Topical:
On 12 October the Scottish Qualifications Authority English language tests were added to the lists of approved English language tests, for Tier 1 and Tier 2 visa applications. This is welcome news as it means that it is now in effect easier for some people to come under the Tier 1 and Tier 2 visa.
On 9 October 2009 Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced proposed changes to the Canadian Temporary Foreign Worker Program:
"Temporary foreign workers play an important role in the Canadian economy," the Minister said. "We have a duty to them, employers and all Canadians, to ensure that the program is fair and equitable."
The proposed changes include the following:
On 1 October 2009 the Canadian Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced special measures to help Philippine residents applying for Canadian immigration who have been seriously affected by Typhoon Ketsana.
A new local immigration partnership initiative will result in improved access to services for immigrants to enable them to integrate into society. This was announced jointly by Kitchener Centre MP Stephen Woodworth and Region of Waterloo Regional Chair Ken Seiling.
On 8 October 2009 the Home Office made an announcement following the UK Home Secretary's visit to Pakistan:
The Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) will be running information sessions about changes to the Australian subclass 457 visa in Cairns on 7 and 8 October 2009. New laws were brought in on 14 September that according to DIAC will "…protect the rights of overseas workers and ensure Australian wages and conditions are not undermined…". There are also new arrangements for paying health costs for subclass 457 visa holders.