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Singapore Work Pass Card from Ministry of Manpower

Singapore business district skyline panorama over Marina Bay

The Singapore Ministry of Manpower is currently in the process of creating and introducing a new Singapore Work Pass Card format. The new Work Pass Card system will feature greater security and provide for quick and easy inquiries into work pass validity and authenticity.

What is the new Singapore Work Pass Card format?

The new Work Pass Card format will remove information from the physical card. Currently, application date, issue and expiration dates, and occupation are shown on the physical Work Pass Card. Going forward, this information will only be available through a new mobile app “SGWorkPass”, a new website, and the current Work Pass System’s inquiry functions.

Employers will be able to scan a QR code printed on the new card with the SGWorkPass mobile app. This scan will check the most updated status of the work passes. Additionally, the scan will also verify information such as date of expiry and occupation.

Who does this new Singapore Work Pass Card format affect?

Employers based in Singapore with employees from outside the country.

What should employers expect with this new Singapore Work Pass Card system?

The new system implementation is on track for March 2018 activation. Starting in March, employers should follow the new process for Employment Pass, S Pass, Dependent’s Pass, and Long Term Visit Pass. Employers should use the new SGWorkPass mobile app to check whether a Work Pass is valid. Internal company information systems should have data tracking and recording in place. Employers should also verify they are monitoring each Work Pass expiration date.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of global relocation experts have helped thousands of our clients with country-specific work pass requirements, and we can help your company understand how to comply with the new Singapore Work Pass Card system and requirements. Contact our experts online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Switzerland Employers Must Communicate Job Openings in Occupations with Higher than Average Unemployment

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Employers must communicate Switzerland job openings in occupations that have higher than average unemployment rates starting July 2018, according to a December 8, 2017 Federal Council decision. The Federal Council may issue a list of the occupations subject to mandatory communication of openings in early 2018. The Federal Council’s requirement for mandatory advertisements will start July 1, 2018 for positions that have 8% or higher unemployment, and then increase on January 1, 2020 for positions that have 5% or higher unemployment.

What is the Switzerland job openings issue?

An initiative called “Against Mass Immigration” was adopted by Switzerland on February 9, 2014. This initiative called for quota limits on immigration. However, the Swiss Parliament passed a compromise immigration law in 2016, hoping the country could continue to have its enhanced access to the European Union’s single market. The new law required employers to advertise job openings in occupations with higher than average unemployment at job centers and to prioritize local residents prior to recruiting from outside the country. Since the implementation of the “Against Mass Immigration” effort is coming to an end after four years, the new requirement aims to continue to give local job seekers priority in job openings in sectors with higher than average unemployment.

Who does this requirement affect?

Employers based in Switzerland planning to hire workers from outside the country.

What is the new requirement?

Under the new requirement, employers must advertise their job openings with the local job center and then wait five business days before advertising these openings through other venues. The local job center must forward applications from local job seekers who meet the requirements of the job opening within three business days. Companies must invite local candidates that meet the requirements of the job opening to an interview. They must also report the job openings they are able to fill through this channel to the job center. The temporary withholding of job opening information helps job seekers who are registered with the local job center to get priority access to the job advertisements.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of global relocation experts have helped thousands of our clients with country-specific employment requirements, and we can help your company understand how to comply with Switzerland’s new job opening and advertising rules. Contact our experts online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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

Vector of nice Australian flag.

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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Immigration Rules Visas and International Travel

EU Citizen Rights: Arriving in UK During Post-BREXIT Transition May Not Secure Same Rights

Handsome young man with tablet in the streets of London

EU citizen rights are not secure for those arriving in the UK during the post-BREXIT transition. Prime Minister Theresa May indicated EU citizens arriving post-BREXIT may not receive the same rights as those who arrived prior to the vote. Prime Minister May said while the details were a matter for negotiation with the EU, she is clear that there is a difference between the EU citizens who were in the UK prior to the vote, and those who arrive afterward, knowing the UK is leaving the EU.

What is the question on EU citizen rights?

Prime Minister May believes the government is doing what the British people asked the government to do, which is to deliver on the promise of BREXIT. As such, complete freedom of movement for EU citizens into the UK post-BREXIT is not supported during the transition period.

Prime Minister May has stated that EU citizens who arrive during the post-BREXIT transition must not have the same rights as those EU citizens within the UK prior to the vote. Prime Minister May has been very appreciative of the contributions EU citizens residing in the UK have made, and has clearly stated that “EU citizens living lawfully in the UK” will be able to stay in the UK post-BREXIT.

Who does this EU citizen rights issue affect?

  • Employers who have EU citizen employees currently residing in the UK.
  • EU citizens who arrive in the UK during the post-BREXIT implementation period and who are seeking residency.

What should employers and citizens expect from this EU citizen rights issue?

There may be an increase in applications for residency in the UK in response to Prime Minister May’s comments. Although the European Parliament believes citizen’s rights during implementation are in full effect and are not negotiable, Prime Minister May’s statements indicate negotiations on this point have not been finalized in her view. EU citizens may want to expedite their applications for residency with the expectation that a firm deadline will be negotiated.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of global relocation experts have helped thousands of our clients manage relocation to the UK, as well as understand how BREXIT will impact their programs. We can help your company understand the impact of this EU citizen rights issue, and how to submit applications for residency in the UK. 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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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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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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Germany Implements ICT Directive

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Will you or your transferees be affected?

What has changed?

Effective immediately, Germany Implements ICT Directive – the German parliament has implemented an ICT Directive which intends to regulate the conditions for entry and residence of thirty-country nationals within the intra-company transfer (ICT) process.

Who is affected?

  • Employees working at the same group of companies for at least six (6) months being sent to Germany on an intra-company transfer
  • Employees working at the same group of companies for less than six (6) months intending to be sent to Germany on an intra-company transfer
  • Clients transferring employees to the same group of companies from another EU country to Germany

What to expect

The ICT Directive provides two different categories: firstly, third-country nationals who want to enter Germany directly from their home country (third-country); secondly, third-country nationals who already hold an ICT residence permit in another European Union (EU) Member State and are transferred to Germany for short or long-term transfer within the same group of companies.

The law divides it as follows:

1) ICT card for intra-company transferred workers (third-country nationals) must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Transfer must take place within the same company group
  • The employee must be either a leader (e.g. manager with leading function) or a specialist
  • Employee must have been with the company for at least six (6) months
  • The transfer must be for more than ninety (90) days, but cannot exceed three (3) years
  • An approval from the Federal Employment Agency must be obtained in advance
  • For the duration of the transfer, the assignee must have a valid assignment contract with his/her home employer and return to the home entity after the transfer
  • The remuneration (salary and monetary benefits) and working conditions (working time, leave, wage advancement in case of illness, etc.) must be comparable with a local employee

2a) Short-term mobility for intra-company workers (third-country nationals) must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Application in Germany up to ninety (90) days within 180 days
  • The assignee has a valid residence permit issued by another EU Member State pursuant to the ICT Directive
  • Proof that the domestic branch office belongs to the same company/group
  • Must have a valid passport
  • Confirmation on the entitlement to enter and residence for the purpose of intra-company transfer issued by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge BAMF)

2b) Mobile ICT Card must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Transfer must take place within the same company/company group
  • The assignee must either be a leader (e.g. manager with a leading function) or a specialist
  • The assignee has a valid residence permit issued by another EU Member State according to the ICT Directive
  • The transfer is for more than ninety (90) days
  • An approval from the Federal Employment Agency must be obtained in advance
  • For the duration of the transfer, the assignee must have a valid assignment contract with his/her home employer and return to the home entity after the transfer
  • The remuneration (salary and monetary benefits) and working conditions (working time, leave, wage advancement in case of illness, etc.) must be comparable with a local employee

If the application was submitted at least twenty (20) days before the start date of the assignment and the assignment has already been submitted to the authorities of the other EU Member State on the first application, the stay and assignment in Germany will be allowed for a period of up to ninety (90) days before the decision was made by the German authorities.

Please note there will be a period of transition as Germany Implements ICT Directive and the authorities will need some time to get use to the new process. We anticipate having more details on the practical implementation and application procedures to share with you in the near future.

 

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Planning ahead

To learn more about Germany Implements ICT Directive or any other issues that affect you or your mobile employees, be sure to speak with one of the Global Consultants at Global Mobility Solutions. From pre-decision to visa and immigration to language and cultural training, GMS has the award-winning programs and innovative technology to make relocating your employees and tracking their expenses simple and worry-free.

Request your complimentary Visa Program Assessment

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