UAE rolls out AI-powered work-permit screening to fast-track skilled hiring
Hong Kong opens “no-strings” car quota for Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge
EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement Enters Provisional Force, Unlocking Smoother Executive Mobility Between Brazil and Europe
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Ottawa previews ‘high-wage’ points that could reshape Express Entry rankings
IRCC’s draft overhaul would give bonus CRS points to candidates working in occupations that pay at least 1.3× the national median wage, with higher bonuses at the 1.5× and 2× levels. Ottawa hopes the move will improve newcomers’ earnings and tax contributions. Employers and applicants have until 24 May 2026 to comment before the plan is finalised.
China projects 344 million passenger journeys and 2.4 million border crossings on first day of May-Day Golden Week
The Ministry of Transport expects 344 million internal journeys on 1 May and the National Immigration Administration foresees cross-border flows peaking at 2.4 million a day, signalling a full return of mass mobility. Business-travel planners face tight capacity, higher costs and longer transfer times, but the test may accelerate China’s plans to expand visa-free transit and e-gate coverage.
France Raises All Visa & Residence-Permit Fees as 2026 Finance Law Takes Effect
Effective May 1 2026, France has increased nearly every immigration fee: first-issue residence cards now cost €350 (up from €225) and long-stay-visa validations €300 (up from €200). Students, seasonal workers and regularisation applicants also face double-digit hikes. Employers will see assignment costs spike by roughly 50 %, forcing urgent budget reviews.
UK issues travel warning as 12 May Belgian strike threatens major flight cancellations
The FCDO and Brussels Airport warn that a national strike planned for 12 May 2026 could force widespread flight cancellations and disrupt all Belgian public transport. Companies with travellers or assignees in Belgium should activate contingency plans, secure flexible tickets and budget for potential accommodation and overtime costs.