SSW Global Immigration
news round-up

22 July 2021

In the fast-paced world of global immigration, rules are subject to regular changes and new visa categories for workers and visitors are frequently introduced by governments worldwide.

With this in mind, the Global Immigration team at Smith Stone Walters would like to make our clients and followers aware of the following recent updates.

Nepal Launches digital visa system

Nepal has officially launched a new digital visa service to replace its 45-year-old hand-written regime. Since the inauguration of the new system, visas are assigned digitally from the information system of the Department of Immigration.

The introduction of the new system aims to tackle security threats and strengthen Nepal’s immigration system entirely. Some of the key features include hologram and security features such as QR codes in the visa sticker, to help authorities determine whether the visa is authentic or not.

The Department of Immigration have announced that they hope that the new system will eventually pave the way for the issuance of e-visas in the future.

Canada offers fast track study permits to more countries

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will be offering fast track services for seven additional countries under the Student Direct Stream.

In an attempt to boost Canadian higher education prospects, the immigration department have introduced this new measure to attract more students. Typically, the standard processing for the Student Direct Stream on average can take up to several months, however with the accelerated option now open, this could allow applicants to have their study permits processed within 20 days.

The IRRC have now welcomed fast track processing for students from the following countries:

• Brazil
• Colombia
• Peru
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Costa Rica
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Saint Vincent
• Grenadines

Qatar resumes tourist entry visas

As of last week, Qatar has now resumed the issuing of family and tourist entry visas. The news comes after new travel and return policies were introduced.

For visitors, entry is only allowed if the person is fully vaccinated up to 14 days prior to entering the county. In addition to this, all travellers will need to present a negative PCR test result done within 72 hours before they enter the country.

Note that the new entrance policies include information of categorising countries into three categories in order to determine the quarantine measures. All individuals that are looking to travel to Qatar will need to register and complete the pre-requisite information on the Qatar Ehteraz government website portal or app.

Expert advice on global immigration

If you need support with any aspect of worldwide immigration, Smith Stone Walters is here to help.

To speak to a member of our Global Immigration team, please contact us today.

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