If you’ve been dreaming of exploring Australia while working and studying, now is the time! Australia has recently launched a fantastic initiative that gives 1,000 young Indian citizens (aged 18–30) the chance to work and holiday in the country for up to a year.
This is part of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA), and it marks India’s official entry into Australia’s popular Working Holiday Maker Programme. Announced by Matt Thistlethwaite, Australia’s Assistant Minister for Immigration, India became the 50th country to join this program on September 16, 2024.
Starting from October 1, 2024, the program allows successful applicants to:
1. Work and holiday in Australia for up to 12 months.
2. Engage in short-term studies.
3. If eligible, apply for a second visa for another year.
This program has been praised for strengthening the social and economic connections between India and Australia. It’s a great opportunity to gain international work experience, explore the beauty of Australia, and immerse yourself in a new culture.
Application Process: The application window is October 1 to October 31, 2024. To apply, Indian citizens must register through a visa pre-application ballot. The first round of selections chosen through a computerized random process will take place between October 14, 2024, and April 30, 2025.
This initiative underscores the expanding partnership between India and Australia, with over 40,000 applications already submitted.
Don’t miss this chance to start a new chapter of your life in Australia!
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Croatia’s decision to step towards enhancing its appeal to foreign workers is by extending the time of residence and work permits from one year to three years. This reflects their dedication to cultivating a more stable and efficient workforce, showing Croatia wants to nurture its economic landscape. The end goal is not just addressing labour shortages but to also foster a more resilient and sustainable economic environment.
There Are Currently 143,000 Foreign Workers Employed in Croatia. According to Minister Piletić, the majority of foreign workers come from non-EU countries, with them accounting for 12,000 in Croatia at the moment. This new policy brings a much-needed sense of stability and security for foreign workers in Croatia. For example, a skilled professional from India, previously bound by short-term permits, can now map a longer and more secure future here. This will allow deeper integration into the local community, such as buying property or investing in the local economy. This increased balance will benefit both the workers and the economic system.
Along with extending work permits, Croatia is also committed to improvement of the living conditions of foreign workers. The government is focusing on providing better housing options, better administrative processes, and fostering a more warm atmosphere for foreign nationals. They realize that a satisfied workforce is a productive one, they boost overall economic growth and social adherence.
The result of these changes is significant for Croatia’s future. A more diverse and skilled workforce will bring together a stronger, more efficient economy. Croatia is attracting global talent by positioning itself as an attractive work destination for skilled professionals. This will enrich the country’s cultural fabric and spur international cooperation.
Impact on the Local Labor Market: While some may fear that foreign workers could displace local jobs, Croatia’s strategy is geared towards addressing specific labor shortages and complementing the domestic workforce rather than replacing it.
Economic Benefits: The extension of work permits is anticipated to enhance economic growth by boosting productivity and drawing increased investment into the country.
Cultural Enrichment: A more diverse population will bring cultural vibrancy to Croatia, fostering greater international understanding and helping to build a more inclusive society.
Challenges and Opportunities: Implementing this policy will require careful consideration of potential challenges, such as language barriers and cultural integration, but it also presents opportunities for growth and development.
Croatia’s strategic move of extending the work permits from one to three years will aim to set out long-term economic and social benefits. With the offer of better security and improved living conditions for foreign workers, Croatia is not only solving immediate labour needs but also making a way for a bigger, brighter and more inclusive future.
Should you have any questions or need further clarification about Croatia’s new visa policy, we are here to assist you.
Canada has decided to put stricter regulations on its Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Programme starting September 26, 2024. The changes will mainly focus on low-wage positions; the businesses will now be limited to filling only 10% of their workforce with foreign workers, down from the previous 20%. This significant shift has come from 2022, when this cap was increased to tackle labour shortages during the pandemic.
The TFW Programme works as a temporary solution for businesses that are not able to find qualified Canadian workers. This has allowed companies to employ foreign workers on short-term contracts, which typically last for up to two years. Employers must prove their efforts to hire Canadians before turning to foreign labour.
This decision to lower the cap on hiring low-wage foreign workers originated from the increasing unemployment rate in Canada, reaching 6.4%. The rate that is most concerning is for the younger workers, reaching 14.2%. This programme helped issue 240,000 permits in 2023 alone, which is nearly double from 2021. This leads to raising concerns around the availability of jobs for Canadian citizens.
The new rules will introduce the following restrictions:
Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, asserted that these restrictions are to prioritize Canadian workers and make the TFW Programme meet the needs of the Canadian economy.
Wages for a low-wage foreign workforce in Canada differ according to the province and industry. As of 2024, the typical range falls between CAD 13 and CAD 19 hourly. For instance:
Ontario: CAD 16.55 per hour, which will increase to CAD 17.20 per hour on October 1, 2024.
British Columbia: CAD 17.40 per hour from June 1, 2024.
Nunavut: CAD 19.00 per hour as of January 1, 2024
In comparison to the U.S., these wages are slightly higher but lower in countries like the UK, New Zealand, and Australia.
The TFW Programme has come under critical light for fostering worker exploitation. A UN report by Tomoya Obokata has described it as a “”breeding ground for contemporary forms of slavery,” naming underpayment, wage theft, exceeding work hours and other abuses.
The exact number of Indian workers currently in Canada under this programme is unclear but India is most definitely a prominent contributor to this programme. 26,495 Indian nationals participated in 2023.
These restrictions are in place to balance the needs of the Canadian workforce while handling the concerns regarding the exploitation of foreign workers.
If you have any questions, Irish Expert is here to answer them and clear your doubts. Our team is always ready to assist you with personalized guidance.
Ireland’s new Employment Permits Act, effective September 2, 2024, represents a prominent advancement in its immigration policy. It brings together and modernizes the work permit process for non-EU citizens. This act showcases significant benefits for both employers and workers, increasing flexibility and efficiency in the labour market.
Access to Skilled Talent: Attract skilled workers globally, acknowledge critical skill gaps and drive innovation.
Reduced Administrative Burden: Simplified procedures save time and resources.
Flexibility in Hiring: Seasonal workers and employee mobility offer greater staffing flexibility.
Career Advancement: More opportunities for growth and development.
Job Security: The ability to switch employers enhances job security and flexibility.
Improved Working Conditions: Enhanced protection of workers’ rights and fair working conditions.
Talent Attraction: Expected to draw skilled workers, boosting economic growth and competitiveness.
Sectoral Support: Seasonal permits aid sectors with labor shortages.
Increased Innovation: A diverse workforce can urge creativity and innovation.
The new Employment Permits Act is a commendable effort from Ireland to attract and retain international talent, which will leave a positive impact on the economy and society.
Want to know more or need assistance? Get in touch with Irish Expert. Our immigration lawyers will help and guide you through the entire process with ease.
Addressing the Embassy Education Conference held at King’s College London on July 23, 2024, Secretary of State for Education Bridget Phillipson reassured dignitaries from over 100 countries about the UK’s welcoming stance towards international students. She stated, “Be in no doubt: international students are welcome in the UK. This new government values their contribution—to our universities, to our communities, to our country.”
Ms. Phillipson emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnership between universities, highlighting the UK’s commitment to international students. She remarked, “The more we work together, the more progress we will see in the world—partners in the push for better. Closed systems that only look inward quickly run out of ideas. Creativity crumbles, innovation dies… But through our international partners, we can reach out across the world and bring back a freshness of thought that breathes new life into our society.”
Highlighting the bravery of international students, she added: “That includes our universities, and it includes international students. They move to a new culture, far away from their homes and their families. They take a leap of faith. And I am enormously proud that so many want to take that leap here in the UK. And we will do everything we can to help them succeed.”
She concluded by confirming that the Graduate Visa, which allows international students to stay in the UK for two years after their studies (three for PhD graduates) to work and contribute, is being retained in its current form. She also said, “While this government is committed to managing migration carefully, international students will always be welcome in this country. The UK wouldn’t be the same without them.”
This news, henceforth, brings a wave of relief to all the international students planning their academic future in the UK.
If you’re also looking to study in the UK, get in touch with Irish Expert. Our experienced counsellors will guide you and ensure success in the future endeavors you want to plan in the UK.
The question of whether British and Irish citizens need permission to reside in each other’s countries has been a recurring concern, especially in the post-Brexit era. This confusion is understandable given the significant changes Brexit has brought to travel and residency regulations. Let’s delve into the details to clear up any misconceptions.
Travel between the UK and the Eurozone has seen many changes post-Brexit, significantly impacting the movement of goods, services, and people. However, the dynamic between the UK and Ireland has largely remained untouched, although confusion about travel between these two countries persists.
British and Irish citizens can still travel, work, study, and live freely in each other’s countries, even after Brexit. Here’s why:
1.The Common Travel Area (CTA): The CTA, which pre-dates EU membership, allows free movement for citizens of both countries. This agreement ensures that British and Irish citizens can move freely between the two countries.
2.Government Commitment: Both the UK and Irish governments confirmed their commitment to the CTA in 2019, ensuring that Brexit would not affect the long-standing arrangement.
3.Special Immigration Rights: Irish and UK immigration laws grant special rights to each other’s citizens, allowing them to move freely between the two countries without the need for additional documentation.
1.No Visa Required: British and Irish citizens do not need a visa, passport stamp, or any special permission to travel between Ireland and the UK.
2.Freedom of Movement: You can move freely between the two countries without the need for extensive documentation. While you may be asked to show an ID, no special entry documents are required when traveling by land.
1.Citizenship Requirement: The ease of travel and residency applies only to British and Irish citizens. If you are not a citizen of either country, you may need permission to enter.
2.Restrictions: There are limitations for citizens who have deportation orders or travel bans.
British and Irish citizens can enjoy the ease of travel between Ireland and the UK, continuing to benefit from the longstanding Common Travel Area arrangement. Therefore, the freedom of movement between these two countries remains intact post-Brexit.
If you wish to ask any question or plan to make the move, get in touch with Irish Expert. Our qualified immigration lawyers and in-house visa team can assist you in making an informed decision. So, whether you’re planning to move, work, or simply visit, rest assured, we are here for you.
As beautiful as Ireland is as a destination, its non-EU General Employment Permit holders (mostly parents and/or spouses) are struggling to reunite with their families (mostly children) here while applying for dependent visas. Let’s explore why in detail:
Firstly, there is an obligatory two-year waiting period that allows the sponsorship of dependents, which is practically a long period of time for those eager to be with their families or are away from their children.
Then comes the essential challenge that hinders the families from reuniting. The minimum income requirement for sponsorship fluctuates often. This inconsistency obstructs the long-term financial planning and stability that are needed to bring your loved ones together. To add to this, the gap between the average earnings of working individuals and the set income thresholds creates financial strain. The threshold is higher than individuals earn on average, which makes it difficult to apply for a dependent visa for their spouse and/or children.
The Irish embassies exercise limited discretion when it comes to the number of dependents or children. This results in rigid limitations, which are essentially keeping the parents and their children apart due to rigid limitations on family sizes.
However, we could still hope for a change. If the processes become streamlined, more fixated regulations would alleviate burdens and facilitate easier family reunions.
Amidst this ever-changing landscape of regulations, the application process can become lengthy and overwhelming. It needs keen attention-to-detail and a deep understanding of these shifting requirements.
Irish Expert empowers individuals with the knowledge needed to navigate the current Irish visa systems. Our qualified immigration lawyers and our in-house expert visa team are vigilant about these regulatory shifts and recommend seeking guidance from our end for up-to-date support throughout the process.
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Recent revisions to the UK spouse visa financial requirements are interfering with couples reuniting. The updated criteria, which increased from the previous threshold of ₤18,600 to ₤29,000, will further increase to ₤34,500 and then to ₤38,700 by 2025. This poses significant challenges and complicates the process for partners seeking to build their lives together in the United Kingdom.
Love is beyond borders, yet bureaucratic barriers are now hindering couples from reuniting in the UK. The heightened financial thresholds are creating unnecessary obstacles, leaving many struggling to meet the strict criteria set by the government.
Navigating the journey of a UK spouse visa, once straightforward, now burdens couples with addressing complex financial demands. Acquiring this huge amount can be a distressing task, which additionally hampers their prospects of reunification.
These changes do not only affect the couples financially but they also cast a shadow of doubt over the possibility of building their lives in the UK.
As we witness the toll of UK spouse visa financial requirements on couples on their journey to a new chapter in the UK, we extend our support and guidance to them. Our top immigration lawyers and our in-house team of visa experts bridge this gap and ensure their journey reaches their beautiful destination.
Reduced to 5 years
On April 18, 2024, the European Commission implemented new guidelines for awarding multiple-entry visas to Indian people, making the process easier than before. Under the new rules, Indian nationals can get long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after obtaining and lawfully using two visas in the previous three years.
This decision seeks to strengthen collaboration under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility by encouraging person-to-person contacts. Schengen visas allow for brief visits of up to 90 days in the Schengen area without a specific purpose, but they do not discuss employment rights.
The Schengen Area consists of 26 European countries, including 25 EU member states, namely Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
Now that Indian nationals can get their hands on the Schengen visa with longer validity as well, this is the right time to apply for it. Don’t let this opportunity go to waste.
You now have the chance to explore all of these breathtaking destinations with a freer mind, hassle-free. Get in touch with our qualified immigration lawyers at Irish Expert and increase your chances of visa approval, worry-free.
Reduced to 5 years
The UK Government has announced that UK eVisas are going to replace the immigration paperwork by 2025. Pretty exciting, right?
The United Kingdom is set to gradually phase out the physical biometric immigration cards, including Biometric Residence Permits (BRP) and Biometric Residence Cards (BRC), following their initiative to create a digital border.
Now, instead of physical cards or in-passport vignettes, the applicants will get their visas verified online, which will serve as proof of their immigration status.
The eVisas will also be linked with their passports and/or other travel documents as required.
The applicants must remember to update or create the official UKVI or UK Visa and Immigrations account that will hold their eVisa and other important and relevant documents. They can also share your documents with third parties according to their needs. Make sure to keep this account updated, as border control will verify everything through this UKVI account.
If there are any questions or queries, you can reach out to us at Irish Expert. Our qualified immigration lawyers will help you through the process and make this transition easier for you.
Reduced to 5 years
