Open a Business in Spain and self sponsor your resident visa !
Spain is a fantastic destination for entrepreneurs looking to start or expand their businesses. Both individuals and companies, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and family-run businesses, can open a business in Spain. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or new to the business world, Spain offers a range of opportunities and benefits. Who Can Open a Business in Spain? Individuals and Companies: Spanish Business Entities: You can establish a Spanish business entity, such as a corporation or a limited liability company (S.L.). The S.L. structure is particularly popular and suitable for SMEs and businesses with few partners. Individual Entrepreneurs (Natural Persons): You can also operate as an individual entrepreneur. Don’t Have a Business Idea? No Problem! If you don’t have a business idea but still want to own a business in Spain, we can help you find a profitable business for purchase. This will not only provide you with a steady income but also make you eligible for Spanish residency. Steps to Start a Business in Spain Obtain a NIE Number: The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a tax identification number for foreigners in Spain. It’s essential for all business activities. Register the Company Name: You need to register your company name with the Mercantile Registry to ensure it’s unique and legally recognized. Get a CIF: The CIF (Código de Identificación Fiscal) is your company’s tax identification number. Sign the Deed of Incorporation: This legal document establishes the formation of your company. It must be signed before a notary. Register the Company: Your company must be registered with the Mercantile Registry. Register for Social Security: You need to register your business and employees for social security. Open a Bank Account: A Spanish bank account is necessary for handling all financial transactions of your business. Opening a Business as a Freelancer (Autonomo) EU/EEA/Switzerland Citizens: You can enter Spain, obtain a NIE number, and register as an Autonomo. Non-EU Citizens: You will need a visa, residence permit, work permit, NIE number, and a Spanish bank account or you authorize us to do it. Why Start a Business in Spain? Spain offers stable taxes, a relatively low initial investment requirement, and a thriving tourism, real estate, and restaurant sector. The business environment is welcoming and supportive, making it an ideal place for both new and experienced entrepreneurs. What after openinig a business in Spain? Apply for an antrepreneur visa. We can help you get self employed or entreprenuer visa on the basis of your own business and you don’t need any sponsor your work permit, basically you get a self sponsored work permit. Contact Us! We are here to make your business setup process in Spain as smooth and headache-free as possible. Whether you need help finding a business to buy or navigating the legal and administrative requirements, we can assist you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you start your business journey in Spain! Other visa options for Spain Digital Nomad Visa Job Seekers Visa Passive Income visa For more information or a free 15-minute consultation, contact us at: info@apply2migrate.com
Residence Permit in France for Financially Independent Persons (FIP)
France offers indefinitely renewable residence permits for Financially Independent Persons (FIP). To qualify, applicants must demonstrate possession of at least €21,600 and commit to not taking up employment in France. Applicants must also have their own or rented accommodation in France and sufficient funds for living. Who Qualifies as Financially Independent Persons? Many European countries offer legal residence options for wealthy foreigners, with varying financial requirements. In France, FIPs are individuals with sufficient financial security to live in the country. The required financial security must meet or exceed the minimum annual salary minus tax (SMIC) in France. Acceptable income sources include: Long-term or lifetime pension income Social security payments Stable rental income from movable or immovable assets Dividend income Royalties Certain types of stable income from active employment or business ventures Key Details of the FIP Visa: Initial Duration: One-year permit, renewable annually online Path to Permanent Residency: After five years of legal residency (minimum 183 days per year), applicants can apply for permanent residency without needing to demonstrate sufficient means Path to Citizenship: Eligible for French citizenship by naturalization after five years as a permanent resident, requiring integration into French society and proficiency in French Family Inclusion: Right to apply for residence permits for closest relatives (spouse, children under 18, and dependent parents) Requirements: Proof of financial security (e.g., €1,800 per month or €21,600 per year per person) No criminal record Ownership or rental of real estate in France (minimum area of 9 m² per family member) Health insurance with full coverage Proof of income origin Application Process: Obtain a long-stay visa for a residence permit from the French Consulate. Deposit the required amount in a French bank. Submit the FIP visa application online or at the local prefecture. Receive a residence permit and card from the prefecture. Renew the permit online 2-4 months before expiration. Costs: 12-month rental agreement (1 room per person) Consular fee: €100 per person Residence card issuance: €180 for the first year, €266 from the second year per person Health insurance: €300 for a family Key Benefits: No investment required Increased visa-free travel Freedom of movement within the Schengen Area Path to EU citizenship Permits dual nationality Enhanced education opportunities Access to large economies for business Short processing time For a quick and straightforward way to start your life in France as a financially independent person, consider the FIP residence permit. Enjoy the benefits of living in one of Europe’s most beautiful and vibrant countries ! Application Support: The application process can be complex, and professional guidance can help avoid common mistakes such as incorrect documentation, wrong type of medical insurance, improper accommodation proof, and insufficient financial proof. We offer assistance with document translation, application preparation, coordination with the embassy, and finalizing the process in France. Other visa options for Spain Digital Nomad Visa Job Seekers Visa Entrepreneur visa For more information or a free 15-minute consultation, contact us at: info@apply2migrate.com
Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) / Passive Income Visa for Spain
The Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) allows non-EU citizens and their families to live in Spain. It is ideal for those with a stable income in their native country, sufficient funds, retirees, individuals seeking easier travel within the EU, and those wanting to provide a high standard of living for their families in Spain. What is it? A residency permit initially granted for one year, renewable. Who is it for? Individuals with a stable income and sufficient funds. Retirees. People seeking easier EU travel. Those aiming for a high standard of living in Spain. Individuals interested in economic activities in Spain, such as buying property, starting a business, or finding employment. Key Features: Initial Permit: One-year residency, renewable. Eligibility: Requires €30,000 in financial capacity, clean criminal record, medical fitness and insurance, proof of accommodation, and registration in Spain. Family Inclusion: Family members (spouse and children up to 21 years) can join on a family ties permit, with access to education and healthcare. Path to Permanent Residency: Apply for Permanent Residency after 5 years and for citizenship after an additional 5 years with PR. No Initial Investment: No upfront investment required. Flexible Living Options: Decide your long-term plans while legally residing in Spain. Key Benefits: Legally live in Spain and travel freely within the Schengen countries. Apply for Permanent Residency after 5 years, and for citizenship after an additional 5 years with PR. Family members can apply for resident permits based on family ties. Children will have access to education and medical care. Temporary resident status provides advantages in obtaining loans, including mortgages. Opportunity to start a business, buy property, or find employment and switch to a work permit. Investment in Spain will be more accessible. Access to Spanish courses or university programs with the option to switch to a student permit. What can you do with this Visa? Open and develop your business. Buy an existing business (starting from €20,000). Find employment and switch to a work permit. Apply for university or Spanish courses and switch to a student permit. Continue living with the NLV permit and apply for Permanent Residency in 5 years. What can you not do with this Visa? Work as a hired employee for someone else. Main Requirements: Financial capacity (€30,000 in a bank account). Ability to demonstrate non-movable assets or passive income. Clean criminal record, medical fitness, and private medical insurance. Proof of accommodation and registration in Spain. Why Choose the NLV? No Initial Investment Required: Unlike other visa types, no upfront investment is necessary. Flexible Living Options: Decide your long-term plans while legally residing in Spain. Family Benefits: Family members can obtain permits and access education and healthcare. Application Support: The application process can be complex, and professional guidance can help avoid common mistakes such as incorrect documentation, wrong type of medical insurance, improper accommodation proof, and insufficient financial proof. We offer assistance with document translation, application preparation, coordination with the embassy, and finalizing the process in Spain. Find out more about digital nomad visa job seekers visa and Entrepreneur Visa to Spain. For more information or a free 15-minute consultation, contact us at: info@apply2migrate.com
Navigating the Job Search Visa in Spain
Graduated from a Spanish University? Here’s What to Do Next! If you’ve recently graduated from a Spanish university, you’re in a prime position to extend your stay and kickstart your professional journey in Spain. The country offers an excellent opportunity for non-EU graduates through the Job Search Visa, a residence permit specifically designed for those who have completed their studies in Spain. This visa allows you to seek employment or start your own business venture. Job Search or Business Project Start Permit? As a recent graduate, you have two primary options to stay in Spain: Work Permit or Skilled Work Permit: Apply for a traditional work permit if you already have a job offer or meet the criteria for skilled work. Start Your Own Business: Begin your entrepreneurial journey in Spain with the appropriate permits. The Job Search Visa: Key Advantages The Job Search Visa comes with several significant benefits: Extended Permit Duration: The permit is valid for up to 24 months. Online Application: The entire application process is conducted online. Quick Processing Time: Applications are processed within 20 days. Main Requirements To qualify for the Job Search Visa, you need to meet the following criteria: Certificate of Graduation: Proof of your completed studies. Accredited Institutions: Your degree must be from a university or school recognized by the Spanish government. Financial Capacity: Evidence that you can financially support yourself during your stay. Health Insurance: Valid health insurance coverage in Spain. Why Choose Us? Navigating the post-graduation options and securing the necessary permits can be complex. Our team is here to help! We provide comprehensive support throughout the entire process, ensuring you meet all legal requirements, preparing the necessary documents, and submitting your application. Our expertise in Spanish immigration laws ensures a smooth and efficient application process, increasing your chances of success. Contact us for expert consultation and assistance. Let us help you take the first step towards a successful career in Spain! 📧 Email: info@apply2migrate.com Get in touch with us today and turn your post-graduation dreams into reality!
Spain Calling Digital Nomads !
Are you a remote employee, freelancer, or online business owner? Embrace the opportunity to make Spain your home through our exclusive Residency for Digital Talents program! Digital Nomad Program Highlights: Secure a 3-year initial permit card. Renew it once and pave your way to Permanent Residency! Requirements: Demonstrate a minimum monthly income of 2500 euros from your remote work or business endeavors. Showcase your expertise in the digital realm with professional qualifications that set you apart. Illustrate your financial stability with assets that affirm your commitment to thriving in Spain. Why Choose Spain? Spain offers a unique blend of work and leisure, providing a vibrant and culturally rich landscape perfect for digital talents. From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the serene beaches of Costa del Sol, Spain is a country where you can truly enjoy the best of both worlds. Contact Us Now! For more information, embark on your journey to Spanish Residency! Seize the opportunity to combine work and leisure in Spain. Join us in building a community of digital talents who have found their new home in the heart of Europe. Apply today and let Spain be the canvas for your digital success story! Find out more about Job Seekers Visa, Passive Income Visa and Entrepreneur Visa. Email us at info@apply2migrate.com or WhatsApp us at +351 913 688 257 for more details and to start your application process.
Exploring Portugal’s Golden Visa Updates and Alternative Residency Pathways
Recent developments have surfaced in the legislative landscape governing the Golden Visa program, signaling forthcoming changes for future applicants. These alterations stem from housing challenges encountered by Portugal’s average workforce, exacerbated by inflation’s impact on the housing market. In response, the Portuguese Government introduced legislation aimed at discontinuing the Golden Visa program. This legislative proposal underwent deliberation and voting within the Portuguese Parliament, aligning with broader measures aimed at mitigating the housing crisis. The approved final document outlines the cessation of three Golden Visa modalities while upholding the eligibility of five investment avenues for future Golden Visa applications. Categories Closures and Continuations: Pending approval by the President of the Republic, the legislation outlines the cessation of the following Golden Visa modalities for future applications: 1. Transferring €1,500,000.00 to a Portuguese bank account. 2. Acquiring real estate property. 3. Acquiring real estate property accompanied by rehabilitation works. It’s important to note that the termination of these modalities will not impact pending applications, future renewals, or familyreunification requests. Conversely, the legislation maintains eligibility for the following investments under the Portuguese Golden Visa program: 1. Creating a minimum of 10 jobs. 2. Transferring capital equal to or exceeding €500,000.00 for investment in research activities conducted by public or private scientific research institutions integrated into Portugal’s scientific or technological system. 3. Transferring capital equal to or exceeding €500,000.00 for establishing or reinforcing the share capital of a commercial company headquartered in Portugal, in conjunction with creating or maintaining five permanent jobs. 4. Making a cultural donation of €250,000.00 in projects certified by the Ministry of Culture. 5. Investing €500,000.00 in acquiring units of investment funds with a minimum maturity of five years, with at least 60% of investments realized in commercial companies headquartered in Portugal (excluding real estate funds). However, none of these investments will be eligible if directly or indirectly destined for the real estate market or real estate companies. Alternative Residence Visa: Despite the continuation of certain Golden Visa options, some individuals exploring relocation to Portugal may discover that alternative Residency Visas, such as the “D-Visa,” better align with their specific needs. The Residency Visa offers the advantage of typically not requiring investments with minimum thresholds, although it does entail longer minimum periods of stay within Portuguese territory. Applicants can initiate the process by applying at a Portuguese Consulate, and upon approval, they can request residency authorization from Portuguese Immigration Authorities. Following five years of residency in Portugal, individuals can pursue permanent residency authorization and/or Portuguese nationality. As there are various types of Residency Visas available, applicants must carefully select the appropriate modality based on their intended activities. Below are some of the primary modalities of the Residency Visa to consider. Passive Income Visa (D7): The Passive Income Visa, commonly referred to as the “D7,” stands out as one of the most appealing Residency Visas available. Applicants seeking this visa need only demonstrate income from passive sources, such as pensions, retirements, investment funds, stocks, or rental contracts, among other alternatives. Digital Nomad Visa (D8): Introduced as part of recent changes to Portuguese Immigration Legislation, the Digital Nomad Visa targets individuals working remotely for non-Portuguese entities or individuals. To qualify, applicants must provide evidence of average monthly earnings from employment or self-employment activities over the past three months, amounting to at least €3040.00 (value for 2023). The Job Seeker Visa: This visa enables individuals to search for employment opportunities in a foreign country for a designated period. Applicants typically need to demonstrate financial stability and relevant qualifications. It offers a pathway for individuals to explore career prospects abroad and potentially secure long-term employment. Requirements and duration vary depending on the destination country’s immigration policies. It’s an ideal option for those seeking to expand their professional horizons internationally. Highly Qualified Worker Visa: The Highly Qualified Worker Visa offers a streamlined process for attracting professionals and academics with high value-added skills to Portugal. Applicants must demonstrate the existence of an employment contract, freelance agreement, or promissory contract with a Portuguese entity or individual. This sub-modality also encompasses the renowned “Tech-Visa,” facilitating a fast-tracked relocation process for expatriates employed in companies and start-ups certified by the Portuguese Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation. In such cases, the employing company has the option to initiate the relocation process on behalf of the employee. Employment Activity Visa (D1): The Employment Activity Visa mandates applicants to demonstrate the existence of an employment contract or promissory contract between themselves and a Portuguese entity or individual. This visa category requires submission to the Portuguese Consulate. Freelancer or Entrepreneur Visa (D2): Tailored for individuals engaged in freelance activities or entrepreneurs, the Freelancer or Entrepreneur Visa accommodates applicants holding a contract or promissory contract with a Portuguese entity or individual. Alternatively, individuals incorporating a Portuguese company are eligible. Notably, no minimum threshold for share capital or investment is specified for the incorporation of a Portuguese company. Family Members (Reunification) (D6) Under this provision, applicants of any Residency Visa type are not required to await consolidation of their residency status in Portugal to sponsor family members. Spouses or individuals in civil partnerships for more than two years, minor children or stepchildren, and economically dependent adults, such as adult children and parents, can concurrently apply for the Family Member Residency Visa with the primary applicant. Conclusion: While certain Golden Visa modalities remain intact, providing opportunities for prospective investors, there are diverse pathways available for individuals and investors aiming to capitalize on Portugal’s economic growth and secure Portuguese residency. Read more about Visa options to Portugal Stay updated by following us! For assistance in navigating the Portuguese visa system, contact us at info@apply2migrate.com. If you operate an immigration consultancy, partner with us to enhance your service offerings and better serve your clients. Contact us at info@apply2migrate.com
Explore Job Opportunities in Austria with Job Seekers Visa
Exploring Career Opportunities in Europe: The Austria Job Seeker Visa Are you dreaming of embarking on a new career journey in Europe? Do you possess a wealth of education and sought-after skills that make you stand out in the global job market? If your answer is yes, then the Austria Job Seeker Visa might just be the ticket to unlocking exciting professional possibilities. What is the Austria Job Seeker Visa? The Austria Job Seeker Visa offers a unique opportunity for individuals like you to spend up to six months in Austria, dedicated solely to finding employment opportunities that align with your qualifications and aspirations. During this time, you have the freedom to immerse yourself in the Austrian labor market, network with potential employers, and explore various professional avenues. It’s important to note that the Austria Job Seeker Visa does not permit you to work or study during this initial six-month period. Instead, it serves as a bridge to help you secure a job that could lead to a more permanent work permit and residence permit in Austria. Eligibility Criteria for the Austria Job Seeker Visa To be eligible for the Austria Job Seeker Visa, you must meet certain criteria, including: Holding a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from a recognized university or an equivalent qualification. Possessing a minimum of five years of relevant work experience in your field of study. Demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your living expenses in Austria for six months, often through a blocked account. Obtaining health insurance that covers your stay in Austria and the broader Schengen area. Presenting a valid passport and a detailed travel itinerary. Maintaining a clear criminal record and posing no security threat to Austria. How to Apply for the Austria Job Seeker Visa The application process for the Austria Job Seeker Visa involves several steps: Locate the nearest Austrian embassy or consulate in your country and schedule a visa interview. Complete the visa application form and gather all necessary documents, including your passport, diploma, CV, proof of funds, and health insurance. Pay the visa fee of €100 and submit your application to the embassy or consulate. Attend the visa interview, where you may be asked about the purpose of your visit, your qualifications, and your plans in Austria. Await the decision on your visa application, which may take up to three months. Upon approval, collect your passport with the visa sticker and prepare to travel to Austria within the visa’s validity period. Making the Most of Your Time in Austria Upon your arrival in Austria, it’s essential to register your address with the local authorities and begin your job search journey in earnest. Utilize the connections you’ve made and the insights you’ve gained during your six-month stay to secure meaningful employment opportunities that align with your career goals. Final Thoughts The Austria Job Seeker Visa offers a fantastic opportunity for individuals seeking to explore career opportunities in Europe. By meeting the eligibility criteria and following the application process diligently, you can pave the way for a successful career transition in one of Europe’s most dynamic and culturally rich countries. For more information about the Austria Job Seeker Visa and other migration services, feel free to reach out to Apply2Migrate at info@apply2migrate.com or via WhatsApp at +447501400555 Discover Apply2Migrate’s comprehensive migration solutions for Portugal, Germany, Sweden, and Austria, and embark on your journey to a brighter future today!
Global Talent Stream adds five new eligible occupations to program
On December 22nd, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) expanded the list of eligible occupations in the Global Talent Stream(GTS). ESDC is a government department that works to support Canada’s labour force, and so has oversight over many immigration matters—including issuance of Labour Market Internal Assessments (LMIAs) and oversight of the GTS; a work permit program with expedited processing created to help Canadian employers hire foreign skilled workers in the technology sector. Under the GTS, employers looking to hire a foreign skilled worker for one of 17 in-demand professions (included due to insufficient labour supply in Canada) can apply and receive a work permit. The GTS looks to establish a service standard of two weeks for work permits. What are the new occupations added to the GTS? Previously at 12 positions, the list of eligible occupations has now expanded to 17 with the addition of five engineering roles. These are: Civil Engineers (NOC code 21300); Electrical and electronics engineer (NOC code 21310); Mining engineers (NOC code 21330); Aerospace engineers (NOC code 21390); and Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers, NOC code 21311). Why have more occupations become eligible? The list of eligible occupations for the GTS changes according to Canada’s labour market needs; the inclusion of these five new positions is likely telling of an internal need for engineering labour in Canada. This year has also seen a growing trend of targeting specific professions for immigration, to more directly address Canada’s labor market needs. Among these measures include: The introduction of the NBCWP—which works with six employers to directly address New Brunswick’s labour needs; The removal of barriers to permanent residence for physicians (amid historic labour shortages of healthcare workers) applying through Express Entry; and The approval of Bill C-19; which grants the immigration minister the power to create groups in the Express Entry pool (based on policy needs like in-demand positions) and issue invitations to apply (ITAs) to these groups. Consequently, Express Entry will likely target occupations more in 2023. As Canada continues to face high labour shortages and a growing class of retirees, in a post-COVID world, it seems likely the country will continue to address its economic requirements in a much more targeted way; as Canada has already identified immigration as the means by which to fulfill in-demand labour needs. Employers hiring foreign talent through the GTS will need to ensure they properly prepare applications; including developing a Labour Markets Benefit Plan (LMBP) to demonstrate their commitment to activities that have a lasting, positive impact on the Canadian labour market. An immigration lawyer can greatly complement application preparation here, to ensure completeness and compliance with program standards. We assess your profile to check if it meets with the set requirements of your chosen immigration program and if it doesn’t then we suggest you the ways to make your profile more suitable to that stream. If you do not know which migration program to take, we help you to choose the best program suitable to your needs. With 20+ years of our experience and expertise knowledge we make the entire process of migration very simple and stress free.
New Zealand: Immigration revival expected in 2023
New Zealand is actively seeking skilled migrants to boost its economy. Having suffered the consequences of its zero-covid policy, the country officially lifted all restrictions last September. The clock is ticking to revive growth despite inflationary pressures. Why is immigration essential to New Zealand? What measures has the government taken to attract foreign workers? Good prospects for immigration to New Zealand Kiwibank, a New Zealand government-owned banking subsidiary, recently released a study that predicts a significant increase in immigration in 2023. According to Jarrod Kerr, the bank’s chief economist, the country can expect significant migration flows of over 30,000 people next year, and this is good news for companies facing labor shortages. Immigration is an important driver of New Zealand’s growth. Since COVID, the country’s economic development has been under severe strain, with a -0.3 percent contraction in 2020. According to government figures, the country had nearly 500,000 immigrants in March 2020, just before the COVID crisis and global lockdowns. The relatively good growth figure in 2021 (+3.7%) was more of a catch-up from 2020. The number of immigrants has been dropping further to about 360,000 immigrants in July 2022 before rising again. This is precisely the time when New Zealand has chosen to successfully launch a series of measures to boost immigration. In October, there were just over 380,000 immigrants, representing an increase of 20,000 in three months. Rising immigration and inflation On the other hand, the study raises a crucial question: “Is inflation getting in the way?” In July, year-on-year inflation climbed to 7.3% — the highest rate observed in over 30 years. Among the reasons were rising fuel, housing and food prices. But the New Zealand Central Bank is trying to put out the fire. Like many other national banks, it is raising its key interest rate to its highest level in six years. With little result, it seems, especially when the inflation rate observed in October peaked at 7.2% year-on-year. In its study, Kiwibank also highlights the challenge of immigration in inflationary times. Is it the right time to use foreign labor when supply chains remain crippled and housing prices are soaring? “Yes,” concludes Kerr. Immigration has been and remains positively impactful for New Zealand. The mistake many make is to look only at the economic side: the need for workers. But expatriates in New Zealand are more than just a backup workforce. They are also vital to sustaining New Zealand’s demographics. Immigration is crucial to New Zealand’s future Like many other countries, New Zealand is experiencing a demographic crisis. According to Stats NZ, New Zealand government’s statistics agency, since the 2000s, the number of people over 65 has been growing faster than the number of people aged 0-14. The curves predicting these increases are now almost at the same level: in 2022, the country will have 840,200 people over the age of 65. The 0-14 year-olds are only slightly more numerous (964,300), and the 40-64 year-olds (1,589,500) and the 15-39 year-olds (1,730,100) are similarly on par. These are worrying figures for a population estimated at 5.1 million. Young working people are the ones who support seniors. A reduced young workforce means less growth, less money to finance pensions and the health care system. Immigrants are a solution to the aging population. The country is looking, above all, for foreigners who are active (you have to be under 55 to apply for residency), in good health and qualified. Hence the government’s incentives to attract qualified foreigners. How is New Zealand attracting foreigners? The government has been making several announcements since 2021 in an effort to boost immigration and attract foreign talent. The country’s zero-covid policy has had a strong impact on foreigners. Many went back home and did not return or chose another country. In the face of a predicted disaster, the country reopened its borders a little earlier than expected. New Zealand is also committing to offer better living conditions for foreigners in its territory. In November 2021, it launched the “2021 One-Off resident visa”, a new visa that allows people already in New Zealand to gain access to residence. According to the government’s estimates at that time, this visa would affect some 165,000 people, including more than 5,000 healthcare workers, 15,000 construction workers and more than 800 teachers. Former Immigration Minister Kris Faafoi (now Minister of Justice) then said: “These people have all played an important role in keeping our country moving on, over the past 18 months.” New work visas to boost immigration Originally scheduled to take effect on November 1, 2021, the visa reform was pushed back to the summer of 2022. The government created a new “accredited employer” visa, replacing the “essential skills” visa. In July, the government introduced three new visa categories to make it easier for companies to hire foreign workers for skilled but hard-to-fill positions: “straight to residence,” “work to residence,” and “highly paid. In September, the government turned to foreign investors and launched the Active Investor Plus visa, replacing Investor 1 and 2 residence visas. This new visa is intended to stimulate business productivity through foreign investment. A month later, New Zealand reinstated two visa categories namely the “skilled migrant” and “parent” and increased the median salary from NZ$27.26 to NZ$26.66 (in 2023). The objective is still the same: to attract skilled migrants and to foster growth. This shows the importance of immigration as a future solution to New Zealand’s demographic and economic challenges.
Canada plans to attract more Asian immigrants with new Indo-Pacific Strategy
As part of its Immigration Levels Plan 2023-2025, Canada is trying to attract more immigrants from the Indo-Pacific region. Most recent immigrants have come from three countries in the region: India, China and the Philippines. In the next 5 years, Canada will invest an additional $75 million in trade, visa processing and educational exchanges with the Indo-Pacific region ….. Why is the Indo-Pacific region so important for Canada’s immigration goals? The Indo-Pacific region is a large geopolitical area encompassing the countries bordering the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. It includes many countries in Asia, East Africa, the Middle East and Oceania – although some people focus more on Asia and Oceania in their definition of the region. Canada’s new strategy also seems to have a narrower focus on Asia. Some major countries in this narrower Indo-Pacific region are India, China, South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam. Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan is targeting 465,000 new immigrants in 2023, 485,000 in 2024 and 500,000 in 2025. This target is expected to either stay the same or grow after 2025. These large numbers of skilled immigrants are crucial to solve the labor shortage in the country. From which countries do these immigrants mainly come? Canada’s IRCC (immigration authorities) cited in a press release on November 30 that in 2021, 44% of all new immigrants came from India, China and the Philippines. Not only that, but an astounding 65% of international students in Canada also come from the Indo-Pacific region. These countries, especially India, China and the Philippines, have large populations of young, university-educated or skilled young people in their 20s and 30s. The median age in Canada in 2021 was 42, while it was 29 in India and 26 in the Philippines. China has a more aging population, but the sheer size of this population (nearly 1.5 billion) makes it have an enormous pool of skilled middle-class workers, about 700 million. These populations represent a great pool of human capital for the Canadian economy. They are often trained in fields essential for the Canadian economy. The Philippines provides many registered nurses to various countries, for instance. Indeed, the provincial government of Alberta recently signed an agreement with the Philippines to create an immigration pathway for their nurses. Other factors are working in favor of Indo-Pacific immigration to Canada. Notably, the restrictive Covid lockdowns in China have made emigration rates from the country skyrocket. As reported by Global News, Chinese immigration to Canada is up by 15% in July-September 2022 compared to the same period in 2019, before the pandemic. Nine thousand nine hundred twenty-five permanent residents from China were admitted in these three months of 2022. What does the new Indo-Pacific Strategy consist of? As seen above, the Indo-Pacific region is the main source of skilled immigrants for Canada. This is why on November 27, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Sean Fraser, unveiled the new Indo-Pacific Strategy. This strategy will invest nearly CAD$75 million in visa processes, educational opportunities and trade relations with countries of the region. The strategy will invest more in visa-processing facilities in the following Asian cities: Delhi and Chandigarh in India, Islamabad in Pakistan, and Manila in the Philippines. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs recently met with Canadian consular representatives to discuss the visa backlog plaguing the Canadian immigration system. The Indo-Pacific Strategy is bringing a concrete solution to this problem. In India, apart from the capital of Delhi, why was Chandigarh, which is in the state of Punjab, targeted? There are nearly 1 million Punjabis in Canada, and they constitute around 2.5% of the Canadian population, according to 2021 census data. Increasing and speeding up the processing of permanent residence permits in this specific immigration hotspot makes sense. The Indian Express reported that Punjabis were cheering the addition of 16 new occupations to the list of jobs eligible for Express Entry. Gurpreet Singh, a consultant in Punjab, told the newspaper that there are many professionals in healthcare, transportation and construction in his state who cannot afford to migrate to Canada via higher education but are eager to enter via the Express Entry work route. A teacher, Nishant Kumar, said that there are thousands of unemployed teachers in Punjab who are also eligible. The New Pacific Strategy does not restrict itself to work visas – it also plans on increasing educational opportunities, as international students who choose to remain in Canada after graduating are also an important source of labor. Increased funding will be allocated to the Canada-ASEAN scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) program. These offer funding of up to a year to undergraduate, graduate and research students from Southeast Asian countries at Canadian institutions.