As 2019 comes to a close, employers of foreign workers should note that this year showed a high level of immigration compliance efforts by governments around the world.
Employers, long-term travellers and short-term travellers became subject to new and stricter rules for travel and stay in all regions, especially in those that were already experiencing high levels of immigrant influxes.
Employer verification obligations became more complex as governments redirected their enforcement focus beyond entry controls to those overstaying their immigration status or working without authorization. This means that employers will need to be more careful in their record maintenance protocols to provide proof of immigration and work right status, among other information government agencies are requiring.
Business travel rule compliance continues to be a key focus area for countries across the globe, as government computer systems are becoming more sophisticated in tracking entries and exits for short-term travellers.
The below summary covers the most prominent global examples of increased government enforcement in 2019 and Fragomen's projections for 2020.
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