IMMIGRATION ALERTS

India has introduced stricter visa stay rules effective 2026: foreigners on short-term visas must register before completing 180 days to extend their stay – eliminating the previous 14-day grace period. The updated Immigration and Foreigners Rules also clarify rules for children of mixed citizenship and medical facility reporting.

Saudi Arabia has enforced a 70% Saudization (localization) requirement across 12 critical procurement and supply chain professions effective May 31, 2026. The mandate covers managers, specialists, and warehouse roles. Non-compliance triggers Nitaqat downgrades, visa freezes, and fines. Full compliance guide for HR leaders.

Vietnam will require all international travelers to complete a mandatory pre-arrival health declaration starting July 1, 2026. The declaration must be submitted within seven days before travel and applies to air, land, and sea entry/exit/transit. The Ministry of Health will determine which diseases trigger the requirement.

Thailand has launched THIM (Thailand Immigration Management System), a new mobile “super app” that allows travelers to submit digital arrival cards in advance, use e-KYC verification, and manage group applications. Currently in testing, the app aims to speed up immigration clearance for millions of tourists while strengthening border security.

Malaysia’s MDEC has granted a one-year extension for Employment Pass Category III applications in the Global Business Services (GBS) sector requiring native language proficiency. Until June 1, 2027, eligible roles will be assessed under pre-2026 salary thresholds – softening the blow of recent EP salary hikes.

Vietnam is simplifying work permit rules for skilled foreign workers in 2026. Key reforms include accepting foreign health certificates, removing experience requirements for finance and tech sectors, integrating criminal record checks, and expanding exemptions for STEM professionals. A major step to attract global talent.

Venezuela launches a new online travel document (salvoconducto) system for citizens abroad without valid passports, effective June 1, 2026. The fully digital process allows eligible Venezuelans to apply online, receive a QR-coded document, and return home without in-person consular visits – a major relief for the diaspora.

Sri Lanka has launched a major visa fee waiver for citizens of 40 countries, effective May 25, 2026. Travellers from the UK, US, Canada, Australia, India, China, and most of Europe can now enter for 30 days without paying visa fees – a strategic move to revive tourism amid the Middle East crisis.

Ghana has implemented a complete visa fee waiver for citizens of all 54 African Union member states. Effective immediately, African passport holders can enter without visa fees – a landmark move to boost intra-African travel, trade, and pan-African integration under President John Dramani Mahama.

Mexico work visa knowledge transfer requirements 2026: stricter offer letter details, credential checks, and mandatory training for strategic projects.

Cayman Islands work permit rules 2026: 21-day job ads, 2-year lock-in, KYD 5,000 dependent income, 20-year citizenship. Effective May 1.

Thailand cuts visa-free stay from 60 to 30 days for 93 countries. Cabinet approved May 18, 2026. Aims to curb misuse, illegal work, overstays. 30-day extension still available.

Chile launches expedited business visa for Indian nationals – 2‑year multiple entry, 90‑day stays. No paid employment; faster processing for business travelers.

Thailand to reduce visa-free stay for tourists from 93 countries to 30 days (from 60). Proposal targets misuse, illegal work, overstaying. Cabinet approval pending.

Mozambique introduces mandatory local hiring test – employers must prove no qualified Mozambican available before foreign work permit. Adds 14+ days to recruitment.

Armenia passes biometric ID law – new passports and mandatory ID cards launching in fall 2026. Key step toward EU visa liberalization and digital transformation.

Thailand makes online work permit mandatory from April 28, 2026 – e-Work Permit system ends paper submissions. Employers must register online.

Scotland's migration debate intensifies before May 2026 election – SNP wants more migrants; Reform UK warns of housing and service breaking point.

Montenegro announces temporary visa-free regime for Kazakhstani citizens for summer 2026 – 30-day stay from May 1 to October 1.

Saudi Arabia tightens Nitaqat rules: Qiwa contract documentation now mandatory for Saudization credit. Non-compliance risks fines and service suspension.