Workpermit.com - Immigration newsletter

Dear Visitor

Immigration newsletter - 22 March 2006

The UK last week released detailed information on its new points-based immigration system. We have since received many questions and comments regarding the new system, and to address these have created a special edition of our video news explaining some of the most frequently asked questions. You can view this video here.

The UK Home Office has announced important changes in the Immigration Rules, which will affect many people applying to remain* in the UK. The changes will take effect from 3 April this year. workpermit.com can help you apply for permanent residence. The changes, in summary, are:

For all employment-related categories of entry to the UK, and those who have entered under the Ancestry category, the qualifying period for permanent residence is now five years. Previously it was four years.
The initial period of stay in the UK will now be two years (except for Work Permit holders and Retired Persons of Independent Means), followed by a subsequent period of up to three years. Previously an initial period of up to 12 months was granted, followed by a period of up to 3 years.
The UK ancestry provision will allow you to apply to remain in the UK for two years which can then be extended for a further three years. Previously you could be granted an ancestry visa for the entire four year period.
Other: Retired Persons of Independent Means will still be able to gain one single visa that will allow them to remain in the UK until they gain permanent residence. Work Permit holders will still be eligible for a visa that will enable them to remain in the UK for the duration of their work permit.

*Officially known as Indefinite Leave to Remain.

Latest immigration news

Bill Gates lobbies again for more US H1B visas

Lobbying for an increase in the number of H-1B visas, Microsoft chief Bill Gates has called high-skilled immigration the "number one thing" that the software giant needs. more »

Irish businesses encouraged to set up in Australia

At the Down Under Expo in Dublin this week, Irish businesses were encouraged to consider Australia as an ideal commercial location. more »

Australia labour shortage update

A heavy duty diesel fitter is the most needed employee in the country, commanding a salary from $150,000, according to the head of one of the largest employers of tradesmen in Australia, Phil Smart. more »

UK lifts restrictions on young Nigerians

The British High Commission, Nigeria has announced that the lifting of the temporary suspension of visa services for first time visitors aged 18-30 will take effect on Friday 17 March. more »

Foreign students to US can apply for visas earlier

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced in February 2006 that it will allow a student and her/his dependants to obtain their visas 120 days in advance of the start of the academic program. more »

Scotland considers immigration reforms

A proposal put forward in Scotland suggests that Scotland should follow Australia's style of immigration, to make it easier to attract workers with rare skills to specified parts of the country, according to the SNP. more »

US needs more time for immigration reform

US senators crafting a comprehensive immigration reform bill complained on March 15 that a deadline set by Majority Leader Bill Frist could hurt the chances for a guest worker program. more »

100,000 march in favor of immigrant rights in US

Hoisting American flags into the air, tens of thousands of immigrants from the Chicago area marched downtown in a display of support for immigrant rights as a bill to stiffen border enforcement awaits action in the U.S. Senate. more »

New on workpermit.com

We have updated our information on immigration to Spain. If you are a worker from a new EU Member State, please bear in mind that it will soon be much easier for you to work in Spain.

Automatic news updates (RSS Feed)
Stay connected to the latest immigration news with our latest feature - automatic news updates. With this technology, summaries of the latest stories will be sent directly to you.

Deadline: April 3

Apply for your permanent residence! Unless you apply by April 3 you may have to wait an extra year if you are on a work based visa. Workpermit.com can help you apply.

Reminder to employers

Apply for H1B visas from April 1, 2006. Don't delay!

Australia skilled immigration

Are you a skilled worker? Australia wants you! See if you qualify with our points calculator.

Canadian skilled immigration

See if you qualify for skilled immigration to Canada with our points calculator.

UK workpermits

Already have a job offer in the UK? We can help you get a UK workpermit. Contact our London office's workpermit hotline on
+44 (0) 20 7842 0800.

We look forward to continuing to bring you latest news on visas and work permits Worldwide.

The workpermit.com News Team
http://www.workpermit.com

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