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On 23 September 2009 UKBA further clarified the transitional arrangements for those who already have indefinite leave to remain (ILR) or who have a pending application before earned citizenships is introduced. UKBA also clarified the circumstances under which those on HSMP and certain others can continue to apply for ILR or British citizenship under the current rules.
The world's economy took a hit after the global financial meltdown in 2008. Despite this many countries are still maintaining active immigration policies designed to attract skilled overseas talent.
Economic immigration has slowed down for many nations. More people are either staying home or returning from abroad. Nothing highlights this fact more than the United States H-1B program.
A home based program to help parents prepare their children for school and better utilize local community services is expanding its family literacy program in a number of Canadian cities. $3.5 million of funding is being provided by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, which provides the vast majority of the funding, and Human Resources and Skills Development Canada.
The number of job vacancies in Australia has recently gone up. This is the first increase in sixteen months. Also, the Sensis Consumer Report on consumer confidence is at 39 percent which is the highest level in fifteen months.
Since 2008 the number of people emigrating abroad has overall gone down. With the World economy showing signs of recovery this is likely to change very soon. This is covered in a recent report by Washington based Migration Policy Institute for the BBC World Service.
Changes since 2008 have included the following:
Starting on 2 October 2009, the United States will begin accepting applications for the Diversity Visa 2011 Lottery, otherwise known as the Green Card Lottery.
For those who wish to live and work in the United States, the Green Card Lottery is a good opportunity as it does not require a sponsor such as a family member or employer. The application deadline is 30 November 2009.