Aland Wednesday Immigration Update, in Association with GH Legal s.r.o.

ALand Wednesday Immigration Update, in Association with GH Legal s.r.o.

This week’s Aland Immigration Update, brought to you in collaboration with GH Legal s.r.o., provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in global immigration that are shaping policies and opportunities across various countries. Here are the ten most significant updates:

1. United States: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has extended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukrainian and Sudanese nationals through April 2025. This extension allows beneficiaries to apply for extended work permits and relaxes employment rules for students facing economic hardships due to ongoing conflicts (Fragomen).
2. Germany: Germany has revised its EU Blue Card program, which now includes more accessible criteria for highly qualified professionals from non-EU countries. The adjustments focus on making it easier for individuals with relevant experience, even without a degree, to qualify,
3. especially in sectors experiencing labor shortages  (KPMG).
4. Czech Republic: The Czech Republic has introduced a new Digital Nomad Visa, targeting remote workers from select countries. This visa allows IT professionals and those in STEM fields to work from the Czech Republic while being employed elsewhere, reflecting the country's push to attract global talent in the tech industry  (Fragomen).
5. Canada (Québec): Québec’s Investor Program is set to reopen in 2024, offering a pathway for foreign investors willing to make significant financial commitments. This program is aligned with Québec’s goals of attracting skilled talent and promoting economic growth while preserving its cultural heritage  (https://www.expat.com/).
6. Kazakhstan: New work permit regulations in Kazakhstan allow for more flexible employment of foreign workers across multiple regions. This change is part of a broader strategy to meet local labor demands while attracting skilled workers from abroad  (Fragomen).
7. Israel: In Israel, new immigration rules have been introduced for the hotel and construction sectors, allowing foreign workers to stay employed within the same hotel chain nationwide and welcoming 10,000 new workers in the construction industry  (https://www.expat.com/).
8. Montenegro: Montenegro has launched a Digital Nomad Permit, offering remote workers the opportunity to stay in the country for up to four years. This initiative is aimed at attracting tech professionals who can contribute to the local economy while working remotely  (Fragomen).
9. Ireland: Ireland is set to stop accepting applications for the Stamp 4 letter of support from November 2023. This decision will impact non-EU nationals seeking long-term residency, particularly those on critical skills employment permits  (https://www.expat.com/).
10. South Korea: The expansion of South Korea’s E-9 visa program now includes the catering industry, providing new employment opportunities for foreign workers. This move is part of a broader effort to support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises in the country  (https://www.expat.com/).
11. Brazil/Japan: A new reciprocal visa waiver agreement has been announced between Brazil and Japan, simplifying travel between the two countries. This agreement is expected to strengthen business and cultural ties, benefiting citizens of both nations  (Fragomen).

These updates highlight the dynamic nature of immigration policies worldwide, as countries continue to adapt to global trends and labor market needs. Stay tuned for more weekly insights from Åland in collaboration with GH Legal s.r.o.