SSW Global Immigration updates
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.
Irelands lifts restrictions on new visa and preclearance applications
On 27 January 2021, Ireland stopped accepting new visa and preclearance applications unless an individual qualified as a priority or emergency case.
Effective 1 June 2021, these restrictions will no longer apply and all long stay visa and preclearance applications will be accepted.
The Netherlands extends the deadline for UK Nationals to apply for a new residence document
For those UK nationals and their family members who were resident in the Netherlands before 1 January 2021, the deadline to apply for a new residence document has been pushed back until 1 October 2021.
The allowance is on account of records indicating many UK nationals are yet to apply to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) for the required residence permit.
Applications can be submitted online and the individual will receive permanent status if they have been resident in the Netherlands for five years or more. A filing fee of €64 for adults and €33 for children under 18 applies.
New Zealand Accredited Employer visa
Employers will be able to apply for accreditation from late September in advance of the November release of the Accredited Employer work visa in New Zealand.
To qualify for accreditation, an employer must demonstrate that they:
- are a genuinely operating business, including being registered with Inland Revenue and holding a New Zealand Business Number (NZBN),
- do not have a recent history of regulatory non-compliance with immigration and employment laws, and
- will take steps to minimise the risk of exploitation, by completing employment modules, providing migrant workers with advice on their rights, and paying all recruitment costs inside and outside New Zealand.
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.
