Category: Global Relocation

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Immigration Pilot Initiative to Attract Highly Skilled Immigrants to Ontario Canada

The government of Ontario Canada will create a new immigration pilot initiative. The initiative has a goal to attract highly skilled immigrants to smaller cities and towns throughout the Ontario province. As part of the initiative, the province will create a new immigration stream for tech workers. These initiatives are part of a four-pronged approach to immigration priorities that the province plans to pursue. The province outlined the initiatives in its new $163.4 billion budget, published in April 2019.

Ontario Immigration Priorities

In its new budget, the provincial government of Ontario identified four priorities it plans to pursue through enhancements to the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. The four priorities include the following:

  1. New immigration pilot initiative to draw immigrants to smaller cities and towns
  2. Focused stream for tech workers
  3. Expansion of eligible in-demand occupations to include workers such as personal support providers and truck drivers
  4. Changing the thresholds for net worth and personal investments in the entrepreneur immigration program

Ontario Seeks Fair Allocation Under Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program

Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) lets individual Canadian provinces and territories nominate people who desire to immigrate to Canada and prefer to settle in a specific province. For 2019, Ontario requested an allocation of 7,600 nominations through this program. However, the number for 2019 fell short by 700, with only 6,900 allocations offered to Ontario. Ontario seeks to work with the PNP to ensure its annual allocation is fair. Although the allocation is a small part of annual immigration to Ontario, it reflects 5% of the province’s 137,410 immigrants during 2018.

New Immigration Pilot Initiative to Help Recruit Foreign Workers

The new immigration pilot initiative will help smaller cities and towns recruit foreign workers who desire to settle in the province of Ontario. The government hopes the program will enable smaller cites and towns to gain the benefits of immigration that larger cities in Ontario have been experiencing.

Smaller Cities and Towns in Ontario That May Benefit From the New Immigration Pilot Initiative

Greater Sudbury, also known commonly as Sudbury

Estimated Population: 162,000

Known for: Lumber, nickel mining, and related industries. The city’s economy has expanded beyond resource mining and now includes elements of film and television production, health services, education, and government services. Sudbury is the major economic center of Northeastern Ontario.

Kawartha Lakes

Estimated Population: 76,000

Known for: Canadian cottage lifestyle, made possible by over 250 lakes and rivers in the region. The city’s economy includes tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and arts/culture. Located 90 minutes northeast of Toronto, Kawartha Lakes annually receives over 1.6 million visitors, especially during the summer months.

Thunder Bay

Estimated Population: 108,000

Known for: Located on Lake Superior, and serves as the region’s commercial center. The city’s industry base includes several public sector employers including the government of Ontario. Private employers include Resolute Forest Products, a pulp and paper manufacturing company, and Bombardier Transportation, a manufacturer of mass transit vehicles and equipment. Thunder Bay is working to attract knowledge-based industries, particularly in the science sector to complement the locally-based western campus of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine. The city is an ideal candidate for the new immigration pilot initiative.

Moosonee

Estimated Population: 3,500

Known for: “The Gateway to the Arctic” and the province’s only saltwater port. Orignally a fur trading post, Moosonee is renowned for being an area with the province’s most untouched wilderness. The natural beauty and wild areas are key to the city’s burgeoning ecotourism industry. Visitors must arrive by plane, water, or rail including the world famous Polar Bear Express, a 186-mile trip by rail from Cochrane to Moosonee. The city is the point of transfer for goods arriving on the Ontario Northland Railway. The goods are then loaded onto barges and aircraft for shipment to communities further north.

Dryden

Estimated Population: 8,000

Known for: Max the Moose, the city’s 18 foot high mascot stationed along the Trans-Canada Highway. Dryden hosts an annual Max the Moose festival featuring musical acts, sports, and community activities. The main industries in Dryden include agriculture, agri-foods, mining, manufacturing, renewable energy including solar and biomass, sports, and recreation.

What Does This New Immigration Pilot Initiative Mean?

Employers in Ontario should expect to see an increase in the number of immigrants seeking jobs as part of the new immigration pilot initiative. They should also expect to see a rise in the need for pre-arrival settlement services. The immigration ministry provides a number of helpful language and integration services, classes, and resources to increase job readiness, success, and retention.

Employers not currently in Ontario might consider the province as a strategic location for corporate expansion. The services of an International Professional Employer Organization (PEO) may be useful to help an employer enter Ontario and quickly test the local market.

What should Employers do About This New Immigration Pilot Initiative?

Employers in Ontario should review their company’s growth plans and requirements for jobs across all levels of skill sets. They should also determine how their company’s growth plans will impact the jobs required to meet business plans and goals. Since the new immigration pilot initiative in Ontario seeks to help smaller cities and towns recruit workers, employers should review their talent acquisition and management programs to ensure they align with a growing number of immigrants in their workforce.

Employers outside of Ontario should investigate the services of an International PEO. Relocation Management Companies (RMCs) can provide expert assistance to employers looking to expand their corporate presence in Ontario.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients develop relocation programs that attract and retain qualified employees in remote and challenging locations. Our team can help your company determine how to benefit as Ontario develops its new immigration pilot initiative.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.

Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s relocation and visa program needs for Ontario as a result of its new immigration pilot initiative, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary Visa Program Assessment

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African Continental Free Trade Area and Global Relocation: What You Should Know

In April 2019, Gambia chose to ratify the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement. As a result, the bill to create the AfCFTA has reached the minimum number of ratifications needed to go into effect. The agreement was signed by 44 African countries in 2018 in their effort to remove barriers to trade between members of the African Union.

What is the African Union?

The African Union is a group of member nations that make up the countries of the African Continent. Currently, the African Union has 55 member states. It is the successor organization to the former Organization of African Unity, following the OAU’s dissolution in 2002.

What is the Vision of the African Union?

The vision of the African Union is that of “An integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in global arena.” To this end, the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement will provide several benefits for member nations, including:

  • Removal of barriers to intra-African trade
  • Reduction of trade regulations
  • Elimination of import quotas
  • Tariff-free movements of goods, people, and services across the African Continent
  • Possible future cooperation in areas such as:
    • customs union
    • common market
    • single currency

How Does the African Continental Free Trade Area fit in the Global Market?

The AfCFTA is the world’s largest free trade area by number of countries. It represents a single market of 55 countries with over 1.2 billion people. The area’s combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is $2.5 trillion. The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) estimates that intra-African trade will increase by over 50% through 2020 under the AfCFTA.

Additionally, UNECA believes that Africa’s past growth, while impressive, has been largely due to the expansion of extractive exports and price growth in commodities. This type of growth does not support the economic transformation the continent needs to develop and maintain long-term growth that is sustainable.

However, UNECA notes that growth in intra-African trade has helped promote the continent’s industrial exports. It is this growth that shows how the AfCFTA can help the member nations. By removing tariffs and barriers to intra-African trade, the AfCFTA will contribute to the economic reformation of Africa. Member nations will benefit from more productive industrial and export sectors, as well as investment increases in their local economies.

What Does This Mean?

The emergence of African Continental Free Trade Area will provide extensive opportunities for economic expansion, foreign investment, and export growth throughout the African continent. Africa is hoping to achieve the same success that the European Union and its free trade agreement has accomplishes. The AfCFTA may help create tens of thousands of jobs, further reducing unemployment across the continent.

Trade will increase between member nations. The continent will move from being a raw material producer to being a viable, industrialized, and valuable global trading partner. The citizens of Africa will benefit, as will employers in the member nations.

What Should Employers do to Leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area?

Companies should examine the opportunities that Africa presents for investment and corporate growth. Specifically, the AfCFTA will provide a number of benefits for companies located in the member nations. The UNECA believes companies located within the African continent will benefit by gaining access to:

  • Lower-cost inputs and intermediary goods sourced from other African countries
  • A bigger variety of locally sourced inputs and intermediary goods
  • Improved access to imported inputs and intermediary goods
  • Larger markets for their products within the AfCFTA

With access to lower cost inputs for production and a larger market, companies can grow and gain economies of scale to produce goods while remaining competitive.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients learn about opportunities for global expansion. Our team can help your company understand how to leverage the launch of the African Continental Free Trade Area as it applies to future corporate growth and initiatives.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.

Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in learning about global relocation as it relates to the African Continental Free Trade Area, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary relocation policy review

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Australia Migrants to be Cut in New Plan

Circular Quay Sydney taken from the Sydney Harbour Bridge just after sunset showing the Sydney Opera House on the left.

In a bid to reduce migration, Australia migrants will face a new cap. The nation will cut its current cap on migration by 15%. This cut will lower the annual number of migrants in Australia. Currently, the cap is 190,000 places.

Elements of the new plan’s cuts include:

  • Total migration number reduced from 190,000 to 160,000
  • 15% cut in total migration
  • 160,000 figure matches 2017-2018 migrant intake

Several Australia Migrants Must Live Outside Major Cities

A significant point in the new plan to cut migrants relates to their location. Up to 23,000 migrants under a new skilled visa will need to live and work in regional Australia for three years prior to gaining permanent residence. These migrants will not be able to live in Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, or the Gold Coast. In these cities and locations, the nation’s infrastructure is seen as overused and at capacity limits.

Regional Australia are those parts and destinations of the nation that are not a traditional tourist destination like Sydney or Melbourne. Migrants entering under this new skilled visa will need to live in work in cities such as Alice Springs, Kalgoorlie, and Wagga Wagga. Previously, migrants would gravitate to the most desirable cities in the nation. Now, a significant number of migrants must disperse to outlying areas. There are several reasons behind this new requirement:

  • Providing employees for regional job openings
  • Managing stress on infrastructure
  • Reducing congestion in cities
  • Removing traffic chokepoints

Current System Assesses Potential Australia Migrants by Skills

The nation’s current points system assesses potential Australia migrants according to their skills. This assessment helps the nation determine if the migrants fill a need for specific workers. Also, migrants must pass a character test and health screening. Australia migrants who desire to become citizens must also pass an English-language test covering topics such as Australia’s history, the values of the people, and the nation’s constitution.

Australia Migrants Breakdown

Under the new 160,000 cap, Australia migrants represent two distinct categories:

  1. Migrants sponsored by family members, 30% of the cap or 48,000
  2. Skilled workers, 70% of the cap or 112,000

Additionally, refugees who are resettled to Australia represent 18,750 places in addition to the 160,000 cap.

What Does This Mean?

Australia migrants will face a reduction in places for entry into the nation. Some migrants may qualify for the new skilled visa that requires them to reside in regional Australia. Similar entry requirements will remain in place, including skills assessment, character test, and health screening.

What Should Employers do About the Cap Reduction on Australia Migrants?

Companies currently looking to hire foreign workers in Australia should be aware of the cap reduction on Australia migrants. They should examine their hiring plans to determine the impact the cut may have on their corporate objectives. Companies should work with a qualified Relocation Management Company (RMC) that can provide assistance with relocation and visa program requirements.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients determine how to design their relocation and visa programs to meet country-specific requirements. As a result, our team can help your company understand how to mitigate the effects of the cap reduction on Australia migrants.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.

Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s relocation and visa programs as they relate to Australia migrants, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary Visa Program Assessment

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What are the Advantages of Centralization for a Relocation Program?

Many companies do not have a full understanding of the benefits that centralization can provide their relocation program. Larger companies or those that grow with acquisitions are often beset with the many challenges their relocation program presents with its focus on decentralization. While decentralization may be useful for local marketing efforts, when it comes to relocation, there are few advantages.

What is Centralization in a Relocation Program?

In our case study on decentralization, our team of global relocation experts describes centralization for relocation programs. Basically, relocation program centralization means the following:

Global or Corporate Level

  • Develops and manages the relocation program
  • Ensures uniformity
  • Provides guidance for regional and local units

By comparison, decentralization in a relocation program can result in many challenges including high operating costs, inconsistent reporting, and varying policies. As a result, employees often receive different experiences depending on what division or location handles their relocation. Also, the company has virtually no visibility, cost predictability, or tracking methods to ensure policies are effective.

Advantages of Centralization in a Relocation Program

Centralization in a relocation program provides many advantages. Companies and their employee benefit from a program that offers:

Centralization

What Should Employers do?

Companies should engage a qualified Relocation Management Company (RMC) that has knowledge and experience in centralization for relocation programs. Companies should be sure to ask their RMC a wide range of critical questions to ensure all of their main concerns are fully addressed. The RMC will help them understand the advantages of centralization and how to design their relocation program to gain the most benefits for the company and its transferees.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients in overcoming the challenges they face with decentralization. As a result, our team can help your company understand how to gain the advantages of centralization for its relocation program.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.

Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in centralization for your relocation program, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary relocation policy review

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What are the Top Emerging International Markets for Global Relocation?

Many companies look to emerging international markets for corporate growth initiatives. Entering a growing market on the upswing provides a number of advantages. Costs for expansion are usually lower in emerging international markets, as the local economy has not reached its full potential. Companies gain significant advantages through:

  1. Lower costs for land, buildings, rent, and equipment
  2. Exposure to foreign investment with high potential
  3. Market diversification enabling growth in new markets to balance stagnation in other markets
  4. Enhancement of the company’s global reputation
  5. Learning new cultural perspectives that may enhance growth initiatives

What are the Top Emerging International Markets?

The four largest emerging international markets are Brazil, Russia, India, and China. These four countries are known by the acronym BRIC. The BRIC nations have several features in common, including a government focus on economic growth, well developed financial markets, and strong interest in international trade initiatives. However, they share some challenging issues, such as currency issues and fluctuations.

Addition of South Africa to BRIC

South Africa joined the BRIC nations and represents the “S” in BRICS. The addition of South Africa is due in part to the other nations’ desire to forge closer ties with Africa’s leading economy. The first five-member BRICS summit was held in 2011. By 2020, BRICS countries expect to contribute nearly half of all global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.

New Development Bank for Emerging International Markets

The New Development Bank (NBD) for BRICS is seen as a success story for this group of large economies. NBD’s general strategy document for the period 2017-2021 calls for the bank to place two-thirds of its loans into sustainable, “green” infrastructure and renewables over the next five years.

Brazil

  • 2nd largest producer of iron ore in the world
  • Large producer of ethanol (more than Europe and Asia combined)
  • Rich natural resources

Russia

  • Leading exporter of oil and natural gas
  • Strong growth in commodities
  • Significant free market reforms driving economic growth

India

  • Leading producer of food and farm goods
  • Known for information technology and business process outsourcing
  • Growing demographic and workforce trends

China

  • Leading exporter of consumer goods
  • Mid-range producer of value-added manufacturing products and assembled goods
  • Government plans to achieve dominance of high-tech sectors to lead emerging international markets

South Africa

  • Diverse economy driven by domestic consumption
  • Abundant natural resources
  • Largest economy in Africa with world-class and progressive legal framework

What are Success Strategies for Emerging International Markets?

In order to achieve success, companies should define a plan for how they will approach entering new markets. Proven success strategies include:

  • Leveraging trade associations, events, and government agencies that can support the endeavor
  • Conducting market research on all aspects of the local culture, businesses, and strategic fit
  • Building a network of strong relationships to help open doors in the new markets
  • Identifying strategic partners that can work with you in the local markets
  • Planning for contingencies and flexibility to respond to local market nuances
  • Commit for the long term so the emerging international markets become integral to your business

What Does This Mean?

Companies looking to enter emerging international markets should follow proven success strategies. As a result, they will gain valuable market information, develop strong relationships, and define a robust and executable market-entry plan. Companies should determine whether one or more of the BRICS nations should be on their target list for market entry.

What Should Employers do About Emerging International Markets?

Companies looking to enter emerging international markets should review their relocation programs. A qualified Relocation Management Company (RMC) with knowledge and experience can provide a number of helpful resources. As a result, companies will maintain a strong competitive advantage in relocation for new hires and transferees. A global relocation program that provides the highest level of relocation benefits and services for employees will help companies attract highly skilled and talented candidates.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how they can use global relocation to enter emerging international markets. Our team can help your company understand how to leverage global relocation to any of the BRICS nations and gain all the advantages these markets offer your company as well as your new hires and transferees.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.

Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in global relocation to emerging international markets, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary relocation policy review

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Why Canada is Seeking to Add Immigrants

Canada is seeking to add immigrants, according to the nation’s immigration ministry. Currently, approximately 20% of the nation are immigrants. In its report to Canada’s Parliament in January, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada detailed its plan to add over 1 million immigrants by the end of 2021.

Canada Immigration Plan

According to the plan, Canada is seeking to add immigrants following this admission schedule:

2019: 350,000 immigrants comprising:

  • 176,000 federal economic and provincial/territorial nominees
  • 89,000 eligible for family reunification programs
  • 58,500 refugees

2020: 360,000 immigrants

2021: 370,000 immigrants

Since Canada’s current population is less than 37 million residents, each year represents a 1% increase in total population.

Reasons Why Canada is Seeking to Add Immigrants

There are many reasons why Canada is seeking to add immigrants. As noted by Ahmed D. Hussen MP, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship:

  • Immigrants and their descendants make measurable contributions to Canada
  • Future success depends on continuing to welcome immigrants and ensure their integration

The country is facing an aging workforce as well as a declining birthrate. The government’s economic advisory council has been vocally advocating an increase in immigration to support the economy and reduce strain on the social services budget. The country needs skilled labor and is seeking to add immigrants who have significant education and technical training.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau welcomes immigrants and refugees to the nation. Trudeau’s statement via social media clearly marks Canada as a welcoming nation. His use of #WelcomeToCanada is an encouraging sign for all people seeking to enter the country.

Why Immigrants Choose Canada

There are many reasons why immigrants choose Canada, and why Canada is seeking to add immigrants:

  1. Canada is the sixth best country in several measures including:
  • Commitment to providing social services
  • Diversity
  • Respect for differences
  • Safety and security
  • Beautiful natural landscape
  • Seasonal changes
  1. Citizens and permanent residents are eligible for the public health insurance system
  2. The nation has the highest immigration rate of all G8 nations

What does this mean?

Those who want to enter and stay in Canada have many options. The nation’s immigration ministry provides an easy to use portal to submit and check the status of applications. The ministry also provides a wealth of information for immigrants to help them prepare for life in Canada. Canada is seeking to add immigrants who want to work in the nation, and the immigration ministry helps them prepare for work in Canada. The government provides a national job bank and career portal where immigrants can search for employment.

What should Employers expect?

Employers in Canada should expect to see an increase in the number of job seekers who are immigrants and refugees seeking to become Canadian citizens. They should also expect to see a rise in the need for pre-arrival settlement services. The immigration ministry provides a number of helpful language and integration services, classes, and resources to increase job readiness, success, and retention.

Employers not currently in Canada might consider the country as a strategic location for corporate expansion. The services of an International Professional Employer Organization (PEO) may be useful to help an employer enter one of the world’s best countries and quickly test the local market.

What should Employers do as Canada is Seeking to Add Immigrants?

Work with a Qualified Relocation Management Company

Employers in Canada should review their company’s growth plans and requirements for jobs across all levels of skill sets. They should also determine how their company’s growth plans will impact the jobs required to meet business plans and goals. Since Canada is seeking to add immigrants, employers should review their talent acquisition and management programs to ensure they align with a growing number of immigrants in their workforce. They should work with a qualified Relocation Management Company (RMC) that can help them review their relocation and visa programs encourage highly skilled new hires and transferees.

Investigate the Services of an International Professional Employer Organization

Employers outside of Canada should investigate the services of an International PEO. By working with an International PEO, companies can quickly grow their international employment in Canada. RMCs can provide expert assistance to employers looking to expand their corporate presence to one of the world’s best countries by using the services of an International PEO.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients develop relocation programs that attract and retain qualified employees across the world’s best countries. Our team can help your company determine how to benefit as Canada is seeking to add immigrants.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com, created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.

Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s relocation and visa program needs as Canada is seeking to add immigrants, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary Visa Program Assessment

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What is Driving São Paulo’s Business Startup Culture?

Companies seeking growth opportunities in South America quickly gravitate to Brazil and São Paulo’s business startup culture. Brazil’s mammoth city boasts one of the world’s most vibrant business technology ecosystems. São Paulo is also home to South America’s largest startup environment. The city proper is the largest in Brazil, with a population of over 12 million residents. The greater São Paulo metropolitan area ranks as number three in the world by population, with over 27 million residents.

Cultural Diversity

Brazil is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. Generally, Brazilians trace their origins from five global regions:

  • Africa
  • Americas
  • East Asia
  • East Mediterranean/West Asia
  • Europe

This cultural diversity is a great asset to companies looking to test their products and marketing programs. Marketing to a microcosm of international cultures provides a wealth of valuable information for companies with global growth ambitions. Companies investing in São Paulo’s business startup culture quickly benefit from the city’s diverse talent pool and openness to new ideas.

Currency

Brazil’s currency fluctuations and devaluation to the U.S. dollar gives companies who invest in São Paulo’s business startup culture the benefit of getting more for their capital. As Brazil’s economy experiences variations and crises, São Paulo presents more opportunities for entrepreneurs. Talent becomes more affordable for young and growing companies. As a result, entrepreneurs can easily hire employees with the education and skills they need to be successful.

Business Resources for São Paulo’s Business Startup Culture

São Paulo’s business startup culture benefits from a large number of business resources. Startup accelerators are plentiful, including ACE, Startup Weekend, and Startup Farm. Co-working spaces such as CUBO encourage collaboration among resident companies. CUBO’s center of technological entrepreneurship connects investors, companies, technology, and universities in one space. This connection helps create new business models, new ways to work, and continually challenges the status quo with a focus on creating opportunities.

In fact, São Paulo’s business startup culture is often seen as the “silicon valley” of Latin America. From its inclusion in Deloitte’s leading index of global FinTech hubs to its continually growing roster of unique startup ventures, São Paulo has become the Brazilian home of international technology giants including Google, Linkedin, and Cabify. (FinTech is a new industry that uses technology to improve activities in finance.)

What Does This Mean for São Paulo’s Business Startup Culture?

Companies looking for expansion opportunities, especially in technology fields, should seriously consider São Paulo’s business startup culture. The city provides a warm welcome to entrepreneurs and innovators, offers a favorable currency advantage, and has a wealth of resources that support business startups. Brazil’s wide cultural diversity enhances workforce productivity, and reflects the broader international market, making São Paulo an ideal location for testing concepts and messages.

What Should Employers do?

Entrepreneurs with plans for business expansion should research São Paulo’s business startup culture to see how they might benefit from its many resources and advantages. Established businesses without a presence in Latin America should also consider locating in São Paulo. Co-working spaces such as CUBO can help connect established businesses to entrepreneurs and new business models.

Companies looking to test their expansion efforts in Brazil might also benefit from an International Professional Employer Organization. This is a global employment solution where a third-party in a foreign country hires employees on your company’s behalf. Companies considering relocating new hires or transferees to São Paulo should review their relocation programs. This will help ensure they have a competitive advantage and that their program provides the highest level of relocation benefits and services for their employees.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how they can easily expand their business operations to new locations. Our team can help your company understand how best to proceed with expansion to São Paulo’s business startup culture through relocation, or by utilizing an International PEO.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s business expansion plans to São Paulo, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary relocation policy review

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What are the World’s Best Countries?

U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 World’s Best Countries ranking shows Switzerland as No. 1 overall for the third consecutive year. The annual report reflects survey results of over 20,000 respondents. The study surveyed these people about their individual views of 80 different countries, on 75 different metrics. The rankings are the result of a partnership between U.S. News & World Report, the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and BAV Group.

What are the Top 10 Countries?

According to the ranking, the top 10 world’s best countries are:

  1. Switzerland
  2. Japan
  3. Canada
  4. Germany
  5. United Kingdom
  6. Sweden
  7. Australia
  8. United States
  9. Norway
  10. France

Why Switzerland is No. 1

Switzerland is seen as a top country in surveys and reports for several reasons, including:

  • Access to Capital
  • Business Friendly
  • Economic Stability
  • High Quality of Life
  • Innovation
  • Legal Framework
  • Neutrality
  • Prestige

Immigration to Switzerland

Immigration to Switzerland, one of the world’s best countries, depends on several factors. Switzerland permits visitors to stay in the country as tourists for up to 90 days without registration. However, tourists are forbidden to work during this time period. Those who want to work in Switzerland must obtain immigration authorization. These authorizations vary by status:

  • Citizens of the European Union (EU) or the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) do not need a visa if they have a local employment contract.
  • Non-EU and non-EFTA citizens require a work authorization and a visa prior to entering Switzerland.
    • Those over 18 with plans to stay beyond 12 months must provide a copy of their criminal record, or proof that there is no record.

The Swiss Authorities provide many helpful guidelines for people who want to enter and stay in the country. Foreign nationals can choose the entry path that best fits their requirements. Also, several of the entry paths have various degrees and levels to meet individual situations. Entry paths include:

  • Applying for Asylum
  • Foreign National’s Right to Reside Following Divorce or Death of Spouse
  • Foreign Nationals Wishing to Stay Other Than to Work (Study, Retire)
  • Letter of Invitation and Declaration of Sponsorship
  • Loss of Residence Permit – Replacement
  • Short-Term Stay
  • Residence Permits
  • Visa for Entry

What does this mean?

Those who want to enter and stay in one of the world’s best countries have many options. Countries such as Switzerland welcome foreign nationals, as they recognize the value that diverse populations bring to their societies. They also provide helpful resources for newly arrived foreign nationals so they can learn the German language, and how best to integrate into Switzerland’s local culture and society.

What should Employers expect?

Employers in Switzerland should expect to see an increase in the number of foreign job seekers from non-EU and non-EFTA countries. They should also expect to see a rise in the need for language and integration courses.

Employers not currently in Switzerland might consider the country as a strategic location for corporate expansion. The services of an International Professional Employer Organization (PEO) may be useful to help an employer enter one of the world’s best countries and quickly test the local market.

What should Employers do?

Employers in Switzerland should review their company’s growth plans and requirements for jobs across all levels of skill sets. They should also determine how their company’s growth plans will impact the jobs required to meet business plans and goals.

Employers outside of Switzerland should investigate the services of an International PEO. Relocation Management Companies (RMCs) can provide expert assistance and helpful information to employers looking to expand their corporate presence to one of the world’s best countries.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients develop relocation programs that attract and retain qualified employees across the world’s best countries. Our team can help your company determine how to benefit from Switzerland’s rank as the No. 1 best country in the world.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com, created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s relocation and visa program needs, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary Visa Program Assessment

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Global Relocation Global Relocation Tips Global Relocation Trends Talent Management Talent Mobility

Singapore Job Skills Lacking in Technical Fields

Singapore job skills currently exhibit a significant gap in several technical fields, according to Workforce Singapore (WSG). WSG, a board under the nation’s Ministry of Manpower, oversees the transformation process for the Singaporean workforce and industry to meet future economic opportunities.

Top 5 Fastest Growing Singapore Jobs

The five fastest-growing jobs in Singapore are concentrated in technology:

  • Content Specialist
  • Head of Digital
  • Cyber Security Specialist
  • Data Scientist
  • User Experience Designer

All of these technology jobs require specific technical skills. They also require significant communication and managerial skills, often referred to as “digital competence.”

What is Digital Competence?

Digital Competence is an expansive definition of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). It includes basic ICT skills along with the understanding and knowledge of how to use digital devices and applications in new and complex formats. WSG recognizes that Singapore job skills need to include Digital Competence. Singaporean workers must be able to confidently and critically use electronic media for work, leisure, and communication. To do so, workers must understand logic, possess critical thinking abilities, have a high level of information management skills, and superior communication skills.

For example, some of the skills needed for the Top 5 Fastest Growing Singapore Jobs include:

  • Analytics
  • Banking
  • Big Data
  • Communication
  • Consulting
  • Content Delivery
  • Digital Production
  • Machine Learning
  • Management
  • Sales Enablement
  • Wire Framing

WSG has a number of programs that help Singapore job skills match industry requirements. For example, WSG maintains the Singapore Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ), a national credentialing system that trains, develops, and assesses Singapore job skills. Also, the WSQ certifies skills and competencies for the workforce. Its continuing education and training system is funded by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG).

What is SkillsFuture Singapore?

SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) is a board administered by the Ministry of Education. SSG’s main purposes include:

  1. Drive and coordinate SkillsFuture movement implementation
  2. Promote a culture and system of continuing education
  3. Strengthen Singapore’s quality education and training
  4. Provide quality assurance for private education institutions and adult education centers

Singapore job skills are in high demand as the nation’s economy continues rapid growth. This growth leads to expanding job opportunities. WSG maintains a singular focus on ensuring Singaporean workers obtain the necessary training to fill growing sectors of the economy. WSG’s vision is bold and speaks to the nation’s strong work ethic: “Every individual in a fulfilling career with progressive employers.”

What Should Employers do About the Singapore Job Skills Gap?

Employers facing a Singapore job skills gap should review their talent recruitment programs to ensure creative solutions are in place. A knowledgeable Relocation Management Company can provide valuable assistance to employers looking for robust and effective solutions to hiring challenges.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients develop hiring and recruiting programs to mitigate the impact of a skills gap. Our team can help your company by using industry best practices to design your relocation program. As a result, this will increase your company’s ability to attract and retain new employees and mitigate the effects of the Singapore job skills gap.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.

Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s relocation program needs, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary relocation policy review

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HR Teams Should Prepare for New FY 2020 H-1B Visa Lottery Process Opening on April 1, 2019

visa application - approved

What is the new FY 2020 H-1B visa lottery process? Many employers in the United States rely on foreign national talent to fill highly technical positions. As a result, they offer H-1B visa sponsorship to prospective employees for specialty occupations such as scientist or engineer. Employers submit hundreds of thousands of petitions each year. However, cap limits are in place so they must plan accordingly.

Additionally, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has changed the lottery process effective April 1, 2019. These changes may impact the selection of certain petitions. The Department of Homeland Security posted the rule in the Federal Register on January 31, 2019.

Current H-1B Visa Cap Limits:

  • 65,000 visas per year
    • 1,400 of these visas are reserved for residents of Chile
    • 5,400 of these visas are reserved for residents of Singapore
  • 20,000 for applicants with advanced degrees from U.S. institutions of higher education

What was the Previous H-1B Visa Lottery Process?

The USCIS previously would conduct a random lottery process if cap-subject H-1B petitions exceed the cap limit. The steps in the previous lottery process would follow this pattern:

  1. The first lottery would include all petitions from applicants with advanced degrees from U.S. institutions of higher education for the 20,000 cap limit visas
  2. If eligible petitions exceed the 20,000 cap limit in the first lottery, they become eligible for the second lottery
  3. The second lottery would include all eligible petitions that were not successful in the first lottery and all other petitions subject to the country-specific reservations (Chile, Singapore)

What is the New FY 2020 H-1B Visa Lottery Process?

The new FY 2020 H-1B visa lottery process reverses the order that USCIS uses to select H-1B petitions under the H-1B regular cap and the advanced degree exemption. Also, it introduces an electronic registration requirement for petitioners, but this requirement will go into effect after the FY 2020 process.

Now, the steps in the lottery process would follow this pattern:

  1. The first lottery includes all petitions and is subject to the 65,000 cap limit
  2. Once the first lottery has chosen the 65,000 petitions subject to the cap limit, the remainder are eligible for the 20,000 visas for applicants with advanced degrees from US educational institutions

The Department of Homeland Security believes this change will lead to an increase in the selection of beneficiaries with a master’s or higher degree from a U.S. institution of higher education for further processing under the new FY 2020 H-1B visa lottery process.

What Happens to Petitions not Chosen in the FY 2020 H-1B Visa Lottery?

Due to the high number of petitions, some are likely not to be successful in the lottery. During FY 2019, 190,098 petitions were submitted to that year’s lottery. There is no set cutoff date for petitions to the lottery. Also, the number of petitions that employers will submit is unknown. Employers that do not prepare may miss the cap and not be able to fill their positions.

Employers who miss the cutoff must wait until next year’s lottery. Another option is to consider an alternative visa for the foreign national, subject to qualification. The cap for FY 2019 was reached in only four days, by April 6, 2019. This in turn illustrates the importance of submitting petitions for the H-1B cap-subject visas as soon as the lottery opens.

What Does This Mean for You?

As prior years experiences have shown, unprepared HR teams thinking they had several days to file were not given the opportunity to hire the foreign national employee they hoped to sponsor. With issues such as prevailing wages, Labor Condition Applications (LCAs), and possible site visits, the process should start as soon as possible so HR teams can submit applications at the start of the lottery.

Where Do You Start for FY 2020 H-1B Visa Lottery?

Global Mobility Solutions has a team of global relocation experts who can help you with the new FY 2020 H-1B visa lottery process. Our team’s knowledge and access to visa and immigration resources is unparalleled in the industry. We have helped thousands of companies with the H-1B visa lottery process reach successful results.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients prepare for the H-1B visa lottery. Our team can help your company understand the process and prepare for the new FY 2020 H-1B visa lottery process.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.

Contact our experts online to discuss your H-1B visa lottery plans, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary Visa Program Assessment

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