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If passed, new legislation will mean that families members including same-sex partners will be able to gain faster entry to the US. This is part of the ongoing efforts at immigration reform in the US. Family based immigration would be given priority; Unused visas from previous years will increase the number of visas available.
The number of 457 visas issued in the period 2007 to 2008 went up by 27 percent:
The EU has had to deal with a falling birth rate and increased competition for skilled worker s from non EU Countries. The EU "Blue Card" will make the EU more attractive for immigrants. Skilled foreign workers will be given the right to live and work in the EU under the Blue Card scheme.
From 1 June 2009, UKBA will check all applications as soon as they are received.
The UK Home Secretary announced on 21 May 2009 that all former Gurkhas who have served in the British Army for at least four years will now be eligible for settlement in the United Kingdom.
On 20 May 2009 the UK Border Agency (UKBA) put in arrangements that will benefit many HSMP visa holders following the judgement of 6 April 2009 in the judicial review brought by HSMP Forum Ltd. This relates to the continuous residence requirements to gain indefinite leave to remain in the UK; also known as settlement or permanent residence.