Global Immigration Recap: August 2026
Wolfsdorf Rosenthal – Blog
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Our August global immigration recap includes the latest on Canada’s newly launched OINP platform, Australia’s revised priority processing order for visa and nomination applications, Sweden’s recent immigration reforms, Thailand’s 30-day visa waiver conditions, and more. As of August 5, 2026, the new Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) platform is open and actively accepting Job Offers and Expressions of Interest. The employer-sponsored nomination and visa categories directly impacted by MD 119 include: In light of this development, employers are encouraged to take the following action: Recent immigration reforms in Sweden impact employers who rely on foreign national talent. Key changes include: Modified Salary Thresholds for Work Permits The minimum salary required for most new work permit applications has increased from 80% to 90% of Sweden’s median salary, currently equivalent to SEK 34,470 per month. Notably, exceptions to this new salary threshold apply to select groups. The following are subject to a lower salary threshold, equivalent to 75% of the median salary: Labor shortage occupations – To address ongoing labor shortages, Sweden has published a list of 27 occupations that are subject to a lower salary threshold. Employer violations include failure to comply with employment or tax legislation, immigration obligations, financial laws, labor laws, or any other conduct that suggests exploitation or abuse. New Criteria for Citizenship Applications The recent immigration reforms also impact Swedish citizenship applications, with stricter residence, language, civic knowledge, and financial requirements having been introduced. Furthermore, the new 30-day visa waiver may only be utilized for tourism. Business activities are no longer admissible under the visa waiver program.
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Our August global immigration recap includes the latest on Canada’s newly launched OINP platform, Australia’s revised priority processing order for visa and nomination applications, Sweden’s recent immigration reforms, Thailand’s 30-day visa waiver conditions, and more. Canada – New OINP Portal Officially Open As of August 5, 2026, the new Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) platform is open and actively accepting Job Offers and Expressions of Interest. The launch follows significant changes to the OINP, including the closure of its previous streams and the introduction of the new Ontario Workforce Priority Stream, which shifts the process toward an employer-led model, with employers initiating the process through the Employer Portal. Australia – Ministerial Direction Establishes New Priority Processing Order for Skilled Nominations and Visa Applications A new Ministerial Direction (MD 119) has been implemented in Australia, significantly changing the order in which skilled nomina
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