Category: Global Relocation

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Administration is Still Considering Removal of H-4 Work Permits

USA Green Card or permanent resident card and employment authorization card

Sources in a recent San Francisco Chronicle article say the Trump administration is still considering plans to stop issuing H-4 work permits to spouses of H-1B visa holders. No new regulation has yet been passed or introduced, however, supporters of the H-4 program believe the removal of the H-4 work permits could have a negative impact on the economy and workforce mobility.

Since 2015, spouses of H-1B visa holders waiting for green cards have been eligible to work in the U.S. on H-4 dependent visas. If the administration succeeds in revoking these work permits, thousands of immigrant spouses may lose the ability to work in the U.S., reducing their families’ incomes and creating issues for employers who hope to bring talented workers to their organizations.

What is the H-4 Work Permit Issue?

An organization comprised of IT workers called “Save Jobs USA” says the government should not be able to grant work permits to immigrants through a rule rather than congressional approval, and has filed a lawsuit against The Department of Homeland Security to stop the issuance of the H-4 work permits.

What does this mean for you?

The lawsuit is proceeding, but it is important to note that no new regulation has been introduced or proposed. The deadline for the administration to take a position on the lawsuit was January 2, 2018, however, extensions and comments are in process. H-1B spouses can still apply for work permits and, even if the work permit program is rescinded in the future, implementing new regulations will require a potentially lengthy notice-and-comment period.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of global relocation experts can help HR teams understand and prepare for issues related to H-4 Work Permits and other immigration issues. Contact our experts online 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 Immigration Rules Visas and International Travel

India e-Services Online Portal Launched by Bureau of Immigration

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Three young Indian businesspeople working together and having fun while doing it.

India e-Services Online Portal provides visa and associated services for all foreign nationals residing in areas covered by the Foreigner’s Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in Chennai. The FRRO is the primary agency responsible for regulating the registration, movement, and duration of foreign nationals staying in India. The Government of India Bureau of Immigration is launching e-Services Online Portal near the end of February 2018.

Who Does This Affect?

  • All employers sponsoring foreign national employees residing in areas covered under the jurisdiction of the FRRO in Chennai.

What Does India e-Services Online Portal Provide?

All foreign national employees residing within the jurisdiction of the FRRO in Chennai should seek visa and associated services through the India e-Services Online Portal. Employees need to register and submit an online application within the Portal. The Portal will also let employees upload the relevant documents that must accompany their online application. Once complete, employees should submit the online application for further processing.

As a result of the new India e-Services Online Portal, foreign national employees do not need to visit the FRRO office in person. All communication regarding visa and associated services will go through the India e-Services Online Portal and other electronic means such as email or text messages. Given the country’s size and logistical challenges, the Portal should provide significant cost and time savings for foreign national employees.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of global relocation experts understand how visa and associated services should be arranged for a smooth international relocation process. Our team of experts can help HR teams understand the new process, communicate with their employees about India e-Services Online Portal, and determine how best to proceed with these new requirements.

Contact our experts online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Corporate Relocation Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Tips Global Relocation Global Relocation Tips Relocation Programs

What are the Benefits of Outsourcing Relocation Programs?

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What are the benefits of outsourcing relocation programs? Companies that want to stay ahead of their competitors and attract highly qualified employees offer a well-designed corporate relocation program. Employees are looking for relocation programs to provide a wide range of benefits and services to ensure they have an easy and smooth relocation process. Companies that offer a relocation program that is managed entirely in-house face several challenges in trying to meet the demands and expectations of a widespread workforce. There are many benefits to  outsourcing relocation programs that companies should consider as they review their offerings.

There are five key in-house relocation program challenges, and five crucial benefits that outsourcing provides to help company relocation programs be successful:

1. Program Managed by Various Locations or Individuals

Local HR teams may have different interpretations of programs and policies, so variations may impact the benefits transferees receive.

Outsourcing Benefit: When choosing to outsource, company relocation programs benefit from central program management with local support. At all times, a consistent and coherent program is administered and fully supported in all locations, with no variations by locale or individual interpretation.

2. Employees or Local HR Assume Additional Responsibilities

A company choosing to offer an in-house relocation program must rely on current employees and local HR teams to assume additional responsibilities. Some current employees may not have experience with relocation programs, so there may be a learning curve requiring additional time and training.

Outsourcing Benefit: Teams of fully trained relocation experts handle the interpretation and delivery of policies, ensuring employees receive the same benefits across the board.

3. Frequent Exception of “Special Deals”

In-house relocation programs are susceptible to frequent exceptions of “special deals” when employees try to find ways to help transferees and their families with unique challenges. Companies often do not have the resources to understand the unique challenges posed with relocation and how they have been addressed by other companies, likely resulting in unforeseen and unbudgeted obligations.

Outsourcing Benefit: Relocation experts with significant industry experience can use their knowledge to help companies understand how best to manage exceptions, minimizing expenses and process disruptions.

4. Relocation Costs not Effectively Tracked

Over 70% of companies that manage relocation in-house are not aware of their program’s internal operating costs. Without effective relocation program expense tracking, the true costs are hidden and thus cannot be effectively controlled or minimized.

Outsourcing Benefit: “Best of the Best” providers are utilized so transferees and their families receive exceptional services while costs can be fully identified, tracked, and reviewed for budgetary impact and program performance.

5. Increased Likelihood of Assignment Failures

Companies offering a relocation program hope their transferees have a successful relocation. However, the likelihood of assignment failure is high due to the in-house team’s lack of experience and knowledge when helping transferees and their families understand and address the unique challenges they face during the relocation process.

Outsourcing Benefit: Companies can benefit from an outsourced solution that specializes in unique relocation needs including tax issues, visa applications, and compliance reporting. Working with relocation experts who have extensive experience in these and other areas can help a company avoid risk related to transferee’s requests for guidance and advice.

Conclusion

The most successful companies outsource their relocation programs so employees and their families have access to industry-leading resources and expert guidance. The corporate relocation experts at Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) help our clients understand how to create and administer a relocation program that gives them a competitive advantage and provides the highest level of relocation benefits and services for their employees.

To learn more about the many benefits outsourcing your corporate relocation program can provide for your company and employees, contact our team of experts online, or call us at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary relocation policy review

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Global Relocation Global Relocation Tips Immigration Rules Visas and International Travel

Australia Permanent Visa and Transitional Arrangements: New Criteria in March 2018

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Australia has confirmed new criteria for Australia Permanent Visa and Transitional Arrangements starting in March 2018. The changes will impact clients sponsoring transferees and current 457 Visa holders. There will be new, stricter requirements regarding occupation, salary, age, and work experience. Clients will also face a new skills levy that will fund training programs for Australian workers. Major changes include:

  • Salary must meet the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (A$53900)
  • Residency period waiting time increases to three years from the current two for permanent residency
  • Applicants must have at least three years of work experience in the employment category
  • Age limit is reduced to 45 from the current 50
  • Training levy of A$3000 up to A$5000 depending on company size

What is the Australia Permanent Visa issue?

Changes to permanent employer-sponsored skilled-worker categories are effective in March 2018. Consequently, the 457 Visa program will end. A new Temporary Skills Shortage Visa will replace the 457 Visa. Some 457 Visa holders will be subject to transitional provisions starting in March 2018.

Who is eligible for transitional provisions?

Transferees holding a 457 Visa as of April 18 2017, and those who applied for a 457 Visa as of April 18 2017 and were granted it on a later date, are eligible for transitional provisions. These transitional provisions allow the previous occupation requirements, maximum age of 50, and minimum length of two years in their employment.

What does this mean for you?

Clients who have a transferee working in Australia on a 457 Visa should communicate the upcoming changes. Transferees holding 457 Visas who are eligible for permanent residence should apply prior to March 2018. The new requirements may limit the number of skilled employees that clients are able to sponsor for permanent residency.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of global relocation experts can help HR teams understand and prepare for issues related to Australia Permanent Visa, 457 Visas, the new Temporary Skills Shortage Visas, and the changes becoming effective in March 2018.

Contact us online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.Request your complimentary Visa Program Assessment

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Business Services Domestic Relocation Tips Global Relocation Talent Mobility

Spouse and Partner Career Support Programs Promote Successful Relocations

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Two serious caucasian men in suits discussing or planning business issues in the office. Colleagues or client and consultant are sitting at the table next to each other and talking.

Employees expect their company’s relocation programs to provide a wide range of services, technology, and tools that will help make for an easy and smooth relocation process. Along with services targeted specifically for the transferee, the most successful company relocation programs also provide support programs for spouses and partners. Employee’s family members participate in the relocation process, and as such their buy-in and support can ensure a successful assignment.

When an employee is offered a relocation opportunity, their spouse or partner’s needs should be considered as well. Often a new job for a transferee may mean a job change for their spouse or partner, in addition to relocating to a new location. The more support and information a company provides for spouses and partners, the more likely the relocation will be successful.

Successful company relocation programs should provide the following spouse and partner support services:

Spouse/Partner Pre-Decision Support Programs

Spouses and partners should receive consultation for any questions and concerns they may have about the new location. Local average salary information, cost of living assessments, job market information, community amenities, and specific information about local companies or organizations that may fit the spouse or partner’s career goals are all helpful topics that support spouses and partners in their pre-decision process.

Online Assistance Portal

An online assistance portal that provides information to support local job searches or professional development opportunities in the new location is a welcome addition to a company’s relocation support programs for spouses and partners. Helpful resources such as lists of key employers organized by location and industry, resume posting services, and job search publications and white papers provide spouses and partners with information they need to pursue new opportunities.

Professional Career Services

Many spouses and partners benefit from structured programs that help them create their online personal brand through Linkedin profiles or job search engines, direct job search assistance, resume writing assistance, entrepreneur support, and professional development opportunities. Successful company relocation programs provide a wide range of these support programs so their transferees’ families are prepared to participate in the relocation process with a focus on success.

“The entrepreneur support services provided by my husband’s employer were instrumental to our successful relocation,” noted S. Fernandez, founder and Program Director of TLC Child Enrichment. “As he began his new career, I received extensive assistance to set up a new childcare and preschool business which has grown and provided me with a terrific opportunity.”

Conclusion

The most successful company relocation programs provide a wealth of support programs and services for spouses and partners since they are often key to ensuring a successful relocation. Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) provides its clients with an extensive array of spouse and partner support programs as well as other valuable business services so employee relocations are successful. Our high-touch service model fully extends to helping employee’s families with everything they need during their relocation process.

To learn more about the wide range of spouse and partner support programs we provide, download your industry benchmarking study, contact our team of relocation experts or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Global Relocation Global Relocation Tips Immigration Rules Visas and International Travel

International Talent Relocation: Top 3 Tips

Young couple unpacking cardboard boxes at new home.Moving house.
Young couple unpacking cardboard boxes at new home.Moving house.

International talent relocation can present many challenges. According to a recent Atlas Van Lines survey, more than half of respondents expect their international relocation volumes to increase. With this in mind, here are the top three tips to help your international talent relocation:

Help the Transferee Acclimate

Moving a single employee or a group of employees is a complicated task, which is why it is critical to help transferees acclimate to their surrounding environments before they start working. If employees aren’t able to arrange a visit to the new location before they pack their things and move, they should do as much research on the area as they can. This may include reading local news or publications that focus on the surrounding area, which can help new residents learn the language and cultural interests. Cultural training can be crucial to assignment success. Culture shock is a very real phenomenon that impacts many travelers. When preparing for or managing culture shock, the U.S. Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs recommends keeping an open mind, staying physically active, and making an effort to get to know other people as much as possible.

Workings Visas and Work Permits

When talent is relocating overseas, they must first get their paperwork in order. Companies should help transferees do their homework on important travel documents. Provide information on customs and immigration requirements, Visa acquisition, and which vaccinations transferees must obtain before departure. Some countries have currency restrictions for entry as well. The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs has valuable supplementary resources that outline what countries require upon arrival.

Hire an Experienced Relocation Management Company

If a business is unsure how to tackle international relocation, an experienced Relocation Management Company (RMC) can provide the necessary insight and solutions to navigate today’s mobility challenges. Relocate Magazine highly recommends employing a trusted partner in this capacity, especially if management or C-level executives are unfamiliar with global relocation and the new area where they are moving their talent. RMCs can provide unique and fresh insight into each move. Whether a company needs a partner to help with the entire move, or simply needs to outsource certain aspects of a relocation effort, RMCs can provide expert guidance and help determine the most efficient and effective solutions.

Conclusion

The corporate relocation experts at Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) have the knowledge and expertise to help your company manage its international talent relocation and offer your employees the best relocation experience. Contact our team of experts to discuss how we can help your international talent relocation process, or call us directly at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Global Relocation Global Relocation Tips Immigration Rules Visas and International Travel

Switzerland Enforces Quotas on Category B Permits for Persons from Romania and Bulgaria

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Switzerland enforces quotas on Category B Permits for persons from Romania and Bulgaria. This enforcement action is a result of the Federal Council’s decision to invoke a safeguard clause within the European Union’s Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons, which allows for restriction of movement to control migration. The quota enforcement began June 1, 2017 and will last for a period of twelve months. A total of 996 Category B Permits will be distributed on a quarterly basis. Category B Permits allow for five year residency.

Why Switzerland enforces quotas

Switzerland notes that Romanian and Bulgarian workers have been increasingly migrating for seasonal jobs in sectors with higher-than-average unemployment rates. The quota is one of the tools at the country’s disposal to control migration and mitigate adverse impacts.

What is the Switzerland quota?

Each quarter since June 1, 2017, the quota is 249 Category B Permits for workers from Romania and Bulgaria. With the quota enforcement, the number of Category B Permits has been exhausted each quarter. The third quarter, which started on December 1, has already exceeded its quota. The fourth quarter will release the last installment of 249 Category B Permits on March 1, 2018. Based on demand, the fourth quarter quota is expected to be reached only a few days after release.

Who does this impact?

  • Clients with transferees who are Romanian and Bulgarian citizens and who are planning to submit Category B Permit applications.
  • Clients who are planning to hire Romanian and Bulgarian citizens who are not currently in possession of a Switzerland work permit.

What does this mean for you?

Clients who have transferees planning to submit Category B Permit applications but who do not meet the quota limit may have other options such as Category L Permits, which are for short-term (one year) residency and are not subject to quotas. In any case, clients should ensure their transferees or new hires submit their Category B Permit applications as soon as possible at the start of each quarter.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of global relocation experts can help HR teams understand and prepare as Switzerland enforces quotas on Category B Permits, as well as other visa, work permit, and immigration issues.

Contact us online 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 Immigration Rules Visas and International Travel

Shanghai China: Changes to Applications for China Working Visas and Working Permits

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The Shanghai Municipal Human Resources and Social Security Bureau has implemented several rule changes to the processes for obtaining China Working Visas and Work Permits. These changes should make the process easier and quicker for applicants.

Who Does This Affect?

  • Companies currently planning to send a transferee to China
  • Companies with transferring employees in the process of submitting applications for working visas and work permits

What are the Documents a Transferring Employee Needs to Have to Enter China?

A Working Visa is required to enter China for working purposes, and is valid for only 30 days. Upon entry, the Working Visa document must be replaced within 30 days by a Resident Permit, which allows foreigners to reside in China. A Resident Permit replaces the Working Visa on the transferring employee’s passport and allows them to remain in China legally, as well as travel abroad without any restrictions during their employment. A Foreigner’s Work Permit is a document that is delivered to the transferring employee after they have contacted and proceeded accordingly with the local Chinese authorities.

What are the Changes to the Process?

In April 2017, two previous types of Work Permits were combined into a single and unique Foreigner’s Work Permit. The Foreigner’s Work Permits are divided into three distinct categories: A, B, and C.

Foreigner’s Work Permit Categories

  • A: High-End Foreign Talents, professionals including scientists, science and technology leading talents, international entrepreneurs, special talents, and other foreign high-end talents urgently needed for economic and social development.
  • B: Foreign Professional Talents, in line with the Foreigners Employed in China Guide Catalog and the corresponding demands of economic and social development.
  • C: Other Foreigners, employed to meet the demand of the domestic labor market in line with the state policies and regulations.

The process changes work in tandem with China’s new Working Permits Points System, which allows applicants to apply online, a simple and quick process. In November 2017, further adjustments were made to the Working Permits Points System, along with a new segmentation of working areas in China.

What Does This Mean?

The new online application system should make the process simpler and easier for applicants to apply for China Working Visas and Work Permits. The Working Permits Points System is easy to understand and helps applicants quickly understand if they fall into one of the three distinct categories.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of global relocation experts can help HR teams determine the best plan and course of action on how to submit applications for China Working Visas and Work Permits. Global Mobility Solutions can also help you pursue additional options if the Working Permits Points System is not viable for a transferring employee. Contact our experts online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary Visa Program Assessment for China Working Visas and Work Permits

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Global Relocation Immigration Rules Visas and International Travel

United Kingdom Tier 2 General Visas for Migrants Exceed Monthly Quota in December

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London, England - Panoramic aerial skyline view of London including Tower Bridge with red double-decker bus, Tower of London, skyscrapers of Bank District and other famous skyscrapers at golden hour

The United Kingdom Home Office’s Visa and Immigration Bureau reports that Tier 2 General Visas for Migrants exceed the December 1,500 monthly quota, refusing over 100 applications. Most of these applications are eligible for re-submission in January, but the January quota will remain at 1,500, and the February quota will be 1,000.

Who Does This Affect?

What is the Process to Submit a Tier 2 General Visa for Migrants?

Companies must submit an application for RCoS by the fifth of each month. Applicants receive admission by way of a panel of judges. Those applying for occupations that are short of qualified employees, and those applying for jobs at the PhD level are usually the first priority.

Remaining applications receive priority based on salary level, with higher salaries taking preference. However, if a salary bracket receives 100 or more applicants beyond the number of places, all applications are refused, and must be resubmitted the following month.

What are the Monthly Quotas?

Each annual quota is divided on a monthly basis, with higher figures set aside for months with the highest demand. If there are months where a balance remains, it rolls over and adds to the next month. Currently, the monthly quotas are as follows:

  • March: 2,200
  • April through August: 2,000
  • September through January: 1,500
  • February: 1,000

What Does This Mean?

Since the majority of December rejected applications will be re-submitted in January, there is a strong possibility that the applications will exceed January’s quota as well. Employers should plan accordingly, noting that transferees may not be able to accept relocation assignments in the United Kingdom until a later date.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of global relocation experts can help HR teams determine the best plan and course of action on how to submit applications for RCoS in a timely manner, and how to respond if quota limits impact their relocation plans. Contact our experts online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Global Relocation Immigration Rules

Online Portal Form C Checkout is Mandatory in India for Landlords of Privately Owned Residences

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The Ministry of Home Affairs in India, through the Bureau of Immigration and the Local Foreigners Regional Registration Offices, is requiring landlords of privately owned residences to update the departure or checkout dates for foreign national guests and tenants via the Online Portal Form C.

What is the New Requirement regarding Online Portal Form C Checkout?

Currently, only hotels, guest houses, and serviced apartments have been required to report the departure or checkout of foreign national guests and tenants. The procedure is to enter the information into the Online Portal Form C, managed by the Bureau of Immigration.

The new requirement is that the landlords of privately owned residences must also now report the departure or checkout of foreign national guests and tenants, using the same Online Portal Form C. This affects all transferees and their family members residing in India staying in hotels, guest houses, rented properties, or privately owned residences.

What Does This Mean?

For transferees changing residences or leaving India that have been residing at privately owned residences, clients should ensure that their landlord completes the departure or checkout information using the Online Portal Form C as required.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of global relocation experts can help HR teams communicate this new requirement and its impact on transferees and their family members residing in India. Contact our experts online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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