Latest updates in global
immigration

26 November 2020

Global immigration rules and procedures are changing by the day, as governments around the world begin to ease lockdown measures and certain overseas visa centres begin a phased reopening. However, certain restrictions and exemptions are still in place in most countries, therefore travellers should be aware of the current rules in their destination country before travelling.

With this in mind, Smith Stone Walters would like to highlight the following key updates in global immigration this week.

USA: Border restrictions extended

“Non-essential” travel across US land borders as well as ferry travel has been suspended until 21 December 2020. The ban was originally instigated on 21 March and has been extended several times since.

“Non-essential” travel is defined as tourism or recreational, which includes sightseeing, gambling and attending cultural events. “Essential travel” covers a list of activities and includes those travelling for medical purposes, education or individuals travelling for work in the US.

Under existing guidance, U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents and foreign business travellers should still be able to cross the Canadian and Mexican land borders, however questioning is likely.

China: Foreigner Entry Visas and Residence Permits Suspended

China has again responded to a global increase in COVID-19 cases by suspending entry into China for foreign nationals holding valid Chinese visas or residence permits. Restrictions were originally introduced in March 2020 and have been amended since.

Those with a Chinese visa, work-type, personal affairs or family reunion residence permits issued on or before 3 November 2020 are impacted by the update, whilst the following groups remain exempt: diplomatic, service, courtesy or C visas; or any valid visa issued after 3 November 2020.

This notice appears on the Embassy sites of some countries but not all so travellers are advised to take note of their relevant Embassy site before travelling to China.

Ireland: Employers’ opinions on Critical Skills wanted

Employers in Ireland have been invited by Irish Authorities to comment on the Critical Skills Occupations List and the Ineligible List of Occupations for Employment Permits.

This is an important process as it give employers the opportunity to have an input on the possible expansion of the permissible occupations under the Critical Skills Employment Permit and General Employment routes. In doing so, it opens up the number of roles an employer can hire overseas nationals for under these categories.

Please contact SSW should you have any questions about the submission or if you require assistance with drafting.

SSW Global Immigration

At Smith Stone Walters, moving people across borders is our business.

Our team of immigration experts manage and support immigration moves throughout the UK, Europe and the rest of the world. We have spent years refining our global immigration capability, with a carefully selected choice of local partners to meet every client need.

If you need advice or support in reaching your business’s global immigration goals, Smith Stone Walters would be delighted to help. Contact us today to discuss your requirements – we are immigration experts.

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