Global immigration trends: Countries battle for top skills

France: New obligations and duties for employers of foreigners

A decree passed discreetly on July 9 specifies certain provisions of the immigration reform voted on January 28, 2024. At the time, France was in the midst of a crisis following the dissolution of the government provoked by the president and the surprise victory of the left-wing coalition. A left that had promised to repeal the immigration law. But for now, nothing has changed.

The decree designates four actors who can request a work permit: the employer, the client, the user company, or the host company. The employer must have no criminal conviction or administrative sanction. Criminal convictions include aiding and abetting irregular entry and stay in France—a sanction opposed by employers who have employed undocumented foreigners. Companies employing seasonal foreign workers will now have to prove they will provide decent housing.

The immigration law provides for a fine of 20,750 euros for companies employing unauthorized foreigners. The decree specifies that the sanction concerns the hiring or retention of an employee for whom the foreigner does not have a work permit, employment in a different sector/region than those mentioned on the work permit, or employment by an expatriate who does not have a work permit. If they have paid the salary and benefits due to the worker, the employer's fine is reduced to 8,300 euros. The decree, which came into force on July 17, will apply from September 1.

The streamlining of visa and residence permit procedures in the pipeline

A series of decrees on immigration were voted on in early July. Among them is the facilitation of online visa and residence permit application procedures. The Ministry of the Interior can now retain the personal data of applicants and link it to foreign immigration authorities to improve the processing of online applications. The generalization of online formalities will also allow for better fraud prevention (irregular stays, identity theft, forged documents, etc.). Another decree specifies the terms of the "contract of commitment to respect the principles of the Republic". Adherence to these principles may be required depending on the residence permit requested. This contract must be signed by applicants.

The "secondary residences" issue has also resurfaced. During the heated debates on immigration reform, right-wing MPs had proposed automatic visas for British owners of secondary residences. Ultimately rejected, the measure is back on the table. Right-wing senator Martine Berthet, the project's sponsor, is considering the return of the automatic visa or a simplification of procedures for British expats. But it all depends on the new Minister of the Interior. France still needs to form its government. Interviewed on July 23 on public television channels, the president announced that he would not appoint a new government before the end of the Olympic Games, or "mid-August", in the name of political stability. Let's not forget that the Games continue with the Paralympics, until September 8.

Hungary amends Golden Visas conditions  

While the European Union (EU) is pressing member states to end the controversial program, Hungary is relaunching its Golden visa, also called the "investor visa." Abolished in 2017, it has been effective again since July 1. This new version of the Golden visa increases the required investment levels. Applicants have three options: invest at least 250,000 euros in a real estate fund registered with the Hungarian National Bank, make a donation of at least 1 million euros to a Hungarian institution linked to scientific research or art, or buy a residence of at least 500,000 euros (only until January 1, 2025). The residence permit also grants a work permit valid for 10 years and a right to move within the Schengen area for 90 days in a 180-day period. Hungary hopes to attract wealthy foreigners and take advantage of the end of the Portuguese Golden visa and the limitations of the Spanish program.

Canada's new strategy to welcome foreign talent

The Canadian Ministry of Immigration is updating its strategy to welcome exceptional foreign professionals and promote the country's economic growth. At the heart of its strategy: "skills missions" entrusted to ministries, companies, or even provincial representatives. These missions will consist of traveling to foreign countries "with potential labor supply" to recruit talent. Canada wants to strengthen its presence abroad without harming the country's needs. Since the end of COVID-19, the World Health Organization (WHO) has called on wealthy nations to order against "plundering" countries with labor shortages.

The countries Canada targets will be linked to the profession (regulated or not). For regulated professions, Canada will recruit in countries that offer training similar to its own. The same applies to unregulated professions - the Canadian mission will target states with competent foreign professionals depending on the shortages. The Canadian federal Department of Employment and Social Development will identify these professions. The mission also intends to recruit more Francophones. One of the objectives of the immigration plan is to ensure that 6% of new immigrants in 2024 are Francophone. The Canadian strategy aims to better harmonize immigration policy, the labor market, and the economic market to ensure a better welcome for foreign talent and the country's growth.

Saskatchewan implements new law to better protect foreign workers

The Canadian province wants to end abuses and better regulate its foreign workforce. According to the provincial authorities, unscrupulous immigration consultants and recruiters are taking advantage of their position to defraud foreign workers, particularly by charging for information and services available for free. Since July 1, the new immigration law has strengthened the control of immigration consultants and recruiters; offenders risk a fine. The control also targets unscrupulous employers who discriminate against foreign workers (lower wages than others, deprivation of rights, etc.). The fine incurred by dishonest companies has been increased to 1,250,000 Canadian dollars from 100,000 previously. These measures are lauded by foreign workers, particularly the Assemblée communautaire fransaskoise (promoting the French language in Saskatchewan). They believe strengthening protection measures for foreign workers will increase the province's attractiveness.

Quebec limits family sponsorship visa applications

The province of Quebec has limited the number of family sponsorship visa applications to 13,000: 10,400 will be reserved for spouses and dependent children aged 18 and over; the rest will be for parents, grandparents, and other family members. In force since June 26, 2024, this new cap will be effective until June 25, 2026. However, no new applications will be accepted once the cap is reached. Additional files will be rejected without charging processing fees.

Several categories of applicants will be exempt from this measure, including minor children in adoption proceedings by the sponsor and adult children with disabilities. Quebec's measure has been inspired by the housing crisis. Like other Canadian provinces, Quebec is hit by a housing shortage and rising rents. According to the Association des professionnels de la construction et de l'habitation du Québec (APCHQ), there is a shortage of 100,000 homes in the province.  

Express Entry: Lottery for the "French Proficiency" Category

As part of Express Entry, the Ministry of Immigration has launched several lotteries for the "French language proficiency" category. Selected candidates receive invitations to apply (ITA). 3,200 ITAs were issued on July 8th, 1,800 on July 18th. As a reminder, candidates must obtain at least 420 points in the Comprehensive Ranking System. The government has set up a simulation platform for foreigners wishing to immigrate to Canada through the Express Entry program. Note that other draws have been held during the month according to several categories: provincial nominee programs, health professions, or trade occupations.

New rules for processing study permits

On June 20, the Canadian Ministry of Immigration proposed new rules to better coordinate relations between different government agencies to strengthen the control of study permits. It starts from the observation that the division of competencies between the federal state and the provinces is sometimes a source of tension. For example, the administration of the International Student Program is a shared responsibility between the ministry and the provinces. The proposal strengthens the ministry's role in terms of control and sanctions.

Until now, the government has not been able to require accredited educational institutions to provide data concerning international students (number of students attending the institution, respect for the rules of the study permit, etc.). The proposal will authorize the ministry to sanction non-compliant educational institutions. It will also be able to suspend a non-compliant study permit for a maximum of 12 consecutive months. International students will be required to report any change of institution to the Ministry of Immigration. The ministry could also ask students who change institutions to apply for a new study permit.

The United States raises the investment thresholds for foreign entrepreneurs

On October 1, the US immigration services will launch a new special program for foreign entrepreneurs. Applicants must prove they have created a business entity that has received at least $311,071 from one or more investors or at least $124,429 in government grants over the past 18 months. These investment thresholds are framed by the administration, which revises its scales every 3 years. In 2021, the thresholds were set at $264,147 and $105,659 in investments/grants, compared to $100,000 (investments) and $250,000 (grants) when the program was launched in 2017. As a reminder, the program allows foreign entrepreneurs to immigrate to the United States without a visa, subject to meeting minimum investment conditions.

Launch of the US Diversity Immigrant Visa Program in October

The US Diversity Immigrant Visa Program for 2026 (DV-2026) will be launched on October 1, 2026. Diversity visas target eligible immigration candidates or those wishing to sponsor a foreigner. To be eligible, candidates must be selected by the state based on the available visa stock according to countries/regions. The program meets strict conditions, which are redefined each year. Only one registration per applicant is allowed, under penalty of application rejection. Registration is free and done online.

The US immigration service recommends that candidates not have their registration form filled out by a "visa agent," "visa consultant," or any other "professional" promising to facilitate obtaining the visa. If the candidate needs further help, they must be present when filling out the form to register the reference number assigned to them and keep proof of sending their application.

Former applicants must also keep their reference number. DV-2024 applicants can check their application status until September 30, 2024. DV-2025 applicants have until September 30, 2025 to monitor the progress of their application. DV-selected candidates present in the United States can apply for permanent residency (still via DV). However, there is no guarantee that they will obtain the visa. The granting of the visa is always subject to meeting the eligibility conditions.

Second phase of the H-1B visa overhaul

The United States has embarked on an overhaul of the H-1B visa. The project, entering its second phase, is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) speaks of a significant modernization aimed at redefining the specialized professions covered by the visa. Starting in April 2025, fees paid by employers for the granting of a first visa will also be paid if they request an extension of their worker's stay. The DHS is also in the process of revising the April 2024 regulation, which temporarily extended the employment authorization of certain foreign workers from 180 to 540 days. In December, the DHS will decide whether or not to make this extension permanent.

Taiwan launches Digital Nomad Visa

As announced on Thursday, July 18, by Minister of the National Development Council Paul Liu, Taiwan joins Japan, Thailand, and South Korea, East Asian countries that entered the digital nomadism race. The Taiwanese digital nomad visa will be valid for 6 months, and intends to attract foreign talent, not only for a short period but possibly for a longer time. The minister also announced the country's intentions to streamline visa formalities for foreign talent seeking permanent residence. Like many countries, Taiwan is facing a declining population and a skilled labor shortage. However, it is not the only country relying on foreign talent to support its economy. Hong Kong is positioned as the most direct competitor, while mainland China also casts its shadow over the local authorities decisions.

Hong Kong introduces new residency program for wealthy foreigners

On March 1, Hong Kong introduced a new residency program for wealthy foreigners. Valid for 2 years, this new residency program promises rapid visa issuance (4 months) for foreigners investing at least 30 million Hong Kong dollars (3.8 million dollars) under the Capital Investment Entrant program. The invested funds must remain in the Hong Kong market for at least 7 years, with a majority invested in the country's financial assets (stock market, investment firms, etc.). The rest must be invested in innovation, technology, and high-tech industry. Objectives: support startups and compete with foreign leaders in the sector.

This new program replaces the old program, stopped in 2015 due to real estate speculation. Real estate investment is excluded from the new program. The amounts to be invested are three times higher than those required by the previous program. Three visa applications have already been validated. Applicants have invested the required 30 million, and 88 other investors have received a provisional visitor visa for 180 days; it can be extended to two years if they manage to invest the required amount. The Ministry of Immigration believes that this launch has been a success so far, as of March 30, it had received 339 applications. The state hopes to attract wealthy expatriates and create a favorable ecosystem for business development.

Mainland China facilitates entry for Hong Kong permanent residents

Since Wednesday, July 10, permanent residents of Hong Kong no longer need a visa to visit China. Beijing has issued a new multiple-entry travel permit valid for 5 years. It allows for a 90-day stay in the territory. To qualify for the permit, candidates must first obtain "access to information" on the Hong Kong government website. They then fill out their application online on the China Travel Service of Hong Kong (CTS) website, the authority responsible for processing applications. After submitting their application, candidates will make an appointment at a CTS center for verification and processing of the information sent online. If accepted, the permit will be issued within 20 working days of the application. It will cost 260 Hong Kong dollars (33 US dollars) for the first permit application and 249 Hong Kong dollars (32 US dollars) for a renewal.

Australia announces longer business visas for certain expats

Holders of business visitor visas from ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) countries and Timor-Leste will benefit from an extension of the validity period of their visa. The measure, reserved for visa applications submitted after April 1, will extend the duration of the business visa from 3 to 5 years. Through this measure, the government aims to stimulate trade and strengthen economic and cultural exchanges with the states concerned. As a reminder, the business visitor visa allows you to stay in Australia to participate in trade fairs, negotiate contracts, participate in official visits with the government, and apply for jobs.

Unprecedented increase in student visa fees

Since July 1, the Australian federal government has doubled student visa fees. The law, applicable without delay, increased fees from 710 to 1,600 Australian dollars (from 465 to 1,047 US dollars). Since May 8 and the introduction of the International Education Strategic Project, Australia has multiplied measures to reduce the number of international students (quotas, complication of language tests, suppression of visa hopping, increase of the minimum income threshold, etc.) Minister of the Interior Clare O'Neil welcomes a measure that will contribute, according to her, to obtaining a "fairer" and "smaller" migration system.

The reaction from universities is much less enthusiastic. The "Group of 8", the 8 largest Australian universities (Melbourne, Sydney, Queensland, Adelaide, etc.), instead express their dismay. Since registration fees are non-refundable, they believe this measure only aims to replenish the state's coffers on the backs of international students (the higher education sector is facing significant deficits). Other universities join the Group of 8, fearing a decline in the number of international students, thus affecting diversity within universities. They recall that this cultural blend contributes to the development of research as well as economic growth.

The post-Covid measures to encourage the return of international students have been repelled. The new laws of the Labor government (in power since 2022) led to a significant drop in the number of student visa applications. While 95.7% of visa applications were approved in 2021, between July 2023 and May 2024, only 79.6% of applications were approved.

Extended grace period for switching jobs

As part of the reform of its migration policy, the government is updating the visa conditions for foreign workers. The measure aims to protect the rights of expatriates while stimulating economic activity. Only certain skilled worker visas are affected by the update: the temporary skilled worker visa (subclass 457), the temporary skills shortage visa (subclass 482), and the regional provisional employer-sponsored visa (subclass 494). Since July 1, holders of these visas leaving their jobs have 180 consecutive days or 365 days during their visa period to obtain a new visa, find a new sponsorship, or leave the country. The grace period is extended to 60 consecutive days.

Although the country is determined to reduce its net migration, it also wants to attract and retain the best foreign talent. Unlike the old system, foreign workers looking to switch jobs can now work for another employer while waiting for the validation of a new sponsorship. They can also look for a job in a different sector than where they obtained their visas. However, the new rules do not change the duties of employers, who still have an obligation to report any change of situation to the Ministry of the Interior: resignation or end of the mission of a foreign worker, end of sponsorship, etc.

New Zealand tightens visa rules for certain job categories

The regulation, which has been in place since June 26, restricts the sponsorship possibilities of dependents of certain expatriates for the accredited employer work visa (AEWV). Sponsorship is no longer required for expatriates holding level 4 and 5 positions (high skill levels) of the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO), a skills-based occupation classification system. The abolition of sponsorship affects foreign nationals who do not have a "clear path" to their residence permit. While their dependents can still apply for their visa separately, subject to meeting the criteria, the abolition of sponsorship makes family reunification more challenging. Expatriates with a "clear path" to their residence permit still have access to sponsorship, subject to earning at least 1.5 times the median wage.

The reform does not affect current dependent visa holders or those whose applications are already under review. Foreign professionals wishing to sponsor their spouse (work visa) will have to earn at least 29.66 New Zealand dollars per hour (17.39 US dollars). If they earn less, they may be able to apply for a visitor visa. They can apply for an open work visa if they earn more (at least 59.32 New Zealand dollars per hour, or 34.77 USD). The same applies to foreign professionals whose jobs are on the Green List (list of skills shortages).

More rules have been introduced to tighten the conditions for granting the AEWV for levels 4 and 5. Expatriates who applied for their first visa before June 21, 2023, with the "required salary rate" will no longer be eligible for the 5-year visa. They will now have to meet the new English requirements. Their visa is reduced to 2 years. The total duration of the visa is reduced to 3 years.

Work visa for partners of Green List students

To attract more and especially retain foreign talent working in sectors under tension, New Zealand proposes a reform to favor the spouses of international students studying in professional sectors on the green list (skills shortages), as announced on June 21 by the government. Foreign professionals working in these sectors can qualify for resident permits more quickly. Qualified spouses (levels 7 or 8 on the green list) are now eligible for the open work visa under certain conditions. It's worth noting that the government has updated its Green List. The Ministry of Immigration specifies that doctor, nurse, dentist and teaching jobs are particularly sought after. The government is also facilitating the integration of expatriate children. Those with parents working in sectors with labor shortages (international students/expat partners) will be eligible for a student visa (dependent) and will benefit from the same advantages as New Zealand children: they will not have to pay tuition fees.

South Korea facilitates visa procedures for foreign researchers

South Korea is opening its doors to foreign researchers and scientists. The Ministry of Justice plans to relax the rules for D-2-5 (student visa) and E-3 (research visa) visas to facilitate procedures for foreign talent. Universities will welcome more undergraduate international students, especially foreigners studying in the world's best universities (top 200 of the Times Higher Education or top 500 of the QS world ranking).

The South Korean government intends to welcome 300,000 international students by 2027. The country is already recording a significant increase in the number of foreign students: 224,660 student visas were issued between January and October 2023, compared to 103,349 visas for the same period in 2022.

Belgium: Mandatory language test for foreign caregivers

Despite the shortage of healthcare skills, the Belgian Ministry of Health is tightening recruitment conditions for foreign caregivers; they will now have to master one of the three national languages: German, Dutch, or French. While they understand the need to learn the host country's language, foreign caregivers regret that the required level is so high. Nurses will now have to obtain a B2 level (advanced level), and doctors will require an even more advanced level. They will have to pass the language test to apply for a visa. However, many caregivers explain that they emigrated to Belgium with, admittedly, language basics, which are very far from Belgium's new requirements. They are able to strengthen their knowledge once in the country until they master one of the official languages.

Many expatriates fail to understand the Belgian reform as other states facilitate immigration procedures in sectors with shortages. This new constraint is already discouraging foreign caregivers. Those who have already settled in Belgium believe they would have chosen another country if the reform had been applied earlier. Hospitals and clinics, therefore, urge the government to reconsider this decision, recalling that 30% of caregivers working in Belgium are of foreign origin. In the nursing sector alone, there is a shortage of 25,000 professionals. However, the Ministry of Health maintains its measures, which it considers necessary for better communication between caregiver and patient.

Slovakia introduces new provisions for foreign hiring

Since July 15, new provisions have been in force in Slovakia, following a law voted on June 11 relating to the stay and employment of foreign nationals (non-Europeans). The reform adds a step for companies wishing to recruit foreign workers. They will have to carry out a "Request for confirmation of the possibility of filling a vacant position" (online process) for any recruitment requiring prior confirmation of a vacant position. The Labor Office is responsible for receiving notifications of vacancies and processing them within 15 working days. A foreigner can apply for a temporary residence permit if the procedures are validated. They can start working in Slovakia while waiting for their application to be processed. The processing time has been reduced to 60 days, compared to 90 previously.

While the duration of the European Blue Card has been extended to 5 years, compared to 4 years previously, salary requirements have been reviewed. Foreign workers will have to earn twice the average monthly salary, compared to 1.5 times previously. On the other hand, the academic requirements have been lowered: a baccalaureate is sufficient to apply; a master's degree is no longer required. Still, having a diploma is mandatory, except for certain IT positions.

Moreover, Slovakia is slightly strengthening language requirements. From July 15, 2025, foreigners wishing to apply for a long-term permit will have to prove that they have mastered the basics of Slovak (A2 level required, i.e., elementary level).

Poland: Jobs that make it easier to obtain a work visa

Poland is not spared from labor shortages. The sectors concerned even speak of chronic shortages and are urging the government to take action. According to a European Job Mobility Portal (EURES) report, the construction, industry, and health sectors are particularly affected. Eighteen occupations are in high demand: construction workers, building electricians, welders, roofers, cooks, psychologists, nurses, doctors, and teachers (primary, secondary, vocational).

According to official statistics, Poland had around 1.3 million foreign workers in October 2023 (7% of the workforce), 61,000 more than in 2022. Most of them come from Ukraine, Belarus, and Georgia. However, the figures show rapid growth in Asian expatriates, especially Indians. According to EURES, working in a profession in short supply would make it easier to obtain a work visa in Poland.

Finland: Tech sector rejects new visa regulations

Since the far-right entered the governing coalition in 2023, a series of increasingly restrictive policies have been implemented: easier layoffs, limited strike rights, and reduced unemployment benefits. On July 12, the Finnish Parliament adopted a controversial bill: "temporary measures to combat instrumentalized immigration," dubbed the "expulsion law" by its critics.

Another contentious project is a reform to restrict non-European tech talents' rights. Their stay in the country would be jeopardized if they cannot find a new job in the event of contract non-renewal. The reform is part of the Labor Market Reform Plan, focused on strict immigration control, which includes Finnish or Swedish language tests, as well as stricter rules for eligibility for work visas.

Startups and tech companies denounce a law that would prevent them from hiring foreign talent, which is essential for the country's growth. The reform, scheduled for 2025, would force foreign tech talents to leave Finland for 6 months if they cannot find a new job at the end of their contract. It can be challenging for companies to renew contracts. The expatriates concerned may resort to less qualified jobs to avoid expulsion. The sector is firmly opposed to the government's project.

Netherlands: The Prime Minister announces tougher stance on immigration

Dick Schoof has succeeded Mark Rutte as the Netherlands' Prime Minister after 14 years of Rutte's leadership. This appointment comes after over seven months of tense negotiations. Wilders, the far-right leader who won the November 2023 elections, had to abandon his ambitions. His statements were deemed too extreme to lead a country. Dick Schoof was inaugurated by King Willem-Alexander on July 2. The former director of the Dutch secret services now heads an unprecedented coalition of right-wing and far-right parties united by a common goal: to reduce immigration numbers.

Schoof immediately set the tone by declaring that he would implement the "strictest immigration policy ever seen," including reducing the number of international students, increasing tuition fees for non-European students, and reducing the number of university courses taught in English. The new government also promises a crackdown on asylum rights despite EU regulations. However, Schoof also aims to be unifying, stating that he is the Prime Minister of "all Dutch citizens." He took his distance from Wilders, clarifying that he does not support any particular party.

Portugal extends the validity of immigrant visas

The Portuguese government has decided to extend the validity of immigrant visas by one year. The measure will be effective until September 30, 2025. Previously, the government passed a decree-law requiring the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) to attract foreign talent to Portugal. AIMA will be supported by an administrative agency responsible for processing ongoing visa procedures and regularizing the situations of certain expatriates. With 300 specialized agents, AIMA is expected to operate until June 2, 2025.

Portugal is facing an unprecedented backlog: according to AIMA president Luís Goes Pinheiro, 410,000 files are currently pending. The president plans to recruit 100 additional agents, an insufficient number given the accumulated delays. Pinheiro nevertheless pledges to process all pending cases by the summer of 2025.

South Africa introduces a two-tier pension system

Signed on June 1 by President Ramaphosa, the new tax law introduces a two-tier pension system: pension fund holders can access their pension savings without having to resign or liquidate their pension fund. This new system aims to find the balance between short-term and long-term needs. It guarantees better flexibility between security (guaranteed funds over the long term) and immediate needs by integrating savings and retirement components.

The savings component will be accessible before retirement (one-third of the pension); withdrawals will be possible. On the other hand, the sums paid into the retirement component must be kept until retirement (the remaining two-thirds). There is an exception for South African expatriates who can benefit from both components in the form of a lump sum, subject to proving that they have been non-resident for tax purposes for 3 years. The SARS (South Africa Revenue Service) is responsible for verifying the date on which the tax residence ended. It will issue a letter confirming non-resident tax status. To obtain approval for their transfer of funds abroad, expatriates will also need to request a code (TCS PIN).

The new system will be implemented on September 1. Due to its complexity (other provisions relating to the allocation of funds in the different components are planned), expatriates are urged to contact a tax advisor.

Saudi Arabia seeks foreign talent with substantial qualifications

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has unveiled the first phase of its "Professional Verification" plan, based on a clear principle: verifying the qualifications and experience of highly skilled expatriate workers, according to Saudi Arabia's classification. Currently, 128 countries are concerned. The Ministry of Human Resources is working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It aims to cover 160 countries eventually and intends to control all professions. The ministry thus aims to better regulate the labor market. The measure is part of the Saudization of jobs.

Kuwait's new rules to promote employment of nationals

Kuwait is continuing its policy of Kuwaitization (job nationalization). To further prioritize the recruitment of Kuwaiti nationals in the public sector, the Civil Service Commission has announced that any request for the employment of foreign personnel must be justified by a "real need." These needs will be added to those recorded on the Central Employment System, a government platform where job seekers can register.

Ministries and public services will be required to submit their staffing needs to the Civil Service Commission before October 1 (the date on which the Commission will rule). One of the Commission's main objectives is to promote the employment of Kuwaitis. It will ensure that nationals on waiting lists for public sector jobs are appointed first. A comprehensive plan to control the real needs of public agencies and the diplomas and qualifications of job applicants will be implemented.

Replacing foreign workers with Kuwaitis

This is another step forward in the policy of Kuwaitization of jobs. According to figures from the Audit Bureau, the number of foreign workers in Kuwait jumped by 21% between 2021 and 2023. This is an unthinkable figure for the government, which is precisely trying to reduce the proportion of foreign workers. In its 2023 annual report presented to the Ministry of Labor, the Bureau already recommended 13 measures to replace foreign workers with locals without harming economic growth. One of the measures joins that of the Civil Service Commission and aims to assess the real needs of employers in terms of skilled foreign labor. Other measures advocate for stricter penalties in case of fraud regarding the expatriate's status. Foreign workers should have all the information relevant to their rights and duties. The report emphasizes the need for proper coordination between all competent agencies to address the replacement of foreign workers with Kuwaitis.

Revised work permit fees for foreign workers over 60

The work permit renewal fees for foreign workers over 60 are pretty high. Following the controversy, the government may reconsider its decision to avoid tarnishing its image with foreign investors. Senior employment is indeed a challenge in many countries with an aging population. While governments are implementing policies that favor the employment of seniors, Kuwait's measure is poorly received. Currently, foreign workers over 60 must pay 250 Kuwaiti dinars (approximately $817) to renew their work permits, not considering health insurance costs.

While no official statement has been made, it is believed that the government will soften its policy towards elderly expatriates (a policy that is still part of a desire to reduce the number of foreign workers). Attracting foreign capital remains essential for Kuwait's economic growth. Many foreign workers over 60 are experienced and contribute actively to the economy. Observers fear that they will abandon Kuwait in for other Gulf countries. The high fees are also detrimental to businesses and the local economy.  

New visa rules for domestic workers in the private sector

Along with its laws strengthening controls on expatriate workers, the government has opened a 3-month amnesty period to allow illegal domestic workers to regularize their status. They were offered 3 options: leave the country without a fine, pay a fine, or obtain a new residence permit. The amnesty period ended in June.

Since July 14, expat domestic workers can, under certain conditions, transfer their visas to the private sector. To apply for a transfer, they must obtain the prior agreement of their employer, work for at least one year with their current employer, and pay a fee of 50 Kuwaiti dinars ($163), plus a surcharge of 10 Kuwaiti dinars ($33) for each year spent with the employer.

Family reunification made easier for foreign talent

The Kuwaiti government has recently authorized family reunification. From now on, expatriates will be able to come to the territory with their families. But the eligibility conditions are discouraging. Only professionals are eligible for the measure. They can come to Kuwait with their spouse and children under 14 via a new family immigration program. However, they must earn at least 800 Kuwaiti dinars monthly ($2,615) to qualify for the visa. Unfortunately, many foreign workers cannot meet this salary threshold. Their social media posts show that they regret a measure that accentuates the disparities between wealthy foreigners and others. In their opinion, this measure excludes a large part of expatriate workers.