IMPACT – MEDIUM

The United Kingdom raised its threat level to “critical” late Tuesday, with Prime Minister Theresa May saying another attack could be imminent after 22 people were killed in a bombing Monday night in Manchester.

May said the independent Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre raised the threat level to its highest level as officials continued work to determine whether a “wider group of individuals” are linked to the Manchester attack.

“I do not want the public to feel unduly alarmed,” May said. “We have faced a serious terrorist threat in our country for many years, and the operational response … is a proportionate and sensible response to the threat that our security experts judge we face.”

Key points:

  • U.K. and foreign nationals in the U.K. should exercise caution and expect the possibility of security-related delays when traveling in the U.K.
  • May said that military personnel would be deployed to protect key sites in the U.K. and possibly at concerts, sports matches and other events in the coming days.
  • News reports said that this was only the third time the U.K. has raised its threat level to “critical,” with the first two coming in 2006 and 2007.

Background: Officials raised the threat level after a man set off a bomb at an Ariana Grande concert late Monday in Manchester, leaving 22 dead. The attack drew widespread condemnation, and authorities urged people to exercise caution. The U.S. Embassy in London encouraged “U.S. citizens in the United Kingdom to directly contact family members in the United States.” The embassy further urged people to remain aware of their surroundings “especially in crowds or at large events, and monitor local news sources for updates.” French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel both released statements expressing shock. “I am following the reports from Manchester with great sadness and shock,” Merkel said. “It is incomprehensible that someone could use a joyful pop concert to kill or seriously injure so many people.”

BAL Analysis: The increased security measures raise the possibility of delays when traveling within the U.K. British and foreign nationals are urged to exercise caution and follow instructions from local authorities, particularly while the threat level remains at its current level. Foreign visitors are advised to register with their home country’s embassy in London, and business travelers may want to make sure their company’s human resources department is aware of their presence in the U.K.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact BerryApplemanLeiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2017 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The Islamic month of Ramadan is expected to begin around May 26 and processing will slow down as offices in countries with majority or significant Muslim populations will curtail their working hours during the month.

What does the change mean? Employers and individuals should anticipate shorter business hours from approximately May 26 through June 25, and offices will close for three or more days immediately thereafter for the Eid holiday. If possible, employers should file applications to obtain decisions on any urgent cases before Ramadan begins.

  • Implementation time frame:  Approximately May 26-June 30. Some countries also begin to slow down one week before Ramadan.
  • Visas/permits affected: Visas, work permits and other immigration-related services.
  • Impact on processing times: Applicants should expect reduced working hours, especially on Fridays, and resulting delays in processing.
  • Business impact: Employers should factor in the slower processing timelines when planning start dates and business schedules.

Background: Ramadan is the 10th month of the Islamic calendar and is a time during which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset and increase time spent in prayer and introspection. The month is expected to begin on the evening of May 26 and end June 25, but lunar dates vary by one to two days depending on local practices. Individual countries typically announce the first day of Ramadan closer to the beginning of the month when actual or predicted moon sightings are confirmed.

Working hours also vary by country and government offices tend to close early. The Eid al-Fitr holiday, immediately following Ramadan, will close offices for three or more days in countries across the Middle East, North and West Africa, and Central and Southeast Asia. In April, Malaysia’s e-Xpats Service Centre announced filing deadlines in advance of the Eid holiday (Hari Raya Aidil Fitri) June 23-27.

BAL Analysis: Businesses and travelers are encouraged to plan ahead and file time-sensitive applications as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary delays, and check with individual offices for Ramadan hours.  

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

Copyright © 2017 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? South Korea will observe a series of public holidays on May 3, 5 and 9. A number of South Korean companies will also observe May 2, 4 or both days as temporary holidays.

What does the change mean? Government offices will be closed and in-country immigration processing will be suspended on the public holidays (May 3, 5 and 9), while many South Korean companies will also be closed on May 2 and/or 4.

  • Implementation time frame: May 2-5 and May 9.
  • Visas/permits affected: All visas, permits and other immigration-related government services.
  • Who is affected: Anyone seeking immigration services in South Korea.
  • Impact on processing times: All in-country immigration processing and other government services will be suspended on the public holidays.
  • Business impact: Businesses may need to make minor adjustments to account for the holiday closures.
  • Next steps: Applicants should submit time-sensitive applications before the holidays if possible.

Background: Government offices will be closed May 3 for Buddha’s Birthday, May 5 for Children’s Day and May 9 for the country’s presidential election. Government offices, including immigration offices, will be open on May 2 and 4, but many South Korean companies will also be closed on either May 2 or May 4, or on both days.

BAL Analysis: Employers should plan for the upcoming office closures and, if needed, file time-sensitive applications and notifications before May 3. South Korean embassies and consulates around the world may be closed for the holidays as well, though schedules may vary.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in South Korea. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

Copyright © 2017 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Government offices in countries throughout much of Europe, the Americas and other parts of the world that celebrate Easter holidays will close from Friday through Monday in observance of Good Friday and Easter Sunday. This year, Orthodox Easter coincides with the Gregorian calendar and will be observed on the same dates.

What does the change mean? Applicants should expect a slowdown in processing during the holiday break and potential backlogs when offices reopen.

  • Implementation time frame: April 14-17.
  • Visas/permits affected: All processing.
  • Who is affected: Applicants requiring government services during the break.
  • Impact on processing times: The holiday break may delay processing by one to four days.

BAL Analysis: Applicants should check with their BAL professional for holiday dates of individual countries. Those seeking consular processing should also note that embassies and consulates may observe unique holiday schedules.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

Copyright © 2017 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

IMPACT – MEDIUM

An attack on the Westminster Bridge near the U.K. Parliament in London left at least five people dead, including the assailant, and dozens injured. The attack left parts of London on lockdown Wednesday. Authorities advised U.K. and foreign nationals to monitor their security.

Key points:

  • U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May said business would resume as normal Thursday. “Tomorrow morning, parliament will meet as normal,” she said, adding “Londoners – and others from around the world who have come here to visit this great city – will get up and go about their day as normal.”
  • The U.S. Embassy in London took the unusual step of “strongly” encouraging “U.S. citizens in the United Kingdom to directly contact concerned family members in the United States to advise them of your safety.” The embassy also advised U.S. nationals to “monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.”
  • The German Embassy released a statement that said German officials were “deeply shocked by the attack in London,” and the French Embassy advised people to “avoid the area, be vigilant and let family and friends know you are all right.”
  • Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said: “We recommend you remain vigilant, monitor media reporting and follow the advice of local authorities. The level of advice has not changed. We continue to advise Australians to exercise normal safety precautions in the United Kingdom.”

BAL Analysis: U.K. and foreign nationals in or around London should exercise caution and expect the possibility of security-related delays when traveling in and around London.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact BerryApplemanLeiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2017 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

BAL is ranked as a top firm in the Global-wide category in the newly released Chambers Global Guide, an annual ranking of the best international law firms based on independent research and interviews with lawyers and clients worldwide.

Chambers recognizes BAL as a “highly respected firm specializing in corporate global mobility that offers clients the full spectrum of immigration services in addition to providing policy development and compliance advice. The firm is also particularly renowned for its work in the USA, especially in key jurisdictions such as Silicon Valley, and for its coverage of the UK, Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region.”

BAL is praised for its strong immigration practices, and Chambers sources stated that, “their immigration work is absolutely excellent,” adding, “They provide in-depth analysis on all jurisdictions and have a really high level of expertise.” Sources also noted BAL’s global reach, stating that the team has “a broad international practice and really strong expertise in the USA.”

Notable practitioners listed for BAL include Managing Partner Jeremy Fudge, Founding Partner David Berry, Europe Managing Director Emily King, Asia Managing Director Christina Karl, and Latin America Managing Director Daniela Lima.

About Chambers Global

Since 1990, Chambers has published an annual guide ranking the world’s best lawyers based on technical expertise, business acumen, prompt delivery, and value for money. A team of over 140 researchers conducts thousands of interviews worldwide to produce the rankings. Lawyers cannot buy their way into Chamber’s rankings; as a result, its annual directories are considered among the most accurate and reliable.

Copyright © 2017 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

IMPACT – MEDIUM

As a result of a deteriorating security situation and fears of violence amid anti-government protests, the United States, the United Kingdom and Belgium have issued statements warning against travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and urging foreign nationals to leave that country if their continuing presence is not essential. On Tuesday morning, up to 20 protestors were killed in clashes with security forces in Kinshasa.

Key points: 

  • The U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa ordered family members of U.S. government personnel and authorized nonemergency personnel to depart the DRC earlier this month, and updated an October travel warning to recommend that “all U.S. citizens should have evacuation plans that do not rely solely on U.S. government assistance.”
  • On Dec. 14, the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office warned that previous anti-government protests in Kinshasa on Sept. 19-20 had been violent and that new demonstrations could therefore lead to the closure of local and international schools, the suspension of commercial flights and the closure of borders
  • The Belgian Foreign Ministry issued a similar travel warning on Dec. 16 citing escalating factors such as “the expulsion of Belgian journalists, rumors of the closure of certain airports, the possible restriction of internet communication and the risk of new demonstrations.”

Background: The recent travel warnings by the U.S. and European governments indicate concerns about escalating anti-government protests as President Joseph Kabila’s term runs out. Constitutional term limits required Kabila to step down when his second mandate ended at midnight on Monday. However, the DRC’s electoral commission postponed the national elections until April 2018 because of inadequate resources and a constitutional court ruling earlier this year confirming that Kabila can remain in power until a successor is elected.

BAL Analysis: All foreign nationals in the DRC should review their security situation; those in need of immigration services should anticipate delays in processing through the next several weeks.

Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? Christmas and New Year’s will slow immigration processing across much of the world at the end of the year and in early 2017.

What does the change mean? Applicants should anticipate closures of government and private offices for at least two days on and around Dec. 26 and Jan. 2. Many countries celebrate longer breaks and shut down for several weeks.

  • Implementation time frame: Now through early January.
  • Visas/permits affected: All immigration-related services.
  • Impact on processing times: Processing times will be longer and a backlog of cases may develop immediately following the New Year when offices reopen.
  • Business impact: Travelers should factor in longer wait times and limited visa appointments when estimating processing times and planning business schedules.

Below is a summary of closures by region with noted countries that observe longer breaks.

Africa: Christmas and New Year’s coincide with the traditional summer holiday in much of Africa.

  • Immigration authorities in many African countries, notably Kenya, Mozambique and South Africa, retain only a skeleton staff between Dec. 19 and Jan. 9.

Europe: Longer breaks of one week or more are typical.

  • In the United Kingdom, official bank holidays will be observed Dec. 26 (Boxing Day) and Dec. 27 (in lieu of Christmas) and visa application centers may close or work reduced hours in the surrounding days and through the New Year.
  • Irish labor and immigration offices will be closed Dec. 26-27 and Jan. 2.
  • In Switzerland, most government immigration offices will close from Dec. 26 to Jan. 2, but schedules vary according to the canton. In Zürich, immigration offices will close Dec. 23 through Jan. 2.
  • Russian government offices will be closed Dec. 31 to Jan. 8.

Latin America: Most government immigration offices will close Dec. 26 and Jan. 2.

  • Mexico observes a longer holiday break, and government offices are expected to close Dec. 19 to Jan. 6, although official dates have not been released.
  • Costa Rica’s Migration Bureau will be closed from Dec. 23 to Jan. 2.
  • In Chile, government offices will close at 10 a.m. Dec. 23 and Dec. 30. 

Asia: Most countries will observe one or more days for Christmas and New Year’s.

  • China does not officially mark Christmas as a public holiday but will close Jan. 1 for New Year’s Day and the week of Jan. 27 to Feb. 2 for lunar Chinese New Year celebrations.

Oceania:

  • Australia’s Department of Immigration and Border Protection offices will be closed Dec. 26 through 28 as well as Jan. 1. DIBP offices in Australia are expected to operate with skeleton staffs for the period between Dec. 19 and Jan. 9.
  • In New Zealand government immigration offices are expected to be closed starting the afternoon of Dec. 23 and reopening Jan. 4.
  • Papua New Guinea government labor and immigration offices will be closed starting Dec. 22 or 23 and are expected to reopen on Jan. 4 or 5. 

Middle East: Christmas and New Year’s are not observed as public holidays, but some private offices may close.

  • In the United Arab Emirates, for example, many private offices will close on Sunday, Dec. 25, which would normally be a working day.

BAL Analysis: Applicants should plan to file any time-sensitive applications as early as possible before the holiday break to avoid additional delays.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

 

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Taiwan has added nine countries to its electronic visa program.

What does the change mean? Nationals of the following countries may apply for visitor visas online: Bahrain, Dominica, Kuwait, Montenegro, Oman, the Philippines (for a one-year trial period), Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate.
  • Visas/permits affected: Visitor visas.
  • Who is affected: Nationals of the designated countries.
  • Impact on processing time: Processing times for e-visas are faster than regular processing, as e-visa applicants apply online and print out their visa before travel.
  • Business impact: Business visitors for the designated countries may apply for the visas if they are going to Taiwan to attend international conferences or trade shows organized or sponsored by central government agencies.

Background: Taiwan introduced its eVisa program last year to nationals of 27 countries. eVisas are appropriate for business visitors, tourists and those visiting family members or attending a conference, trade show or other event sponsored by the Taiwanese government or nongovernmental organizations. Work permits are still required for engaging in productive employment.

BAL Analysis: The expansion of Taiwan’s eVisa program will benefit additional nationals visiting as tourists or for certain business purposes.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Taiwan. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Violent protests erupted in Bangalore Monday following a Supreme Court ruling directing the state of Karnataka to provide more water to the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. Protestors raided shops and set cars on fire, according to numerous media outlets. Authorities said they were invoking a section of the criminal code that restricts public.

What does the change mean? Foreign nationals in Bangalore or other areas affected by violence should take personal care and observe security measures. Anyone in need of immigration services should be prepared for possible delays in service. Those with appointments should contact the relevant office or visa center to check whether the office is open and determine whether they need to change appointment times.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing.
  • Who is affected: Anyone seeking immigration or other government services.
  • Impact on processing times: Processing may take longer than usual in Bangalore and other areas affected by protests.
  • Next steps: BAL will continue to monitor events in Bangalore and provide updates as needed.

Background: India’s Supreme Court ruled on a long-running water dispute between the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, angering residents of Karnataka by directing the state to provide more water to its neighbor. Protestors in Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka and one of India’s leading technology hubs, erupted into violence following the ruling. Authorities invoked Section 144 of the criminal procedure code to restrict public assembly. It remained unclear what public services would be available in the coming days. Even before the protests escalated Monday, the U.S. State Department urged U.S. nationals in Bangalore to avoid demonstrations, monitor local media and maintain a “high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.”

BAL Analysis: Employers should account for all employees in or near Bangalore. Those in the area should follow security measures and avoid unnecessary travel. Foreign nationals in need of immigration or other government services should be prepared for delays in processing and should check with the relevant office before traveling to a consulate or visa center for an appointment.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

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