant that more people were eligible for citizenship, leading to an increase in citizenship applications.
"Really it's just a question of enough resources to process all the applications we receive," said Citizenship and Immigration Canada operations manager Paul Snow in an interview with CBS News.
"Citizenship and Immigration as a department has a fixed amount of resources and we're facing increasing applications in all of our program areas," he added.
Immigration and Naturalization fees are an important source of funding for Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Many nationality applicants are unhappy with the processing delays. This could put off prospective migrants in future.
"I don't think this is a good way of welcoming our fellow Canadian citizens-to-be, considering the fact that they pay all kinds of taxes," said Edward Chung, president of the Korean Association of Prince Edward Island.
"One particular member of my association, it took her two years and I find this to be extremely long," he added.
This year Canada has been struggling with an increasing backlog of immigration Applications. One reason for this is because Canada has become more and more popular with skilled workers wishing to live and work abroad.
To obtain Canadian citizenship, an applicant must have been a permanent resident for at least two years and have lived in Canada at least three of the four years preceding an application. In addition, applicants, amongst other requirements, must be able to show knowledge of English and/or French.
UK Visa fees to go up again from 1 November 2010
There will be further fee increase in UK Government visa fees from next week on 1 November 2010. This was announced by Damian Green in September 2010.
Some of the fee increases are detailed below:
Tier 1 visa applications – From £735 to £780
Tier 2 visa applications – From £270 to £350
UK Settlement Visa - From £644 to £750
Naturalisation - From £735 to £780
The UK Government's impact assessment states the following:
"New government proposals to limit net migration and the economic circumstances means that it is harder to predict the numbers of migrants that will come to the UK. Continuing to offer these fees at current levels carries an increased risk that the UK Border Agency may not recover its costs, thereby increasing the burden on the UK taxpayer."
UK Visa fees keep on going up and up. UK Government policy means that there are fewer immigrants available to fund the immigration system. It also means that the Government needs to charge more money to each migrant to pay for the immigration system. Many groups including the Joint Council for the Welfare of immigrants have criticised these further increases in UK visa fees.
Reference: www.workpermit.com
Some of the fee increases are detailed below:
Tier 1 visa applications – From £735 to £780
Tier 2 visa applications – From £270 to £350
UK Settlement Visa - From £644 to £750
Naturalisation - From £735 to £780
The UK Government's impact assessment states the following:
"New government proposals to limit net migration and the economic circumstances means that it is harder to predict the numbers of migrants that will come to the UK. Continuing to offer these fees at current levels carries an increased risk that the UK Border Agency may not recover its costs, thereby increasing the burden on the UK taxpayer."
UK Visa fees keep on going up and up. UK Government policy means that there are fewer immigrants available to fund the immigration system. It also means that the Government needs to charge more money to each migrant to pay for the immigration system. Many groups including the Joint Council for the Welfare of immigrants have criticised these further increases in UK visa fees.
Reference: www.workpermit.com
Australian skilled immigration attracts skilled workers in the IT, Accountancy and Nurses sectors
The top three skilled worker occupations who came under all the permanent skilled immigration visa programs in 2009-10 are Accountants, IT workers, and nurses.
According to the Report on Migration Program 2009-10, over 60 percent of skilled immigrants were applicants in categories targeted by the government as experiencing skills shortages, a 12 percent increase on the previous year.
Skilled immigrants made up 107,868 of the 168,623 people who were granted Australian residency, 64 percent of the total under the migration program.
Across all permanent skilled visa categories, accountants topped the list of occupations at 6,734. Computing professionals followed close behind at 5,370, followed by nurses at 3,960.
The top three countries of citizenship for all permanent skilled visa categories were the United Kingdom (18,487), India (18,042), and China (14,505).
Due to the economic slowdown a few year ago the government took steps to reduce the level of skilled immigration into Australia; However, the country still relies heavily on foreign-born labor to deal with shortages in its labor markets.
In fact, the proportion of overseas workers sponsored by Australian employers continued to rise, making up 38 percent of the 2009-10 skilled immigration intake.
"This outcome is consistent with the government's focus on high-demand, employer-sponsored professionals in areas where Australia has critical skill shortages," said Immigration Minister Chris Bowen.
"The program met the government's objective of sharpening the focus on skilled migration and targeting the needs of Australian industries and employers," Bowen added.
According to the Report on Migration Program 2009-10, over 60 percent of skilled immigrants were applicants in categories targeted by the government as experiencing skills shortages, a 12 percent increase on the previous year.
Skilled immigrants made up 107,868 of the 168,623 people who were granted Australian residency, 64 percent of the total under the migration program.
Across all permanent skilled visa categories, accountants topped the list of occupations at 6,734. Computing professionals followed close behind at 5,370, followed by nurses at 3,960.
The top three countries of citizenship for all permanent skilled visa categories were the United Kingdom (18,487), India (18,042), and China (14,505).
Due to the economic slowdown a few year ago the government took steps to reduce the level of skilled immigration into Australia; However, the country still relies heavily on foreign-born labor to deal with shortages in its labor markets.
In fact, the proportion of overseas workers sponsored by Australian employers continued to rise, making up 38 percent of the 2009-10 skilled immigration intake.
"This outcome is consistent with the government's focus on high-demand, employer-sponsored professionals in areas where Australia has critical skill shortages," said Immigration Minister Chris Bowen.
"The program met the government's objective of sharpening the focus on skilled migration and targeting the needs of Australian industries and employers," Bowen added.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
UK Tier 1 and Tier 2 Visas – Difficult times ahead
The temporary immigration cap has already affected applications for the Tier 1 and Tier 2 visa categories. Many employers do not have certificates of sponsorship available to employ more overseas workers under the Tier 2 visa category; Therefore the temporary immigration cap has had a serious affect on the ability of employers to employ people from abroad.
Recently under the Tier 1 (General) category it has been announced that all visas have been used up under the October 2010 monthly immigration limit. No Tier 1 (General) visas will be issued until 1 November 2010.
Future changes that are likely to make it more difficult for you to apply or remain in the UK include the following:
• Changes to indefinite leave to remain or UK citizenship requirements; Even if the previous labour Governments proposals to replace indefinite leave to remain with a "path to citizenship" do not go ahead it is likely that it will be more difficult in future to gain indefinite leave to remain or UK citizenship. Probably you will have to wait years longer to come under one of these categories.
• It seems likely that there will be changes some time soon on the salary multipliers used to calculate previous earnings points under Tier 1 (General) visa category. This will affect Indian visa applicants many of whom will no longer qualify for the Tier 1 (General) visa.
• The temporary immigration cap has resulted in many employers being unable to employ overseas workers under the Tier 2 visa category. It has also resulted in delays in the processing of Tier 1 (General) visas. The current temporary cap has only reduced the visas available under the Tier visa categories by five percent. It is likely that the permanent immigration cap to be introduced in April 2011 will significantly reduce the availability of Tier 1 and Tier 2 visas.
UK immigration changes result in tougher requirements for the Tier 1 and Tier 2 visa categories and other categories as well. If you wish to apply for a UK visa, if you can, it is probably better to apply sooner rather than later.
Recently under the Tier 1 (General) category it has been announced that all visas have been used up under the October 2010 monthly immigration limit. No Tier 1 (General) visas will be issued until 1 November 2010.
Future changes that are likely to make it more difficult for you to apply or remain in the UK include the following:
• Changes to indefinite leave to remain or UK citizenship requirements; Even if the previous labour Governments proposals to replace indefinite leave to remain with a "path to citizenship" do not go ahead it is likely that it will be more difficult in future to gain indefinite leave to remain or UK citizenship. Probably you will have to wait years longer to come under one of these categories.
• It seems likely that there will be changes some time soon on the salary multipliers used to calculate previous earnings points under Tier 1 (General) visa category. This will affect Indian visa applicants many of whom will no longer qualify for the Tier 1 (General) visa.
• The temporary immigration cap has resulted in many employers being unable to employ overseas workers under the Tier 2 visa category. It has also resulted in delays in the processing of Tier 1 (General) visas. The current temporary cap has only reduced the visas available under the Tier visa categories by five percent. It is likely that the permanent immigration cap to be introduced in April 2011 will significantly reduce the availability of Tier 1 and Tier 2 visas.
UK immigration changes result in tougher requirements for the Tier 1 and Tier 2 visa categories and other categories as well. If you wish to apply for a UK visa, if you can, it is probably better to apply sooner rather than later.
Germany may make immigrant skills recognition easier
The German government hopes to make it easier for foreign-born workers' to have their overseas qualifications recognised in >a href="/germany/employer.htm">Germany. This would also benefit Germany as more overseas workers will be available to fill critical shortages in the German labour market.
Approximately 300,000 foreign-born residents in Germany cannot practice their professions because their qualifications are not recognized, Education Minister Annette Schavan told the German Financial Times.
According to Schavan, the government hopes to pass a law this year which would fast-track verification of foreign qualifications.
"The new law will give all those who acquired education abroad the chance to have their degree evaluated in Germany," Schavan said. "We want to access a potential that has not been tapped."
Many foreign-educated immigrants trained in fields such as medicine and engineering are working in lesser-skilled jobs because of the credential recognition issue. According to the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DIHK), Germany lacks 400,000 skilled workers.
A points based system for Germany?
In a televised interview, Economy Minister Rainer Bruederle said that Germany should implement a points-based immigration system similar to programs in other countries.
Points-based systems, which allow skilled workers to live in work in a country as long as they gain enough points scoring criteria such as age, experience, and qualifications, have proven very successful in countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada.
Germany, a traditionally conservative nation in regards to immigration, is taking a giant leap forward in considering such a step. However, with Europe's aging population, skilled workers from abroad are becoming increasingly more important for EU member states.
Approximately 300,000 foreign-born residents in Germany cannot practice their professions because their qualifications are not recognized, Education Minister Annette Schavan told the German Financial Times.
According to Schavan, the government hopes to pass a law this year which would fast-track verification of foreign qualifications.
"The new law will give all those who acquired education abroad the chance to have their degree evaluated in Germany," Schavan said. "We want to access a potential that has not been tapped."
Many foreign-educated immigrants trained in fields such as medicine and engineering are working in lesser-skilled jobs because of the credential recognition issue. According to the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DIHK), Germany lacks 400,000 skilled workers.
A points based system for Germany?
In a televised interview, Economy Minister Rainer Bruederle said that Germany should implement a points-based immigration system similar to programs in other countries.
Points-based systems, which allow skilled workers to live in work in a country as long as they gain enough points scoring criteria such as age, experience, and qualifications, have proven very successful in countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada.
Germany, a traditionally conservative nation in regards to immigration, is taking a giant leap forward in considering such a step. However, with Europe's aging population, skilled workers from abroad are becoming increasingly more important for EU member states.
EU MEPs back single immigration work and residence permit
The European Union Parliament's Civil Liberties Committee (CLC) is backing a single permit directive which will allow citizens of non-EU countries obtain a work and residence permit through a "one-stop shop". The CLC directive is in keeping with the European Union's proposed single permit blue card immigration scheme for the European Union.
Non-EU citizens living and working in a European country under this directive will be allowed to travel freely between member states and will give them equal rights to EU nationals in many areas. The equality measures cover pay, working hours, social security, etc.
The European Union member state will have the right to decide whether an application for a single permit should be lodged in a non-EU country or within the member state. If the application is not lodged in a non-EU country, employers will be required to apply for the worker's permit.
The CLC directive coincides with the European Union's proposed blue card immigration scheme, a single EU permit with some similarities to the United States green card. The US Green Card is a permanent visa; The EU Blue Card in comparison is a termpoary visa.
The EU blue card would allow non-EU citizens to live and work in the European Union, with the ability, after a certain period of time, to take a job in another member state. Blue card visa holders will also be allowed to bring immediate family members with them. It remains to be seen how successful the EU Blue Card will be in practice. If it proves to be too difficult to come under the EU Blue Card scheme it may have limited success.
Non-EU citizens living and working in a European country under this directive will be allowed to travel freely between member states and will give them equal rights to EU nationals in many areas. The equality measures cover pay, working hours, social security, etc.
The European Union member state will have the right to decide whether an application for a single permit should be lodged in a non-EU country or within the member state. If the application is not lodged in a non-EU country, employers will be required to apply for the worker's permit.
The CLC directive coincides with the European Union's proposed blue card immigration scheme, a single EU permit with some similarities to the United States green card. The US Green Card is a permanent visa; The EU Blue Card in comparison is a termpoary visa.
The EU blue card would allow non-EU citizens to live and work in the European Union, with the ability, after a certain period of time, to take a job in another member state. Blue card visa holders will also be allowed to bring immediate family members with them. It remains to be seen how successful the EU Blue Card will be in practice. If it proves to be too difficult to come under the EU Blue Card scheme it may have limited success.
UK faces legal challenges in implementing migration cap
A high court challenge is likely to cause problems for the UK's plans to implement a cap on immigration into the country.
The Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants and a number of businesses that depend on skilled immigration to deal with skill shortages have brought a judicial review of the government's temporary cap on immigration. The cap was imposed on 28 June 2010.
The JCWI says that the cap is unlawful because ministers did not seek proper parliamentary approval before introducing the immigration cap. If the immigration cap was debated in Parliament beforehand there would have been an opportunity for MPs to consider in detail what would be the appropriate limit on skilled and highly skilled visas.
According to the Government, the temporary immigration cap was implemented to prevent a large influx of Tier 1 (highly skilled migration) and Tier 2 (skilled migration) visa applications from migrants originating from outside the European Union and the European Economic Area. The temporary immigration cap reduces overall skilled immigration by a relatively modest five percent. The surge is expected because the Government plans to implement a permanent cap on immigration in April next year.
However, the Government is facing criticism as the immigration cap is damaging to UK business and so to the UK's global competitiveness. Startup companies, major research positions, and other highly skilled endeavors are well-represented by foreign-born members of society in many industrialized nations. The immigration cap has so far affected Tier 2 visa applications more than Tier 1 visa applications. Some businesses have been left in a situation where they are unable to sponsor anyone at all on a Tier 2 visa.
Liberal Democrat business secretary Vince Cable complained publicly that the temporary cap was damaging British industry. According to the Guardian, he is optimistic that the immigration cap will not last.
The Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants and a number of businesses that depend on skilled immigration to deal with skill shortages have brought a judicial review of the government's temporary cap on immigration. The cap was imposed on 28 June 2010.
The JCWI says that the cap is unlawful because ministers did not seek proper parliamentary approval before introducing the immigration cap. If the immigration cap was debated in Parliament beforehand there would have been an opportunity for MPs to consider in detail what would be the appropriate limit on skilled and highly skilled visas.
According to the Government, the temporary immigration cap was implemented to prevent a large influx of Tier 1 (highly skilled migration) and Tier 2 (skilled migration) visa applications from migrants originating from outside the European Union and the European Economic Area. The temporary immigration cap reduces overall skilled immigration by a relatively modest five percent. The surge is expected because the Government plans to implement a permanent cap on immigration in April next year.
However, the Government is facing criticism as the immigration cap is damaging to UK business and so to the UK's global competitiveness. Startup companies, major research positions, and other highly skilled endeavors are well-represented by foreign-born members of society in many industrialized nations. The immigration cap has so far affected Tier 2 visa applications more than Tier 1 visa applications. Some businesses have been left in a situation where they are unable to sponsor anyone at all on a Tier 2 visa.
Liberal Democrat business secretary Vince Cable complained publicly that the temporary cap was damaging British industry. According to the Guardian, he is optimistic that the immigration cap will not last.
Apply for the United States Green Card Lottery now
Tens of thousands of people every year are granted a Green Card under the Diversity Visa Lottery. If you have always dreamed of living and working in the United States, it may be worth submitting your details for the 2012 Diversity Visa Lottery (otherwise known as the Green Card Lottery).
If you are a citizen of a country with low levels of immigration into the United States, you may be eligible for entry in the Green Card Lottery. If selected you can then apply for permanent residence. The government provides 50,000 Diversity Visas every year.
The submission period for the DV-2012 Green Card Lottery started on 5 October 2010 and lasts through 3 November 2012. For a small fee, we can help with your application and make sure that all necessary information is in order.
A qualified US immigration lawyer will make sure that your application contains no mistakes, ensuring that your application will not be denied based on inaccurate information.
If you are a citizen of a country with low levels of immigration into the United States, you may be eligible for entry in the Green Card Lottery. If selected you can then apply for permanent residence. The government provides 50,000 Diversity Visas every year.
The submission period for the DV-2012 Green Card Lottery started on 5 October 2010 and lasts through 3 November 2012. For a small fee, we can help with your application and make sure that all necessary information is in order.
A qualified US immigration lawyer will make sure that your application contains no mistakes, ensuring that your application will not be denied based on inaccurate information.
United States to raise immigration fees in November 2010
United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced they will raise fees for most US immigration services. Only the naturalization fee will remain unaffected. The increase is an attempt to close the $200 million deficit for fiscal year 2010-11.
Most fees are expected to increase by an average of about 10 percent. In some cases, fees will actually drop and fee waivers will be expanded to a number of "new categories". The adjusted fees will go into effect on 23 November, 2010.
USCIS's budget depends heavily on income derived from fees for the services that the organization provides. Fees for applications and petitions accounted for approximately 90 percent of its $2.4 billion yearly budget.
The fee increase is already facing criticism. The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) stated that they are "dismayed" with the fee increase and feel that USCIS is overreaching themselves in their attempt to rectify their budgetary woes.
"Many of the government expenses being underwritten by these fees are unrelated to the services for which fees are being paid. These are matters of public benefit, and should be funded by appropriations, not applicants," said AILA President Bernard Wolfsdorf.
"While a 10 percent fee increase in and of itself may not seem high, this comes only 3 years after a 66 percent USCIS fee increase. Taken together, these increases bring many fees to excessive levels," Wolfsdorf added.
Wolfsdorf stated that, in fact, previous fee increases have resulted in a marked decrease in the quality and efficiency of USCIS services.
USCIS received a large influx of applications and petitions leading up to the previous 66 percent fee increase, which resulted in enormous backlogs -- forcing USCIS to seek help from outside contractors to help deal with the workload.
AILA did say that there was one silver lining to the fee increase: fees for citizenship applications would not rise. Fees for citizenship increased by 70 percent in 2007, which immigrant-rights groups complained put citizenship out of reach of poorer immigrants.
Below is a table detailing the fee changes:
Form No. Description Existing Fees (effective through 22 Nov, 2010) Adjusted Fees (effective beginning 23 Nov, 2010)
I-90 Application to Replace Permanent ResidentCard $290 $365
I-102 Application for Replacement/Initial NonimmigrantArrival-Departure Document $320 $330
I-129/129CW Petition for a NonimmigrantWorker $320 $325
I-129F Petition for AlienFiancé(e) $455 $340
I-130 Petition for AlienRelative $355 $420
I-131 Application for TravelDocument $305 $360
I-140 Immigrant Petition for AlienWorker $475 $580
I-191 Application for Advance Permission to Return toUnrelinquished Domicile $545 $585
I-192 Application for Advance Permission to Enter asNonimmigrant $545 $585
I-193 Application for Waiver of Passport and/orVisa $545 $585
I-212 Application for Permission to Reapply forAdmission into the U.S. after Deportation orRemoval $545 $585
I-290B Notice of Appeal orMotion $585 $630
I-360 Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or SpecialImmigrant $375 $405
I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence orAdjust Status $930 $985
I-526 Immigrant Petition by AlienEntrepreneur $1,435 $1,500
I-539 Application to Extend/Change NonimmigrantStatus $300 $290
I-600/600A I-800/800A Petition to Classify Orphan asan Immediate Relative/Application for Advance Processing of OrphanPetition $670 $720
I-601 Application for Waiver of Ground ofExcludability $545 $585
I-612 Application for Waiver of the Foreign ResidenceRequirement $545 $585
I-687 Application for Status as a Temporary Residentunder Sections 245A or 210 of the Immigration and NationalityAct $710 $1,130
I-690 Application for Waiver of Grounds ofInadmissibility $185 $200
I-694 Notice of Appeal of Decision under Sections 245Aor 210 of the Immigration and NationalityAct $545 $755
I-698 Application to Adjust Status from Temporary toPermanent Resident (Under Section 245A of Public Law99-603) $1,370 $1,020
I-751 Petition to Remove the Conditions ofResidence $465 $505
I-765 Application for EmploymentAuthorization $340 $380
I-817 Application for Family UnityBenefits $440 $435
I-824 Application for Action on an ApprovedApplication or Petition $340 $405
I-829 Petition by Entrepreneur to RemoveConditions $2,850 $3,750
I-881 Application for Suspension of Deportation orSpecial Rule Cancellation of Removal (Pursuant to Section 203 ofPublic Law 105–110) $285 $285
I-907 Request for Premium ProcessingService $1,000 $1,225
Civil SurgeonDesignation $0 $615
I-924 Application for Regional Center under theImmigrant Investor Pilot Program $0 $6,230
N-300 Application to File Declaration ofIntention $235 $250
N-336 Request for Hearing on a Decision inNaturalization Proceedings $605 $650
N-400 Application forNaturalization $595 $595
N-470 Application to Preserve Residence forNaturalization Purposes $305 $330
N-565 Application for ReplacementNaturalization/CitizenshipDocument $380 $345
N-600/600K Application for Certification ofCitizenship/ Application for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificateunder Section 322 $460 $600
Immigrant $0 $165
Biometrics Capturing, Processing, and StoringBiometric Information
Most fees are expected to increase by an average of about 10 percent. In some cases, fees will actually drop and fee waivers will be expanded to a number of "new categories". The adjusted fees will go into effect on 23 November, 2010.
USCIS's budget depends heavily on income derived from fees for the services that the organization provides. Fees for applications and petitions accounted for approximately 90 percent of its $2.4 billion yearly budget.
The fee increase is already facing criticism. The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) stated that they are "dismayed" with the fee increase and feel that USCIS is overreaching themselves in their attempt to rectify their budgetary woes.
"Many of the government expenses being underwritten by these fees are unrelated to the services for which fees are being paid. These are matters of public benefit, and should be funded by appropriations, not applicants," said AILA President Bernard Wolfsdorf.
"While a 10 percent fee increase in and of itself may not seem high, this comes only 3 years after a 66 percent USCIS fee increase. Taken together, these increases bring many fees to excessive levels," Wolfsdorf added.
Wolfsdorf stated that, in fact, previous fee increases have resulted in a marked decrease in the quality and efficiency of USCIS services.
USCIS received a large influx of applications and petitions leading up to the previous 66 percent fee increase, which resulted in enormous backlogs -- forcing USCIS to seek help from outside contractors to help deal with the workload.
AILA did say that there was one silver lining to the fee increase: fees for citizenship applications would not rise. Fees for citizenship increased by 70 percent in 2007, which immigrant-rights groups complained put citizenship out of reach of poorer immigrants.
Below is a table detailing the fee changes:
Form No. Description Existing Fees (effective through 22 Nov, 2010) Adjusted Fees (effective beginning 23 Nov, 2010)
I-90 Application to Replace Permanent ResidentCard $290 $365
I-102 Application for Replacement/Initial NonimmigrantArrival-Departure Document $320 $330
I-129/129CW Petition for a NonimmigrantWorker $320 $325
I-129F Petition for AlienFiancé(e) $455 $340
I-130 Petition for AlienRelative $355 $420
I-131 Application for TravelDocument $305 $360
I-140 Immigrant Petition for AlienWorker $475 $580
I-191 Application for Advance Permission to Return toUnrelinquished Domicile $545 $585
I-192 Application for Advance Permission to Enter asNonimmigrant $545 $585
I-193 Application for Waiver of Passport and/orVisa $545 $585
I-212 Application for Permission to Reapply forAdmission into the U.S. after Deportation orRemoval $545 $585
I-290B Notice of Appeal orMotion $585 $630
I-360 Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or SpecialImmigrant $375 $405
I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence orAdjust Status $930 $985
I-526 Immigrant Petition by AlienEntrepreneur $1,435 $1,500
I-539 Application to Extend/Change NonimmigrantStatus $300 $290
I-600/600A I-800/800A Petition to Classify Orphan asan Immediate Relative/Application for Advance Processing of OrphanPetition $670 $720
I-601 Application for Waiver of Ground ofExcludability $545 $585
I-612 Application for Waiver of the Foreign ResidenceRequirement $545 $585
I-687 Application for Status as a Temporary Residentunder Sections 245A or 210 of the Immigration and NationalityAct $710 $1,130
I-690 Application for Waiver of Grounds ofInadmissibility $185 $200
I-694 Notice of Appeal of Decision under Sections 245Aor 210 of the Immigration and NationalityAct $545 $755
I-698 Application to Adjust Status from Temporary toPermanent Resident (Under Section 245A of Public Law99-603) $1,370 $1,020
I-751 Petition to Remove the Conditions ofResidence $465 $505
I-765 Application for EmploymentAuthorization $340 $380
I-817 Application for Family UnityBenefits $440 $435
I-824 Application for Action on an ApprovedApplication or Petition $340 $405
I-829 Petition by Entrepreneur to RemoveConditions $2,850 $3,750
I-881 Application for Suspension of Deportation orSpecial Rule Cancellation of Removal (Pursuant to Section 203 ofPublic Law 105–110) $285 $285
I-907 Request for Premium ProcessingService $1,000 $1,225
Civil SurgeonDesignation $0 $615
I-924 Application for Regional Center under theImmigrant Investor Pilot Program $0 $6,230
N-300 Application to File Declaration ofIntention $235 $250
N-336 Request for Hearing on a Decision inNaturalization Proceedings $605 $650
N-400 Application forNaturalization $595 $595
N-470 Application to Preserve Residence forNaturalization Purposes $305 $330
N-565 Application for ReplacementNaturalization/CitizenshipDocument $380 $345
N-600/600K Application for Certification ofCitizenship/ Application for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificateunder Section 322 $460 $600
Immigrant $0 $165
Biometrics Capturing, Processing, and StoringBiometric Information
South Australia introduces interim immigration sponsorship list
The South Australian State Government recently announced their new State Sponsorship list for overseas workers to live and work in South Australia. State Sponsorship is an excellent way for people with the right skills to immigrate to Australia.
The extensive list includes occupations in sectors such as engineering, health care, construction, and accountancy. Occupation skill levels range from trade skills to professional occupations.
State Sponsorship visas are a subset of Australia's overall General Skilled Migration programme, a popular points based immigration system which scores applicants based on criteria such as age, qualifications, and work experience.
The South Australian Interim Sponsorship List will remain in place until the South Australian State Migration Plan and occupation list is implemented later this year.
Below are the occupations included in the South Australian State Sponsorship Interim Occupation List:
Construction Project Manager
Project Builder
Engineering Manager
Management Accountant
Taxation Accountant
Ship's Engineer
Ship's Master
Surveyor
Cartographer
Civil Engineer
Geotechnical Engineer
Quantity Surveyor
Structural engineer
Transport engineer
Production or Plant Engineer
Mining Engineer (excluding Petroleum)
Petroleum Engineer
Aeronautical Engineer
Biomedical Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Veterinarian
Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teacher
Secondary School Teacher
Medical Diagnostic Radiographer
Medical Radiation Therapist
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Sonographer
Optometrist
Chiropractor
Dental Specialist
Dentist
Physiotherapist
Podiatrist
Speech Pathologist
General Medical Practitioner
Anaesthetist
Specialist Physician (General Medicine)
Cardiologist
Medical Oncologist
Gastroenterologist
Intensive Care Specialist
Neurologist
Paediatrician
Specialist Physicians nec
Psychiatrist
Surgeon (General)
Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Neurosurgeon
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Otorhinolaryngologist
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
Urologist
Dermatologist
Emergency Medicine Specialist
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
Ophthalmologist
Pathologist
Diagnostic and Interventional Radiologist
Radiation Oncologist
Medical Practitioners nec
Midwife
Nurse Practitioner
Registered Nurse (Aged Care)
Registered Nurse (Child and Family Health)
Registered Nurse (Community Health)
Registered Nurse (Critical Care and Emergency)
Registered Nurse (Developmental Disability)
Registered Nurse (Disability and Rehabilitation)
Registered Nurse (Medical)
Registered Nurse (Medical Practice)
Registered Nurse (Mental Health)
Registered Nurse (Perioperative)
Registered Nurse (Surgical)
Registered Nurses (General)
ICT Business Analyst
Systems Analyst
Developer Programmer
Software Engineer
Telecommunications engineer
Telecommunications network engineer
Clinical Psychologist
Psychologists nec
Social Worker
Civil Engineering Draftsperson
Civil Engineering Technician
Electrical Engineering Draftsperson
Electrical Engineering Technician
Radiocommunications Technician
Telecommunications network planner
Telecommunications technical officer or technologist
Automotive Electrician
Motor Mechanic (General)
Diesel Motor Mechanic
Motorcycle Mechanic
Small engine mechanic
Metal Fabricator
Pressure Welder
Welder (First Class)
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Avionics)
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Mechanical)
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Structures)
Locksmith
Panelbeater
Vehicle Painter
Bricklayer
Stonemason
Carpenter and Joiner
Carpenter
Joiner
Painting Trades Worker
Glazier
Fibrous Plasterer
Solid Plasterer
Wall and Floor Tiler
Plumber (General)
Air conditioning and Mechanical Services
Drainer
Gasfitter
Roof Plumber
Electrician (General)
Electrician (Special Class)
Lift Mechanic
Air conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic
Electrical Linesworker
Electronic Equipment Trades Worker
Electronic Instrument Trades Worker (General)
Electronic Instrument Trades Worker (Special
Dental Hygienist
Dental Prosthetist
Dental Technician
Dental Therapist
The extensive list includes occupations in sectors such as engineering, health care, construction, and accountancy. Occupation skill levels range from trade skills to professional occupations.
State Sponsorship visas are a subset of Australia's overall General Skilled Migration programme, a popular points based immigration system which scores applicants based on criteria such as age, qualifications, and work experience.
The South Australian Interim Sponsorship List will remain in place until the South Australian State Migration Plan and occupation list is implemented later this year.
Below are the occupations included in the South Australian State Sponsorship Interim Occupation List:
Construction Project Manager
Project Builder
Engineering Manager
Management Accountant
Taxation Accountant
Ship's Engineer
Ship's Master
Surveyor
Cartographer
Civil Engineer
Geotechnical Engineer
Quantity Surveyor
Structural engineer
Transport engineer
Production or Plant Engineer
Mining Engineer (excluding Petroleum)
Petroleum Engineer
Aeronautical Engineer
Biomedical Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Veterinarian
Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teacher
Secondary School Teacher
Medical Diagnostic Radiographer
Medical Radiation Therapist
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Sonographer
Optometrist
Chiropractor
Dental Specialist
Dentist
Physiotherapist
Podiatrist
Speech Pathologist
General Medical Practitioner
Anaesthetist
Specialist Physician (General Medicine)
Cardiologist
Medical Oncologist
Gastroenterologist
Intensive Care Specialist
Neurologist
Paediatrician
Specialist Physicians nec
Psychiatrist
Surgeon (General)
Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Neurosurgeon
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Otorhinolaryngologist
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
Urologist
Dermatologist
Emergency Medicine Specialist
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
Ophthalmologist
Pathologist
Diagnostic and Interventional Radiologist
Radiation Oncologist
Medical Practitioners nec
Midwife
Nurse Practitioner
Registered Nurse (Aged Care)
Registered Nurse (Child and Family Health)
Registered Nurse (Community Health)
Registered Nurse (Critical Care and Emergency)
Registered Nurse (Developmental Disability)
Registered Nurse (Disability and Rehabilitation)
Registered Nurse (Medical)
Registered Nurse (Medical Practice)
Registered Nurse (Mental Health)
Registered Nurse (Perioperative)
Registered Nurse (Surgical)
Registered Nurses (General)
ICT Business Analyst
Systems Analyst
Developer Programmer
Software Engineer
Telecommunications engineer
Telecommunications network engineer
Clinical Psychologist
Psychologists nec
Social Worker
Civil Engineering Draftsperson
Civil Engineering Technician
Electrical Engineering Draftsperson
Electrical Engineering Technician
Radiocommunications Technician
Telecommunications network planner
Telecommunications technical officer or technologist
Automotive Electrician
Motor Mechanic (General)
Diesel Motor Mechanic
Motorcycle Mechanic
Small engine mechanic
Metal Fabricator
Pressure Welder
Welder (First Class)
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Avionics)
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Mechanical)
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Structures)
Locksmith
Panelbeater
Vehicle Painter
Bricklayer
Stonemason
Carpenter and Joiner
Carpenter
Joiner
Painting Trades Worker
Glazier
Fibrous Plasterer
Solid Plasterer
Wall and Floor Tiler
Plumber (General)
Air conditioning and Mechanical Services
Drainer
Gasfitter
Roof Plumber
Electrician (General)
Electrician (Special Class)
Lift Mechanic
Air conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic
Electrical Linesworker
Electronic Equipment Trades Worker
Electronic Instrument Trades Worker (General)
Electronic Instrument Trades Worker (Special
Dental Hygienist
Dental Prosthetist
Dental Technician
Dental Therapist
UK Immigration Minister defends immigration limit
The UK Immigration Minister, Damian Green, stated that the Government would 'rigorously defend' any legal challenge to its interim migration limit. The interim immigration cap has caused serious problems for employers wishing to employ overseas workers under the Tier 2 visa scheme. It seems so far that the immigration cap has had less of an effect on the Tier 1 visa scheme; Due to changes in the immigration criteria fewer people qualify under the Tier 1 visa scheme.
The Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants (JCWI) is attempting to bring a judicial review against the government but so far the courts have not granted permission for the judicial review to proceed.
"We will rigorously defend this challenge and are confident of success," Green said. "The government has been clear: we will introduce our permanent annual limit on economic migrants from outside the EU from April 2011."
The interim limit is a temporary limit on migration imposed by the UK Government to stop a flood of immigration applications from non EU immigrants ahead of the permanent cap that will go into effect in April 2011. The JCWI argues that the temporary immigration cap is unlawful because it has not been put before Parliament.
The UK Government has had a rocky history with judicial reviews in the past. When the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) was replaced by the new Tier 1 immigration scheme, the government attempted to impose the new Tier 1 requirements on current HSMP visa holders applying for an extension to their visa status. A UK High Court ruling forced the Government to allow HSMP holders to be judged under the rules in place when they first came to the UK.
Whether the UK Government will be allowed to continue with the interim migration cap on Non EU immigrants remains to be seen. The interim immigration limit is set at 24,100 which is five percent lower than the total number of immigrants granted entry to the UK in the previous year.
The Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants (JCWI) is attempting to bring a judicial review against the government but so far the courts have not granted permission for the judicial review to proceed.
"We will rigorously defend this challenge and are confident of success," Green said. "The government has been clear: we will introduce our permanent annual limit on economic migrants from outside the EU from April 2011."
The interim limit is a temporary limit on migration imposed by the UK Government to stop a flood of immigration applications from non EU immigrants ahead of the permanent cap that will go into effect in April 2011. The JCWI argues that the temporary immigration cap is unlawful because it has not been put before Parliament.
The UK Government has had a rocky history with judicial reviews in the past. When the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) was replaced by the new Tier 1 immigration scheme, the government attempted to impose the new Tier 1 requirements on current HSMP visa holders applying for an extension to their visa status. A UK High Court ruling forced the Government to allow HSMP holders to be judged under the rules in place when they first came to the UK.
Whether the UK Government will be allowed to continue with the interim migration cap on Non EU immigrants remains to be seen. The interim immigration limit is set at 24,100 which is five percent lower than the total number of immigrants granted entry to the UK in the previous year.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
UK Tier 1 Post Study Work Visa may end
UK Immigration is trying to reduce levels of overall immigration into the UK. Recently the UK Immigration Minister Damian Green has been expressing concerns about the number of students on student visas in the UK.
It seems quite likely that in future it will either become more difficult to come under the Tier 1 PSW visa or it will end altogether. This will mean that far fewer people on Tier 4 student visas will be able to stay in the UK in the longer term.
The Tier 1 PSW visa was brought in by the previous Labour Government to enable students to remain in the UK to work and possibly qualify in future for longer term visas such as the highly skilled Tier 1 (General) visa or Tier 2 work visa. To qualify for the Tier 1 (General) visa you need to have recent work experience. Students who have studied in the UK for some years on a degree are unlikely to be able to qualify for the Tier 1 (General) visa unless they have the opportunity to gain additional work experience under Tier 1 PSW. Because of the UK immigration quota and other changes it is also more difficult to come under Tier 2 (General).
It is not certain if and when changes will occur to the Tier 1 post study work visa. If you wish to come under Tier 1 PSW you should consider applying soon. You may not be able to apply in future.
It seems quite likely that in future it will either become more difficult to come under the Tier 1 PSW visa or it will end altogether. This will mean that far fewer people on Tier 4 student visas will be able to stay in the UK in the longer term.
The Tier 1 PSW visa was brought in by the previous Labour Government to enable students to remain in the UK to work and possibly qualify in future for longer term visas such as the highly skilled Tier 1 (General) visa or Tier 2 work visa. To qualify for the Tier 1 (General) visa you need to have recent work experience. Students who have studied in the UK for some years on a degree are unlikely to be able to qualify for the Tier 1 (General) visa unless they have the opportunity to gain additional work experience under Tier 1 PSW. Because of the UK immigration quota and other changes it is also more difficult to come under Tier 2 (General).
It is not certain if and when changes will occur to the Tier 1 post study work visa. If you wish to come under Tier 1 PSW you should consider applying soon. You may not be able to apply in future.
Danish Green Card remains popular despite reduction in visa duration
The Danish Immigration Service has changed the length of time that a Green Card can be issued from the previous three-years to 18 months.
A person living and working in Denmark under a Green Card residence permit can apply for an extension of up to two and a half years before the expiration of the first 18-month period. A follow up extension can be granted for up to four years.
Latest news30 August 2010 Ireland successful in attracting foreign immigrant researchers
26 October 2009 Denmark and Russia sign bilateral agreement on visas
04 August 2009 European Blue Card to help ease skills shortages
The Danish Green Card is a points based system that scores applicants on criteria such as age, European education, and work experience. Denmark hopes that this selection criteria will attract immigrants who are needed by the Danish economy.
Language skills are also important. Applicants are scored on their ability to speak Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, English or German.
Increase in fees likely
A Finance Bill for 2011 has proposed a possible increase in fees for Green Card applications. If this measure is adopted, the new fee will increase from Rs. 8650 to Rs. 50,000 on 01 January 2010.
In the last few years it has become more difficult to gain immigration to other Countries such as the UK, Canada and Australia. People have increasingly been considering immigration to Denmark as an alternative.
A person living and working in Denmark under a Green Card residence permit can apply for an extension of up to two and a half years before the expiration of the first 18-month period. A follow up extension can be granted for up to four years.
Latest news30 August 2010 Ireland successful in attracting foreign immigrant researchers
26 October 2009 Denmark and Russia sign bilateral agreement on visas
04 August 2009 European Blue Card to help ease skills shortages
The Danish Green Card is a points based system that scores applicants on criteria such as age, European education, and work experience. Denmark hopes that this selection criteria will attract immigrants who are needed by the Danish economy.
Language skills are also important. Applicants are scored on their ability to speak Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, English or German.
Increase in fees likely
A Finance Bill for 2011 has proposed a possible increase in fees for Green Card applications. If this measure is adopted, the new fee will increase from Rs. 8650 to Rs. 50,000 on 01 January 2010.
In the last few years it has become more difficult to gain immigration to other Countries such as the UK, Canada and Australia. People have increasingly been considering immigration to Denmark as an alternative.
UK Immigration Cap under attack from within Government
There is continuing disagreement in the UK Coalition Government between the more pro-immigration Liberal Democrat Government Ministers and Conservative Party Government Ministers. The Liberal Democrat Business Secretary Vince Cable has said that the interim immigration cap is doing "huge damage" to business.
Mr Cable is concerned that some companies may move jobs abroad because of the difficulty in obtaining Tier 2 visas and highly skilled Tier 1 visas for workers from overseas. Mr Cable says that he still wants a permanent cap from April 2011. However, he wants it to be more "flexible".
The official view of the Conservative Party Prime Minister's office is that the cap will still allow "the brightest and best to come to Britain". The Prime Minister' office also had the following to say about the Business Secretary's comments:
"[He had]…raised the concerns of business and the government was aware of those concerns".
"I don't think there is evidence it is doing huge damage to the economy."
The Home Secretary had previously announced that under the interim cap to April 2011 the number of non-EU workers allowed entry to the UK would be reduced by about 5% to 24,100.
The Business Secretary Vince Cable also had the following to say about the current problems in bringing in skilled professional staff into the UK:
"I was talking to people in the City and there were two investment banks that recruit hundreds of people from the non-EU area, Indians and Americans.
"They were allowed only 30-40. They have moved some operations to Hong Kong."
Mr Cable said that he would still support the Coalition Government agreement on the cap. This will mean a permanent immigration cap on non-EU immigration from April 2011. Mr Cable went onto say that he wanted to have a flexible cap that will vary depending on the economic situation. During the General Election campaign the Conservative Party made a manifesto commitment to the immigration cap. The Liberal Democrats opposed the immigration cap.
The Conservative Party Mayor of London Boris Johnson had the following to say about the effect on of the effect on accountancy firms, banks and law firms of the immigration cap:
"[They]…actually find it very, very difficult at the moment to get in some of the people who you really need to keep London's economy going".
The Labour Party's Shadow business secretary Pat McFadden had the following comments to make:
"Vince Cable's comment that the government's proposed immigration cap is doing a lot of damage to British industry is right.
"The idea that a global trading nation like ours should stop talent from overseas coming to work or study here is good neither for our economy nor for our world leading position in education and research. The government is hopelessly at sea on this."
It is hoped that the Liberal Democrat Government Ministers including the Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg who supports Vince Cable vies on the immigration cap will have a moderating influence which will at the very least result in a more flexible immigration cap.
Mr Cable is concerned that some companies may move jobs abroad because of the difficulty in obtaining Tier 2 visas and highly skilled Tier 1 visas for workers from overseas. Mr Cable says that he still wants a permanent cap from April 2011. However, he wants it to be more "flexible".
The official view of the Conservative Party Prime Minister's office is that the cap will still allow "the brightest and best to come to Britain". The Prime Minister' office also had the following to say about the Business Secretary's comments:
"[He had]…raised the concerns of business and the government was aware of those concerns".
"I don't think there is evidence it is doing huge damage to the economy."
The Home Secretary had previously announced that under the interim cap to April 2011 the number of non-EU workers allowed entry to the UK would be reduced by about 5% to 24,100.
The Business Secretary Vince Cable also had the following to say about the current problems in bringing in skilled professional staff into the UK:
"I was talking to people in the City and there were two investment banks that recruit hundreds of people from the non-EU area, Indians and Americans.
"They were allowed only 30-40. They have moved some operations to Hong Kong."
Mr Cable said that he would still support the Coalition Government agreement on the cap. This will mean a permanent immigration cap on non-EU immigration from April 2011. Mr Cable went onto say that he wanted to have a flexible cap that will vary depending on the economic situation. During the General Election campaign the Conservative Party made a manifesto commitment to the immigration cap. The Liberal Democrats opposed the immigration cap.
The Conservative Party Mayor of London Boris Johnson had the following to say about the effect on of the effect on accountancy firms, banks and law firms of the immigration cap:
"[They]…actually find it very, very difficult at the moment to get in some of the people who you really need to keep London's economy going".
The Labour Party's Shadow business secretary Pat McFadden had the following comments to make:
"Vince Cable's comment that the government's proposed immigration cap is doing a lot of damage to British industry is right.
"The idea that a global trading nation like ours should stop talent from overseas coming to work or study here is good neither for our economy nor for our world leading position in education and research. The government is hopelessly at sea on this."
It is hoped that the Liberal Democrat Government Ministers including the Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg who supports Vince Cable vies on the immigration cap will have a moderating influence which will at the very least result in a more flexible immigration cap.
Canadian Immigration Minister encourages Chinese immigration to Canada
Immigration Minister Jason Kenney visited Beijing recently one of the stops during his visit to Asia. He mentioned that China was "…the number one source country for immigrants to Canada…" The immigration minister went onto to say:
"Canada has benefited enormously from immigration from China."
Immigration Minister Kenney also had the following say about Chinese visitors to Canada:
The first quarter of 2010 saw China ranked first in visas and extensions issued to visitors.
There were14% more visitors from China in the first quarter of this year compared to the first quarter of 2009.
There were 46% more visitors from China in the first quarter of 2009 compared to the first quarter of 2005.
Immigration Minister Kenney also had the following to say:
"That means more Chinese nationals are visiting their family here in Canada than ever before. With the implementation of the Approved Destination Status, which allows Chinese travel agents to advertise and organize tour groups to Canada, that number will only rise."
There has been a substantial increase in the number of students studying in Canada. There were 50,000 students living in Canada in 2009. This represents an increase in 300% in the number of Chinese students living in Canada in the last ten years. The Canadian immigration minister also had the following to say about Chinese students in Canada:
"We are committed to increasing the number of Chinese students attending Canadian colleges and universities;"
"…and in the course of my visit to Beijing, I made an important announcement about how our government will encourage even more students to study in Canada."
The Immigration minister mentioned that while Canadian Immigration wished to encourage immigration of genuine Chinese students, visitors and immigrants the Canadian Government also wanted to reduce levels of immigration fraud:
"While many consultants do good work, we want people to know that it's not necessary to hire a consultant to come to Canada."
"And with the help of the Chinese government, we want to put a stop to the ones who are engaging in fraud."
The list of cities around the World that the Immigration Minister Kenney included in his trip include, Paris, Delhi. Manila, Canberra and Sydney. This shows that Canada is serious about attracting the right sorts of immigrants from around the World.
"Canada has benefited enormously from immigration from China."
Immigration Minister Kenney also had the following say about Chinese visitors to Canada:
The first quarter of 2010 saw China ranked first in visas and extensions issued to visitors.
There were14% more visitors from China in the first quarter of this year compared to the first quarter of 2009.
There were 46% more visitors from China in the first quarter of 2009 compared to the first quarter of 2005.
Immigration Minister Kenney also had the following to say:
"That means more Chinese nationals are visiting their family here in Canada than ever before. With the implementation of the Approved Destination Status, which allows Chinese travel agents to advertise and organize tour groups to Canada, that number will only rise."
There has been a substantial increase in the number of students studying in Canada. There were 50,000 students living in Canada in 2009. This represents an increase in 300% in the number of Chinese students living in Canada in the last ten years. The Canadian immigration minister also had the following to say about Chinese students in Canada:
"We are committed to increasing the number of Chinese students attending Canadian colleges and universities;"
"…and in the course of my visit to Beijing, I made an important announcement about how our government will encourage even more students to study in Canada."
The Immigration minister mentioned that while Canadian Immigration wished to encourage immigration of genuine Chinese students, visitors and immigrants the Canadian Government also wanted to reduce levels of immigration fraud:
"While many consultants do good work, we want people to know that it's not necessary to hire a consultant to come to Canada."
"And with the help of the Chinese government, we want to put a stop to the ones who are engaging in fraud."
The list of cities around the World that the Immigration Minister Kenney included in his trip include, Paris, Delhi. Manila, Canberra and Sydney. This shows that Canada is serious about attracting the right sorts of immigrants from around the World.
Monday, September 6, 2010
US Visa Waiver Scheme ESTA Fee soon
If you are a national of a Country on the US visa waiver scheme you will from 8 September 2010 have to pay a fee of $14 under the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). From January 2009 everyone entering the US under the visa waiver scheme needs to apply under ESTA. So far there has been no fee for applying under ESTA.
ESTA takes up to 72 hours (3 days) to process and is valid for up to two years. So you should make sure that you leave enough time for the processing of your application. If you are thinking of visiting the US in the next two years and are a national of a visa waiver Country you should consider applying now and so avoid the new fee.
The visa waiver scheme remains a relatively straightforward option if you wish to visit the US for up to ninety days for business or pleasure. It is much easier to obtain than a full visit visa application made at the local US Embassy or Consulate.
The new $14 fee will be used for the following purposes:
$10 for Travel promotion under the Travel Promotions Act (TPA)
$4 to pay for the cost of administering ESTA.
It could be argued that if there was no fee or if the fee was lower this would do more to encourage tourism. Please note that there is less than a month to go before the new ESTA fee is introduced.
ESTA takes up to 72 hours (3 days) to process and is valid for up to two years. So you should make sure that you leave enough time for the processing of your application. If you are thinking of visiting the US in the next two years and are a national of a visa waiver Country you should consider applying now and so avoid the new fee.
The visa waiver scheme remains a relatively straightforward option if you wish to visit the US for up to ninety days for business or pleasure. It is much easier to obtain than a full visit visa application made at the local US Embassy or Consulate.
The new $14 fee will be used for the following purposes:
$10 for Travel promotion under the Travel Promotions Act (TPA)
$4 to pay for the cost of administering ESTA.
It could be argued that if there was no fee or if the fee was lower this would do more to encourage tourism. Please note that there is less than a month to go before the new ESTA fee is introduced.
UK Needs Highly Skilled Immigration
Business leaders in the United Kingdom are concerned about a recent proposal to cap highly skilled immigration into the country for workers from outside of the European Union. A recent editorial in The Observer supports the views of business leaders; The immigration cap would be harmful.
The article says the UK economy will lose a valuable source of skill and innovation at a time when the economy is at its most vulnerable.
Latest news31 August 2010 UK Student Tier 4 Visas processed fast in Croydon from 1 September 2010
24 August 2010 UK Immigration Minister Damian Green consults with Indians
20 August 2010 UK Immigration English language requirements for spouses and partners from November 2010
"In truth, the cap will restrict only the highly skilled migrants who are most obviously economically valuable. So this is hardly going to assuage public concern about high immigration," the article stated.
Especially since the Worldwide economic downturn in 2008 there have been more concerns about levels of Immigration to the UK. The UK in effect allowed unlimited immigration from the former Eastern Bloc Countries that joined the EU in 2004. For some years there was significant growth in Eastern European migration into the UK and Ireland (which also chose to open its doors to new-member states).
However, it has been immigrants from outside the EU who have taken the biggest hit from the Government's efforts to calm public concerns over immigration. Ironically, it is these same migrants that the UK needs the most. Because of EU Law it is not possible to restrict immigration from most EU Countries.
The new points-based system implemented in 2008 is still one of the more liberal immigration systems in developed countries, but the Government also tends to use the system as a tool in it's efforts to "do something" about immigration. This generally manifests itself by the UK Border Agency tweaking the rules to make it more difficult to enter the UK as a highly skilled migrant or through another route in its four-tier system.
"There are plenty of myths, but little hard evidence that recent immigration has caused significant problems to the UK as a whole", the article said. "On the contrary, the evidence suggests that immigration has, on balance, brought significant economic and social benefits."
Immigration has historically played a large role in enriching a nation's cultural and economic power, especially when the best and brightest are allowed to enter. There are concerns that immigration from outside the EU has now become too difficult and that this will cause problems for the economy in future.
The article says the UK economy will lose a valuable source of skill and innovation at a time when the economy is at its most vulnerable.
Latest news31 August 2010 UK Student Tier 4 Visas processed fast in Croydon from 1 September 2010
24 August 2010 UK Immigration Minister Damian Green consults with Indians
20 August 2010 UK Immigration English language requirements for spouses and partners from November 2010
"In truth, the cap will restrict only the highly skilled migrants who are most obviously economically valuable. So this is hardly going to assuage public concern about high immigration," the article stated.
Especially since the Worldwide economic downturn in 2008 there have been more concerns about levels of Immigration to the UK. The UK in effect allowed unlimited immigration from the former Eastern Bloc Countries that joined the EU in 2004. For some years there was significant growth in Eastern European migration into the UK and Ireland (which also chose to open its doors to new-member states).
However, it has been immigrants from outside the EU who have taken the biggest hit from the Government's efforts to calm public concerns over immigration. Ironically, it is these same migrants that the UK needs the most. Because of EU Law it is not possible to restrict immigration from most EU Countries.
The new points-based system implemented in 2008 is still one of the more liberal immigration systems in developed countries, but the Government also tends to use the system as a tool in it's efforts to "do something" about immigration. This generally manifests itself by the UK Border Agency tweaking the rules to make it more difficult to enter the UK as a highly skilled migrant or through another route in its four-tier system.
"There are plenty of myths, but little hard evidence that recent immigration has caused significant problems to the UK as a whole", the article said. "On the contrary, the evidence suggests that immigration has, on balance, brought significant economic and social benefits."
Immigration has historically played a large role in enriching a nation's cultural and economic power, especially when the best and brightest are allowed to enter. There are concerns that immigration from outside the EU has now become too difficult and that this will cause problems for the economy in future.
Canada Temporary Work Visas requirements to become tougher
There will be new tougher requirements to come under the Canada temporary worker scheme from 1 April 2011. Canadian work visas are used by employers who are unable to find suitably qualified employees locally and so need to employ overseas nationals on a temporary basis. Canadian Immigration Minister Jason Kenney had the following to say:
"The government is taking action to protect temporary foreign workers, including live-in caregivers, from potential abuse and exploitation."
"We owe it to them, their employers and all Canadians to ensure that the program is fair and equitable. After all, they are an essential element of Canada's economic success."
Human Resources Minister Diane Finley also had some comments to make:
"These changes represent an important step. Temporary foreign workers help the Canadian economy by filling labour needs in sectors where Canadians or permanent residents are not readily available."
"Our government is taking action to improve the integrity of the program while ensuring that these people are afforded the necessary protections."
The changes from 1 April 2011 include the following:
A limit on how long an overseas worker may remain on a Canadian temporary work visa.
Tougher requirements to show that a job offer is genuine.
If the employer has not met agreed requirements with respect to wages, working conditions and occupation there will be a two year prohibition on the employer hiring overseas workers.
The Canadian Government also specifically mentioned the Live-in Caregiver Program in their recent news report. This is a work visa that is also used if there are no suitable Canadians or permanent residents who can fill the vacancies. After you come under the Live-in Caregiver Program you can then apply for Canadian permanent residence.
"The government is taking action to protect temporary foreign workers, including live-in caregivers, from potential abuse and exploitation."
"We owe it to them, their employers and all Canadians to ensure that the program is fair and equitable. After all, they are an essential element of Canada's economic success."
Human Resources Minister Diane Finley also had some comments to make:
"These changes represent an important step. Temporary foreign workers help the Canadian economy by filling labour needs in sectors where Canadians or permanent residents are not readily available."
"Our government is taking action to improve the integrity of the program while ensuring that these people are afforded the necessary protections."
The changes from 1 April 2011 include the following:
A limit on how long an overseas worker may remain on a Canadian temporary work visa.
Tougher requirements to show that a job offer is genuine.
If the employer has not met agreed requirements with respect to wages, working conditions and occupation there will be a two year prohibition on the employer hiring overseas workers.
The Canadian Government also specifically mentioned the Live-in Caregiver Program in their recent news report. This is a work visa that is also used if there are no suitable Canadians or permanent residents who can fill the vacancies. After you come under the Live-in Caregiver Program you can then apply for Canadian permanent residence.
Australian Immigration needed to deal with 'widespread labour shortages
Australia did not suffer to the same extent as many other Countries during the recent economic downturn in 2008 and 2009. The unemployment rate over the last two years has been between 4 percent and 5.8 percent; Very low compared to most Countries.
The Australian economy is in great need of skilled workers. Many industries including the housing and mining industries are worried that as demand picks up, they will be unable to find the skills they need.
Latest news20 August 2010 Australia immigration key issue in elections
11 August 2010 Australian Immigration still looking for British Skilled Workers
20 July 2010 Australian immigration and New Zealand action on border security
The Australian housing industry is worried that there will be shortages of skilled overseas workers which will make it difficult for builders to find sufficient skilled labour to meet their needs. According to a recent Housing Industry Association (HIA) report, 13 housing trades were under-staffed in the second quarter of 2010. HIA estimates that 470,000 new homes will need to be built over the next ten years.
The mining industry is also expected to see growth in the near future. Investment in this sector is expected to increase by as much as 50 percent, pushing up wages -- particularly in resource-rich regions of Australia such as Western Australia. The mining industry, like many other sectors in Australia, depends heavily on skilled labour from abroad.
Part of the reason for this new skills shortage is a sharp drop in immigration into Australia during the past year. In the year ending in June of 2010, permanent and long-term immigration into Australia fell by a record 31 percent, a drop of 100,000 arrivals.
As demand for skilled workers heats up, many employers will wish to bring in immigrants under Australia's employer-sponsored immigration schemes. Other sources of immigrants include those already in Australia under the General Skilled Migration programme (GSM) which has influenced other nations' immigration programmes, such as the points based system in the UK.
One of the benefits of the GSM is it's wide range of skilled jobs for which potential immigrants can claim points for immigration to Australia. The so-called Skilled Occupation List (SOL)" includes skilled trades as well as professional occupations. However, it should be noted that since 1 July 2010 the number of occupations under General Skilled Migration has been reduced from 400 occupations to 183 occupations.
The Australian economy is in great need of skilled workers. Many industries including the housing and mining industries are worried that as demand picks up, they will be unable to find the skills they need.
Latest news20 August 2010 Australia immigration key issue in elections
11 August 2010 Australian Immigration still looking for British Skilled Workers
20 July 2010 Australian immigration and New Zealand action on border security
The Australian housing industry is worried that there will be shortages of skilled overseas workers which will make it difficult for builders to find sufficient skilled labour to meet their needs. According to a recent Housing Industry Association (HIA) report, 13 housing trades were under-staffed in the second quarter of 2010. HIA estimates that 470,000 new homes will need to be built over the next ten years.
The mining industry is also expected to see growth in the near future. Investment in this sector is expected to increase by as much as 50 percent, pushing up wages -- particularly in resource-rich regions of Australia such as Western Australia. The mining industry, like many other sectors in Australia, depends heavily on skilled labour from abroad.
Part of the reason for this new skills shortage is a sharp drop in immigration into Australia during the past year. In the year ending in June of 2010, permanent and long-term immigration into Australia fell by a record 31 percent, a drop of 100,000 arrivals.
As demand for skilled workers heats up, many employers will wish to bring in immigrants under Australia's employer-sponsored immigration schemes. Other sources of immigrants include those already in Australia under the General Skilled Migration programme (GSM) which has influenced other nations' immigration programmes, such as the points based system in the UK.
One of the benefits of the GSM is it's wide range of skilled jobs for which potential immigrants can claim points for immigration to Australia. The so-called Skilled Occupation List (SOL)" includes skilled trades as well as professional occupations. However, it should be noted that since 1 July 2010 the number of occupations under General Skilled Migration has been reduced from 400 occupations to 183 occupations.
Ireland successful in attracting foreign immigrant researchers
According to an article in the Irish Times, Ireland with its relatively open immigration system is more successful in attracting foreign researchers than other European Union countries.
Conor O'Carroll, research director for the Irish Universities Association, said that about 35 percent of PhD students and 38 percent of researchers at major universities in Ireland are foreign. About half of these are from outside the EU, mostly from India, China, and the United States.
Latest news26 October 2009 Denmark and Russia sign bilateral agreement on visas
04 August 2009 European Blue Card to help ease skills shortages
03 June 2009 European Union decides to go ahead with Blue Card
"Recent data from the Irish universities study have shown that it is the quality of institutions and research that is attracting students and researchers here," O'Carroll stated.
Immigrating to the EU in general is relatively easy for scientific researchers, due to fast-track immigration schemes adopted by member nations and the establishment of an EU-wide network of support for third country researchers. However, mobility within the EU is still an issue. Each Country in the EU has it's own immigration system. In comparison the United States is one Country, has one immigration system, and has the largest economy in the World.
"International mobility is now a cornerstone of EU policy," O'Carroll wrote, perhaps alluding to the EU blue card initiative, a plan to make immigration easier and more unified across the 27 member nations for non-EU citizens. The blue card, which has some similarities to the United States green card scheme, would allow third-country nationals and their families to live and work in the EU in highly skilled occupations and enable them to move between member states.
O'Carroll feels that Europe's aspirations for becoming a beacon of scientific research will depend on how it compares to the United States, which is seen as the leader in scientific research.
Conor O'Carroll, research director for the Irish Universities Association, said that about 35 percent of PhD students and 38 percent of researchers at major universities in Ireland are foreign. About half of these are from outside the EU, mostly from India, China, and the United States.
Latest news26 October 2009 Denmark and Russia sign bilateral agreement on visas
04 August 2009 European Blue Card to help ease skills shortages
03 June 2009 European Union decides to go ahead with Blue Card
"Recent data from the Irish universities study have shown that it is the quality of institutions and research that is attracting students and researchers here," O'Carroll stated.
Immigrating to the EU in general is relatively easy for scientific researchers, due to fast-track immigration schemes adopted by member nations and the establishment of an EU-wide network of support for third country researchers. However, mobility within the EU is still an issue. Each Country in the EU has it's own immigration system. In comparison the United States is one Country, has one immigration system, and has the largest economy in the World.
"International mobility is now a cornerstone of EU policy," O'Carroll wrote, perhaps alluding to the EU blue card initiative, a plan to make immigration easier and more unified across the 27 member nations for non-EU citizens. The blue card, which has some similarities to the United States green card scheme, would allow third-country nationals and their families to live and work in the EU in highly skilled occupations and enable them to move between member states.
O'Carroll feels that Europe's aspirations for becoming a beacon of scientific research will depend on how it compares to the United States, which is seen as the leader in scientific research.
Over 30,000 United States H-1B visas still available
According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS), approximately 31,000 H-1B visas are still available for fiscal year 2011. During the boom years there was always a shortage of H-1B visas and it was very difficult for companies to obtain this visa for their foreign employees.
Latest news11 August 2010 US Visa Waiver Scheme ESTA Fee soon
15 July 2010 US H-1B Visas still available - July 2010 Update
26 May 2010 US Immigration announces continued H-1B visa availability in May 2010
The United States economy has still not fully recovered from the economic downturn and so demand for H-1B petitions remains low; This provides a good opportunity for companies that have had difficulties obtaining H-1B visas in the past to obtain them now. In 2006, all available H-1B visas were snatched up in a single day.
The H-1B visa is primarily for workers with a bachelors degree or higher (and fashion models) who plan to work for a US employer in specialized, degree level work. H-1B workers may live and work in the United States for a period of up to three years, which may be extended for up to six years. If you meet the requirements for another visa category you may be able to stay longer.
The normal cap on H-1B visa petitions is 65,000 per fiscal year with an additional 20,000 available per year under the H-1B Masters Degree Exemption, which allows the first 20,000 petitions for applicants with a Master's degree or higher to be exempt from the cap.
Below is a table showing the availability of H-1B visas as of 20 August 2010:
Type of Cap Cap Limit Petitions Recieved
Normal H-1B cap 65,000 33,900
H-1B Masters Exemption 20,000 12,600
Latest news11 August 2010 US Visa Waiver Scheme ESTA Fee soon
15 July 2010 US H-1B Visas still available - July 2010 Update
26 May 2010 US Immigration announces continued H-1B visa availability in May 2010
The United States economy has still not fully recovered from the economic downturn and so demand for H-1B petitions remains low; This provides a good opportunity for companies that have had difficulties obtaining H-1B visas in the past to obtain them now. In 2006, all available H-1B visas were snatched up in a single day.
The H-1B visa is primarily for workers with a bachelors degree or higher (and fashion models) who plan to work for a US employer in specialized, degree level work. H-1B workers may live and work in the United States for a period of up to three years, which may be extended for up to six years. If you meet the requirements for another visa category you may be able to stay longer.
The normal cap on H-1B visa petitions is 65,000 per fiscal year with an additional 20,000 available per year under the H-1B Masters Degree Exemption, which allows the first 20,000 petitions for applicants with a Master's degree or higher to be exempt from the cap.
Below is a table showing the availability of H-1B visas as of 20 August 2010:
Type of Cap Cap Limit Petitions Recieved
Normal H-1B cap 65,000 33,900
H-1B Masters Exemption 20,000 12,600
Thursday, August 12, 2010
UK Immigration Cap will take into account Indian Government concerns
UK Prime Minister David Cameron recently led the largest UK delegation to India since the end of British rule in India. This included the chancellor, George Osborne, Foreign Secretary William Hague, Vince Cable Business Secretary and a number of top businessmen. For the first time ever the British Government has said that they will take into account the views of the Indian Government on UK immigration policy. A Downing Street spokesman had the following to say:
"We want to work with India and other countries to ensure that high-skilled people can still come to Britain. We are going to talk to these countries about how to implement the cap."
The Indian Government has raised concerns about the immigration cap. Indian Commerce Minister Anand Sharma when he visited the UK towards the end of June 2010 had the following to say:
"Our business leaders, professionals and other institutions have stated concerns over this matter. Though we understand the United Kingdom and European Union regulations, but the regime has to be investor friendly and must not come in the way of free movement of investors and professionals."
UK Business Secretary Vince Cable who is a Liberal Democrat member of the UK coalition Government said the following before the trip to India:
"It's no great secret that in my department and [for] me personally, we want to see an open economy and as liberal an immigration policy as it's possible to have".
There has been a great deal of debate in the UK Government about the immigration cap. The members of the Coalition Government from the Conservative Party tend to be tougher on immigration than the Liberal Democrat Government ministers. The temporary immigration cap of 24,100 will increase the processing times for Tier 1 visas and Tier 2 visas.
The Cameron Trade Delegation started with a speech in Bangalore. Cameron commented that the UK should be the "partner of choice" for India. Despite the strong historic links between the two Countries trade between India and the UK is a relatively low GBP11.5 billion a year. During the visit BAE announced a GBP500 million deal to build 57 Hawk trainer jets in India.
Cameron had the following to say in a recent article in "The Hindu" newspaper in India:
"I have come to your country in a spirit of humility. I know that Britain cannot rely on sentiment and shared history for a place in India's future. "
"Your country has the whole world beating a path to its door. But I believe Britain should be India's partner of choice in the years ahead. Starting this week, that is what we are determined to deliver."
Cameron acknowledged the increasing importance of Asia and in particular India when he said the following:
"India's economy is on an upward trajectory. In Britain, we're waking up to a new reality. For centuries my country assumed we could set the global economic pace. But economic power is shifting - particularly to Asia - so Britain has to work harder to earn its living in the world."
"We want to work with India and other countries to ensure that high-skilled people can still come to Britain. We are going to talk to these countries about how to implement the cap."
The Indian Government has raised concerns about the immigration cap. Indian Commerce Minister Anand Sharma when he visited the UK towards the end of June 2010 had the following to say:
"Our business leaders, professionals and other institutions have stated concerns over this matter. Though we understand the United Kingdom and European Union regulations, but the regime has to be investor friendly and must not come in the way of free movement of investors and professionals."
UK Business Secretary Vince Cable who is a Liberal Democrat member of the UK coalition Government said the following before the trip to India:
"It's no great secret that in my department and [for] me personally, we want to see an open economy and as liberal an immigration policy as it's possible to have".
There has been a great deal of debate in the UK Government about the immigration cap. The members of the Coalition Government from the Conservative Party tend to be tougher on immigration than the Liberal Democrat Government ministers. The temporary immigration cap of 24,100 will increase the processing times for Tier 1 visas and Tier 2 visas.
The Cameron Trade Delegation started with a speech in Bangalore. Cameron commented that the UK should be the "partner of choice" for India. Despite the strong historic links between the two Countries trade between India and the UK is a relatively low GBP11.5 billion a year. During the visit BAE announced a GBP500 million deal to build 57 Hawk trainer jets in India.
Cameron had the following to say in a recent article in "The Hindu" newspaper in India:
"I have come to your country in a spirit of humility. I know that Britain cannot rely on sentiment and shared history for a place in India's future. "
"Your country has the whole world beating a path to its door. But I believe Britain should be India's partner of choice in the years ahead. Starting this week, that is what we are determined to deliver."
Cameron acknowledged the increasing importance of Asia and in particular India when he said the following:
"India's economy is on an upward trajectory. In Britain, we're waking up to a new reality. For centuries my country assumed we could set the global economic pace. But economic power is shifting - particularly to Asia - so Britain has to work harder to earn its living in the world."
UK Naturalisation and Citizenship applications reconsiderations will require a fee
In future if your UK Naturalisation and Citizenship application is refused and you wish UKBA to reconsider their decision you will need to pay a GBP100 fee. Since 6 April 2010 the UK Government has had the power to charge fees for the reconsideration of a refused application for UK naturalization or registration as a British Citizen..
From 1 September 2010 the following changes will come into place:
•You will have to pay a GBP100 fee for reconsideration of a refused UK Naturalisation or Citizenship application.
•If you do not pay the GBP100 for a reconsideration of your citizenship application you reconsideration application will be considered invalid and will be returned.
•If your application for reconsideration is unsuccessful the UK Government will keep the GBP100 fee. If your application is successful GBP80 will be kept to pay for the citizenship ceremony (if relevant). The remaining GBP20 fee paid will be refunded.
From 1 September 2010 the following changes will come into place:
•You will have to pay a GBP100 fee for reconsideration of a refused UK Naturalisation or Citizenship application.
•If you do not pay the GBP100 for a reconsideration of your citizenship application you reconsideration application will be considered invalid and will be returned.
•If your application for reconsideration is unsuccessful the UK Government will keep the GBP100 fee. If your application is successful GBP80 will be kept to pay for the citizenship ceremony (if relevant). The remaining GBP20 fee paid will be refunded.
UK Marriage and Partner Visas - Certificate of Approval to be abolished
UK Immigration will be abolishing the 'certificate of approval' scheme probably in the next six months. It is currently the case that if you are an immigrant wishing to marry or register a civil partnership you will firstly need to apply for a certificate of approval. The only exception to this is if you wish to marry in an Anglican church.
The UK Courts have decided that the certificate of approval scheme is in breach of Article 14 of the European Convention on Human Rights. The UK Government also says that due to certain Court rulings it has "…weakened the scheme, and it is no longer an effective method of preventing sham marriage…".
Please note that until the certificate of approval scheme is abolished you will still need to apply for permission to marry or register a civil partnership. It is not certain exactly when the scheme will be abolished. Probably it will be abolished towards the end of 2010 or early in 2011. However, this depends on the UK Parliament.
The one year period during which you could apply for a repayment of the certificate of approval fee if this caused you financial hardship ended on 31 July 2010. This covers certificate of approval fees paid between 2005 and 2009.
Even after the 'certificate of approval' scheme is abolished you will still need to give notice of your intended marriage or civil partnership to a designated register office. Abolishing the scheme will benefit thousands of people a year who will be able to more easily remain with their spouse or partner in the UK.
The UK Courts have decided that the certificate of approval scheme is in breach of Article 14 of the European Convention on Human Rights. The UK Government also says that due to certain Court rulings it has "…weakened the scheme, and it is no longer an effective method of preventing sham marriage…".
Please note that until the certificate of approval scheme is abolished you will still need to apply for permission to marry or register a civil partnership. It is not certain exactly when the scheme will be abolished. Probably it will be abolished towards the end of 2010 or early in 2011. However, this depends on the UK Parliament.
The one year period during which you could apply for a repayment of the certificate of approval fee if this caused you financial hardship ended on 31 July 2010. This covers certificate of approval fees paid between 2005 and 2009.
Even after the 'certificate of approval' scheme is abolished you will still need to give notice of your intended marriage or civil partnership to a designated register office. Abolishing the scheme will benefit thousands of people a year who will be able to more easily remain with their spouse or partner in the UK.
UK Student Tier 4 Visa Review Again
UK immigration has announced another review of the UK Tier 4 student visa scheme. There has been a on third increase in student numbers in the twelve months to March 2010:
•For the period to March 2009 there were 235,295 student visas and 24,780 dependants.
•For the period to March 2010 there were 313,011 student visas and 31,385 dependants. This is an increase of 75,000 compared to the previous year.
Immigration Minister Damian Green had the following to say:
"We are committed to attracting the brightest and the best to the UK, and welcome legitimate students coming here for study. However, in the past there has been significant abuse of the student route, and we need to ensure that every student who comes to the UK is genuine.
"Therefore I am undertaking a thorough evaluation of the student system over the coming weeks and months and I will introduce new measures to minimise abuse and tighten the system further."
The current Coalition Government and the previous Labour Government have been concerned that the UK student visa system has been used in some cases by students who are not genuine students. It was because of these concerns that Tier 4 Student visas were suspended for students from Pakistan and Nepal for a time earlier this year.
It seem s quite likely that following the review there will be changes in future making it more difficult to come under the tier 4 student visa scheme. If you wish to come to the UK on a tier 4 student visa you should consider applying soon.
•For the period to March 2009 there were 235,295 student visas and 24,780 dependants.
•For the period to March 2010 there were 313,011 student visas and 31,385 dependants. This is an increase of 75,000 compared to the previous year.
Immigration Minister Damian Green had the following to say:
"We are committed to attracting the brightest and the best to the UK, and welcome legitimate students coming here for study. However, in the past there has been significant abuse of the student route, and we need to ensure that every student who comes to the UK is genuine.
"Therefore I am undertaking a thorough evaluation of the student system over the coming weeks and months and I will introduce new measures to minimise abuse and tighten the system further."
The current Coalition Government and the previous Labour Government have been concerned that the UK student visa system has been used in some cases by students who are not genuine students. It was because of these concerns that Tier 4 Student visas were suspended for students from Pakistan and Nepal for a time earlier this year.
It seem s quite likely that following the review there will be changes in future making it more difficult to come under the tier 4 student visa scheme. If you wish to come to the UK on a tier 4 student visa you should consider applying soon.
Australian Immigration still looking for British Skilled Workers
The Australian Government is holding an employment expo in London on 11 and 12 September 2010 to match Australian employers with skilled workers from the UK. The Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) had the following to say:
"Are you skilled in engineering, medical services, or trades? If so, Australia needs you."
"There is still a critical need for skilled workers across a range of Australian industries. The Skills Australia Needs Expo in London will target the industries most in need of skilled workers, such as the mining, health and construction industries."
"The expo will play host to representatives from major Australian employers and governments from all Australian states and territories. Participants will be able to find out more about possible career pathways down under."
The Australian Expo Program first started in 2005. So far there have been 23 Australian employment expos with eight in the UK. The main features of the 2009 employment expo were as follows:
•38 exhibitors including Australian employers, Government organisations and relocation service companies.
•More than 1800 people with skills in demand in Australia visited the Australian Expo.
Australian DIAC went on to say the following:
"The last expo was a big success for both industry representatives and people attending: 90 per cent of participants said they would recommend future expos to friends, while 80 per cent thought they might have met a suitable sponsor for migration to Australia as a result of the expo."
There is still good demand in Australia for skilled immigrants. Immigration to Australia based on employment is certainly worth considering.
"Are you skilled in engineering, medical services, or trades? If so, Australia needs you."
"There is still a critical need for skilled workers across a range of Australian industries. The Skills Australia Needs Expo in London will target the industries most in need of skilled workers, such as the mining, health and construction industries."
"The expo will play host to representatives from major Australian employers and governments from all Australian states and territories. Participants will be able to find out more about possible career pathways down under."
The Australian Expo Program first started in 2005. So far there have been 23 Australian employment expos with eight in the UK. The main features of the 2009 employment expo were as follows:
•38 exhibitors including Australian employers, Government organisations and relocation service companies.
•More than 1800 people with skills in demand in Australia visited the Australian Expo.
Australian DIAC went on to say the following:
"The last expo was a big success for both industry representatives and people attending: 90 per cent of participants said they would recommend future expos to friends, while 80 per cent thought they might have met a suitable sponsor for migration to Australia as a result of the expo."
There is still good demand in Australia for skilled immigrants. Immigration to Australia based on employment is certainly worth considering.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
UK Immigration Tier Visa refusals on basis of maintenance funds can be reviewed
Following an important High Court victory on 23 June 2010 it was judged that maintenance funds assessment must be in line with the immigration rules. UKBA had brought in a requirement that the relevant maintenance funds had to be in your bank account for a continuous period of three months instead of just on the day the application is made as under the immigration rules.
UK immigration now says that you will meet the requirement as long as in any one day in the one month period preceding your application you had sufficient maintenance funds for both you and your family. This is actually more generous than under the immigration rules.
The new immigration policy will cover you in the following circumstances:
•If you and any dependents had applied for a Tier 1, 2, 4, or 5 visa from within the UK and had applied on or before 22 July 2010 and were refused solely due to not meeting the maintenance requirements.
•If you and any dependents had applied for entry to the UK on a Tier 1, 2, 4, or 5 visa and applied between 23 June and 22 July 2010 and were refused solely for not meeting the maintenance funds requirements. This only covers a one month period and is so is somewhat less generous compared to those who had applied from with the UK.
You will also need to meet one of the following requirements to benefit from the new immigration funds policy:
•You have a current application.
•You have a pending appeal.
•You had an application refused with no right of appeal.
•You had your appeal dismissed.
If your application or appeal has already been refused you will need to apply for a review by 22 June 2011. If you have a pending application or have appealed then you should automatically be considered under the new immigration maintenance policy. If you need to apply for a review of your application you have less than eleven months to do so.
UK immigration now says that you will meet the requirement as long as in any one day in the one month period preceding your application you had sufficient maintenance funds for both you and your family. This is actually more generous than under the immigration rules.
The new immigration policy will cover you in the following circumstances:
•If you and any dependents had applied for a Tier 1, 2, 4, or 5 visa from within the UK and had applied on or before 22 July 2010 and were refused solely due to not meeting the maintenance requirements.
•If you and any dependents had applied for entry to the UK on a Tier 1, 2, 4, or 5 visa and applied between 23 June and 22 July 2010 and were refused solely for not meeting the maintenance funds requirements. This only covers a one month period and is so is somewhat less generous compared to those who had applied from with the UK.
You will also need to meet one of the following requirements to benefit from the new immigration funds policy:
•You have a current application.
•You have a pending appeal.
•You had an application refused with no right of appeal.
•You had your appeal dismissed.
If your application or appeal has already been refused you will need to apply for a review by 22 June 2011. If you have a pending application or have appealed then you should automatically be considered under the new immigration maintenance policy. If you need to apply for a review of your application you have less than eleven months to do so.
UK Tier 4 student visa English Language Tests and other changes
UK Immigration is making or has already made a number of significant changes to the UK tier 4 visa scheme for students:
Secure English Language Tests
If you wish to come under Tier 4 (General) on or after 12 August 2010 and will be on a course below NQF Level 6 you must at an English language ability at a minimum of level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). This excludes Foundation Degree courses or an English language course.
Your Tier 4 sponsor must show the following for you:
•You are from a majority English-speaking country
OR
•You have successfully completed a course as a Tier 4 (Child) student and were granted permission to remain in the UK while you were still under 18 years of age. The course should have lasted at least six months and should have ended no more than two years before the date when the confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) is assigned.
OR
•You have passed an English language test with an approved test provider for Tier 4 visas, and have reached at least CEFR level B1 in all four areas being reading, writing, speaking and listening.
English Language Requirements
UKBA has made changes following the successful Judicial Review brought by English UK. The amended immigration rules provides details of the minimum levels of English for different types of courses allowed under the Tier 4 visa scheme.
From 23 July 2010 the minimum English language course will be at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference. This is the situation before the judgement in the Judicial Review case.
There will continue to be exemptions to the minimum English language level. The exemptions will apply if you are a government-sponsored language students and if you are undertaking a English language course to improve your English before your degree course.
Students wishing to change to a different College or other place of study
If you are a tier 4 student you can change to a sponsor with a Highly Trusted Sponsor (HTS) licence while waiting for a decision from UKBA on your application. However, this is not a guarantee that your visa will definitely be granted.
If you have applied to study at an A or B rated sponsor rather than at Highly Trusted Sponsor you will have to wait until your application is approved before you can start at the new educational institution. UKBA says that they will give priority treatment to applications to study at an A or B rated sponsor.
US student loans
There have been recent changes in the US with respect to the processing of US Government student loans. UK educational institutions in the William D Ford Federal Direct Loan Programme have from 1 July 2010 been able to offer Federal Direct Loans to US students wishing to study in the UK under the Tier 4 visa scheme.
Tier 4 Students with International Baccalaureate qualifications
If you gained your International Baccalaureate qualifications on 5 July 2010 you will not have your paper transcript in time to apply for University in September. UKBA will therefore accept a print out from the UCAS or International Baccalaureate Office online checking service confirming your results.
UK Tier 4 student requirements continue to become tougher. You will find further details of the Tier 4 visa scheme on the workpermit.com website "The World's most popular immigration advice site".
Secure English Language Tests
If you wish to come under Tier 4 (General) on or after 12 August 2010 and will be on a course below NQF Level 6 you must at an English language ability at a minimum of level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). This excludes Foundation Degree courses or an English language course.
Your Tier 4 sponsor must show the following for you:
•You are from a majority English-speaking country
OR
•You have successfully completed a course as a Tier 4 (Child) student and were granted permission to remain in the UK while you were still under 18 years of age. The course should have lasted at least six months and should have ended no more than two years before the date when the confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) is assigned.
OR
•You have passed an English language test with an approved test provider for Tier 4 visas, and have reached at least CEFR level B1 in all four areas being reading, writing, speaking and listening.
English Language Requirements
UKBA has made changes following the successful Judicial Review brought by English UK. The amended immigration rules provides details of the minimum levels of English for different types of courses allowed under the Tier 4 visa scheme.
From 23 July 2010 the minimum English language course will be at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference. This is the situation before the judgement in the Judicial Review case.
There will continue to be exemptions to the minimum English language level. The exemptions will apply if you are a government-sponsored language students and if you are undertaking a English language course to improve your English before your degree course.
Students wishing to change to a different College or other place of study
If you are a tier 4 student you can change to a sponsor with a Highly Trusted Sponsor (HTS) licence while waiting for a decision from UKBA on your application. However, this is not a guarantee that your visa will definitely be granted.
If you have applied to study at an A or B rated sponsor rather than at Highly Trusted Sponsor you will have to wait until your application is approved before you can start at the new educational institution. UKBA says that they will give priority treatment to applications to study at an A or B rated sponsor.
US student loans
There have been recent changes in the US with respect to the processing of US Government student loans. UK educational institutions in the William D Ford Federal Direct Loan Programme have from 1 July 2010 been able to offer Federal Direct Loans to US students wishing to study in the UK under the Tier 4 visa scheme.
Tier 4 Students with International Baccalaureate qualifications
If you gained your International Baccalaureate qualifications on 5 July 2010 you will not have your paper transcript in time to apply for University in September. UKBA will therefore accept a print out from the UCAS or International Baccalaureate Office online checking service confirming your results.
UK Tier 4 student requirements continue to become tougher. You will find further details of the Tier 4 visa scheme on the workpermit.com website "The World's most popular immigration advice site".
Friday, July 23, 2010
UK Immigration Tier 1 Visas Limit Introduced
UK Immigration introduced the Tier 1 Visa limit from 19 July 2010. This is the first time that there has been an immigration quota on Tier 1 visas, previously known as the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme. If you are making an initial application for a Tier 1 visa the two main changes to the Tier 1 visa scheme are as follows:
•There will be an interim limit on Tier 1 (General) visa applications from 19 July 2010 to 31 March 2011.
•You will need to gain 100 points instead of the previous 95 points if you are in another visa category and wish to switch to the Tier 1 visas scheme.
The UK Border Agency (UKBA) now has a monthly immigration cap on Tier 1 visas. If you apply and the tier 1 visas limit has been reached then you will be considered for the visa allocation for the following month. You can still submit your application even if the visa limit has been reached. However, your visa will not be issued until visas are actually available.
The new immigration quota on Tier 1 visas could mean that it takes much longer to process your Tier 1 visa. If you meet the new requirements you should consider applying sooner rather than later to avoid possible visa processing delays.
If you are in the following situation the new Tier 1 visa limit will not apply:
•If you are already in the UK in a category that will allow you to switch to the Tier 1 visa. However, you will still need to gain the increased 100 points to come under the Tier 1 visa.
•If you are a dependent of a Tier 1 Visa applicant.
•If you wish to apply under the Post-study work, Entrepreneur or Investor categories of Tier 1.
Other changes to the Tier 1 visa category increase the number of points available for a small number of applicants:
•If you can show previous earnings of £150,000 your points score will increase from 75 to 80 points.
•If you have an MBA that meets the requirements your points score increases from 75 to 80.
If you wish to come under the Tier 1 visa category you should consider applying right now. You have a good chance of gaining a visa before the tier 1 visa quota starts to affect processing of your visa.
•There will be an interim limit on Tier 1 (General) visa applications from 19 July 2010 to 31 March 2011.
•You will need to gain 100 points instead of the previous 95 points if you are in another visa category and wish to switch to the Tier 1 visas scheme.
The UK Border Agency (UKBA) now has a monthly immigration cap on Tier 1 visas. If you apply and the tier 1 visas limit has been reached then you will be considered for the visa allocation for the following month. You can still submit your application even if the visa limit has been reached. However, your visa will not be issued until visas are actually available.
The new immigration quota on Tier 1 visas could mean that it takes much longer to process your Tier 1 visa. If you meet the new requirements you should consider applying sooner rather than later to avoid possible visa processing delays.
If you are in the following situation the new Tier 1 visa limit will not apply:
•If you are already in the UK in a category that will allow you to switch to the Tier 1 visa. However, you will still need to gain the increased 100 points to come under the Tier 1 visa.
•If you are a dependent of a Tier 1 Visa applicant.
•If you wish to apply under the Post-study work, Entrepreneur or Investor categories of Tier 1.
Other changes to the Tier 1 visa category increase the number of points available for a small number of applicants:
•If you can show previous earnings of £150,000 your points score will increase from 75 to 80 points.
•If you have an MBA that meets the requirements your points score increases from 75 to 80.
If you wish to come under the Tier 1 visa category you should consider applying right now. You have a good chance of gaining a visa before the tier 1 visa quota starts to affect processing of your visa.
Australian immigration and New Zealand action on border security
Australian Immigration Minister Chris Evans announced recently a new agreement between Australia and New Zealand to improve identity checks and border security. The Immigration Minister had the following to say:
'Australia and New Zealand today signed a memorandum of understanding [MoU] to share biometric data, an agreement that will further strengthen our nations' border security.'
'Biometrics is widely used in the international community as an effective tool to manage visa and immigration processes, improve identity management and combat fraud.'
At the Five Countries Conference (FCC) in London a memorandum of understanding was signed between Australia and New Zealand. The Conference enables Five data sharing Countries to exchange information and agree a way forward to improve border security. Immigration Minister Evans went on to say the following:
'FCC data-sharing helps to establish the true identity of people whose identities or nationalities were previously unknown or uncertain, and has been used in Australia to check the identities of irregular maritime arrivals, other people in immigration detention and illegal foreign fishers.'
'Since 2006, more than 100 000 fingerprint records have been exchanged, helping Australia and FCC partner countries to establish the true identities and immigration histories of people whose identities were unknown or uncertain.'
'Collection and sharing of biometric data is a proven tool in the fight against identity fraud and can prevent unlawful entrants' efforts to thwart Australia's border and visa processes.'
'Australia and New Zealand today signed a memorandum of understanding [MoU] to share biometric data, an agreement that will further strengthen our nations' border security.'
'Biometrics is widely used in the international community as an effective tool to manage visa and immigration processes, improve identity management and combat fraud.'
At the Five Countries Conference (FCC) in London a memorandum of understanding was signed between Australia and New Zealand. The Conference enables Five data sharing Countries to exchange information and agree a way forward to improve border security. Immigration Minister Evans went on to say the following:
'FCC data-sharing helps to establish the true identity of people whose identities or nationalities were previously unknown or uncertain, and has been used in Australia to check the identities of irregular maritime arrivals, other people in immigration detention and illegal foreign fishers.'
'Since 2006, more than 100 000 fingerprint records have been exchanged, helping Australia and FCC partner countries to establish the true identities and immigration histories of people whose identities were unknown or uncertain.'
'Collection and sharing of biometric data is a proven tool in the fight against identity fraud and can prevent unlawful entrants' efforts to thwart Australia's border and visa processes.'
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