Australian immigration from 1 July 2012 will be introducing significant changes to their skilled migration program. If you wish to come under the current skilled immigration programme you should apply for a skills assessment as soon as possible. You need to be ready with your skills assessment and, have passed the English language test before you can submit your immigration application.
Australian immigration's new skilled worker program will be called the Skilled Migrant Selection Register, known as SkillSelect. This is similar to the New Zealand immigration system; You will have to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). The SkillSelect will work as an electronic two-stage process where prospective visa applicants first submit a claim for skilled migration through an online EOI. Following this, they may then be invited to submit an Australian visa application on the basis of their EOI.
Beginning 1 July 2012, all new prospective Australian skilled migration visa applicants will have to submit an EOI and wait for an invitation before they can lodge their visa application. For those who have lodged a visa application before that date, Australian immigration will process the application in accordance with any priority processing direction in effect at that time.
Australian visa applicants will be selected based on their points test score in a number of selection criteria. All prospective visa applicants will be required to meet the relevant English language requirements and obtain the necessary skills assessment prior to their EOI submission.
The SkillSelect system will affect applicants for the following Australian skilled visas:
•Independent Skilled Migration (subclasses 175 and 885)
•State Sponsored Skilled Migration (subclasses 176 and 886)
•Business Skills (subclasses 132, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 890, 891, 892, 893)
•Employer Nomination Scheme (subclasses 121 and 856)
•Regional Sponsored Nomination Scheme (subclasses 119 and 857)
•Subclass 457 Temporary Business (Long Stay) visa (subclass 457)
Remember if you wish to apply for a skilled immigration visa you should start preparing now so that you are ready to submit your application before 1 July 2012.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Canadian immigration to investigate citizenship fraud
Canada is carrying out the biggest citizenship-fraud crackdown in its history, Canadian Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced last week. The Canadian government is now investigating 6,500 people from more than 100 countries for their allegedly fraudulent attempts to become Canadian citizens or maintain permanent resident status.
In order to become a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident is required to have lived in Canada for three years in a four-year period. In order to retain your status as a permanent resident, you must be physically present in Canada for two years out of a five-year period.
"This is by far — by many orders of magnitude — the largest enforcement action ever taken in the history of Canadian citizenship," said Kenney. "Canadian citizenship is not for sale."
According to Kenney, Canada is seeking to revoke citizenship for more than 2,100 people; Canadian immigration officials are monitoring 4,400 permanent residents believed to be involved in residence fraud in case they try to obtain Canadian citizenship.
Kenney said nearly 1,400 of these individuals, most of whom are outside the country, have since withdrawn or abandoned their citizenship applications because of the heightened scrutiny. Since the Citizenship Act came into force in 1947 more than sixty years ago, Canada has revoked just 67 citizenships.
"Our intention is not to make it too difficult for law-abiding people to become citizens," Kenney added. "We have a very fair and relatively easy process, but the whole point here is, for those people who legally obtain it, we must protect its value."
In order to become a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident is required to have lived in Canada for three years in a four-year period. In order to retain your status as a permanent resident, you must be physically present in Canada for two years out of a five-year period.
"This is by far — by many orders of magnitude — the largest enforcement action ever taken in the history of Canadian citizenship," said Kenney. "Canadian citizenship is not for sale."
According to Kenney, Canada is seeking to revoke citizenship for more than 2,100 people; Canadian immigration officials are monitoring 4,400 permanent residents believed to be involved in residence fraud in case they try to obtain Canadian citizenship.
Kenney said nearly 1,400 of these individuals, most of whom are outside the country, have since withdrawn or abandoned their citizenship applications because of the heightened scrutiny. Since the Citizenship Act came into force in 1947 more than sixty years ago, Canada has revoked just 67 citizenships.
"Our intention is not to make it too difficult for law-abiding people to become citizens," Kenney added. "We have a very fair and relatively easy process, but the whole point here is, for those people who legally obtain it, we must protect its value."
UK immigration loophole allows Eurostar passengers to skip border checks
The UK Border Agency (UKBA) is facing further immigration issues following news of a legal loophole that allows individuals to enter the UK without going through passport checks.
The bypass is being called the 'Lille Loophole'. Eurostar train passengers are able to buy a ticket from Brussels to Lille, but can then continue to travel right through to London and bypass border checks. UK Immigration Minister Damian Green has commented on the situation saying that the loophole cannot be closed without international help.
The UKBA only operates immigration border checks in the country of departure, so a passenger who purchases a Lille bound ticket could remain on the train without being checked. The UK Border Agency said that 'tighter controls' will have to be introduced to stop Eurostar passengers from entering the UK without passport checks.
"There are strict UK Immigration controls in place in France and Belgium and we have UKBA officers based at St. Pancras to target those that we believe are intent on entering Britain illegally. We are working closely with our Belgian counterparts and Eurostar to resolve this issue as quickly as possible," said Green.
The bypass is being called the 'Lille Loophole'. Eurostar train passengers are able to buy a ticket from Brussels to Lille, but can then continue to travel right through to London and bypass border checks. UK Immigration Minister Damian Green has commented on the situation saying that the loophole cannot be closed without international help.
The UKBA only operates immigration border checks in the country of departure, so a passenger who purchases a Lille bound ticket could remain on the train without being checked. The UK Border Agency said that 'tighter controls' will have to be introduced to stop Eurostar passengers from entering the UK without passport checks.
"There are strict UK Immigration controls in place in France and Belgium and we have UKBA officers based at St. Pancras to target those that we believe are intent on entering Britain illegally. We are working closely with our Belgian counterparts and Eurostar to resolve this issue as quickly as possible," said Green.
Canadian Immigration to increase Federal Skilled Worker Program quota
The Department of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) have announced they plan to accept even more immigrants under the Federal Skilled Worker program in 2012.
In its report to the Parliament of Canada, CIC has indicated that in 2010 they admitted over 280,000 immigrants, an increase of over 11.3 percent over the previous year, and the highest number of immigrants in the last 50 years. Around 67 percent of those admitted were economic immigrants with 40 percent of these being Federal Skilled workers.
In 2012, Canadian immigration plans to accept 55,000–57,000 Federal Skilled Workers, which is up from 47,000–47,400 in 2011. The Canadian government stressed that these additional numbers will help meet market demand, as well as reduce the backlog of applicants for the skilled worker immigration program from previous years.
The Federal Skilled Worker Program is Canada's most popular immigration route for immigrants to obtain permanent residency. Under this program, potential candidates are awarded points for their ability to adapt and contribute to Canada's economic development. In order to be eligible you must either:
•have a job offer with an eligible employer;
•have been legally residing in Canada for at least one year as a temporary foreign worker or an international student; or
•be a skilled worker with at least one year of experience in one or more eligible Canadian skilled occupations within the last ten years.
In a recent speech, Citizenship and Immigration Minister Jason Kenney expressed his optimism about the program and about Canadian immigration, "The government's number one priority remains the economy. We recognize the importance of immigration to our labour market and we value the contributions of skilled immigrants who add to our international competitiveness."
Canadian immigration completed an extensive review of the Federal Skilled Worker Program in 2010, which seemed to suggest that the program was working well and was leading to the selection of immigrants who perform well economically. The report also found that 89 percent of Federal Skilled Workers were employed or self-employed three years after landing in Canada. This would appear to suggest a strong continuing need for skilled immigrants in Canada.
"CIC will continue to ramp up efforts to modernize our immigration system to make it more nimble and responsive to labour market needs," said Kenney.
In its report to the Parliament of Canada, CIC has indicated that in 2010 they admitted over 280,000 immigrants, an increase of over 11.3 percent over the previous year, and the highest number of immigrants in the last 50 years. Around 67 percent of those admitted were economic immigrants with 40 percent of these being Federal Skilled workers.
In 2012, Canadian immigration plans to accept 55,000–57,000 Federal Skilled Workers, which is up from 47,000–47,400 in 2011. The Canadian government stressed that these additional numbers will help meet market demand, as well as reduce the backlog of applicants for the skilled worker immigration program from previous years.
The Federal Skilled Worker Program is Canada's most popular immigration route for immigrants to obtain permanent residency. Under this program, potential candidates are awarded points for their ability to adapt and contribute to Canada's economic development. In order to be eligible you must either:
•have a job offer with an eligible employer;
•have been legally residing in Canada for at least one year as a temporary foreign worker or an international student; or
•be a skilled worker with at least one year of experience in one or more eligible Canadian skilled occupations within the last ten years.
In a recent speech, Citizenship and Immigration Minister Jason Kenney expressed his optimism about the program and about Canadian immigration, "The government's number one priority remains the economy. We recognize the importance of immigration to our labour market and we value the contributions of skilled immigrants who add to our international competitiveness."
Canadian immigration completed an extensive review of the Federal Skilled Worker Program in 2010, which seemed to suggest that the program was working well and was leading to the selection of immigrants who perform well economically. The report also found that 89 percent of Federal Skilled Workers were employed or self-employed three years after landing in Canada. This would appear to suggest a strong continuing need for skilled immigrants in Canada.
"CIC will continue to ramp up efforts to modernize our immigration system to make it more nimble and responsive to labour market needs," said Kenney.
New visa policy for entertainment industry workers in New Zealand
New Zealand's immigration department announced they will grant foreign entertainment industry workers easier access to New Zealand work visas if they are working for less than 14 days; It will not be necessary to seek the consent of local unions or guilds in this situation.
Currently unions and guilds (associations of workers in the same industry) have the right to object to foreign entertainment workers coming into New Zealand, if they believe a local actor could fill the role. The new policy, passed in September, and set to come into effect in March, means overseas entertainment workers no longer have to apply to unions and guilds for approval to enter the country on temporary contracts that are less than 14 days in duration.
Beginning in March, there will be two different New Zealand work visa application streams for entertainment workers: a streamlined process, without any guild or union referral, for applicants working in New Zealand less than two weeks; and another stream for other workers staying longer than two weeks that would be subject to industry-led labour market testing. Most applicants will qualify under the first stream.
The changes to New Zealand's immigration policy have left local unions and guilds fearing the new law will limit employment chances for local actors and musicians.
But the Government says it is streamlining the system and cited "ongoing concerns by big studios in Los Angeles" that New Zealand had become more difficult to do business with because of the immigration process.
In a recent statement, New Zealand Immigration Minister Jonathan Coleman said the changes are being made to provide a simpler, more streamlined system.
"The existing policy is out-dated. It's been in place for 20 years and the entertainment industry has grown hugely over that time," he said. "We are removing a redundant, bureaucratic process which only served to make New Zealand a less attractive place for the screen and entertainment industry to do business."
"The economic activity and jobs generated are likely to outweigh any missed opportunities for Kiwi crew members and performers," said Coleman.
Currently unions and guilds (associations of workers in the same industry) have the right to object to foreign entertainment workers coming into New Zealand, if they believe a local actor could fill the role. The new policy, passed in September, and set to come into effect in March, means overseas entertainment workers no longer have to apply to unions and guilds for approval to enter the country on temporary contracts that are less than 14 days in duration.
Beginning in March, there will be two different New Zealand work visa application streams for entertainment workers: a streamlined process, without any guild or union referral, for applicants working in New Zealand less than two weeks; and another stream for other workers staying longer than two weeks that would be subject to industry-led labour market testing. Most applicants will qualify under the first stream.
The changes to New Zealand's immigration policy have left local unions and guilds fearing the new law will limit employment chances for local actors and musicians.
But the Government says it is streamlining the system and cited "ongoing concerns by big studios in Los Angeles" that New Zealand had become more difficult to do business with because of the immigration process.
In a recent statement, New Zealand Immigration Minister Jonathan Coleman said the changes are being made to provide a simpler, more streamlined system.
"The existing policy is out-dated. It's been in place for 20 years and the entertainment industry has grown hugely over that time," he said. "We are removing a redundant, bureaucratic process which only served to make New Zealand a less attractive place for the screen and entertainment industry to do business."
"The economic activity and jobs generated are likely to outweigh any missed opportunities for Kiwi crew members and performers," said Coleman.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Immigration New Zealand to implement new online visa system
Immigration Minister Jonathan Coleman announced a significant government investment in Immigration New Zealand's IT system will help attract more skilled immigrants and boost security.
Coleman said the New Zealand government would be contributing NZ$75 million towards the new IT system.
"The existing IT system is over 15 years old and is reaching the end of its technological lifespan. The cost of even simple changes is high and cannot be maintained over the long term. It's also significantly impairing our ability to provide standards of service and security comparable to other nations," said Coleman.
The new Immigration Global Management System (IGMS) will provide a secure system that enables more online processing and automation of simple tasks for visa applicants and employers. The new immigration system will also provide biometric capability and allow all data to be accessed by Immigration New Zealand offices worldwide.
''This IT initiative is a major step up in INZ's ability to provide timely, responsive and secure immigration services,'' said Coleman. ''We are competing worldwide to recruit skilled and talented people, and a new system will help speed up the processing of visa applications and allow applicants to do more online. Providing a fast and modern service is critical in attracting skilled migrants who can help grow the economy."
Applicants applying for New Zealand visas will also have their own individual online immigration accounts that will enable them to apply online and track their applications.
Implementation of the new immigration system is scheduled to begin in early 2012.
Coleman said the New Zealand government would be contributing NZ$75 million towards the new IT system.
"The existing IT system is over 15 years old and is reaching the end of its technological lifespan. The cost of even simple changes is high and cannot be maintained over the long term. It's also significantly impairing our ability to provide standards of service and security comparable to other nations," said Coleman.
The new Immigration Global Management System (IGMS) will provide a secure system that enables more online processing and automation of simple tasks for visa applicants and employers. The new immigration system will also provide biometric capability and allow all data to be accessed by Immigration New Zealand offices worldwide.
''This IT initiative is a major step up in INZ's ability to provide timely, responsive and secure immigration services,'' said Coleman. ''We are competing worldwide to recruit skilled and talented people, and a new system will help speed up the processing of visa applications and allow applicants to do more online. Providing a fast and modern service is critical in attracting skilled migrants who can help grow the economy."
Applicants applying for New Zealand visas will also have their own individual online immigration accounts that will enable them to apply online and track their applications.
Implementation of the new immigration system is scheduled to begin in early 2012.
UK to charge for immigration and asylum appeals beginning next week
UK Immigration has announced that the Ministry of Justice will be introducing fee charges for some asylum and immigration appeals beginning 19 December 2011.
Immigrants or asylum seekers who want to appeal against a decision notice dated 19 December 2011 or later will need to pay a fee. The appeal fee will apply to most categories of UK visas and decisions. This will not affect any decision notices that are dated before 19 December.
Appeals may be made in some types of visa application if you think that UK immigration officials have made an error in refusing your visa application.
Also, from 19 December individuals will need to lodge their appeals at the tribunal in the UK.
UK immigration will no longer accept appeals at any overseas UK visa application centres.
Any exemptions to the fees will be outlined by the UK Ministry of Justice and full guidance about the changes will be published on 19 December 2011.
Immigrants or asylum seekers who want to appeal against a decision notice dated 19 December 2011 or later will need to pay a fee. The appeal fee will apply to most categories of UK visas and decisions. This will not affect any decision notices that are dated before 19 December.
Appeals may be made in some types of visa application if you think that UK immigration officials have made an error in refusing your visa application.
Also, from 19 December individuals will need to lodge their appeals at the tribunal in the UK.
UK immigration will no longer accept appeals at any overseas UK visa application centres.
Any exemptions to the fees will be outlined by the UK Ministry of Justice and full guidance about the changes will be published on 19 December 2011.
UK immigration no longer accepting Tier visa paper applications
Please note, beginning 12 December 2011, all UK visa applications under the points-based immigration system will need to be made online. This includes all UK Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 4, and Tier 5 visa applications. The UK Border Agency will no longer accept paper based visa applications under the points-based immigration system. All applications must be completed online.
Additionally, all appointments at a UK visa application centre will need to be made online.
Additionally, all appointments at a UK visa application centre will need to be made online.
US immigration allows bundling of US L-1 work visa applications
USCIS announced that if petitioners bundle US L-1 work visa applications for multiple L-1 workers related to the same project, where the location and the specialized knowledge duties of the applicants are the same, USCIS will consider them together.
USCIS has recently stated that they recognize that businesses often need to temporarily move several skilled workers with specialized knowledge to the US for particular projects. While each L-1 work visa application will be considered on its own merits, bundling multiple US immigration applications together for the same project may streamline and make the review process easier.
The US L-1 work visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows companies operating abroad to transfer specialized skills level employees and managers from its foreign operations to their US operations for up to seven years. The employee must have worked for the company abroad for at least one continuous year out of the last three years.
In addition, USCIS said forms filed for an applicant's dependents can be included in the bundle. USCIS will also consider petitions for L-1A managers included with the bundle if applicants will be managing the L-1B beneficiaries who will be working on the project.
However, it is important to note, each L-1 work visa application must be fully completed and paid for and must include supporting evidence.
USCIS has recently stated that they recognize that businesses often need to temporarily move several skilled workers with specialized knowledge to the US for particular projects. While each L-1 work visa application will be considered on its own merits, bundling multiple US immigration applications together for the same project may streamline and make the review process easier.
The US L-1 work visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows companies operating abroad to transfer specialized skills level employees and managers from its foreign operations to their US operations for up to seven years. The employee must have worked for the company abroad for at least one continuous year out of the last three years.
In addition, USCIS said forms filed for an applicant's dependents can be included in the bundle. USCIS will also consider petitions for L-1A managers included with the bundle if applicants will be managing the L-1B beneficiaries who will be working on the project.
However, it is important to note, each L-1 work visa application must be fully completed and paid for and must include supporting evidence.
US official says US visitor visas are in high demand
While US tourism leaders are pushing for reduced wait times for processing visitor visa applications for foreign visitors, a US Commerce Department official said last week that the State Department has already made progress in accommodating the record demand for US visitor visas.
Acting director of the US Office of Travel and Tourism Industries for the Commerce Department, Isabel Hill, said while demand has intensified in major emerging economies like Brazil, China, India and Mexico, the number of US visas issued are up by triple- and double-digit percentages since 2005.
According to Hill the US State Department is expecting to review 8.5 million US visa applications in the current fiscal year, 4 percent more than the record 8.1 million in the 2008 fiscal year. She said US visa issuances are up 234 percent in Brazil, 124 percent in China, 51 percent in India and 24 percent in Mexico since the 2005 fiscal year.
The US State Department is on target to process 41 percent more US visas in Brazil and 34 percent more in China this year compared with last year. Notably, the US also opened two new US visa centers in these countries this year.
"We can't just go into a country and set up an embassy and take applications," she said while explaining that part of the solution is in the diplomatic process. Additionally, other issues remain in the negotiation of agreements with foreign governments to enable more visitors to the US.
The US State Department also plans to open a new consulate facility and expand other operations in China, increasing capacity by more than 50 percent. They are also adding 90 new US immigration officers in China and Brazil over a two-year period and will add temporary officers to manage peak summer demand.
Acting director of the US Office of Travel and Tourism Industries for the Commerce Department, Isabel Hill, said while demand has intensified in major emerging economies like Brazil, China, India and Mexico, the number of US visas issued are up by triple- and double-digit percentages since 2005.
According to Hill the US State Department is expecting to review 8.5 million US visa applications in the current fiscal year, 4 percent more than the record 8.1 million in the 2008 fiscal year. She said US visa issuances are up 234 percent in Brazil, 124 percent in China, 51 percent in India and 24 percent in Mexico since the 2005 fiscal year.
The US State Department is on target to process 41 percent more US visas in Brazil and 34 percent more in China this year compared with last year. Notably, the US also opened two new US visa centers in these countries this year.
"We can't just go into a country and set up an embassy and take applications," she said while explaining that part of the solution is in the diplomatic process. Additionally, other issues remain in the negotiation of agreements with foreign governments to enable more visitors to the US.
The US State Department also plans to open a new consulate facility and expand other operations in China, increasing capacity by more than 50 percent. They are also adding 90 new US immigration officers in China and Brazil over a two-year period and will add temporary officers to manage peak summer demand.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Australian Immigration to change visa fees beginning in 2012 - Skilled workers apply now!
Australian Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Chris Bowen, announced today that the immigration department will implement a new visa fee system starting in 2012. Student visas will see a decrease in visa costs while other visas will see an increase in visa application fees.
Immigration Minister Chris Bowen said that the new visa fee system will be put in place to ensure taxpayers are no longer subsidising visa applications as the current fees do not cover the entire cost of processing the applications. The new visa fees will go into effect from 1 January 2012.
"These changes will bring Australia's visa application charge structures in line with comparable countries. The user-pays approach means that taxpayers will no longer need to subsidise visa applicants," said Bowen.
Student visa application fees will decrease by 5 percent in an attempt to increase the competitiveness of Australia's international education sector. Fees for a range of Skills and Business immigration visas will increase by between 5 percent and 15 percent.
Additionally, the Australian government will also introduce a fee for dependants of visa applicants. At present, there is no visa application charge if you apply as student dependents.
"If people are bringing family members with them to Australia, the fee will reflect the additional processing and checks for these family members," said Bowen. He also stated the changes are projected to generate about $613 million over the next four years in revenue.
The following applicants will be unaffected by the fee changes:
Refugee and humanitarian visa applicants
Citizenship applicants
Postgraduate research students
Australian sponsoring businesses
Immigration Minister Chris Bowen said that the new visa fee system will be put in place to ensure taxpayers are no longer subsidising visa applications as the current fees do not cover the entire cost of processing the applications. The new visa fees will go into effect from 1 January 2012.
"These changes will bring Australia's visa application charge structures in line with comparable countries. The user-pays approach means that taxpayers will no longer need to subsidise visa applicants," said Bowen.
Student visa application fees will decrease by 5 percent in an attempt to increase the competitiveness of Australia's international education sector. Fees for a range of Skills and Business immigration visas will increase by between 5 percent and 15 percent.
Additionally, the Australian government will also introduce a fee for dependants of visa applicants. At present, there is no visa application charge if you apply as student dependents.
"If people are bringing family members with them to Australia, the fee will reflect the additional processing and checks for these family members," said Bowen. He also stated the changes are projected to generate about $613 million over the next four years in revenue.
The following applicants will be unaffected by the fee changes:
Refugee and humanitarian visa applicants
Citizenship applicants
Postgraduate research students
Australian sponsoring businesses
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
UK Tier 1 Post-study work visa update
Graduates looking to apply for the UK Tier 1 Post Study Work visa will want to apply as soon as they are able to; this visa category will be abolished in April 2012.
In March 2011, UK immigration announced they will close the Tier 1 Post-study work visa, which allows students 2 years to work in the UK after their course ends. In most cases only graduates who have an offer of a skilled job from a sponsoring employer under Tier 2 of the points-based system will be able to stay and work in the UK.
Currently, under the Tier 1 Post-study work (PSW) visa, visa holders can live in the UK and work for any employer. This is much easier to obtain and more flexible than a Tier 2 visa. If granted a visa under this category, you can switch into another tier of the points-based system.
Tier 1 PSW is part of the UK's points-based system, which is for migrants from outside Europe. You do not need to apply under the points-based system if you are a national of a country in the EU. Successful applicants in the Tier 1 PSW category will be able to stay in the UK for up to two years on this visa.
Those graduating from a UK university with a recognised degree will be able to switch into Tier 1 PSW. They will only be able to switch if they are in the UK, before their student visa expires. They can then switch again from a Tier 1 post study work visa to a tier 2 visa. The normal Tier 2 requirements will apply, except for the Resident Labour Market Test. This means that a Tier 2 employer will not have to show that the job was advertised and that no UK or EEA nationals could be found to fill the position. However, the job will have to be a graduate level job with the salary level as required under Tier 2, and the employer must have a Tier 2 sponsorship license.
In order to apply for a Tier 1 PSW visa applicants must:
have completed a Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, PhD, a Post Graduate Certificate or Diploma from a recognised UK institute of higher education;
be able to support yourself without accessing public funds;
apply within 12 months of finishing the course;
meet the English language ability requirements; and
have sufficient funds at the time of application.
If you already have permission to stay in the UK as a student under the Tier 4 PBS system or are a postgraduate doctor or dentist, you can apply for Tier 1 PSW from inside the UK. If you are in any other immigration category, you will need to leave the UK and make your application from abroad.
If you meet all the requirements you can apply for the Tier 1 PSW visa until April 2012.
If you finish your course after April 2012 and Tier 1 Post-study work visa has been abolished, you might still be able to stay for work under Tier 2. Tier 2 visas are for jobs where there is no one suitable to do the job from the resident labour market, and occupations where there is a shortage of qualified workers.
In March 2011, UK immigration announced they will close the Tier 1 Post-study work visa, which allows students 2 years to work in the UK after their course ends. In most cases only graduates who have an offer of a skilled job from a sponsoring employer under Tier 2 of the points-based system will be able to stay and work in the UK.
Currently, under the Tier 1 Post-study work (PSW) visa, visa holders can live in the UK and work for any employer. This is much easier to obtain and more flexible than a Tier 2 visa. If granted a visa under this category, you can switch into another tier of the points-based system.
Tier 1 PSW is part of the UK's points-based system, which is for migrants from outside Europe. You do not need to apply under the points-based system if you are a national of a country in the EU. Successful applicants in the Tier 1 PSW category will be able to stay in the UK for up to two years on this visa.
Those graduating from a UK university with a recognised degree will be able to switch into Tier 1 PSW. They will only be able to switch if they are in the UK, before their student visa expires. They can then switch again from a Tier 1 post study work visa to a tier 2 visa. The normal Tier 2 requirements will apply, except for the Resident Labour Market Test. This means that a Tier 2 employer will not have to show that the job was advertised and that no UK or EEA nationals could be found to fill the position. However, the job will have to be a graduate level job with the salary level as required under Tier 2, and the employer must have a Tier 2 sponsorship license.
In order to apply for a Tier 1 PSW visa applicants must:
have completed a Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, PhD, a Post Graduate Certificate or Diploma from a recognised UK institute of higher education;
be able to support yourself without accessing public funds;
apply within 12 months of finishing the course;
meet the English language ability requirements; and
have sufficient funds at the time of application.
If you already have permission to stay in the UK as a student under the Tier 4 PBS system or are a postgraduate doctor or dentist, you can apply for Tier 1 PSW from inside the UK. If you are in any other immigration category, you will need to leave the UK and make your application from abroad.
If you meet all the requirements you can apply for the Tier 1 PSW visa until April 2012.
If you finish your course after April 2012 and Tier 1 Post-study work visa has been abolished, you might still be able to stay for work under Tier 2. Tier 2 visas are for jobs where there is no one suitable to do the job from the resident labour market, and occupations where there is a shortage of qualified workers.
New documents show extent of relaxed UK Immigration border checks
There have been new developments in the UK Border Agency scandal. New documents further confirm the extent to which checks on UK visitors were relaxed; this includes allowing passengers of private jets to bypass UK visa and immigration security checks.
The documents were emails obtained by the opposition Labour Party in the UK disclosing conversations between UK Border Agency officials suggesting passport checks were relaxed nearly 2,500 times at airports over the period. According to the emails thousands of passengers on private aircraft did not face passport checks at all and were not screened against the terrorist watch list.
UK Border Agency officials warned their managers they feared a "security breach" because they could not "secure the border as robustly as we would like to" and UKBA managers replied that the new arrangements were part of a strategy being introduced at airports across England, and reflected "national policy".
According to Labour, there are between 80,000 and 90,000 flights on private jets landing in Britain every year, each carrying two or three passengers.
Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said the "startling" emails disclosed the "scale of the borders fiasco".
"Last week the Home Secretary told us that no one had been waved through without checks this summer," Cooper said. "But these documents show passengers on private flights weren't even seen. Last week the Home Office wouldn't admit to having figures about how often checks were downgraded. Now we know those figures exist."
The leaked documents come as Brodie Clark, the departed head of the UK border force, prepares to defend himself in order to clear his name and retain his pension when he appears before the Commons home affairs committee on this week.
"The Home Secretary needs to show she has a grip on what is going on at our borders and is capable of sorting this fiasco out rather than making it worse," said Cooper.
The UK Border Agency has responded to the allegations stating, "It is not true that we don't carry out passport and warnings index checks on private flight passengers and will deploy officers to airfields where we have concerns."
The documents were emails obtained by the opposition Labour Party in the UK disclosing conversations between UK Border Agency officials suggesting passport checks were relaxed nearly 2,500 times at airports over the period. According to the emails thousands of passengers on private aircraft did not face passport checks at all and were not screened against the terrorist watch list.
UK Border Agency officials warned their managers they feared a "security breach" because they could not "secure the border as robustly as we would like to" and UKBA managers replied that the new arrangements were part of a strategy being introduced at airports across England, and reflected "national policy".
According to Labour, there are between 80,000 and 90,000 flights on private jets landing in Britain every year, each carrying two or three passengers.
Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said the "startling" emails disclosed the "scale of the borders fiasco".
"Last week the Home Secretary told us that no one had been waved through without checks this summer," Cooper said. "But these documents show passengers on private flights weren't even seen. Last week the Home Office wouldn't admit to having figures about how often checks were downgraded. Now we know those figures exist."
The leaked documents come as Brodie Clark, the departed head of the UK border force, prepares to defend himself in order to clear his name and retain his pension when he appears before the Commons home affairs committee on this week.
"The Home Secretary needs to show she has a grip on what is going on at our borders and is capable of sorting this fiasco out rather than making it worse," said Cooper.
The UK Border Agency has responded to the allegations stating, "It is not true that we don't carry out passport and warnings index checks on private flight passengers and will deploy officers to airfields where we have concerns."
Thursday, September 1, 2011
New Zealand Immigration
New Zealand has been actively encouraging skilled
immigration to fill labor shortages as well as
providing numerous other paths to residence.
New Zealand's Skilled Migration Category (SMC) allows people with the skills and qualifications that New Zealand values to get residence or a permit to work. Applicants are scored against a points-based system and entered into a pool of potential migrants. Applicants are chosen every fortnight for an invitation to apply for migration to New Zealand. To test if you can qualify, our website provides a free New Zealand SMC points calculator.
Skilled Migration is only one of many options for immigrating to New Zealand, including general work visas, family reunification, investment, and study.
immigration to fill labor shortages as well as
providing numerous other paths to residence.
New Zealand's Skilled Migration Category (SMC) allows people with the skills and qualifications that New Zealand values to get residence or a permit to work. Applicants are scored against a points-based system and entered into a pool of potential migrants. Applicants are chosen every fortnight for an invitation to apply for migration to New Zealand. To test if you can qualify, our website provides a free New Zealand SMC points calculator.
Skilled Migration is only one of many options for immigrating to New Zealand, including general work visas, family reunification, investment, and study.
Positive List of Shortage Occupations for Danish Work Permits
he 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*
Positive List of Shortage Occupations for Danish Work Permits
he 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*
Canada 'startup visa' initiative
It is hoped that a new initiative in Canada will lead to the creation of a startup visa which would allow easier immigration for skilled migrant entrepreneurs and employees. This is similar in many ways the US Start Up Visa initiative.
Startup Visa Canada is an initiative aimed at encouraging global entrepreneurial talent open businesses in Canada. The hope is that these companies will create jobs and stimulate investment.
According to their website, the new initiative aims to lobby the government for changes to immigration law which:
would allow for an investment of $150,000 into a newly formed Canadian technology startup to qualify in place of the minimum asset provisions.
would enable approved local investor(s) to endorse qualified entrepreneurial immigrants to obtain their temporary work permits which. This permit would only allow the immigrant to work for a newly formed company, and thus not take jobs away from qualified Canadians.
would require immigrants to have at least a third equity position in their companies, be active in management and create at least 3 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs over the course of a 2-year program period.
Entrepreneurship is vital for economic growth; Studies have shown that immigrant entrepreneurs bring with them enormous benefits to the economy. As a result, Canada and some other countries such as the USA and Britain are studying possible startup visa schemes to encourage entrepreneurial immigration.
Startup Visa Canada is an initiative aimed at encouraging global entrepreneurial talent open businesses in Canada. The hope is that these companies will create jobs and stimulate investment.
According to their website, the new initiative aims to lobby the government for changes to immigration law which:
would allow for an investment of $150,000 into a newly formed Canadian technology startup to qualify in place of the minimum asset provisions.
would enable approved local investor(s) to endorse qualified entrepreneurial immigrants to obtain their temporary work permits which. This permit would only allow the immigrant to work for a newly formed company, and thus not take jobs away from qualified Canadians.
would require immigrants to have at least a third equity position in their companies, be active in management and create at least 3 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs over the course of a 2-year program period.
Entrepreneurship is vital for economic growth; Studies have shown that immigrant entrepreneurs bring with them enormous benefits to the economy. As a result, Canada and some other countries such as the USA and Britain are studying possible startup visa schemes to encourage entrepreneurial immigration.
21 percent increase in net migration into Britain
Net migration into the UK increased by 21 percent in 2010 to 239,000 immigrants. The increase was mainly due to a smaller number of people leaving the UK which coincided with a huge increase in the number of workers from Poland and other Eastern European Countries coming to Britain to work.
The new figures show that caps on skilled immigration and tighter immigration rules imposed on non-EU migrants has done very little to reduce immigration into Britain. The Government has imposed these immigration restrictions in an effort to reduce net immigration into Britain to the "tens of thousands".
A large portion of immigrants come from within the European Union, something that the UK has little control over due to EU Law on free movement of EU Citizens within the EU.
The Office of National Statistics said that 575,000 long-term immigrants (those planning to stay longer than 12 months) came to the UK in 2010.
Long-term emigration figures (those leaving the UK for more than 12 months) showed a reduction; Only 336,000 people left the UK last year, a drop of more than 91,000 compared to the peak emigration numbers in 2009
The new figures show that caps on skilled immigration and tighter immigration rules imposed on non-EU migrants has done very little to reduce immigration into Britain. The Government has imposed these immigration restrictions in an effort to reduce net immigration into Britain to the "tens of thousands".
A large portion of immigrants come from within the European Union, something that the UK has little control over due to EU Law on free movement of EU Citizens within the EU.
The Office of National Statistics said that 575,000 long-term immigrants (those planning to stay longer than 12 months) came to the UK in 2010.
Long-term emigration figures (those leaving the UK for more than 12 months) showed a reduction; Only 336,000 people left the UK last year, a drop of more than 91,000 compared to the peak emigration numbers in 2009
Australia gets ready for Citizenship Day
Australia Immigration Minister Chris Bowen launched Australian Citizenship Day 2011 celebrations with a special citizenship ceremony at the World famous Sydney Opera House.
Over 40 people from 16 countries became citizens of Australia at Sydney Opera House. They are the first of approximately 3,000 people who will become citizens at ceremonies on and around Australian Citizenship Day on 17 September 2011.
"Australian Citizenship Day was introduced in 2001 as an opportunity for people to take pride in our citizenship and this year marks the event's 10th anniversary," Bowen said.
"It is a time to reflect on the meaning and importance of the common bond of citizenship, which unites us in our culturally diverse nation," he added.
Those obtaining citizenship at the Sydney Opera House ceremony came from countries from all round the World including from Cambodia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, South Africa, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States and Uzbekistan.
"I am pleased to welcome these newest members of the Australian family and am sure they share in our pride at being part of this great country," Bowen said.
Over 40 people from 16 countries became citizens of Australia at Sydney Opera House. They are the first of approximately 3,000 people who will become citizens at ceremonies on and around Australian Citizenship Day on 17 September 2011.
"Australian Citizenship Day was introduced in 2001 as an opportunity for people to take pride in our citizenship and this year marks the event's 10th anniversary," Bowen said.
"It is a time to reflect on the meaning and importance of the common bond of citizenship, which unites us in our culturally diverse nation," he added.
Those obtaining citizenship at the Sydney Opera House ceremony came from countries from all round the World including from Cambodia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, South Africa, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States and Uzbekistan.
"I am pleased to welcome these newest members of the Australian family and am sure they share in our pride at being part of this great country," Bowen said.
Cambridge English test recognized by UK and Australia
The Cambridge University's Certificate of Advanced English is now recognized by the UK Border Agency (UKBA) and Australia's Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC); You can now take this test to confirm your English language ability when applying for a student or immigration visa.
Cambridge said that the decision by UK immigration and Australia immigration was made in a bid to attract more students to higher education establishments both in Australia and the UK. Both countries have recently come under fire for bringing in stricter student immigration rules.
The UK recently brought in more restrictions on foreign students working in the UK. The UK also intends to axe the popular Tier 1 Post Study Work visa scheme. Australia had made English language requirements somewhat tougher for foreign students; More recently, following concerns from the country's education sector, Australia immigration eased some of the requirements for those applying for student visas. UKBA now recognizes Cambridge's Key English Test, Preliminary English
Test, Business English Certificate, Certificated Version of Business Language Testing Service, Certificate of Advanced English, Certificate of Proficiency in English, International Legal English Certificate and
International Certificate of Financial English as suitable tests to confirm English language ability.
In the past, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
was the main test used for assessing English language ability. However, it is not always easy for students to find places on IELTS courses due to the high demand for these tests.
Cambridge said that the decision by UK immigration and Australia immigration was made in a bid to attract more students to higher education establishments both in Australia and the UK. Both countries have recently come under fire for bringing in stricter student immigration rules.
The UK recently brought in more restrictions on foreign students working in the UK. The UK also intends to axe the popular Tier 1 Post Study Work visa scheme. Australia had made English language requirements somewhat tougher for foreign students; More recently, following concerns from the country's education sector, Australia immigration eased some of the requirements for those applying for student visas. UKBA now recognizes Cambridge's Key English Test, Preliminary English
Test, Business English Certificate, Certificated Version of Business Language Testing Service, Certificate of Advanced English, Certificate of Proficiency in English, International Legal English Certificate and
International Certificate of Financial English as suitable tests to confirm English language ability.
In the past, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
was the main test used for assessing English language ability. However, it is not always easy for students to find places on IELTS courses due to the high demand for these tests.
Green Card Lottery to start 4 October 2011
The registration period for the DV-2013 US Green Card Lottery (DV-2013) will begin on Tuesday, 4 October 2011 at noon Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4) and will continue until Wednesday, 2 November, 2011 noon Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5).
If you are from an eligible Country and wish to emigrate to the US it may be worth submitting your entry under The Green Card Lottery. Eligible applicants are those who are citizens of countries with low levels of immigration into the US (less than fifty thousand immigrants in the last five years). If you are one of the lucky winners you and your family can live and work in the US permanently.
You must be educated to at least high school level or equivalent to be eligible to apply under the Green Card Lottery; The selection is made randomly by computer.
If you are from an eligible Country and wish to emigrate to the US it may be worth submitting your entry under The Green Card Lottery. Eligible applicants are those who are citizens of countries with low levels of immigration into the US (less than fifty thousand immigrants in the last five years). If you are one of the lucky winners you and your family can live and work in the US permanently.
You must be educated to at least high school level or equivalent to be eligible to apply under the Green Card Lottery; The selection is made randomly by computer.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Canada consultation on immigration
Canadian immigration minister Jason Kenney will be consulting with various stakeholders on the appropriate levels of immigration to Canada. Canada currently has one of the highest per capita immigration rates in the world.
"We want people's views on what is the right mix of our various immigration programs, how do we ensure that immigrants succeed economically, because when immigrants get good jobs, Canada succeeds," Kenney said.
There will be consultations with immigrant settlement organizations, Canadian employers, industry organizations, and community associations.
There will be discussions on which immigration schemes to focus on, how skilled migrants should be selected to fill labor gaps, and how to reduce immigration applications backlogs.
Kenney's consultations with stakeholders began in Calgary and will continue across Canada; Cities to be included in the consultation are Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal. There will also be Online consultations.
The Canadian government will take into account the responses to the consultation when considering future immigration policy.
Each year, Canada welcomes approximately a quarter of a million new immigrants to its shores from all over the world.
"There's always a maximum to the number of immigrants we bring. We're maintaining very high levels, but we want to make sure that immigration is actually working for newcomers and newcomers are working in Canada," Kenney said. He added that increasing the number of immigrants allowed into Canada may be a possibility.
"We don't want to be bringing people here to face unemployment or under-employment, we want them to fill the job shortages that exist, particularly in this region."
"We want people's views on what is the right mix of our various immigration programs, how do we ensure that immigrants succeed economically, because when immigrants get good jobs, Canada succeeds," Kenney said.
There will be consultations with immigrant settlement organizations, Canadian employers, industry organizations, and community associations.
There will be discussions on which immigration schemes to focus on, how skilled migrants should be selected to fill labor gaps, and how to reduce immigration applications backlogs.
Kenney's consultations with stakeholders began in Calgary and will continue across Canada; Cities to be included in the consultation are Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal. There will also be Online consultations.
The Canadian government will take into account the responses to the consultation when considering future immigration policy.
Each year, Canada welcomes approximately a quarter of a million new immigrants to its shores from all over the world.
"There's always a maximum to the number of immigrants we bring. We're maintaining very high levels, but we want to make sure that immigration is actually working for newcomers and newcomers are working in Canada," Kenney said. He added that increasing the number of immigrants allowed into Canada may be a possibility.
"We don't want to be bringing people here to face unemployment or under-employment, we want them to fill the job shortages that exist, particularly in this region."
Economic recession reduced EU immigration in 2009
The global financial crisis of a few years ago had a huge effect on levels of immigration. There was a significant reduction in immigration to the European Union, according to new figures from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
According to the report, immigration to some countries declined by almost 50 percent in 2009. The Czech Republic saw immigration drop by 46 percent and Ireland saw a 42 percent decline.
Italy, France, and Germany saw smaller declines. There was also a 22 percent decline in Immigration between EU member states.
The UK was an exception to this trend, with immigration actually increasing by 14 percent in 2009. This was the largest increase of any OECD country.
"Given the severity of the crisis, migration has fallen less than might have been expected," the OECD said in a statement.
According to the OECD, immigration is expected to pick up again as economies around the world recover.
Australia's economy is already picking up steam, particularly in its resources industry which includes the mining industry. Businesses in this sector have ramped up hiring overseas workers; Australia has a number of temporary and permanent immigration schemes to bring in foreign workers.
According to the report, immigration to some countries declined by almost 50 percent in 2009. The Czech Republic saw immigration drop by 46 percent and Ireland saw a 42 percent decline.
Italy, France, and Germany saw smaller declines. There was also a 22 percent decline in Immigration between EU member states.
The UK was an exception to this trend, with immigration actually increasing by 14 percent in 2009. This was the largest increase of any OECD country.
"Given the severity of the crisis, migration has fallen less than might have been expected," the OECD said in a statement.
According to the OECD, immigration is expected to pick up again as economies around the world recover.
Australia's economy is already picking up steam, particularly in its resources industry which includes the mining industry. Businesses in this sector have ramped up hiring overseas workers; Australia has a number of temporary and permanent immigration schemes to bring in foreign workers.
EU Commissioner says immigration is beneficial to EU
European Union Home Affairs Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom says that immigration and visa free travel are beneficial to the EU. Her comments come after Denmark brought in tougher border controls in response to growing immigration from North Africa.
Malmstrom says that the EU needs immigrants to help deal with skills shortages. The EU in general has an aging population and a declining workforce. More Immigration will benefit the economies of EU Countries and benefit EU citizens and residents.
"The Commission has been in close contact with the Danish authorities during the past weeks to ensure that its plans would not endanger free movement and would fully respect EU legislation," Malmstrm said in a statement.
"I welcome the Danish authorities' clear commitment to act in line with EU rules, including the Schengen agreement," she added.
"The full respect of EU rules giving EU citizens and businesses the right to move freely will be ensured through continued monitoring and dialogue with Denmark."
Denmark has brought in tougher border controls; At the same time it remains one of the more accessible EU countries for immigrants with the right skills and qualifications. Through its Green Card program, non-EU migrants can obtain an extendable three year visa that will allow them to work in Denmark.
Malmstrom says that the EU needs immigrants to help deal with skills shortages. The EU in general has an aging population and a declining workforce. More Immigration will benefit the economies of EU Countries and benefit EU citizens and residents.
"The Commission has been in close contact with the Danish authorities during the past weeks to ensure that its plans would not endanger free movement and would fully respect EU legislation," Malmstrm said in a statement.
"I welcome the Danish authorities' clear commitment to act in line with EU rules, including the Schengen agreement," she added.
"The full respect of EU rules giving EU citizens and businesses the right to move freely will be ensured through continued monitoring and dialogue with Denmark."
Denmark has brought in tougher border controls; At the same time it remains one of the more accessible EU countries for immigrants with the right skills and qualifications. Through its Green Card program, non-EU migrants can obtain an extendable three year visa that will allow them to work in Denmark.
MP calls for changes to UK immigration
A Northern Ireland MP, Jim Shannon, has called for immigration changes that would allow Filipino fisherman to keep on working in Northern Ireland.
Under current immigration rules, approximately 70 fisherman would probably not be allowed to continue working in the UK.
Shannon aired his concerns to the Migration Advisory Committee on 18 July 2011. The Migration Advisory Committee is a panel tasked by the UK Government to advise on UK immigration policy.
According to Shannon, if the rules are not changed then boats in Ardglass, Ballycastle, Portavogie, and Kilkeel would not be able to continue to operate.
The UK Government has made immigration to the UK more difficult. There has been an UK immigration cap for more than a year. There are also tougher student immigration requirements. Overall, the Migration Advisory Committee has encouraged both the current and previous Government to bring in tougher immigration controls.
Under current immigration rules, approximately 70 fisherman would probably not be allowed to continue working in the UK.
Shannon aired his concerns to the Migration Advisory Committee on 18 July 2011. The Migration Advisory Committee is a panel tasked by the UK Government to advise on UK immigration policy.
According to Shannon, if the rules are not changed then boats in Ardglass, Ballycastle, Portavogie, and Kilkeel would not be able to continue to operate.
The UK Government has made immigration to the UK more difficult. There has been an UK immigration cap for more than a year. There are also tougher student immigration requirements. Overall, the Migration Advisory Committee has encouraged both the current and previous Government to bring in tougher immigration controls.
Singapore Immigration
With many countries tightening their immigration laws, it can be more difficult than ever to live and work in another country. However, there are still some destinations that provide exciting opportunities, such as Singapore.
Singapore is a cross-roads for Asia, with close to half of the population being foreign-born. Singapore is one of the fastest growing economies in Southeast Asia and is the fourth most important financial centre in the World.
If you have a professional or tertiary level qualification and would like to live and work in Singapore, you may be eligible for a one-year visa that will allow you to move to Singapore to find a job. You will normally be granted permanent residence if during this time you find a job in Singapore. The good news is Singapore has a very low rate of unemployment.
Singapore still has relatively liberal immigration laws in contrast to other countries. If you meet the requirements Singapore provides a great immigration opportunity under its Landed Permanent Residence (LPR) visa scheme. If you wish to have one of our professional advisers determine your eligibility, please fill out a free online assessment.
Requirements
You must be highly skilled, meaning you must have earned a university level degree from a qualifying educational institution and/or have a sound professional background.
Once you are approved, you must move to Singapore within one year of your application. You must find employment after moving to Singapore to complete your permanent residence status.
Your application will require a number of documents, including a copy of your passport, 2 passport sized photos, your birth certificate, and educational certificates. You must also provide evidence of salary for the last six months and income tax documents for the previous three years.
Conclusion
For highly skilled individuals, relocating to Singapore can open a number of exciting opportunities for you and your family. Workpermit.com can help you attain your goals by assisting you with your application and guiding you through the process of attaining permanent residence.
Singapore is a cross-roads for Asia, with close to half of the population being foreign-born. Singapore is one of the fastest growing economies in Southeast Asia and is the fourth most important financial centre in the World.
If you have a professional or tertiary level qualification and would like to live and work in Singapore, you may be eligible for a one-year visa that will allow you to move to Singapore to find a job. You will normally be granted permanent residence if during this time you find a job in Singapore. The good news is Singapore has a very low rate of unemployment.
Singapore still has relatively liberal immigration laws in contrast to other countries. If you meet the requirements Singapore provides a great immigration opportunity under its Landed Permanent Residence (LPR) visa scheme. If you wish to have one of our professional advisers determine your eligibility, please fill out a free online assessment.
Requirements
You must be highly skilled, meaning you must have earned a university level degree from a qualifying educational institution and/or have a sound professional background.
Once you are approved, you must move to Singapore within one year of your application. You must find employment after moving to Singapore to complete your permanent residence status.
Your application will require a number of documents, including a copy of your passport, 2 passport sized photos, your birth certificate, and educational certificates. You must also provide evidence of salary for the last six months and income tax documents for the previous three years.
Conclusion
For highly skilled individuals, relocating to Singapore can open a number of exciting opportunities for you and your family. Workpermit.com can help you attain your goals by assisting you with your application and guiding you through the process of attaining permanent residence.
New study says skilled Asian migrants choosing Asia
A new report says that more skilled Asians are choosing to emigrate to other Asian countries such as Singapore and Hong Kong rather than Western Countries such as the UK, Australia, and Canada.
The study, Change of Migration Patterns in Asia: Towards Regional Economic Integration, found that Hong Kong had the highest rate of East Asian immigration, with 2.74 million migrants, followed by Malaysia, Japan, Singapore, and Thailand. Approximately 5.3 million people migrated internally within Asia in 2008.
Dr. Sakkarin Niyomsilpa of the Institute of Population and Social Research, of Mahidol University, Bangkok says that East Asia's rapid economic development has caused rapid growth of its labour markets. Dr. Sakkarin is the author of the study.
"Asian professionals, who had aimed for labour markets in Western countries, have instead begun to emigrate in large numbers to East Asia due to the prosperity in these Asian economies," Dr. Sakkarin said.
Dr. Sakkarin said that many Asian countries have relaxed their immigration requirements. In contrast, Western nations such as the UK have recently introduced stricter immigration controls.
After the Global financial crisis of a few years ago there was a significant reduction in skilled immigration to Australia. This was caused by the general economic situation and tougher immigration requirements. Australia is now having to deal with skills shortages. Asian Countries have probably benefited from this. Highly skilled asian immigrants unable or unwilling to go to Australia have instead gone to Asian Countries.
The study, Change of Migration Patterns in Asia: Towards Regional Economic Integration, found that Hong Kong had the highest rate of East Asian immigration, with 2.74 million migrants, followed by Malaysia, Japan, Singapore, and Thailand. Approximately 5.3 million people migrated internally within Asia in 2008.
Dr. Sakkarin Niyomsilpa of the Institute of Population and Social Research, of Mahidol University, Bangkok says that East Asia's rapid economic development has caused rapid growth of its labour markets. Dr. Sakkarin is the author of the study.
"Asian professionals, who had aimed for labour markets in Western countries, have instead begun to emigrate in large numbers to East Asia due to the prosperity in these Asian economies," Dr. Sakkarin said.
Dr. Sakkarin said that many Asian countries have relaxed their immigration requirements. In contrast, Western nations such as the UK have recently introduced stricter immigration controls.
After the Global financial crisis of a few years ago there was a significant reduction in skilled immigration to Australia. This was caused by the general economic situation and tougher immigration requirements. Australia is now having to deal with skills shortages. Asian Countries have probably benefited from this. Highly skilled asian immigrants unable or unwilling to go to Australia have instead gone to Asian Countries.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Singapore immigration opportunities attract foreign workers
Singapore's status as a world financial hub has driven its economy to historic heights, prompting people looking for new job opportunities abroad to choose this Southeast Asian country as their immigration destination.
Singapore's foreign population has risen from 20 percent of the total population in 2001 to 36 percent today. In just one year in 2010 the country saw a 14.5 percent expansion in its economy; This is largely thanks to the large number of foreigners choosing to immigrate to Singapore.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said that Singapore wants to attract investment and talent from abroad, stating that this will lead to further growth for the country's economy; This will create jobs and bring prosperity for its citizens.
Singapore, along with other popular migrant destinations such as Hong Kong, offers a range of immigration schemes for skilled migrants.
Skilled migrants can come under the Singapore Landed Permanent Residence scheme. This scheme offers skilled foreigners permanent residence if they have the right qualifications and experience to meet the immigration requirements for the Singapore LPR scheme.
Singapore's foreign population has risen from 20 percent of the total population in 2001 to 36 percent today. In just one year in 2010 the country saw a 14.5 percent expansion in its economy; This is largely thanks to the large number of foreigners choosing to immigrate to Singapore.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said that Singapore wants to attract investment and talent from abroad, stating that this will lead to further growth for the country's economy; This will create jobs and bring prosperity for its citizens.
Singapore, along with other popular migrant destinations such as Hong Kong, offers a range of immigration schemes for skilled migrants.
Skilled migrants can come under the Singapore Landed Permanent Residence scheme. This scheme offers skilled foreigners permanent residence if they have the right qualifications and experience to meet the immigration requirements for the Singapore LPR scheme.
Australian government boosts skilled migration
The Australian government will implement a number of regional migration initiatives and will increase permanent immigration during the 2011-12 fiscal year.
The increase in permanent migration visas to 185,000 will make Australia an even more popular destination for skilled individuals looking to live and work abroad.
"This has provided scope for a moderate increase in the migration program in 2011-12, while maintaining more sustainable annual levels of net overseas migration – in the region of 170,000–180,000 over the next few years," said Immigration Minister Chris Bowen.
Two thirds of the increase in immigration levels will be for skilled migrants to fill critical labour shortages. The skilled migration stream will be set at 125,850 visas, with 16,000 visas allocated to the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme.
"Regional visas will also be afforded the highest processing priority to recognise the needs of employers and encourage regional migration," DIAC said in a statement.
"This government recognises that different regions face different opportunities and pressures. The patchwork nature of the Australian labour market means it's important to recognise unique local circumstances and tailor migration solutions accordingly," Bowen said.
"Regional Migration Agreements will offer a coordinated, localised response to labour needs, helping local areas to implement workforce strategies that support growth while ensuring local workers remain the first choice for employers and industry," he added.
Temporary 475 visa holders who have spent two or more years in regional areas will also have their request for permanent residency fast-tracked if their employer will continue to sponsor them for an additional two years.
These changes will make Australia an attractive choice for skilled workers. If you are interested in living and working in Australia, fill out a free online assessment form and one of our representatives will contact you shortly.
The increase in permanent migration visas to 185,000 will make Australia an even more popular destination for skilled individuals looking to live and work abroad.
"This has provided scope for a moderate increase in the migration program in 2011-12, while maintaining more sustainable annual levels of net overseas migration – in the region of 170,000–180,000 over the next few years," said Immigration Minister Chris Bowen.
Two thirds of the increase in immigration levels will be for skilled migrants to fill critical labour shortages. The skilled migration stream will be set at 125,850 visas, with 16,000 visas allocated to the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme.
"Regional visas will also be afforded the highest processing priority to recognise the needs of employers and encourage regional migration," DIAC said in a statement.
"This government recognises that different regions face different opportunities and pressures. The patchwork nature of the Australian labour market means it's important to recognise unique local circumstances and tailor migration solutions accordingly," Bowen said.
"Regional Migration Agreements will offer a coordinated, localised response to labour needs, helping local areas to implement workforce strategies that support growth while ensuring local workers remain the first choice for employers and industry," he added.
Temporary 475 visa holders who have spent two or more years in regional areas will also have their request for permanent residency fast-tracked if their employer will continue to sponsor them for an additional two years.
These changes will make Australia an attractive choice for skilled workers. If you are interested in living and working in Australia, fill out a free online assessment form and one of our representatives will contact you shortly.
UK tourist visas will allow entry to Ireland for nationals of 14 countries
Starting on 1 July 2011 and continuing until October 2012, a UK tourist visa will allow entry to Ireland for nationals of India and China, as well as for nationals of 12 other countries in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
The move will coincide with the 2012 Olympics in London, when a large influx of visitors is expected into the UK. Ireland is hoping to capitalize on the extra-tourism revenue that the Olypmics are expected to bring.
Ireland's Justice and Defence Minister Alan Shatter said that removing barriers to entry for nationals of the fourteen countries would help boost Ireland's ailing economy.
"It will have real and tangible benefits for the nationals of the 14 or so countries (who currently require a visa to come here) participating in the scheme and it will provide a much needed shot in the arm for the hard pressed tourist industry," Shatter said.
The Irish government will also not charge the 60 Euro per-person visa application charge if you already have a UK tourist visa.
"For example, for a family of four, say from India, which travels to London for the Olympics next year and which would like to have a 'side-trip' to Ireland, participation in this Programme will result in a saving of 240 Euros to them," Irish immigration authorities said in a statement.
The fourteen countries included in this programme are India, China, Russia, Belarus, Montenegro, Serbia, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.
The move will coincide with the 2012 Olympics in London, when a large influx of visitors is expected into the UK. Ireland is hoping to capitalize on the extra-tourism revenue that the Olypmics are expected to bring.
Ireland's Justice and Defence Minister Alan Shatter said that removing barriers to entry for nationals of the fourteen countries would help boost Ireland's ailing economy.
"It will have real and tangible benefits for the nationals of the 14 or so countries (who currently require a visa to come here) participating in the scheme and it will provide a much needed shot in the arm for the hard pressed tourist industry," Shatter said.
The Irish government will also not charge the 60 Euro per-person visa application charge if you already have a UK tourist visa.
"For example, for a family of four, say from India, which travels to London for the Olympics next year and which would like to have a 'side-trip' to Ireland, participation in this Programme will result in a saving of 240 Euros to them," Irish immigration authorities said in a statement.
The fourteen countries included in this programme are India, China, Russia, Belarus, Montenegro, Serbia, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.
Australia eases immigration rules for resources sector
Australia will make it easier for the resources sector to recruit overseas workers under the Temporary 457 work visa. The new initiatives for temporary migration visas will result in streamlining of the application process and cutting of waiting times by fifty percent.
Enterprise Migration Agreements (EMAs) will allow large resource projects to hire foreign workers for vacancies that cannot be filled from the local workforce.
"This new initiative will streamline negotiation arrangements for access to overseas workers and guarantee faster processing times for visa applications," said Immigration Minister Chris Bowen.
"EMAs will be a custom-designed, project-wide migration arrangement uniquely suited to the resources sector, ensuring skills shortages do not create constraints on major projects and jeopardise Australian jobs," he added.
Australia is recovering from the financial crisis of 2008 faster than many developed nations and has a low unemployment rate hovering around 5 percent. Resources sector industries such as the mining industry are having a difficult time finding workers.
"With $380 billion of investment in the pipeline for resources projects, we are approaching a critical juncture in the construction phases of a number of major projects. Access to overseas labour will ensure the peak workforce needs of these projects are met, realising the economic and employment benefits of the projects," Bowen noted.
Reducing processing times for visa applications is a top priority to ensure that businesses can get the help they need.
"While processing times for 457 visas have reduced by 30 per cent over the past five years, the government will establish a new processing centre in Brisbane and aims to reduce processing times even further," Bowen said.
According to Bowen, the goal is to reduce the median wait time to ten days for completed visa applications.
Enterprise Migration Agreements (EMAs) will allow large resource projects to hire foreign workers for vacancies that cannot be filled from the local workforce.
"This new initiative will streamline negotiation arrangements for access to overseas workers and guarantee faster processing times for visa applications," said Immigration Minister Chris Bowen.
"EMAs will be a custom-designed, project-wide migration arrangement uniquely suited to the resources sector, ensuring skills shortages do not create constraints on major projects and jeopardise Australian jobs," he added.
Australia is recovering from the financial crisis of 2008 faster than many developed nations and has a low unemployment rate hovering around 5 percent. Resources sector industries such as the mining industry are having a difficult time finding workers.
"With $380 billion of investment in the pipeline for resources projects, we are approaching a critical juncture in the construction phases of a number of major projects. Access to overseas labour will ensure the peak workforce needs of these projects are met, realising the economic and employment benefits of the projects," Bowen noted.
Reducing processing times for visa applications is a top priority to ensure that businesses can get the help they need.
"While processing times for 457 visas have reduced by 30 per cent over the past five years, the government will establish a new processing centre in Brisbane and aims to reduce processing times even further," Bowen said.
According to Bowen, the goal is to reduce the median wait time to ten days for completed visa applications.
Australia eases immigration rules for resources sector
Australia will make it easier for the resources sector to recruit overseas workers under the Temporary 457 work visa. The new initiatives for temporary migration visas will result in streamlining of the application process and cutting of waiting times by fifty percent.
Enterprise Migration Agreements (EMAs) will allow large resource projects to hire foreign workers for vacancies that cannot be filled from the local workforce.
"This new initiative will streamline negotiation arrangements for access to overseas workers and guarantee faster processing times for visa applications," said Immigration Minister Chris Bowen.
"EMAs will be a custom-designed, project-wide migration arrangement uniquely suited to the resources sector, ensuring skills shortages do not create constraints on major projects and jeopardise Australian jobs," he added.
Australia is recovering from the financial crisis of 2008 faster than many developed nations and has a low unemployment rate hovering around 5 percent. Resources sector industries such as the mining industry are having a difficult time finding workers.
"With $380 billion of investment in the pipeline for resources projects, we are approaching a critical juncture in the construction phases of a number of major projects. Access to overseas labour will ensure the peak workforce needs of these projects are met, realising the economic and employment benefits of the projects," Bowen noted.
Reducing processing times for visa applications is a top priority to ensure that businesses can get the help they need.
"While processing times for 457 visas have reduced by 30 per cent over the past five years, the government will establish a new processing centre in Brisbane and aims to reduce processing times even further," Bowen said.
According to Bowen, the goal is to reduce the median wait time to ten days for completed visa applications.
Enterprise Migration Agreements (EMAs) will allow large resource projects to hire foreign workers for vacancies that cannot be filled from the local workforce.
"This new initiative will streamline negotiation arrangements for access to overseas workers and guarantee faster processing times for visa applications," said Immigration Minister Chris Bowen.
"EMAs will be a custom-designed, project-wide migration arrangement uniquely suited to the resources sector, ensuring skills shortages do not create constraints on major projects and jeopardise Australian jobs," he added.
Australia is recovering from the financial crisis of 2008 faster than many developed nations and has a low unemployment rate hovering around 5 percent. Resources sector industries such as the mining industry are having a difficult time finding workers.
"With $380 billion of investment in the pipeline for resources projects, we are approaching a critical juncture in the construction phases of a number of major projects. Access to overseas labour will ensure the peak workforce needs of these projects are met, realising the economic and employment benefits of the projects," Bowen noted.
Reducing processing times for visa applications is a top priority to ensure that businesses can get the help they need.
"While processing times for 457 visas have reduced by 30 per cent over the past five years, the government will establish a new processing centre in Brisbane and aims to reduce processing times even further," Bowen said.
According to Bowen, the goal is to reduce the median wait time to ten days for completed visa applications.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Australia lowers barrier for entry for foreign students
Australia will lower the barriers for entry for many people who with to obtain student visas.
The student visa assessment level for 38 countries will be lowered across one or more visa subclasses as of 2 April 2011. The changes come after an internal review of Australia's student immigration system by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).
The review was most likely prompted by calls from Australia's education sector to make it easier for overseas students to gain entry; In recent years, Australia has seen a sharp decline in the number of international students applicants after stricter rules were put into place.
Applicants from 38 countries will benefit by not having to provide so much documentation in support of their student visa applications; It is likely that less documentation will need to be provided to show English language proficiency, financial capacity and academic qualifications.
"Prospective students and their families, agents and education providers should be aware that these changes will lower the minimum evidentiary requirements needed for the grant of a student visa for the selected countries and education sectors," a DIAC spokesman said today.
DIAC was quick to point out that the changes only affect the requirements for initial entry as a foreign student -- not the requirements to stay on in Australia as a permanent resident after studies are completed.
"While many international students apply for permanent residence when they complete their studies, this is an entirely separate process and there is no guarantee that, on the basis of having held a student visa, a person will meet the requirements to be granted permanent residence," DIAC said.
DIAC warned potential applicants not to choose Australia solely based on their chances of obtaining a permanent skilled immigration visa in future.
"Students should not make educational choices solely on the basis of expecting to achieve a particular migration outcome, because the skilled migration program will continue to change and adapt to Australia's economic needs," the spokesman said.
270,499 student visas were granted during the 2009-10 Fiscal Year, with 382,710 student visa holders actually in the country as at 30 June 2010; 80,450 of these students were from India, 80,010 were from China and 21,720 were from South Korea.
The student visa assessment level for 38 countries will be lowered across one or more visa subclasses as of 2 April 2011. The changes come after an internal review of Australia's student immigration system by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).
The review was most likely prompted by calls from Australia's education sector to make it easier for overseas students to gain entry; In recent years, Australia has seen a sharp decline in the number of international students applicants after stricter rules were put into place.
Applicants from 38 countries will benefit by not having to provide so much documentation in support of their student visa applications; It is likely that less documentation will need to be provided to show English language proficiency, financial capacity and academic qualifications.
"Prospective students and their families, agents and education providers should be aware that these changes will lower the minimum evidentiary requirements needed for the grant of a student visa for the selected countries and education sectors," a DIAC spokesman said today.
DIAC was quick to point out that the changes only affect the requirements for initial entry as a foreign student -- not the requirements to stay on in Australia as a permanent resident after studies are completed.
"While many international students apply for permanent residence when they complete their studies, this is an entirely separate process and there is no guarantee that, on the basis of having held a student visa, a person will meet the requirements to be granted permanent residence," DIAC said.
DIAC warned potential applicants not to choose Australia solely based on their chances of obtaining a permanent skilled immigration visa in future.
"Students should not make educational choices solely on the basis of expecting to achieve a particular migration outcome, because the skilled migration program will continue to change and adapt to Australia's economic needs," the spokesman said.
270,499 student visas were granted during the 2009-10 Fiscal Year, with 382,710 student visa holders actually in the country as at 30 June 2010; 80,450 of these students were from India, 80,010 were from China and 21,720 were from South Korea.
German immigration on the rise
For the first time in a decade, Germany has seen an increase in immigration into the country, according to numbers published by the national statistics office.
At the end of 2010, approximately 6.75 million foreign nationals were registered in Germany, bringing the immigrant population of Germany to just over 8 percent. This was a rise of 58,000 over the previous year.
More than a third of foreign nationals residing in Germany are from other European Union member states. The largest group consisted of 21,600 Romanians, followed by large numbers of Polish and Bulgarian nationals.
In recent years Germany has had quite tough immigration controls. However, this may have to change in future; Due to an aging population there are fewer people in the workforce.
Germany may need to open its doors to skilled migrants to deal with skills gaps in the workforce.
At the end of 2010, approximately 6.75 million foreign nationals were registered in Germany, bringing the immigrant population of Germany to just over 8 percent. This was a rise of 58,000 over the previous year.
More than a third of foreign nationals residing in Germany are from other European Union member states. The largest group consisted of 21,600 Romanians, followed by large numbers of Polish and Bulgarian nationals.
In recent years Germany has had quite tough immigration controls. However, this may have to change in future; Due to an aging population there are fewer people in the workforce.
Germany may need to open its doors to skilled migrants to deal with skills gaps in the workforce.
Study says Canada should increase immigration
A recent study by Canadian professor Tony Fang recommends that Canada should increase its immigration levels to bolster investment in housing and boost the nation's gross domestic product.
Canada already has the highest immigration rate per capita out of all major countries. The country already has a number of skilled immigration programs to help deal with skills shortages in the labour force.
Fang says that Canada needs an additional one million immigrants; This would be an extra 100,000 immigrants a year during the period 2012 to 2021. This would also help the Canadian economy which is yet to recover fully from the Global Financial Crisis of 2008.
"To study the impacts of large-scale immigration on the Canadian economy, the researchers took into account many factors including: immigrants' participation in the labour force; associated spending on government services and infrastructure; funds brought by immigrants; and labour market differences between migrants (in order to capture the effect of large-scale immigration on Canadian-born workers)," a press release on the study said.
Fang, a professor at the University of York in Vancouver, said that adding 100,000 more immigrants a year to Canada's population would increase the GDP by 2.3 percent. Moreover, the increase in population would create demands for goods and services, particularly housing.
Fang also said that increased immigration would add $14 billion in tax revenue for the government.
Canada already has the highest immigration rate per capita out of all major countries. The country already has a number of skilled immigration programs to help deal with skills shortages in the labour force.
Fang says that Canada needs an additional one million immigrants; This would be an extra 100,000 immigrants a year during the period 2012 to 2021. This would also help the Canadian economy which is yet to recover fully from the Global Financial Crisis of 2008.
"To study the impacts of large-scale immigration on the Canadian economy, the researchers took into account many factors including: immigrants' participation in the labour force; associated spending on government services and infrastructure; funds brought by immigrants; and labour market differences between migrants (in order to capture the effect of large-scale immigration on Canadian-born workers)," a press release on the study said.
Fang, a professor at the University of York in Vancouver, said that adding 100,000 more immigrants a year to Canada's population would increase the GDP by 2.3 percent. Moreover, the increase in population would create demands for goods and services, particularly housing.
Fang also said that increased immigration would add $14 billion in tax revenue for the government.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
UK immigration announces changes to Tier 4 student visas
UK immigration has announced a number of changes to the Tier 4 student visa category. There will be new accreditation criteria for sponsors and tougher English language requirements. An outline of the changes is included below:
21 April 2011 Changes:
New sponsors will need to meet new educational accreditation criteria in order to be issued a Tier 4 licence.
There will be interim limit on the number of students that can be sponsored unless the sponsor meets the following requirements:
hold Highly Trusted Sponsor status; and
meet the new accreditation criteria.
B rated sponsors will only be able to assign CAS to complete a course.
There will be tougher English language requirements for Tier 4 (General) students:
a B1 Secure English Language Test (SELT) requirement for all courses at NQF 3-5/QCF 3-5 / SCQF 6-8 (ending the current SELT exemptions on pre-sessionals pathway /foundation degree courses);
a B2 SELT requirement for courses at NQF 6 /QCF 6 / SQCF 9 and above
Higher educational institutions will be allowed to make their own assessment.
Normally a CAS may only be issued in respect of a single course, except in a situation where you are attending a pre-sessional course of not more than three months' duration and you have an unconditional offer of a place at a higher education institution or at an independent school starting not more than one month after the end of the pre-sessional course.
July 2011 Changes:
If you are a Sponsor you will have to vouch for academic progression for students changing course, where the new course is not a step up the NQF/ QCF / SCQF scale.
If you are a student applying for a visa you will need to declare at the visa application stage that you hold and will continue to hold the required maintenance funds to support yourself and pay the course fees.
If you are a Student from a designated low-risk nationalities attending courses at Highly Trusted Sponsors you will you will not necessarily have to show documents normally asked for other students relating to maintenance and educational qualifications.
You will only be allowed to work during your studies if you are at an higher education institutions or publicly funded further education colleges.
You will only be allowed to sponsor dependents if you are a new student studying at a higher education institution on a course on NQF 7 / QCF 7 / SQCF 11 or above lasting 12 months or more.
Your dependants will be able to work.
April 2012 Changes:
All sponsors must have reached Highly Trusted Sponsor Status.
The interim limit will be extended if you are an existing sponsor and have acquired HTS status but not met the new educational accreditation requirements.
Courses offering work placements will have to have a study:work ratio of 66:33 except at higher education institutions.
You will normally only be allowed a maximum time of five years in Tier 4 studying at degree level and above; There will be exceptions for some courses and for PhD students.
The Tier 1 Post Study Work visa will end.
There will be new provisions for Student entrepreneurs.
End of 2012 Changes:
If you are a sponsors you will need to meet the new educational accreditation criteria to be able to sponsor new students.
21 April 2011 Changes:
New sponsors will need to meet new educational accreditation criteria in order to be issued a Tier 4 licence.
There will be interim limit on the number of students that can be sponsored unless the sponsor meets the following requirements:
hold Highly Trusted Sponsor status; and
meet the new accreditation criteria.
B rated sponsors will only be able to assign CAS to complete a course.
There will be tougher English language requirements for Tier 4 (General) students:
a B1 Secure English Language Test (SELT) requirement for all courses at NQF 3-5/QCF 3-5 / SCQF 6-8 (ending the current SELT exemptions on pre-sessionals pathway /foundation degree courses);
a B2 SELT requirement for courses at NQF 6 /QCF 6 / SQCF 9 and above
Higher educational institutions will be allowed to make their own assessment.
Normally a CAS may only be issued in respect of a single course, except in a situation where you are attending a pre-sessional course of not more than three months' duration and you have an unconditional offer of a place at a higher education institution or at an independent school starting not more than one month after the end of the pre-sessional course.
July 2011 Changes:
If you are a Sponsor you will have to vouch for academic progression for students changing course, where the new course is not a step up the NQF/ QCF / SCQF scale.
If you are a student applying for a visa you will need to declare at the visa application stage that you hold and will continue to hold the required maintenance funds to support yourself and pay the course fees.
If you are a Student from a designated low-risk nationalities attending courses at Highly Trusted Sponsors you will you will not necessarily have to show documents normally asked for other students relating to maintenance and educational qualifications.
You will only be allowed to work during your studies if you are at an higher education institutions or publicly funded further education colleges.
You will only be allowed to sponsor dependents if you are a new student studying at a higher education institution on a course on NQF 7 / QCF 7 / SQCF 11 or above lasting 12 months or more.
Your dependants will be able to work.
April 2012 Changes:
All sponsors must have reached Highly Trusted Sponsor Status.
The interim limit will be extended if you are an existing sponsor and have acquired HTS status but not met the new educational accreditation requirements.
Courses offering work placements will have to have a study:work ratio of 66:33 except at higher education institutions.
You will normally only be allowed a maximum time of five years in Tier 4 studying at degree level and above; There will be exceptions for some courses and for PhD students.
The Tier 1 Post Study Work visa will end.
There will be new provisions for Student entrepreneurs.
End of 2012 Changes:
If you are a sponsors you will need to meet the new educational accreditation criteria to be able to sponsor new students.
H-1B visas should be easier to obtain say business leaders
IEEE-USA which is usually in favour of tough immigration controls together with the Semiconductor Industry Association has made a statement supporting changes to the foreign worker program. The open letter to the Judiciary Committee said the following:
From 1 April 2011 you can again apply for an H-1B visa. However, the earliest employment start date is 1 October 2011.
Recently Business leaders asked a congressional subcommittee to reduce the amount of red tape required to obtain an H-1B visa. However an academic claimed that the H-1B visa program makes it easier for employers to hire cheaper foreign labor.
"As you may know, SIA and IEEE-USA have for some time been at odds over portions of the H-1B program and its administration," …. "Currently 50 percent of master's and 70 percent of Ph.D. graduates in electrical and electronic engineering from U.S. universities are foreign nationals. These highly talented individuals should be able to get permanent resident status (green cards) in an expedited manner, rather than having to wait from 5-10 years as many do under the current system. ... SIA and IEEE-USA support immediate action by the Congress to retain these graduates as legal permanent residents."
It is hoped that in future the expense and paperwork required to obtain an H-1B visa will be greatly reduced. It is unusual that both business groups and "pro-labor" groups have come together in support of reform of the H-1B visa system. With both sides working together it may turn out to be easier to reform the system.
From 1 April 2011 you can again apply for an H-1B visa. However, the earliest employment start date is 1 October 2011.
Recently Business leaders asked a congressional subcommittee to reduce the amount of red tape required to obtain an H-1B visa. However an academic claimed that the H-1B visa program makes it easier for employers to hire cheaper foreign labor.
"As you may know, SIA and IEEE-USA have for some time been at odds over portions of the H-1B program and its administration," …. "Currently 50 percent of master's and 70 percent of Ph.D. graduates in electrical and electronic engineering from U.S. universities are foreign nationals. These highly talented individuals should be able to get permanent resident status (green cards) in an expedited manner, rather than having to wait from 5-10 years as many do under the current system. ... SIA and IEEE-USA support immediate action by the Congress to retain these graduates as legal permanent residents."
It is hoped that in future the expense and paperwork required to obtain an H-1B visa will be greatly reduced. It is unusual that both business groups and "pro-labor" groups have come together in support of reform of the H-1B visa system. With both sides working together it may turn out to be easier to reform the system.
Tier 2 Visa - Major changes from 6 April 2011
Tier 2 Visa changes include the following:
All immigrants wishing entry to the UK must be filling a graduate level position. You do not necessarily need to have an academic position. However, you will need to show that you have the right level of skills for the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC). Following recommendations from the Migration Advisory Committee 71 occupations can no longer come under the Tier 2 visa scheme. UK immigration considers that these occupations are below "graduate level". This will be relevant both for Tier 2 (General) and Tier 2 (ICT) applications.
The UKBA also published a revised List of Shortage Occupations, 8 occupations were removed from the list where it was decided there is no longer a shortage of skills.
Tier 2 General Visa Changes:
Over a period of a year from 6 April 2011 to 5 April 2011 there will be an annual limit of 20,700 visas. This will apply to restricted Certificates of Sponsorship. Unrestricted Certificates of Sponsorship will apply in the following cases:
If you were previously sponsored under Tier 2 (General) or as a Work Permit holder on or before 5 April 2011 and wish to extend your visa;
If you wish to move to a different employer;
If you have an annual salary of GBP150,000 or more;
If you wish to switch immigration category from Tier 1 PSW or Tier 1 General categories to Tier 2 Visa.
In April 2011 4,200 certificates of sponsorship will be available. After the first month 1,500 certificates of sponsorship will be available per month until 5 April 2012.
You will as a Sponsor be able to request 'restricted' CoS up to three months before the start date. The certificates of sponsorship will be allocated on the 11th of each month.
Tier 2 Intra Company Transfer changes
From 6 April 2011 there will two new sub-categories of Tier 2 Intra Company Transfer (ICT). Below are further details of the two Tier 2 (ICT) subcategories:
For stays of up to Four years:
Tier 2 (ICT) is available for graduate level employees for a period exceeding 12 months, up to a maximum 60 months in total.
The job the migrant will do must be at a graduate level or above with a minimum salary of £40,000 per annum.
You will granted a Tier 2 Visa for a period of 3 years and 4 months. This visa category will not lead to settlement (permanent residence) in the UK.
For stays of up to twelve months:
The Tier 2 (ICT) Visa in this situation is available again only for graduate level positions with a minimum salary of £24,000.
You will granted a Tier 2 Visa for a period of up to twelve months. This visa category will not lead to settlement (permanent residence) in the UK.
If you will be earning £40,000 per annum you may be able to apply for a longer term Tier 2 (ICT) visa.
English Language Requirements Tier 2 (General) Visa
The English language requirements from 6 April 2011 for Tier 2 General applicants have been increased from basic to intermediate level. This is level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. The English language requirements for Tier 2 Intra-Company Transfer are unchanged.
All immigrants wishing entry to the UK must be filling a graduate level position. You do not necessarily need to have an academic position. However, you will need to show that you have the right level of skills for the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC). Following recommendations from the Migration Advisory Committee 71 occupations can no longer come under the Tier 2 visa scheme. UK immigration considers that these occupations are below "graduate level". This will be relevant both for Tier 2 (General) and Tier 2 (ICT) applications.
The UKBA also published a revised List of Shortage Occupations, 8 occupations were removed from the list where it was decided there is no longer a shortage of skills.
Tier 2 General Visa Changes:
Over a period of a year from 6 April 2011 to 5 April 2011 there will be an annual limit of 20,700 visas. This will apply to restricted Certificates of Sponsorship. Unrestricted Certificates of Sponsorship will apply in the following cases:
If you were previously sponsored under Tier 2 (General) or as a Work Permit holder on or before 5 April 2011 and wish to extend your visa;
If you wish to move to a different employer;
If you have an annual salary of GBP150,000 or more;
If you wish to switch immigration category from Tier 1 PSW or Tier 1 General categories to Tier 2 Visa.
In April 2011 4,200 certificates of sponsorship will be available. After the first month 1,500 certificates of sponsorship will be available per month until 5 April 2012.
You will as a Sponsor be able to request 'restricted' CoS up to three months before the start date. The certificates of sponsorship will be allocated on the 11th of each month.
Tier 2 Intra Company Transfer changes
From 6 April 2011 there will two new sub-categories of Tier 2 Intra Company Transfer (ICT). Below are further details of the two Tier 2 (ICT) subcategories:
For stays of up to Four years:
Tier 2 (ICT) is available for graduate level employees for a period exceeding 12 months, up to a maximum 60 months in total.
The job the migrant will do must be at a graduate level or above with a minimum salary of £40,000 per annum.
You will granted a Tier 2 Visa for a period of 3 years and 4 months. This visa category will not lead to settlement (permanent residence) in the UK.
For stays of up to twelve months:
The Tier 2 (ICT) Visa in this situation is available again only for graduate level positions with a minimum salary of £24,000.
You will granted a Tier 2 Visa for a period of up to twelve months. This visa category will not lead to settlement (permanent residence) in the UK.
If you will be earning £40,000 per annum you may be able to apply for a longer term Tier 2 (ICT) visa.
English Language Requirements Tier 2 (General) Visa
The English language requirements from 6 April 2011 for Tier 2 General applicants have been increased from basic to intermediate level. This is level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. The English language requirements for Tier 2 Intra-Company Transfer are unchanged.
Some UK Government Visa fees will more than double from 6 April 2011. This will affect non-EU nationals who wish to live, work or study in the UK. UK employers and educational institutions will also have to pay higher UK sponsorship fees.
Some of the changes to UK visa fees are as follows:
A number of same day PEO applications for dependents made from within the UK will double in price or more than double in price.
Tier 1 Visas made from within the UK will go up from £850 to £1,000.
Short term student visas for periods of less than twelve months will double from £70 to £140.
Settlement visas for dependent relatives will be even more expensive going up from £1,680 to £1,814.
Most other UK visa fees will also increase. However, the increases will generally not be more than about five to twenty percent in most other cases. For example a Tier 2 postal application will increase in price from £500 to £550.
Damian Green the immigration minister had the following to say:
"The fees allow us to generate revenue which is used to fund the UK immigration system and to set certain fees below cost recovery to support wider government objectives. The revenue generated will contribute towards securing our Borders and controlling migration for the benefit of the UK.
"Given the need to reduce public spending, we have had to carefully consider our fee levels, to ensure we can maintain good service levels to our customers and secure the border for the general public."
It seems that UK immigration is again targeting dependents when it comes to UK visa fee increases. The UK has some of the highest immigration visa fees in the World.
It remains to be seen whether these visa fee increases will help the Government fund the UK immigration system and improve border security. The increase in visa fees is likely to put off some people from coming to the UK. The problem is that it may put off people who are actually needed by the UK economy to deal with skills shortages.
Some of the changes to UK visa fees are as follows:
A number of same day PEO applications for dependents made from within the UK will double in price or more than double in price.
Tier 1 Visas made from within the UK will go up from £850 to £1,000.
Short term student visas for periods of less than twelve months will double from £70 to £140.
Settlement visas for dependent relatives will be even more expensive going up from £1,680 to £1,814.
Most other UK visa fees will also increase. However, the increases will generally not be more than about five to twenty percent in most other cases. For example a Tier 2 postal application will increase in price from £500 to £550.
Damian Green the immigration minister had the following to say:
"The fees allow us to generate revenue which is used to fund the UK immigration system and to set certain fees below cost recovery to support wider government objectives. The revenue generated will contribute towards securing our Borders and controlling migration for the benefit of the UK.
"Given the need to reduce public spending, we have had to carefully consider our fee levels, to ensure we can maintain good service levels to our customers and secure the border for the general public."
It seems that UK immigration is again targeting dependents when it comes to UK visa fee increases. The UK has some of the highest immigration visa fees in the World.
It remains to be seen whether these visa fee increases will help the Government fund the UK immigration system and improve border security. The increase in visa fees is likely to put off some people from coming to the UK. The problem is that it may put off people who are actually needed by the UK economy to deal with skills shortages.
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