Global immigration news round-up
This week, the Global Immigration team at Smith Stone Walters would like to highlight the following updates from Mexico, Singapore and South Africa.
Mexico: New entry procedures for visitors
The government has launched a pilot program aiming to expedite immigration procedures at Mexican airports.
Visitors arriving for short-term tourism or business at Cancun or Guadalajara airports are now required to complete, print and submit on arrival an electronic Multiple Immigration Form (FMME) rather than a paper FMM. They must also present their passport and, if required, a valid visa.
Approved travellers will be issued an entry permit without permission to carry out paid activities and will have their passports stamped with the allowable period of stay.
Singapore: Salary increase for EP holders
From 1 September 2022, Employment Pass (EP) holders must meet a higher qualifying salary.
Effective 1 September 2022 for new applications (1 September 2023 for renewals):
- The EP qualifying monthly salary will increase from SGD 4500 to SGD 5000 (from SGD 8400 to SGDS 10,500 for candidates in mid-40s or older).
- For those in the financial services sector, the EP qualifying monthly salary will increase from SGD 5000 to SGD 5500 (from SGD 9300 to SGDS 11,500 for candidates in mid-40s or older).
- The S Pass qualifying monthly salary will increase from SGD 2500 to SGD 3000 (increase up to SGD 4500 for candidates in mid-40s or older).
- For those in the financial services sector, the S Pass qualifying monthly salary will increase from SGD 3000 to SGD 3500 (increase up to SGD 5500 for candidates in mid-40s or older).
The government has provided this Self-Assessment Tool to help employers to calculate whether their EP or S Pass applicants meet the upcoming new salary criteria.
South Africa: Critical Skills List updated
On 2 August 2022, the South African government published an updated Critical Skills List, including 38 additional healthcare occupations.
Foreign nationals employed in the newly included occupations may now be eligible for a Critical Skills Work Visa. They must also have written confirmation of their skills, qualifications and experience from a relevant accredited professional body. This work visa is not employer-specific and can lead to permanent residence in South Africa for those visa holders who have five years of relevant professional experience.
Expert advice on global immigration
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