WORKERS
US proposes tougher H-1B visa extension scrutiny and over 2 lakh foreign worker petitions could be affected annually
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed removing a rule that requires immigration officers to give weight to previous approvals when reviewing certain work visa extension applications. The change could affect around 208,429 petitions annually, including H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN and E visa categories. If finalised, the proposal would allow USCIS officers to reassess applications even when workers remain with the same employer in unchanged roles.
Canada to offer 200,000 additional permanent residence spaces in 2027 to workers and select applicants
Canada has outlined how it will allocate 200,000 additional permanent residence spaces in 2027 under its temporary resident-to-permanent resident transition measures. The spaces will be divided into two groups, with up to 100,000 reserved for workers eligible through provincial and territorial nominations and applicants awaiting decisions under selected immigration programmes.
Two major Social Security changes are coming in 2027: Retirees get a 3.6% raise, but some workers will pay $484 more in taxes — who will be affected?
Social Security 2027 changes: Social Security checks will rise 3.6% in 2027. The average retired worker will get $2,170 a month, up $75 from $2,095. SSI recipients will receive the higher payment on December 31, 2026. The Social Security tax limit for workers will rise from $184,500 to $192,300. Employees earning at least $192,300 could pay about $484 more in tax each year.
Indonesia tightens scrutiny of language training for foreign workers, plans mandatory proficiency test from February 2027
Indonesia is increasing scrutiny of employers' compliance with mandatory Indonesian language training for foreign workers, although work permit application procedures remain unchanged. Employers must facilitate language education for non-exempt foreign employees, either through in-house programmes or approved institutions. While proof of training completion is not currently required with work permit applications, officials may question workers about their training during permit renewals.
Behind Bangladesh's garment boom, workers cut food, healthcare as wages fall short
Garment workers in Bangladesh are facing financial struggles due to rising costs of living. Many workers, such as Shilpi Khatun, have seen wages stagnate while expenses continue to rise. Protests erupted recently, demanding an increase in the minimum monthly wage to 30,000 taka. The government plans to revise wages but has not announced the increase yet. The ongoing economic pressures are affecting workers' daily lives and choices.
H-1B visas in focus :IBM to end green card sponsorship for roles in biggest unit
IBM is ending H-1B visa and green card sponsorship for most roles in its consulting division, its largest business unit with more than 150,000 employees, amid the Trump administration's crackdown on the visa programme. Affected employees can continue working for the company outside the US or leave by the end of the year, according to an internal document seen by Bloomberg.
Tata Electronics directed to submit detailed Action Taken Report after deaths of three workers at treatment plant
Following the unfortunate deaths of three employees at their Effluent Treatment Plant, Tata Electronics has been ordered to undertake a detailed assessment of their safety protocols. The workers succumbed to toxic gas exposure while performing maintenance tasks. Tamil Nadu authorities are presently inspecting the plant for adherence to safety measures, with state officials voicing condolences and the imperative for immediate assistance to the bereaved families.
Canada makes rural immigration programme permanent, sets aside 5,500 admission spaces
Canada has made its Rural Community Immigration Pilot a permanent programme, setting aside 5,500 admission spaces under its 2027-2029 Immigration Levels Plan. Announced by Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab on November 9, the initiative aims to help rural and smaller communities recruit skilled foreign workers to fill vacancies that cannot be met locally.
Apple to probe deaths of three workers at Tata's iPhone parts factory
Three workers at Tata Electronics factory died due to asphyxiation during maintenance work on a water tank. The incident occurred while the facility was closed for festive holidays, preventing any impact on production. Apple is currently conducting an investigation into the tragic event and its circumstances. Tamil Nadu's Industries Minister emphasized the importance of worker safety and dignity following the incident.
France eases job-loss rules for foreign workers, cuts residence permit processing time
France has introduced significant immigration changes from October 30, 2026, giving foreign workers more time to find new jobs after unemployment and reducing residence permit processing timelines. Under the revised rules, Temporary Worker permit holders get three months to secure new employment, while EU Blue Card holders get six months without immediately losing their residence status.
Fires, protests, pollution: How Apple's supply chain woes in India have caused troubles over the years
Three contract workers lost their lives due to asphyxiation at a Tata Electronics factory in Hosur. This incident has prompted investigations by the companies involved and the Tamil Nadu state government. Recent years have witnessed various operational issues at Apple supplier facilities, leading to heightened scrutiny. Apple's supply chain in India continues to face challenges amid efforts to diversify from China.
Three workers die at Tata's Apple iPhone components factory in Tamil Nadu: Report
Three workers died of asphyxiation during water tank maintenance work at a Tata facility manufacturing Apple iPhone components in Tamil Nadu on Tuesday, sources in the know of the matter told Reuters. The incident occurred at the company's facility in the southern Indian state.
US jobs market shows broad-based recovery in October as hiring beats estimates
US employers added 165,000 jobs in October, far exceeding expectations, while unemployment fell to 4.1%. However, a closer look reveals uneven labour market trends, with foreign-born workers driving gains, manufacturing recovering and job seekers facing longer unemployment spells.
Assam OIL facility fire: Death toll rises to four after injured worker dies
A fire incident at an Oil India facility in Dibrugarh, Assam resulted in four fatalities among workers. The blaze occurred during maintenance operations, leading to multiple injuries. Spectron Engineering Private Limited employed all the deceased workers, who were affected by the fire. The company is providing compensation to the next of kin and the injured individuals.
Assam OIL facility explosion: Death toll rises to two, 3 critical
In a devastating explosion at the Intermediate Tank Farm of Oil India Limited in Dibrugarh, two workers lost their lives, and numerous others were injured while performing maintenance tasks. Among the deceased was Tapas Jyoti Gogoi, who tragically succumbed to severe burns. Those injured received initial care at a nearby medical college but were later transferred to a private hospital, with three still in critical condition as the investigation proceeds.
Lithuania changes residence permit rules, creating fresh hurdles for Indian workers and students
In a move to tighten immigration control, Lithuania has established new residence permit rules that pose challenges for foreign nationals, especially from India. This shift affects Indian workers and students looking for work or study opportunities within the country. Particular visa types will now encounter more scrutiny, necessitating that employers assess the eligibility of candidates accurately.
Oman tightens expat worker recruitment rules from January 2027; agencies must provide insurance, refunds
Effective January 1, 2027, Oman is set to enforce new, tougher rules for hiring expatriate workers, which will necessitate insurance coverage and adherence to recruitment timelines. Recruitment agencies will shoulder increased financial duties, including the possibility of refunds for employers.
Bangladesh garment factories close as workers clash with police in pay protests
Bangladesh's garment workers have been demanding a minimum wage increase due to rising living costs. Following their protests, police intervened with tear gas and stun grenades in several areas. Factory shutdowns were reported, impacting the country’s crucial garment industry significantly. The government is responding by forming a new wage board to address workers’ demands. Workers are expected to receive their first salaries under this new pay scale in January.
Gig workers may get social security benefits through 2% transaction levy on businesses
The government is considering implementing a 2% transaction-based levy on aggregators to support social security for gig workers. This levy will fund benefits such as insurance, health, and maternity support for over 12 million workers. There is a consensus that this approach ensures fairness among different types of aggregators. The new scheme is expected to be launched in 2027, requiring gig workers to meet specific work criteria.
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