Weekly Immigration Update: February 3–9, 2023

Spain, February 9, 2023
Digital Signatures to be Required for Initial Applications Submitted to Large Companies Unit

• The Spanish authorities have confirmed that all initial work and residence permit application forms submitted to the Large Companies Unit will need to be digitally signed using the company’s digital certificate.
• This change in process has not yet been publicly published, but once it is (expected before March 31, 2023), it is likely that wet signatures on these applications will no longer be accepted.
• Companies who do not currently hold digital certificates should obtain one as soon as possible in advance of the switch to digital signatures. Otherwise, they will not be able to submit new applications for work and residence permits.
• The change will ultimately streamline the application process by reducing the documentation companies are required to file for work and residence permit applications

To view entire article, click here.

Russia/Belarus, February 9, 2023
Mutual Visa Recognition

• Russia and Belarus have finalized an agreement to recognize each other's visas and right to enter and stay on the basis of the other country’s residence permits.
• This will allow individuals with visas or permits issued by one country to enter the other without having to undergo the other country’s visa requirements.
• However, foreign nationals who are visa exempt in either Russia or Belarus but require a visa to enter the other country will still be required to obtain that visa. Nationals who are visa exempt in both Russia and Belarus can still travel to either of the counties, under existing visa-free arrangements

To view entire article, click here.

Türkiye, February 9, 2023
Immigration Processing Delays and Closures Due to Earthquake

• As a result of the February 6, 2023 earthquake, immigration processes may be affected, delayed or canceled due to government office closures, canceled residence card appointments, and airport closures in southeastern Türkiye.
• Individuals should confirm that government offices or airports are operating before attending in-person appointments or seeking to travel to the affected area.

To view entire article, click here.

United States, February 3, 2023
DHS Announces Automatic Extension of Hong Kong DED-Related EADs

• The Department of Homeland Security has announced an automatic two-year extension of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for individuals benefiting from Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for Hong Kong.
• Hong Kong DED-related EADs expiring on February 5, 2023 have been automatically extended to February 5, 2025.

To view entire article, click here.