Immigration news updates for all regions
Americas
United States: H-1B fee clarification
As previously noted, under the new Executive Order, a $100,000 surcharge will apply to new H-1B applications if the beneficiary is outside the United States and does not already hold a valid H-1B visa. This applies to both capped and uncapped applications. Fees are due at the time of application unless alternative payment options are announced.
The petition is exempt from the surcharge if the beneficiary is:
You have valid status in the United States and your petition is for a change, extension, or modification of your status or a change of employer. Even if you are abroad, you already have a valid H-1B visa. The petition was received by USCIS before the deadline (mailing date does not count).
If USCIS subsequently discovers that the petition is not eligible for domestic processing, or if the beneficiary switches to consular processing, the surcharge may be applied retroactively.
All H-1B petitions must meet standard requirements such as a certified LCA, qualifying profession, proof of qualifications, and compliance with wage and assignment regulations.
Exceptions to the surcharge may be granted only if the Secretary of Homeland Security determines that the presence of the worker is in the national interest, there are no U.S. workers available, the individual does not pose a threat, and the fee would harm U.S. interests.
This overview was created using information from our service partner Maggio, Kattar, Nagajzer + Alexander, PC.
Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have further questions regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Roberta Carnaccini, Director of Immigration Global Operations.
Asia Pacific
Japan: Stricter business management visa rules
Japan’s business manager visa, originally designed to attract entrepreneurial foreigners and stimulate economic growth, has come under scrutiny after increasing abuse. Authorities are currently taking steps to recalibrate the system and tighten enforcement against illegal immigrants.
The new requirements include a significant increase in capital investment to 30 million yen (up from 5 million yen), a requirement to hire at least one full-time employee in Japan, stricter personal qualifications (such as three years of management experience and a relevant master’s degree), and a requirement for business plans to be reviewed by an expert. Either the applicant or the full-time employee must have sufficient Japanese language proficiency. CEFR B2 level or above.
This summary was created using information provided by Japan News
Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have further questions regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Debra Beynon (APAC Regional Immigration Manager) or Roberta Carnaccini (Director of Immigration Global Operations).
Europe, Middle East, Africa
Europe: Temporary reintroduction of border controls
Under the Schengen Border Law (SBC), member states can temporarily reintroduce border controls on all or certain areas of their internal borders, for example in response to serious threats to public policy or internal security.
This measure is intended as a last resort and must only be applied in exceptional circumstances, in line with the principle of necessity.
The duration of such regulations is strictly time-bound and varies depending on the legal basis given by the member state implementing the regulation. Click here for more information.
The decision to reintroduce border controls rests with the Member States but is subject to oversight by the European Commission, which may need to assess the necessity and proportionality of the measures and issue an opinion accordingly.
This overview has been prepared using information provided by the European Commission.
Nigeria: Online temporary work permit application begins
Nigeria recently launched an online application system for Temporary Work Permits (TWP).
To apply, candidates must first receive a formal invitation from a Nigerian company outlining the nature of the job and confirming the duration of the assignment.
After creating an account on the TWP portal, applicants fill out an online form, upload a valid passport, passport-sized photo, documents from the host company including registration details and offer letter, and make the required payments.
The portal allows you to track the progress of your application in real time and provides updates directly to your users.
TWP is a short-term visa issued by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and is designed for foreign professionals invited to Nigeria for specific assignments such as installation, post-sales maintenance, training, and consulting services. Ideal for people who are not in permanent employment but are working on short-term, project-based work.
This summary was prepared based on information from the Nigerian Immigration Service.
Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have further questions regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Roberta Carnaccini, Director of Immigration Global Operations.
We track policy changes in more than 120 countries. Watch this short video to see how we can help.
