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Trump's immigration crackdown backfires as jobs shrink, even for Americans
A new study reveals Trump's immigration crackdown negatively impacted employment. Key sectors saw fewer undocumented workers, and surprisingly, some American workers also lost jobs. The research indicates that stricter enforcement did not create new opportunities for US-born workers. Instead, it appears to have weakened overall labor demand in affected industries.
6 legal rights UAE remote workers should know
Remote work has become more common in the UAE as businesses shift to flexible work arrangements. Despite working from home or outside the office, employees continue to receive the same legal protections under UAE Labour Law. These include rights related to salary, working hours, leave, and workplace conditions. The law treats remote workers on par with in-office staff, provided the arrangement is agreed upon in the employment contract.
What workers should know about gratuity calculation in the UAE
UAE end-of-service gratuity calculations are clarified. The payout is based solely on an employee's basic salary. However, the total amount received is limited to two years of the employee's overall salary. This includes all allowances and benefits. Workers with less than one year of service receive no gratuity.
Texas flags ‘ghost offices’ as part of broader H-1B visa crackdown
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is targeting nearly 30 North Texas businesses for alleged H-1B visa program misuse, specifically focusing on "ghost offices." These companies are suspected of faking operational presence to sponsor foreign workers. Paxton vows to end such fraud, demanding extensive company records to ensure legal compliance and prevent program abuse.
UAE to screen work permit applicants using AI, robotics from May
The UAE is launching an artificial intelligence and robotics system to screen work permit applicants starting in May. This initiative aims to improve labor market efficiency and attract skilled professionals. The system will evaluate candidates based on skills, education, experience, and knowledge.
Canada increases validity of work authorisation support letters for foreign workers on maintained status
Canada has extended work authorization support letters (WP-EXT) to 365 days for foreign workers on maintained status, a significant increase from 180 days. This change allows individuals to continue working while their new permit applications are processed. However, Post-Graduation Work Permit holders' letters remain at 180 days. New guidance also clarifies maintained status rules for multiple applications.
US: North Carolina labour official backs federal rule to hike H-1B wages
North Carolina's top labour official, Luke Farley, backs a federal plan to raise wages for foreign workers on H-1B and similar visas. Farley believes current programs hurt American jobs by allowing lower wages. The proposed rule aims to ensure foreign workers are paid market rates. This move seeks to prevent foreign labor from undermining American workers' value and opportunities.
India–New Zealand FTA to secure 5,000 visas for Indian professionals
India and New Zealand are set to sign a Free Trade Agreement on April 27, 2026, introducing dedicated visa pathways for 5,000 Indian professionals and 1,000 Work and Holiday visas. This landmark agreement aims to expand labor mobility, offering opportunities in sectors like IT, healthcare, and education, with post-study work rights for students.
Bill for 3-year pause on H-1B visas introduced in US Congress
US Republican lawmakers propose a three-year pause on the H-1B visa program. The proposed End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026 aims to reform the system. It seeks to reduce the annual cap, increase minimum wages, and prevent H-1B visa holders from bringing dependents. The bill also targets replacing the lottery with a wage-based system and barring third-party staffing agencies.
Belgium to mandate online filing for select work permits from May 1
Belgium is transitioning to a digital system for specific work permit applications. Starting May 1, 2026, short-work and commuter permits must be submitted online. This move aims to streamline processing and reduce errors. Employers will need digital access to the 'Working in Belgium' portal. This change is part of a broader digital transformation of the country's immigration services.
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Japan halts visa applications for foreign restaurant workers as cap nears
Japan has halted new visa applications for foreign restaurant workers under its specified skilled worker program as the sector nears its 50,000-worker cap. This decision, effective Monday, anticipates reaching the limit by May 2026. The program, launched in 2019, aims to address labor shortages across various industries.
H-1B and F-1 in 2026: What visa-dependent professionals need to know about long-term immigration planning
Recent policy shifts have significantly narrowed the margins for H-1B and F-1 visa holders in the U.S., increasing uncertainty for families. A new $100,000 employer fee and changes to H-4 EAD renewals are creating financial planning challenges.
Russia courts foreign workers with new online scheme as labour shortages bite
Russia has introduced a new digital service for foreigners seeking to live and work in the country. This initiative aims to address significant labor shortages across various sectors. The program, named 'Time to live in Russia', targets individuals with in-demand skills and respect for traditional Russian values. Eligible applicants include scientists, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals.
New Zealand eases health insurance rules for Peak Seasonal Visa from April 19
New Zealand is easing health insurance rules for the Peak Seasonal Visa starting April 19, 2026. This change aims to simplify compliance for migrants and employers. The updated policy will align insurance needs with products readily available in the New Zealand market. This adjustment is expected to reduce application uncertainties and speed up visa processing for seasonal workers.
7 countries with world's best job opportunities
The world’s best countries for job opportunities in 2026 are ranked in the Henley Opportunity Index 2026, which evaluates factors such as earning potential, career growth, employment prospects, education, economic mobility and quality of life.The index compares how effectively countries convert access into long-term opportunities for people who want to live and work there.
H-1B hiring at universities faces new curbs
Iowa's legislature is advancing a bill that would restrict public universities and colleges from hiring foreign workers on H-1B visas from countries deemed "foreign adversaries." The proposal, which passed the House and is awaiting a full Senate vote, aims to bolster national security and prioritize American workers. Existing employees would largely be unaffected by the new hiring restrictions.