Kazakhstan: New Visa Waiver Program to be introduced January 1
Kazakhstan: Work Permit process to be simplified; exemption for heads of branches to be eliminated
On or after January 1, 2017, Work Permit and Intracompany Transferee (ICT) Work Permit applicants will be subject to a simplified work authorisation process, including the removal of the labour market test and bank deposit requirements, among other simplifications. However, heads of branches and representative offices of foreign entities in Kazakhstan will no longer be exempt from the Work Permit requirement, and it is unclear whether a grace period will be introduced for those who will now require a Work Permit.
Kazakhstan: Work permit fee forthcoming
On or after January 1, 2017, companies in the oil and gas, financial, consulting and other sectors will be subject to a work permit fee.
Companies hiring intra-company transferees in any sector will be exempt from paying the work permit fee but will still be subject to special conditions if hiring foreign nationals.
Malaysia: Changes in multiple Employment Pass categories
Global: Immigration processing during the holiday season
During the holiday season, many government offices worldwide will close or have reduced staff and hours of operation, likely resulting in processing delays for work permits, residence permits and visas over the coming weeks and into the new year.The following is a non-exhaustive list of immigration office and government closings during the holiday season. Employers and foreign nationals with travel or relocation plans between now and early 2016 should contact their immigration service provider to discuss the impact of holiday closures on their specific circumstances.
Kazakhstan: Rules restricted for multiple-region travellers
Employers will no longer be able to expand the coverage area of their work permits from the original region to two or more cities or regions, due to the approval of recently-announced Work Permit rules changes. The amended rules are expected to be published and effective in the next few weeks.
Once the rules are effective, foreign workers will not be able to remain in a region other than the one under which their work permit was granted for more than 90 days. Although this restriction is not meant to apply to time spent in other regions for personal reasons, authorities reserve the discretion to track such trips.
What This Means for Foreign Nationals
Because nationwide work permits are not an available option, employers planning to send employees to work in multiple cities or regions are advised to consult with their immigration professional about the best course of action on a case-by-case basis.