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US Visa Data Clean-up: Action Needed by Employers to Maintain FLAG Records

VFS Global, March 19, 2025Mar 19

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US Visa Data Clean-up: Action Needed by Employers to Maintain FLAG Records

Attention U.S. employers and foreign workers seeking temporary or permanent work visas! A large data purge is imminent on the Department of Labor's Foreign Labor Access Gateway (FLAG) system. This significant revision impacts applications for H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, and other significant visa categories.

What is FLAG and Why is it Important?
The Foreign Labor Access Gateway (FLAG) is the central place where U.S. employers can manage the intricacies of hiring foreign workers. It contains important applications like Temporary Labor Condition Applications (H-1B, H-1B1, E-3) and Permanent Labor Certification Applications (PERM). The system is important in facilitating adherence to regulations and helping in employing foreign workers legally in the United States.

FLAG System Changes of Note
Starting March 20, 2025, the OFLC will start deleting expired case records in the FLAG system. This is in accordance with their approved Record Control Schedule. The change entails the removal of records older than five years from the date of last decision.
The FLAG system is an electronic platform for managing foreign labour certification procedures. It maintains a record of applications for numerous visa categories, such as:
H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 visas (Temporary Labor Condition Applications)
H-2A and H-2B visas (Temporary Agricultural and Non-Agricultural Worker Certifications)
CW-1 visas (CNMI-Only Transitional Worker Program)
PERM (Petitions for Permanent Labor Certification)
Prevailing Wage Determinations (PWD)

Employer Action Required Prior to March 19, 2025
Employers with case records that have been more than five years from the date of final decision must download and retain the records before March 19, 2025. The subject files will then be permanently removed from the FLAG system after this date.

For example, records with a final determination date of March 21, 2020, will be deleted on March 21, 2025. This systematic deletion is in line with the standards of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), which dictates records retention and disposition.

What Becomes of Deleted Records
Permanent" records as they pertain to history will be relocated to the United States National Archives. The remainder of the records will be considered "temporary" and will be disposed of in accordance with NARA's Record Control Schedule.

Why This Matters to Foreign Workers and Employers
The FLAG system is important to U.S. businesses that hire foreign nationals, and the removal of outdated records could affect pending applications, audits, or future regulations. Employers are recommended to go through stored applications and save the required documents before the deadline.

Next Steps for Employers
Check your FLAG records: Check your current records right away to determine which cases are more than five years old.
Save important documents: Download and save all required records before March 19, 2025.
Stay informed: Keep yourself informed about updates from the OFLC on this data clean-up and other updates of this nature.
Consult immigration professionals: If you have any concerns or queries, consult a qualified immigration attorney.

This change reflects how important it is to keep adequate records when you have foreign employees. Employers must act quickly to protect their records and be able to access important employment data at all times.

By VFS Global · Posted March 19, 2025Mar 19
US Government Shutdown: How It May Affect Travel, Airports, Passports, and Visas?

Are you worried that a U.S. government shutdown will affect your upcoming vacation? With the deadline for a new spending bill approaching, travelers can't help but worry. Here's a breakdown of how a shutdown would affect your travel, from flights and cruises to passports and national parks.

Why is the U.S. Government poised to shut down?
The U.S. government could close down because Congress hasn't agreed on a spending bill. The House has passed a bill that slashes domestic programs and raises defense expenditures, but there is no indication whether the Senate will accept it, so there is a funding standoff.

Flights and Cruises: Business as Usual (At First)
Travelers worried about flight cancellations or cruise postponements can relax. Essential agencies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may see their budgets reduced, but essential staff will continue to show up to work.

Why? Essential Workers Keep Things Moving.
Critical agencies such as the FAA, TSA, and CBP will remain operational.
Air traffic controllers, TSA staff, and customs agents are "essential" and will be on duty, but might not get paid.
This keeps airports and seaports open and flights and cruises operating safely.

That means air traffic controllers, TSA agents, customs agents, and safety inspectors will all still be working—though they will be unpaid—to make travel as smooth and safe as possible. Cruise services will also not be greatly impacted, as previous shutdowns didn't affect arrivals and departures much.

Potential Delays: The Long-Term Threat
While early travel operations may be maintained fairly close to normal, a prolonged shutdown may cause serious disruptions.

What might happen?
Previous shutdowns have illustrated that within two weeks, key workers who do not receive compensation might begin reporting sick. This can result in longer security lines and delayed flights.
National parks can be closed or offer limited services.
Anticipate potential maintenance issues at open but under-staffed parks.

Passport and Visa Services: Stepping Cautiously
Presently, passport and visa services in the U.S. and in American embassies and consulates overseas are slated to operate as normal.
The U.S. State Department indicates these services receive funding from fees they charge, which allows them to continue operating as long as they have money. However, if the shutdown continues, travelers could experience delays in how long it takes to process.

Main Ideas:
Passport and visa processing will continue to occur within the country and at U.S. consulates and embassies.
But prolonged shutdowns might cause delays should the funds be used up.

Economic Impact: A Billion-Dollar Hit
While direct travel disruption may be minimal, the economic effect could be severe. The U.S. Travel Association estimates a weeklong shutdown would cost the travel economy nearly $1 billion per week.
The Price:
The U.S. Travel Association approximates that the travel economy is losing $1 billion weekly.
This affects businesses and workers who depend on tourism and transport.

FAQs: Your Quick Guide
How and when does a government shutdown occur? A shutdown occurs when Congress fails to enact bills to provide funds to federal agencies.
When was the last U.S. government shutdown? The last full shutdown occurred for 35 days from 2018 to 2019 during the presidency of Donald Trump.
What is its impact on National Parks? Parks may close, or be open with limited services. Past shutdowns left the parks un maintained, with trash overflowing and restrooms closed.

Stay Current, Travel Smart: A shutdown of the government may be disconcerting, but if you know the possible effects, you can plan ahead. Listen for official reports and travel warnings.

By VFS Global · Posted March 19, 2025Mar 19
Canada eTA in 2025: Who Qualifies and What You Should Know

Do you have a 2025 trip to Canada in the works? It's worth taking the time to familiarize yourself with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Here's who needs an eTA, who doesn't need one, and what you'll need for a smooth journey.

What is Canada eTA?
The Canada Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an automated travel prerequisite for foreign nationals from non-visa exempt countries who are traveling to Canada by air. It is electronically attached to your passport and allows you to enter Canada for temporary visits, usually not exceeding six months, for tourism, business, or transit. However, it does not assure entry—final assessment is made by immigration officials at the border.

Who Needs an eTA to Visit Canada?
Not all travelers require an eTA. Following is the list of who needs it and who does not:

Visitors Who Require an eTA
You need an eTA if you are:
A visa-exempt foreign national traveling by air to or transiting through a Canadian airport. However, you do not require an eTA if you travel by land or sea (car, bus, train, or cruise ship).
A national of certain visa-free countries traveling to Canada by air. You still need a visitor visa if you're traveling by land or sea.

Travellers Who Don't Need an eTA
There are some visitors who don't need an eTA, such as:
Canadian citizens must travel on a valid Canadian passport.
American-Canadian dual citizens (can use either a valid U.S. or Canadian passport)
Canadian permanent residents need to have a valid Permanent Resident Card or Permanent Resident Travel Document.
U.S. citizens may enter with a valid U.S. passport.
U.S. lawful permanent residents must show a valid Green Card and passport.

Travelers who need a visa, stateless persons, and foreign passport holders must apply for a visitor visa instead of an eTA.

Essential Principles to Visit Canada
To be eligible for admission to Canada, you must:
Have a valid travel document (passport).
Possess a valid eTA or visitor visa
Be in good health
Have no criminal or immigration infractions
Tell the border officer that you have good reasons to return to your home country. Mention your job, your house, or your family. Say clearly that you plan to leave Canada when your visit is over.
Show proof of sufficient funds for your trip (amount varies according to accommodation and length of trip)

Not Allowed: Reasons You Might Be Refused Entry
Possessing an eTA does not assure you of entering Canada. It's the decision of the border officers, and you may be denied entry due to:
Criminal activity
Human rights violations
Organized crime involvement
Misrepresentation or security risks

Final Thoughts: If you're going to visit Canada in 2025, you need to determine whether you're eligible to get an eTA. Make sure you have all the necessary documents and meet the conditions of entry before you travel. Check the official Government of Canada website for the most up-to-date information and application forms.

By VFS Global · Posted March 19, 2025Mar 19
Azerbaijan eVisa Delays: Closed Consulates to Impact Travelers in March 2025

Travelers who are going to visit Azerbaijan in late March 2025 should take note of the consulate closures. The Azerbaijan consulates will be closed from March 20th to March 31st, 2025, because of the Novruz and Ramadan holidays. This will greatly affect e-visa processing.

eVisa Processing Delays: What You Should Know
If you're going to visit Azerbaijan at or near this time, expect delays in applications as the consulate services will be closed. March 20–31, 2025, is proclaimed to be a holiday, and regular e-Visa applications will not be entertained or accepted.

Urgent eVisa Option: A Quick Alternative
For people in a rush to get an Azerbaijan visa, there is always the choice of an urgent eVisa, even on holidays and working days. This speedy process takes just 3 hours and can be helpful for last-minute travel plans.

Key Travel Dates to Remember
Consulate Closed: March 20, 2025 – March 31, 2025
E-Visa processing will stop from March 20th, 2025, to March 31st, 2025.
Emergency E-Visa Availability: This is ongoing during the holiday season.

Understanding the Azerbaijan E-Visa
Azerbaijan also has an e-visa system, which helps tourists travel. The system is very simple to apply for, and the travelers can receive their visas online.

What is an Azerbaijan E-Visa?
Azerbaijan e-visa is an electronic authorization that grants eligible foreigners permission to travel to Azerbaijan for tourism, work, or other reasons. It does away with the requirement of presenting regular visa applications to embassies or consulates.

Who Needs an Azerbaijan E-Visa
Most people from different countries need an e-visa to enter Azerbaijan. Visit the official Azerbaijan e-visa website or your local Azerbaijani embassy or consulate for the latest information about your country's visa rules.

How to Get an E-Visa for Azerbaijan
The Azerbaijan eVisa is an easy online travel authorization for qualified travelers. Here is a straightforward step-by-step guide on how to apply:
Visit the Official Website: Start your application on the official website of Azerbaijan e-visa.
Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online application form carefully, giving all the required personal and travel details.
Upload Necessary Documents: You are required to upload a scanned copy of the bio-data page of your passport.
Pay Visa Fee: Make the visa fee payment required with a valid credit or debit card.
Get Your E-Visa: After your application is approved, your e-visa will be sent to you by email. Print out a copy and keep it with your travel documents.

Azerbaijan E-Visa Processing Times
Standard E-Visa: Typically processes in 3 working days excluding holidays.
Urgent E-Visa: Within 3 hours, available even on holidays.

Key E-Visa Information
The e-visa normally expires 90 days following the date of issuance, and you are allowed to stay in Azerbaijan for 30 days.
Make sure your passport is valid for six months beyond the date you plan to leave.
Double-check all details again before submitting your application to avoid delays or rejection.

Travel Tips for Azerbaijan
Plan your trip according to local holidays and festivals.
Get familiar with Azerbaijani customs and traditions.
Consider purchasing travel insurance covering medical emergencies.
Think about adding internal links to other Azerbaijan travel articles, e.g., "Best places to visit in Baku" or "Azerbaijani Cuisine: A Foodie's Guide."

Conclusion
Azerbaijan is a great destination due to its fascinating history, scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture. Nevertheless, visitors should keep in mind that there may be wait times for holiday visas. With prior preparation and the utilization of the expedited eVisa option if necessary, guests can ensure a smooth entrance into the country. Stay informed and apply early to prevent disruptions to your travel itinerary!

By VFS Global · Posted March 19, 2025Mar 19
Canada Expands PGWP Eligibility: More Students Can Now Apply

Canada has also streamlined its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility. This will greatly advantage international students. In a landmark policy change, IRCC has removed the old rules that barred college bachelor's degree graduates based on the field of study.

What this essentially allows is for foreign students to pursue their career aspirations in whatever career they desire and yet remain eligible for a beneficial Canadian work visa.

What is the PGWP?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an excellent program that enables international students in Canada to gain relevant work experience after graduation. The permit length depends on the duration of the academic program:
Programs of less than 8 months duration: Prohibited
Programs 8 months to 2 years: PGWP for the same length as the study program
Programs of 2 years or more: PGWP for up to 3 years

The PGWP is an open work permit that allows graduates to work for any Canadian employer. It can also allow them to become eligible to become permanent residents under streams like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) through the Express Entry system.

Why is this change significant?
The more straightforward regulations for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) will benefit numerous international students, particularly those in college-level bachelor's programs.
Before, students could only select from a few courses, hence limiting their areas of study.
Now, students can choose any program of study at a eligible institution and still be eligible for a PGWP.
This policy change helps Canada compete and draw in worldwide talent. It makes Canada more appealing as a great place to study, especially for students from countries like India and China, who comprise a large part of the international student group.

Canada's Popularity Among Foreign Students
Canada is still one of the top places that international students wish to go to, only after the United States. Canada welcomed more than 1.04 million international students in 2023, an increase of 20% compared to the year before.

Key Statistics about International Students in Canada:
Indian students make up 41% of all international students.
10% of foreign students are Chinese students.
Work permit goals: About 70% of international students wish to get a PGWP after graduation.

Cost of Studying in Canada
The fees for education in Canada differ according to the school type:
Colleges: Tuition on average costs approximately CA$20,000 (US$13,856) per year.
Universities: Tuition is generally more than CA$30,000 per year.
Though tuition fees are costly, the PGWP assists students in acquiring Canadian work experience. This can finance living costs and result in permanent residence.

Canada's Study Permit Targets for 205
Canada aims to issue 437,000 study permits in 2025, a 10% decline from the previous year. The reduction is part of Canada's objective to manage immigration levels while continuing to welcome international students.

Final Thoughts
Canada's move to open the PGWP to more foreign students is an encouraging step for those who want to extend their professional life here. By making graduates of any field from college eligible, Canada cements its image as an open and inclusive place for global talent.
If you're thinking of studying in Canada, this change is more appealing to you. It allows more flexibility while studying and more opportunities to get work experience after you graduate.

By VFS Global · Posted March 15, 2025Mar 15

US Visa Data Clean-up: Action Needed by Employers to Maintain FLAG Records
us visa
US Visa Data Clean-up: Action Needed by Employers to Maintain FLAG Records

VFS Global · March 19, 2025Mar 19

Attention U.S. employers and foreign workers seeking temporary or permanent work visas! A large data purge is imminent on the Department of Labor's Foreign Labor Access Gateway (FLAG) system. This significant revision impacts applications for H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, and other significant visa categories. What is FLAG and Why is it Important? The Foreign Labor Access Gateway (FLAG) is the central place where U.S. employers can manage the intricacies of hiring foreign workers. It contains important a
- 0 replies
- 135 views
VFS Global

March 19, 2025Mar 19

VFS Global

March 19, 2025Mar 19
US Government Shutdown: How It May Affect Travel, Airports, Passports, and Visas?
US Government Shutdown: How It May Affect Travel, Airports, Passports, and Visas?

VFS Global · March 19, 2025Mar 19

Are you worried that a U.S. government shutdown will affect your upcoming vacation? With the deadline for a new spending bill approaching, travelers can't help but worry. Here's a breakdown of how a shutdown would affect your travel, from flights and cruises to passports and national parks. Why is the U.S. Government poised to shut down? The U.S. government could close down because Congress hasn't agreed on a spending bill. The House has passed a bill that slashes domestic programs and raises
- 0 replies
- 147 views
VFS Global

March 19, 2025Mar 19

VFS Global

March 19, 2025Mar 19
Canada eTA in 2025: Who Qualifies and What You Should Know
Canada eTA in 2025: Who Qualifies and What You Should Know

VFS Global · March 19, 2025Mar 19

Do you have a 2025 trip to Canada in the works? It's worth taking the time to familiarize yourself with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Here's who needs an eTA, who doesn't need one, and what you'll need for a smooth journey. What is Canada eTA? The Canada Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an automated travel prerequisite for foreign nationals from non-visa exempt countries who are traveling to Canada by air. It is electronically attached to your passport and allows you to e
- 0 replies
- 122 views
VFS Global

March 19, 2025Mar 19

VFS Global

March 19, 2025Mar 19
Azerbaijan eVisa Delays: Closed Consulates to Impact Travelers in March 2025
Azerbaijan eVisa Delays: Closed Consulates to Impact Travelers in March 2025

VFS Global · March 19, 2025Mar 19

Travelers who are going to visit Azerbaijan in late March 2025 should take note of the consulate closures. The Azerbaijan consulates will be closed from March 20th to March 31st, 2025, because of the Novruz and Ramadan holidays. This will greatly affect e-visa processing. eVisa Processing Delays: What You Should Know If you're going to visit Azerbaijan at or near this time, expect delays in applications as the consulate services will be closed. March 20–31, 2025, is proclaimed to be a holiday,
- 0 replies
- 161 views
VFS Global

March 19, 2025Mar 19

VFS Global

March 19, 2025Mar 19
Canada Expands PGWP Eligibility: More Students Can Now Apply
canada visa
Canada Expands PGWP Eligibility: More Students Can Now Apply

VFS Global · March 15, 2025Mar 15

Canada has also streamlined its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility. This will greatly advantage international students. In a landmark policy change, IRCC has removed the old rules that barred college bachelor's degree graduates based on the field of study. What this essentially allows is for foreign students to pursue their career aspirations in whatever career they desire and yet remain eligible for a beneficial Canadian work visa. What is the PGWP? The Post-Graduation Work Perm
- 0 replies
- 360 views
VFS Global

March 15, 2025Mar 15

VFS Global

March 15, 2025Mar 15

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US Visa Data Clean-up: Action Needed by Employers to Maintain FLAG Records

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Canada eTA in 2025: Who Qualifies and What You Should Know

Azerbaijan eVisa Delays: Closed Consulates to Impact Travelers in March 2025

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US Visa Data Clean-up: Action Needed by Employers to Maintain FLAG Records

US Government Shutdown: How It May Affect Travel, Airports, Passports, and Visas?

Canada eTA in 2025: Who Qualifies and What You Should Know

Azerbaijan eVisa Delays: Closed Consulates to Impact Travelers in March 2025

Canada Expands PGWP Eligibility: More Students Can Now Apply

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US Visa Data Clean-up: Action Needed by Employers to Maintain FLAG Records

US Government Shutdown: How It May Affect Travel, Airports, Passports, and Visas?

Canada eTA in 2025: Who Qualifies and What You Should Know

Azerbaijan eVisa Delays: Closed Consulates to Impact Travelers in March 2025

Canada Expands PGWP Eligibility: More Students Can Now Apply

US Visa Data Clean-up: Action Needed by Employers to Maintain FLAG Records

US Government Shutdown: How It May Affect Travel, Airports, Passports, and Visas?

Canada eTA in 2025: Who Qualifies and What You Should Know

Azerbaijan eVisa Delays: Closed Consulates to Impact Travelers in March 2025

Canada Expands PGWP Eligibility: More Students Can Now Apply

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