World Immigration News

Immigration weekly update: April 10, 2025

Release Date: 2025-04-10
Media: Crown World Mobility
Summary: Americas – United States: FY 2026 H-1B Lottery Completed
USCIS has completed the selection process for FY 2026 H-1B cap registrations, including the advanced degree exemption. Selected registrants have been notified and may file cap-subject petitions starting April 1, 2025. Only those with valid, selected registrations are eligible to file.

Asia-Pacific – Australia: Skilled Visa Income Threshold Increases (Effective July 1, 2025)
Australia will raise skilled visa income thresholds by 4.6% from July 1, 2025, aligning with AWOTE updates:

CSIT: AUD 73,150 → AUD 76,515 (subclass 482, 186)

SSIT: AUD 135,000 → AUD 141,210 (subclass 482 – Specialist stream)

TSMIT: AUD 73,150 → AUD 76,515 (subclass 494, 187)

New thresholds apply only to new applications from July 1, 2025, not to current visa holders or pre-existing applications.

EMEA – Kazakhstan: Digital Nomad Residency for IT Specialists
Kazakhstan has launched a Digital Nomad Residency program allowing foreign IT professionals to obtain permanent residence through a simplified process. Applicants need a Kazakh ID number and digital signature to apply via Astana Hub. Processing takes 45 days.

Saudi Arabia: Temporary Suspension of Short-Term Visas During Hajj Season
Saudi Arabia has suspended short-term visas (business, tourist, family visit) for citizens of 14 countries due to the Hajj season. Nationals from affected countries must enter by April 13, 2025, and exit by April 29, 2025.

Affected countries: Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, Yemen.

Spain: Golden Visa Program Terminated
As of April 3, 2025, Spain has officially ended its Golden Visa Program, which previously allowed non-EU nationals to obtain residency through investment, primarily real estate. The program's termination follows concerns over its impact on housing markets in cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
Tags: WORLD

News Articles including "WORLD"

Released on

Article Title