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IMPACT – MEDIUM
What is the change? Australia has expanded its electronic application system for the Subclass 600 (visitor) Visa to 66 more countries.
What does the change mean? Nationals of those countries may now apply online for visitor visas.
Background: Nationals of the following territories may now lodge applications for visitor visas electronically via an online application.
BAL Analysis: Online lodgement of visitor visa applications is part of Australia’s overall move toward streamlined, electronic services.
This alert has been provided by BAL Australia. For additional information, please contact australia@bal.com.
MARN: 9683856
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IMPACT – High
What are the changes? Saudi Arabia is threatening to deport foreign workers whose visas are not in order beginning next month.
Background: Facing double-digit unemployment of its own citizens, Saudi Arabia launched a localization reform in 2011 that includes pledges by companies renewing contracts to hire locals and fines for companies that do not meet quotas. After allowing a grace period of seven months, the Labor Ministry will resume the clampdown on Nov. 4. The Ministry is also reportedly checking inconsistencies between information on a foreign national’s work visa and the place of employment or profession listed on his or her residency permit.
BAL analysis: The unprecedented sweep means employers must verify all visas of foreign workers or face deportation of workers or possible fines. Companies should expect unannounced on-site visits, as the Ministry has trained inspection teams to fan out into offices and streets in search of visa violations. Foreign nationals who hire non-Saudi domestic workers should also make sure those visas are valid.
This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Saudi Arabia. For additional information, please contact GlobalVisaGroup@bal.com.
Yesterday, King Abdullah issued a decree that the official weekend will be moved from Thursday and Friday to Friday and Saturday. The change will be effective on June 29 for all government and banking institutions, and will be implemented in schools and colleges when the next academic year begins. The new weekend days are expected to facilitate international transactions and bring many economic advantages.