Immigration updates: shifting policies across the globe
UK
The UK Government has decided to delay the full switch to eVisas, originally planned for 31st December 2024, to address concerns about potential issues similar to the Windrush scandal. Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and Cards will now stay valid
until at least March 2025. While over 3.1 million people have already moved to eVisas, some have faced challenges, especially vulnerable groups. The government is working to make the process easier and provide extra support. If you haven’t
switched yet, help is available, and you’re encouraged to make the move to eVisas as soon as possible.
USA
USCIS announced it has received enough H-1B cap petitions to fill the 85,000 slots for FY 2025, so there will be no third lottery this year. Two lotteries were held earlier: one in March, selecting 114,017 beneficiaries, and another in August, selecting
13,607. Overall, 29% of registrations were selected.
This year’s new registration system reduced duplicate entries, with fewer registrations submitted per person. Unselected entries will be marked as “Not Selected” in the USCIS system. Employers can re-register these individuals during
the FY 2026 cap season next spring. Non-cap H-1B petitions remain open for submission.
Canada
Quebec’s Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ) has been replaced by the Permanent Residence Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ), effective November 29, 2024. The new PSTQ program, launching June 30, 2025, requires French language proficiency,
unlike the PRTQWhile invitations are paused until June 30, individuals with existing Expressions of Interest can update their profiles to improve their chances. Quebec’s immigration reforms aim to strengthen French language use, with new
policies and initiatives expected in 2025, including a multi-year immigrant admissions plan.
Schengen Area
Several Schengen countries, like Austria, France, Germany, and Sweden, have extended their internal border checks through mid-2025. Starting December 9, 2024, the Netherlands will also introduce border checks, running until June 2025. Travelers should
always carry ID and make sure they don’t overstay the 90-day limit for visa-free travel in the Schengen Area.
Although border checks aren’t typical in Schengen countries, they’ve been in place for security reasons since 2015. Recent updates to the Schengen Border Code have given EU countries more flexibility to manage borders during public health
crises and immigration challenges.
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