Tag: Global Relocation Tips

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What are the Top 5 Reasons to Outsource Global Mobility Management?

There are several reasons why a company would move to outsource global mobility management. Often these programs require a level of expertise that is not inherent within an organization. Issues regarding international visas and work permits can be particularly vexing and cumbersome. Consistency in application across departments, divisions, and throughout locations is an important consideration for fair and equitable treatment of all employees.

The Top 5 Reasons to Outsource Global Mobility Management:

1. Compliance

Companies that choose to outsource global mobility management gain significant advantages in tax and compliance related to national regulations.  Programs may offer benefits to both employers and relocating employees. The importance of compliance cannot be understated, as noncompliance may include penalties.

2. Cost Management

Relocation Management Companies (RMCs) may offer industry-leading technology solutions that provide easy and simple tracking and reporting capabilities for mobility costs. Companies gain accuracy and simplicity for reporting and budgeting purposes.

3. Core Responsibilities

When a company chooses to outsource their relocation program, it frees internal departments to focus on corporate objectives. Mobility management often is not a core competency within a company. Eliminating costly and excessive administrative burdens by moving to outsource global mobility management lets organizations pursue valuable goals.

4. Courtesy Enhancements

RMCs with significant knowledge and experience will offer a number of complimentary solutions that are extremely valuable to companies and their relocating employees. Programs such as Pre-Decision Services result in employees that start work sooner, stay longer, and are a better fit in the company’s culture.

5. Cost Savings

RMCs can help a company identify a number of cost savings upon their move to outsource global mobility management. Relocation Policy recommendations from courtesy mobility consulting often generate significant savings in areas such as in-house costs versus fees, household goods moves, and home sale programs.

What Does This Mean for Companies That Want to Outsource Global Mobility Management?

Companies can achieve significant operational improvements and cost savings when they outsource global mobility management. As a result, internal departments can focus on achieving company objectives while reducing administrative costs and burdens.

What Should Employers do to Outsource Global Mobility Management?

Employers should work with a qualified Relocation Management Company (RMC) that can provide a full range of relocation programs. Employers should consider a move to outsourcing their relocation program to achieve significant operational and cost advantages. This will help increase relocation success.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients manage the transition to outsource global mobility management. As a result, our team can help your company understand how to benefit from the advantages such a move affords.

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 need to outsource global mobility management, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary relocation policy review

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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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FY 2020 H-1B Visa Lottery Cap Limits Reached on Wednesday, April 10, 2019

visa application - approved

The United States FY 2020 H-1B visa lottery cap limits reached its regular and advanced degree exemption limits on April 10, 2019. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that it had used a computer-generated random selection process to select petitions. The USCIS received 201,011 petitions during the filing period which started on April 1. This figure is 5.7% higher than the 190,098 petitions that were submitted to the FY 2019 lottery.

How Many Petitions Were Filed Subject to the Lottery Cap Limits?

For FY 2020, the USCIS:

  • Starting April 1, received 201,011 H-1B Petitions
  • On April 5, announced it had received enough petitions to reach the H-1B 65,000 cap limit

The computer-generated random selection process followed the new process that USCIS implemented for FY 2020. Most importantly, this 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.

What are the New Lottery Process and Lottery Cap Limits?

The USCIS changed the lottery process effective April 1, 2019. The steps in the FY 2020 lottery process followed this pattern:

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

What Happens to Petitions Not Selected Under the Lottery Cap Limits?

If the USCIS does not select a petition, it rejects the petition and returns it along with the filing fee. However, if the USCIS determines the petition is a “prohibited multiple filing,” the USCIS may issue a notice to deny or an intent to revoke each petition. Prohibited multiple filings fall under the regulation that prohibits an employer (or related entities) from filing in the same year more than one H-1B petition on behalf of the same beneficiary.

Can Petitions Not Subject to the Lottery Cap Limits Still Be Submitted?

USCIS will continue to accept and process petitions that are not subject to the lottery cap limits. This includes those petitions filed for current H-1B workers who were previously counted against the lottery cap limits. As a result, these petitions:

  • Retain their cap number
  • Remain exempt from the FY 2020 H-1B lottery cap limits

Also, USCIS will continue to accept and process petitions that petitioners file to:

  • Allow a current H-1B worker to change their employer
  • Allow a current H-1B worker to work in a second H-1B position at the same time as their first H-1B position
  • Alter the terms of employment for a current H-1B worker
  • Extend the length of time a current H-1B worker may remain in the United States

What Should Employers do if Petitions are not Chosen for the Lottery Cap Limits?

Employers have a few options for petitions that USCIS does not select through the lottery process:

  1. Wait until next year’s lottery
  2. Consider an alternative visa for the foreign national, subject to qualification

Alternative visa options may include some of the following, depending on situations and qualifications:

  1. Cap-Exempt H-1B
  2. B-1
  3. O-1
  4. P-1
  5. L-1
  6. TN
  7. E-1/E-2
  8. F-1 OPT/F-1 CPT
  9. Permanent Residency/Green Card without H-1B Visa

What Should Employers do?

Global Mobility Solutions has a team of global relocation experts who can help you with alternatives to H-1B visas. Our team’s knowledge and access to visa and immigration resources is unparalleled in the industry. As a result, we have helped thousands of companies with the H-1B visa lottery process reach successful results within the program’s lottery cap limits and with alternative visas.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients manage their H-1B visa lottery petitions. Therefore, our team can help your company understand the process and pursue alternative visas for petitions not chosen under the lottery cap limits.

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.

Contact our experts online to discuss your H-1B and alternative visa needs resulting from lottery cap limits, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary Visa Program Assessment

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Does Your Relocation Management Company Have a Continuity Plan that Addresses Border Closure?

Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) is keenly aware that our clients’ relocation needs will continue even in light of a border closure. A border closure can be implemented on the ground, at ocean ports, or through airspace. Any method that people or goods can use to travel into or out of a country may face closure. Several Household Goods (HHG) Providers are members of our Premier Alliance Network—an elite partnership of relocation service providers. GMS contacted these members to discuss their business continuity plans.

Is a Border Closure Imminent?

North America

In the United States, the Trump Administration has indicated a desire to close the border with Mexico. What this may entail is an effort to shut ports of entry. Such an effort might:

  1. Prevent people from legally entering the US through a port
  2. Prevent goods from legally entering the US through a port

However, this may not prevent people from entering the US without papers. Many people cross into the US between ports of entry. Closing ports of entry may do little to prevent people from entering the US without papers.

Europe

Countries such as Hungary have closed borders with other countries such as Serbia and Croatia. This effort appears to be a deliberate result of the country’s push to deter asylum seekers. Also, countries such as Macedonia have started erecting fences along its border with Greece. As a result, asylum seekers in Greece are not able to cross into Macedonia to reach other parts of western and northern Europe.

Africa

The border closure between Rwanda and Uganda is difficult to define. There is no clear reason or understanding as to the underlying cause. One reason may be an undeclared trade war. Other reasons may be due to the completion of a one-stop border post, political tensions, and personal safety. Liberia implemented a border closure in an effort to halt the spread of the Ebola virus.

South America

The government of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela has closed its border with Brazil, and other crossings in Colombia have been partially closed. Part of the reason for the border closure is due to tensions surrounding foreign aid deliveries. President Maduro has warned against trying to bring humanitarian supplies to Venezuela. Venezuela has already closed its air and ocean borders with Curacao, and the islands of Aruba and Bonaire. However, this border closure has not been fully effective. As a result, Venezuelans have still been able to cross the border into Colombia.

Asia

With tensions between India and Pakistan flaring, Pakistan’s airspace was closed. This border closure affected thousands of people and flights. The airspace over Pakistan is a major route between Southeast Asia and Europe. Between Malaysia and Thailand, a temporary border closure was recently enacted as a result of a dispute over Thai motor-taxi drivers. These drivers were prevented from ferrying passengers to Malaysia through the Bukit Kayu Hitam-Sadao main border crossing. This was ostensibly due to the effort by the Malaysia General Operations Force to enhance security checks in the area.

What Happens to HHG Moves During a Border Closure?

Clearly, HHG moves could face disruption during a border closure. Depending on the issue at hand, the historical basis for any underlying dispute, and a whole range of geo-political factors, a border closure may arise at any time, for any reason.

Relocation Management Companies (RMCs) should ensure their clients’ relocations are quickly accommodated. GMS’ Premier Alliance Network members recommend the following strategic actions.

Identify the Scope of the Border Closure

Is the closure limited to one crossing, a range of crossings, or an entire border? Does the closure include air and ocean freight shipments between the affected countries? Often a border closure may be solely due to a physical barrier issue. Also, the closure may be limited to people, not goods in transport.

Develop Backup Plans for Storage or Alternate Shipment Methods

If the scope of the border closure is limited, temporary secure warehouse storage of goods may suffice. Additionally, HHG shipments may be re-routed from ground transportation to air freight or ocean freight transportation.

What Should Employers do in the Event of a Border Closure?

Employers with relocation programs that cross international borders should verify their RMC has a business continuity plan that addresses how they will manage disruptions during a border closure. Employers should examine their company’s potential exposure to this type of disruption for any relocations, and work with their RMC to ensure continuity plans are in place.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients with HHG moves around the world. Our team can help your company determine how to ensure continuity plans are in place should disruptions occur due to a border closure.

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.

Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s HHG moves and business continuity plan in face of a border closure, 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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