Canadian immigration Temporary worker visa 

restrictions lifted

Edited by Sanwar Ali

Written by Daniel Waldron and Sanwar Ali

The Canadian federal government has paved the way for firms to recruit more foreign workers following the removal of certain restrictions placed on temporary seasonal workers from overseas under the Canadian Temporary Foreign worker program. The decision has come as a relief to some Canadian companies, especially those in the country's seafood processing sector.

Under the previous Conservative government, a cap was placed on the percentage of an employer's workforce that could be staffed with low-wage, foreign workers on temporary Canadian work visas. The cap currently stands at 20 per cent of an employer's workforce, which is set to be reduced on July 1, 2016 to 10 per cent.

In February, the new Liberal government exempted seasonal industries, which employ workers for a maximum of 180 days, from the cap. Despite the exemption, employers are still required to undergo a labour market assessment for each job role to confirm that any vacancy cannot be filled locally. Yet, for 2016, there will be no ceiling on the number of overseas workers employers can bring in under the programme.

Sanwar Ali, Editor of workpermit.com News had the following comments to make:

There are various Canadian immigration schemes such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class that are permanent residence categories. However, lower skilled overseas workers are unlikely to be able to come under these schemes. These Canadian skilled immigration programs are mainly for professional level people or skilled tradespeople.

Temporary Foreign Worker Programme needs to change

MaryAnn Mihychuk, Canada's employment minister, said in a written statement: "We have heard from groups across Canada that the Temporary Foreign Worker Programme needs to change, including from businesses. A small number of businesses in certain sectors tell us they need more flexibility to meet their workforce needs."

"In February, we granted a one-time extension to help these businesses meet their workforce needs, just as the previous government did: and we will finally address the underlying issues," she added.

The decision by the federal government to ease restrictions placed on temporary seasonal workers came amid mounting pressure from Atlantic seafood processors. They had been lobbying the government to allow them to recruit more workers from overseas.

Executive director of the Prince Edward Island Seafood Processors Association, Dennis King, said that a deal had been struck at the end of March, following a meeting between the Maritime Seafood Coalition and government officials in Ottawa.

Lifting the visa cap not a 'long-term' solution

Despite cap restrictions being lifted, workers' groups across Atlantic Canada say that 'tinkering with the number of temporary foreign workers admitted into Canada for seasonal labour fails to fix underlying problems around unsustainable business practises.'

Unifor, the New Brunswick Federation of Labour and the Fish and the Food and Allied Workers' Union in Newfoundland and Labrador, voiced concerns about the temporary seasonal workers' program following the decision to lift the cap.

Atlantic regional director for Unifor, Lana Payne, said: "I urge the government to consider how the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) is impacting the labour force and wider economy. When you give employers a cheap path to being able to access cheap labour that then prevents them from perhaps modernizing the industry."

Figures from a 2014 government report reveal that employers hired 12,162 workers via the TFWP in 2013. According to the report, at least one in five of those employers had a workforce which had more than 30 per cent of their workforce consisting of temporary foreign workers. Firms with over 50 per cent foreign workers in their staff accounted for 9.2 per cent of employers utilising the program that year.

The report stated: "These numbers clearly show that the TFWP is no longer being used as it was intended to be used -- as a last and limited resort to allow employers to bring foreign workers to Canada on a temporary basis to fill jobs for which Canadians are not available."

President of the New Brunswick Federation of Labour, Patrick Colford, said: "A strategy that allows for a pathway to immigration for temporary workers will be more beneficial to seasonal industries and its workers -- both local and foreign."

There's expected to be a government review of the TFWP program later in 2016.

Source-http://www.workpermit.com/

Japanese immigration needs immigrant workers

Edited by Sanwar Ali

Written by Daniel Waldron and Sanwar Ali

Japan is desperate to attract more foreign workers, as it trys to cope with an ageing workforce population. Policymakers in Japan are 'exploring ways to bring in more workers from overseas without calling it immigration policy,' according to a report published by Reuters.

Immigration is a delicate subject in Japan, where Conservatives value cultural uniformity and politicians fear losing votes from workers concerned about losing their jobs. However, amid a tight labour force and a workforce that's continually shrinking, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's policy team and lawmakers are seriously considering, what they describe as, 'the politically controversial option.'

Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)

On Tuesday, 26 April, leading members of a ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) panel, outlined plans to expand the type of jobs available to overseas workers and double foreign worker numbers from approximately 1 million to 2 million.

In an interview with Reuters, Takeshi Noda, an adviser to the LDP panel stated: "Domestically, there is a big allergy to immigration. As a politician, one must be aware of that."

In the US, the xenophobic Donald Trump has turned immigration into a massive election issue. Japan's immigration history is virtually non-existent with a population that is anti-immigration, which potentially makes ethnic and cultural diversity more of an issue in Japan compared with other nations. In addition, according to the Reuters report, mass migration issues in Europe, does affect the way the Japanese perceive immigration.

Immigration proposals put forward 10 years ago

10 years ago, LDP lawmakers presented similar immigration proposals, which came to nothing. Fast forward 10 years and the labour crisis has deepened, while demographic forecasts have grown increasingly bleak.

Japan has witnessed an economic upturn since Abe took office in December 2012, occurring as a result of rebuilding work in 2011 following the tsunami, plus a boom in construction prior to the 2020 Olympics set to take place in Tokyo. These projects have propelled labour demand in Japan to its highest in 24 years.

While this has contributed to the growth of foreign worker numbers by 40 per cent since 2013, with Chinese nationals making up over one-third of that percentage and closely followed by Brazilian, Filipino and Vietnamese nationals, Japan's visa restrictions mean that overseas workers only account for 1.4 per cent of the country's workforce.

International Monetary Fund (IMF) research shows that nations with advanced economies have a foreign workforce of 5 per cent or more. Japan's lack of overseas workers is largely attributed to its visa restrictions imposed on unskilled workers.

New immigration measures

Currently, measures to increase the number of foreign workers arriving in Japan are focusing on simplifying the entry process for skilled professionals, while expanding its 'trainee' system. However, critics of the trainee system, which was designed to share technology with developing nations, say that it has become a 'backdoor entry for cheap labour.'

On this occasion, proposals put forward by LDP panel leaders extend further to include the acceptance of foreign workers into other industry sectors facing labour shortages, such as nursing and farming – for an initial duration of 5 years, with the possibility of visa renewal.

Additionally, they've put forward the idea of creating a framework, which would see the number of overseas workers doubled. However, highlighting the delicateness of the issue and prior to an upper house election in July, Yoshio Mimura – chief of the LDP panel said: "The proposal should not be misconstrued as an 'immigration policy'. Steps are needed to offset any negative impact on jobs and public safety."

Anti-Immigration and Xenophobic attitudes in Japan

Following an intense debate, in which one lawmaker said the plan would 'leave Japan in tatters,' members accepted that any decision to revise the proposals would rest with panel organisers. Yet, experts say that changes are inevitable irrespective of the 'semantics.'

Former Tokyo Immigration Bureau chief, Hidenori Sakanaka, said: "The government insists it is not adopting an immigration policy, but whatever the word, faced with a shrinking population, it is changing its former stance and has begun to move toward a real immigration policy."

Two cabinet members have already expressed their support for adopting an 'immigration policy,' while some LDP members also favour the idea. Speaking to Reuters, Seiichiro Murakami – an LDP panel adviser – said: "The fundamental problem of the Japanese economy is that the potential growth rate is low. To raise that, big structural reforms including ... immigration policy are necessary."

Prime Minister Abe's strategy focuses on attracting more women and elderly into the workforce, while aiming to boost Japan's birth rate. Publicly the government does not mention an 'immigration policy.'

However, Yoshihide Suga, the Chief Cabinet Secretary and Abe's right-hand man, told Reuters: "We are seeking to mobilise the power of women and the elderly as much as possible, but at the same time we recognise that the acceptance of foreigners is a major issue."

Suga indicated that future discussions would consider the longer term issue of permanent residence for less-skilled foreigners, but noted that caution was required.

According to the Reuters report, Conservatives are likely to oppose major reforms. For instance, one ex-labour minister commenting on an earlier proposal presented by the LDP panel to let in foreign beauticians, said: "The idea to let in foreign beauticians is fine, provided their customers are foreign, too."

However, Mitsuo Igarashi a hairdresser with four barber chairs in a downtown Tokyo barbershop said: "I want to hire barbers, I don't care where they come from. Japan needs more foreigners."

Source-http://www.workpermit.com/news/2016-05-06/japanese-immigration-needs-immigrant-workers

New To Denmark-The Positive List of 2016 Overview

The Positive List of 2016

Below follows an overview of all job titles on the Positive List, divided into professional fields.

Engineer

1. Mechanical engineer
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor`s degree
2. Production engineer
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor`s degree
3. Building engineer 
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor`s degree
4. Environmental engineer
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor`s degree
5. Energy engineer 
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor's degree
6. Electrical engineer 
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor`s degree
7. IT engineer
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor`s degree

Doctor and dentist

1. Medical consultant 
   Requirement: Master`s degree + Danish authorisation
2. Medical doctor
   Requirement: Master`s degree + Danish authorisation
3. Hospital doctor
   Requirement: Master`s degree + Danish authorisation
4. Consultant doctor/chief physician
   Requirement: Master`s degree + Danish authorisation
5. Dentist
   Requirement: Master's degree + Danish authorisation*

Health, healthcare and personal care

1. Surgical nurse
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor`s degree + Danish authorization
2. Anaesthetic nurse
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor`s degree + Danish authorization
3. Nurse
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor`s degree + Danish authorization
4. Optician
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor's degree + Danish authorisation*

IT and telecommunication

1. IT architect
   Requirement: At least three years` IT education
2. Programmer and systems developer
   Requirement: At least three years` IT education  
3. IT consultant
   Requirement: At least three years` IT education  

Teaching in high schools, seminaries, folk high schools etc.

1. Upper secondary school teacher, natural science and physical education
   Requirement: Master's degree + Danish official recognition*

Teaching in elementary schools

1. Primary and lower secondary school teacher
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor's degree + Danish official recognition*

Educational, social and church work

1. Pedagogue
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor`s degree
2. Social pedagogue
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor`s degree
3. Social worker
   Requirement: Professional Bachelor's degree

Other Academic work

1. Pharmacist
   Requirement: Master`s degree + Danish authorisation
2. Pharmacologist
   Requirement: Master's degree
3. Auditor
   Requirement: Master's degree
4. Business controller
   Requirement: At least three years` education at university level or business school level
5. Financial controller
   Requirement: At least three years` education at university level or business school level
6. Attorney
   Requirement: Danish Bachelor's and Master's degree + Danish official recognition*
7. Legal counselor
   Requirement: Master`s degree
8. Source-http://www.abhinav.com/denmark-immigration/positive-list.aspx

Medical Permits For South Africa

Medical Permits For South Africa

South Africa has state of the art medical specialists and facilities, some of which are among the best in the world. It is therefore no surprise that foreigners may come to South Africa for the purpose of medical treatments.

Due to the excellent exchange rate which is another factor which comes into play, medical permits for South Africa are extremely popular. Today we would like to share with you some valuable and useful information with regard to medical permits for South Africa.

What is a medical permit?

Firstly for the sake of clarity it is important to understand that it is commonly referred to as ‘medical treatment visas‘. Medical permits for South Africa are issued to foreigners who are intending to visit the country for the purpose of undergoing medical treatment.

What are the most requirements for a medical permit?

• A letter from your registered medical practitioner or medical institution within South Africa, confirming:
  • That space is available at the medical institution for your continued treatment.
  • The estimated costs of the continued treatment.
  • The treatment schedule and period.
  • Details of the continued treatment.
  • The details of, and confirmation by, the person or institution responsible for the medical expenses and hospital fees. Where a medical scheme or employer is not liable for the expenses incurred, you must prove that funds are available to cover medical costs.
  • The personal details of any person or persons accompanying you.

Are you allowed to work while you on medical permits for South Africa?

The answer is no, you are not allowed to work at all on a medical permit. You are also not entitled to apply for work while you are in South Africa on medical permit.

How do I prove that I have funds available to support myself?

You will need to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself financially during your stay in the country. The proof of these funds needs to be submitted with your visa application.

Getting help with your visa or permit application

We welcome the opportunity to consult with you as to your eligibility for a visa or permit and answer any questions you may have with no obligation.

You can take our free one minute assessment here or request a call back for more information. Or simply call us at +27 (0)21 424 2460.

SOURCE-http://www.intergate-immigration.com/

Visas & Immigration

All visitors to Qatar require a visa, and certain passengers are eligible for visas on arrival. When travelling from Qatar, all expatriate residents, as well as some visitors, must have exit permits. For your own convenience and comfort, it’s best to confirm these requirements before starting your journey.

Arrivals
Important information for passengers arriving at Hamad International Airport.

Using your e-gate card
If you have a valid e-gate card, then please proceed directly to the e-gate area. This is located towards your right-hand side as you approach the passport control area (map).

Visa on arrival

• For detailed information regarding entry visas, please see this page.
• If your passport is from one of the countries on this list then you’re eligible for a single-entry visa on arrival. This is valid for a one-month stay in Qatar. Please approach an immigration counter, present your passport and pay your visa fee.
• If you’re a citizen of a GCC country (Gulf Cooperation Council) then you’re eligible for a single-entry visa on arrival. Please approach an immigration counter, present your passport and pay your visa fee. Your visa will be valid for a one-month stay in Qatar and it can be renewed for a further two months.
• If you’re a resident of a GCC country (Gulf Cooperation Council) then you’re eligible for a single-entry visa on arrival. The visa will only be issued if your residence permit is valid for at least six months and if your profession (as mentioned on your residence permit) appears on this list. Please approach an immigration counter, present your passport and pay your visa fee. Your visa will be valid for a one-month stay in Qatar and it can be renewed for a further two months.

Paying your visa fee

• The easiest way to pay your visa fee is with your credit card or debit card, directly at a passport control counter.directly at an immigration counter. The visa fee depends on your nationality and type of visa.
• If you’d like to pay your visa fee with cash, then you need to visit the designated bank counter (map) before you approach a passport control counter. The bank will charge a fee (QAR 25/USD 7) for processing your cash payment. All major currencies are accepted.

Getting a visa before you travel

If you’re not eligible for a visa on arrival (please see eligibility criteria above), then you need to arrange a visa before you travel to Qatar. This can be done at Qatari embassies around the world, or by booking a stay with a hotel in Qatar. The visa fee depends on your nationality and type of visa (click here for more details on visa fees). Please ensure you plan enough time for the visa to be processed.

If you’re flying with Qatar Airways, then you can easily arrange a visa on arrival by booking a hotel stay for the duration of your visit. Please visit the Qatar Airways Holidays website for more information and assistance. Please note that the normal visa processing time is about two weeks, while the fast-track service takes about five to six days.

Priority processing
All Al Maha customers, special assistance travellers and unaccompanied minors receive priority processing on arrival at Hamad International Airport.

Things to avoid

• Please don’t approach a passport control counter if you’d like to pay your visa fee in cash. The passport control counters can only accept credit cards and debit cards. Please use the designated bank counter for cash payment (map).
• Please don’t commence your journey before confirming visa requirements. This will help minimise any inconvenience or delays during travel.

Solving problems
If for any reason you’re denied entry into Qatar, then the Ministry of Interior and your airline will provide guidance and assistance.

Getting an e-gate card
If you’re a Qatari national, an expatriate resident in Qatar, or a citizen of a GCC country (Gulf Cooperation Council), then you can apply for an e-gate card by visiting the Ministry of Interior office in Al Gharafa (Doha). Please click here for more details.

Departures
Important information for passengers departing from Hamad International Airport.

Exit permits

• All expatriate residents of Qatar are required to obtain an exit permit from their sponsor when exiting the country. If you don’t have an exit permit, then you won’t be allowed to leave Qatar.
• If members of your family are visiting you in Qatar, then any male visitors whose stay in Qatar exceeds one month are required to obtain an exit permit when exiting the country (female family members are exempt).

Clearing passport control

• Present your boarding card to our staff standing just before the passport control area. They will scan your boarding pass, and fast-track you (through passport control and security check) if your flight is nearing its departure time.
• Keep your travel documents (passport, exit permit, boarding pass and ticket) ready to present to the immigration officer.
• Dedicated lanes are available for First Class and Business Class passengers.

Priority processing
All Al Maha customers, special assistance travellers and unaccompanied minor receive priority processing when departing from Hamad International Airport.

Things to avoid

• If you’re travelling to a GCC country (Gulf Cooperation Council), then your passport must be valid for at least six months (three months for GCC citizens). Please make sure your passport meets this requirement, otherwise your airline won’t be able to accept you for travel.
• If you have any unpaid fines in Qatar, then you won’t be allowed to leave the country. Please make sure any unpaid fines are settled before you travel. You can also pay your fines at the Ministry of Interior office at Hamad International Airport (map).

Solving problems

• If you’re not allowed to leave the country because of unpaid fines, you can pay them at the Ministry of Interior fees and fines office at Hamad International Airport. It is located at the end of check-in Row 8 (map).
• If you’re not allowed to leave the country because you don’t have an exit permit, please approach the Ministry of Interior office at Hamad International Airport.

SOURCE-http://qatarchamber.com/1679

Brexit to cause immigration surge as 500,000 East Europeans 'will rush in before borders close'

Half-a-million migrants from Eastern Europe will attempt to beat the Brexit deadline

Britain faces an influx of 500,000 East European ­migrants because of Brexit .

They are predicted to rush into the UK over the next two years before our borders are closed.

The stark warning comes from ­former Immigration minister Phil Woolas, who served under Gordon Brown’s ­premiership.

Mr Woolas, 56, says: “Every time the UK Government announces a cap onimmigration, thousands rush in before the deadline.

“Would-be immigrants see that the door is about to slam. So they bring forward their plans and a last-minute rush heads for the UK.

“In the Home Office, they call it the fire sale.”

Mr Woolas, former Labour MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth, added: “I faced the same problem in 2008 when the last Labour government wanted to strengthen the points-based system – yes, we’ve had such a law since then. The Brexiteers didn’t invent it.

“I announced in Parliament that the numbers of non-EU unskilled workers would be restricted.

"What happened was that more unskilled workers ­applied for visas than we’d ever known. The same will happen now.”

Negotiations with the EU about Brexit are scheduled to go on for two years, although it could take longer.

And until the process is finished, EU citizens will still enjoy unlimited free access to the UK.

After the referendum result was announced on Friday, there was a 100 per cent surge in Google searches for Irish passports, mostly from people in Northern Ireland .

Irish passport holders will be able to work anywhere in the EU after Brexit because the Republic is still an EU member.

SOURCE-http://www.mirror.co.uk/

Why are Indians being targeted in Hong Kong’s crackdown on illegal immigration?

Yonden Lhatoo says a surge in dubious asylum claims from the subcontinent justifies tackling the problem, but collective punishment is not the answer

How ironic that Hong Kong’s chief executive, Leung Chun-ying, was in India this week with a big business delegation to woo investors just as his administration was building a case for imposing visa restrictions on the country.

Indians and nationals of other countries from which asylum seekers have been flocking to Hong Kong will have to secure an entry permit online before coming here.

source-http://www.scmp.com/