What's new
Love & Bezness - The Forum for Victims of Romance Scams & Bezness.

Register your account today to become a member! Once signed in, you'll be able to view additional content in the member’s only sections, browse media and participate on this site by adding your own topics and posts.

Migrants / Immigrants - Tunisia

Spain adopts a new immigration law to facilitate access to residence and work

1730188252906.png

By balkis | October 28, 2024 at 10:41 PM

Spain is preparing to present a reform of its immigration law aimed at easing the conditions for obtaining residence permits and improving the integration of foreign nationals into its labor market.

Scheduled to be submitted to the Spanish Council of Ministers in mid-November 2024, this text aims to significantly reduce the time taken to obtain a residence and work permit, while relaxing reception conditions.
Simplification of the granting of residence and work permits

In a context where Spain wishes to become a more attractive country for foreigners, the bill provides for simplified procedures for residence permits, in particular for asylum seekers, students, families, and foreign workers. Currently, an irregular migrant must wait three years before applying for a residence permit.

With the new law, this period could be reduced to two years, making the right to reside and work legally in Spain more accessible. In addition, this reform aims to facilitate the transition of foreign students to work permits, thus strengthening their integration into the Spanish economy. Family reunification: towards a more inclusive policy

The reform also plans to review the conditions for family reunification to allow foreigners residing in Spain to bring their relatives under simplified conditions. The government hopes, through this measure, to guarantee equitable access to certain public services for foreign families, thus facilitating their integration and well-being in the country. A strategy to attract foreign talent

With these reforms, Spain hopes not only to attract more international talent, but also to strengthen its image as an open and prosperous country for foreign workers.

This orientation is also intended to be a response to economic and demographic challenges, aimed at supporting the development of a competitive labor market. The challenge of irregular migration In 2023, Spain recorded 56,852 illegal entries by land and sea. If the reform is adopted, it could provide a pathway to residency and work for many migrants who meet the new requirements, allowing them to legally participate in the Spanish economy and fully integrate into society.

With this new legislation, Spain is adopting a pragmatic and humane approach, aimed at improving immigration management and valuing the contribution of migrant populations in an environment where the demand for skilled labor continues to grow.

 

Revealing the Involvement of a Company in Migrant Smuggling Through Training Programs​


By R
| 1 novembre 2024

1730458350582.png

The Public Prosecutor’s Office has authorized the agents of the Financial and Economic Investigations Department at the Judicial Police Administration in El Gorjani to incarcerate three company workers and issue a search warrant for a fourth person following the uncovering of their involvement in receiving large financial transfers to organize irregular migration for sub-Saharan African nationals.

The information indicates that the investigation started after reports were received about a person frequently visiting the governorate of Sfax, coinciding with his receipt of international financial transfers in varying amounts.

Further investigations indicated that the suspect was employed at a company. Upon questioning its employees, they claimed that the company specialized in organizing training courses and workshops for African migrants. Nevertheless, deeper investigations and scrutiny of the company’s activities uncovered that it had received international financial transfers exceeding half a million dinars within one year.

The investigations confirmed that the funds remained “unaccounted for,” with no clear indication of their expenditure, leading to suspicions that they were used to organize irregular migration operations for sub-Saharan Africans. Additionally, it was discovered that the company’s legal representative was not present in Tunisian territory.

 
Canada : Quebec suspends two major permanent immigration programs

1730459758237.png
By balkis | October 31, 2024 at 9:53 PM

In a context of increasing pressure on infrastructure and concerns about protecting the French language, the Legault government has announced the temporary suspension of two of its main permanent immigration programs. This decision aims to reduce admissions of permanent immigrants to Quebec and to reassess immigration thresholds for the years to come.

An eight-month moratorium is thus imposed on the Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ) and the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ-Diplômés), two programs that constitute more than half of permanent immigration to Quebec each year. This measure will apply until June 30, 2025.

Lower immigration thresholds

Jean-François Roberge, Minister of Immigration, specified that this moratorium aims to give the government the flexibility needed to consider reducing immigrant admissions starting in 2026. An advanced consultation on immigration planning, usually scheduled for the fall, will be organized in the spring of 2025.

The government will present its new multi-year plan by June 30, 2025, now including temporary immigrants in its overall calculation of thresholds.

Pressure on infrastructure

This revision comes at a time when the number of temporary immigrants has doubled in two years, reaching 600,000 people. With a sharp increase in the number of asylum seekers and foreign students, Quebec recently tabled a bill to limit the number of international students admitted, marking a turning point in its immigration policy.

A reorientation towards market needs

The Legault government has announced a reflection on a reduction in immigration, while continuing to focus on recruiting French-speaking and qualified workers. This approach reflects a desire to meet the specific needs of the labour market while ensuring that the Quebec language and culture are preserved.

 

Sfax : Arrest of three individuals suspected of migrant smuggling and human trafficking​


By R
| 1 novembre 2024

1730536825177.png

Under the instructions of the public prosecutor, the Economic and Financial Investigation Brigade under the Directorate of the Judicial Police apprehended three people on suspicion of migrant smuggling and human trafficking.

A report by the Tunisian Commission for Financial Analysis (CTAF) disclosed transfers in the form of money orders (Western Union and MoneyGram) originating from sub-Saharan Africa over four months (between March and June 2024) worth 14,802 dinars intended for an individual of Tunisian nationality.

The inquiries show that the company employing the person concerned received transfers worth 530 thousand dinars between 2023 and 2024 without filing tax returns and without presenting any economic justification.

Following these investigations, the public prosecutor in Tunis ordered the arrest of three workers of the same company for their financial responsibility. A search warrant was issued against the company manager and a computer used in international transfers was seized as part of the same operation.

 
Tunisia - The National Navy seizes three outboard motors intended for illegal migration

1731141564852.png

By LM | November 07, 2024 at 6:23 p.m.

A member of the National Navy succeeded yesterday Wednesday, after setting an ambush off Chebba (in the governorate of Mahdia), in seizing two fishing boats with 11 Tunisian sailors on board, who were preparing to exchange 3 outboard motors, intended to be used in irregular migration operations.

The Ministry of National Defense indicated, in a statement published today Thursday, that following the availability of information on two suspicious boats intending to exchange unknown goods off La Chebba, the naval units participating in the operation were able to control the two boats and take them to the main naval base in Sfax to hand them over with the seized objects to the competent authorities and take legal measures against them.
 
Tunisia – Arrest of 5 individuals who transported illegal immigrants to the Sfax region

1731402449357.png

By LM | November 11, 2024 at 22:22

The Central Brigade for the Fight against Crimes Related to Human Trafficking, affiliated with the Department of Judicial Affairs of the National Guard in Ben Arous, was able to arrest 5 people accused of trafficking in persons and transporting irregular immigrants.

Among those arrested, 4 are wanted by security units and judicial bodies for various charges related to public rights issues.

It was found that these suspects had transported African migrants from sub-Saharan countries in the Kasserine region to the Sfax governorate, in exchange for sums of money, with the aim of helping them illegally cross the maritime borders. Five cars used during the operation to transport these migrants were seized.

By order of the public prosecutor, the suspects were arrested to take the necessary legal measures against them, according to the general directorate of the National Guard.
 

Minister of Defense: Military forces are ready to confront transnational crimes and combat smuggling and illegal immigration​


By R
| 12 novembre 2024

1731490055352.png

On Tuesday morning, November 12, 2024, during a general session in Parliament to discuss the defence budget, Minister of Defense Khaled Al-Sahili remarked that “the overall security situation in the country is characterized by cautious calm,” highlighting the cooperation between military and security efforts to confront terrorist threats and track down suspicious individuals in isolated areas and highlands.

Al-Sahili underlined the readiness of the military forces to confront transnational crimes, stating that 990 operations were carried out in suspicious areas, involving more than 17,000 soldiers. During these operations, 62 handmade landmines were dismantled, and smuggling activities were countered.

Furthermore, the minister confirmed that these operations led to the arrest of around 1,000 smugglers and the seizure of 365,000 drug pills.

Regarding the fight against illegal immigration, the ground units stopped 4,102 migrants of Arab and other origins, while the naval units managed to thwart 120 border-crossing attempts.

 
Tunisia – Monastir : Police foil an attempt at illegal migration and arrest six individuals

1731747596977.png
Par LM | 15 Novembre 2024 à 21:10

Following the availability of precise information on the intention of a group of people to participate in an operation aimed at clandestinely crossing the maritime borders into the European area from the shores of the city of Monastir, the necessary importance was given to the issue by the security units of the Monastir Judicial Police Division.

After a series of investigations on the ground, it was possible to locate the persons concerned and arrest them, after coordination with the public prosecutor, while they were drinking alcohol in a house in the area.

3 life jackets and a GPS tracker were seized.

The prosecution of the Monastir Court of First Instance authorized the detention of the six people for “forming a consensus with the intention of helping others to clandestinely cross the maritime border”.

 
Immigration to OECD countries hits new record

1731920559358.png

By M T | 1 hour ago Nov 18, 2024

According to the OECD’s International Migration Outlook 2024, permanent immigration to OECD countries hit a new record in 2023, with 6.5 million people. The number of temporary migrants and asylum seekers also increased sharply.

Around a third of OECD countries recorded record levels of immigration in 2023, including Canada, France, Japan, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Another third, however, saw a decline in permanent immigration, including Denmark, Estonia, Israel, Italy, Lithuania and New Zealand.

According to the same report, temporary labour immigration to OECD countries continued to grow in 2023. OECD countries (excluding Poland) granted over 2.4 million work permits and authorisations, representing a 16% increase compared to 2022 (and 28% compared to the pre-COVID-19 level).

It added that the post-pandemic increase in the employment rate of immigrants continued in 2023, with the OECD area as a whole recording both historically high employment levels and historically low unemployment levels, standing at 71.8% and 7.3% respectively. Ten OECD countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as the EU27 as a whole, posted record levels of immigrant employment.
 
Tunisia – 2,000 jobs in Italy for young Tunisians

1731921318905.png

By LM | November 17, 2024 at 20:54

According to the Ministry of Vocational Training and Employment, 2,000 jobs will be created for young Tunisians in the construction sector on the Italian market over a period of 3 years, and the first batch will take place at the end of this year 2024.

The Director General of Foreign Employment and Foreign Work, Ahmed Al-Messaoudi, confirmed today, Sunday, November 17, 2024, that the first batch will include approximately 400 young men and women looking for work.

The same source indicated that an agreement was reached with Italy in 2023, adding that the National Agency for Employment and Self-Employment will strive to meet the demands of the Italian market, particularly in the field of construction trades.
 
Tunisia – Hammamet : Arrest of a Muezzin for involvement in the organization of migration operations

1732353276001.png

By LM | November 21, 2024 at 7:04 p.m.

An official source confirmed to the press that the prosecutor's office at the Nabeul Court of First Instance authorized, yesterday Wednesday, the arrest of a muezzin in one of the mosques of the Hammamet delegation, as part of an investigation into accusations of participation in the organization of illegal migration operations.
 
Tunisia – Mahdia : Two dead and one missing in the sinking of a boat of illegal immigrants

1732957436666.png

By LM | November 29, 2024 at 7:36 p.m.

A boat carrying illegal immigrants sank today off the Italian coast of Lampedusa, 21 miles from the port of Mahdia, with 31 irregular migrants on board, most of them Tunisians.

A well-informed source indicated that the boat set sail from the beaches of Teboulba in the governorate of Monastir.

A fishing boat learned of the incident and alerted the floating units of the National Guard zone in Mahdia.

28 people were rescued and two bodies were recovered, while a third body is still missing.
 
Immigration to Canada: a massive wave of departures expected in 2025

1733143838637.png

By balkis | December 01, 2024 at 1:42 PM

A historic reduction in temporary visas Canada, long seen as a generous host country, is embarking on a major shift in its immigration policy. In 2025, approximately 1.2 million temporary residents will be forced to leave the country when their visas expire. This measure is part of a strategy aimed at limiting rapid population growth and easing pressure on infrastructure, particularly in terms of housing.

Since 2021, the number of temporary residents in Canada has jumped by 150%, reaching 2.96 million in 2024. This unprecedented increase has helped exacerbate a housing crisis, made worse by the massive influx of foreign students and temporary workers. A drastic reduction in new visas

To curb this trend, the Canadian government has announced a reduction of 891,000 temporary visas over two years. In 2025, only 437,000 work permits will be issued to international students, a figure significantly lower than in previous years. At the same time, additional restrictions will be put in place, particularly for the spouses of certain foreign students and applicants for visitor visas.

These measures mark a profound change in Canada’s approach to migration, aimed at better aligning migration flows with the country’s reception capacity. The challenges posed by asylum claims

Marc Miller, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, has reported an increase in asylum claims filed by holders of temporary student visas. This phenomenon highlights the limitations of the current system, prompting the government to announce upcoming reforms in the areas of immigration and asylum.

These adjustments come in a context of targeted restrictions, particularly in Quebec, where companies will now be able to recruit half as many low-wage foreign workers as before. This stricter framework illustrates Ottawa’s desire to better manage migration flows while addressing economic and social concerns. A reorganization that sparks debate

While the government hopes to ease pressure on infrastructure and strengthen control of migration flows, these measures risk having economic and social repercussions.

The massive wave of departures expected in 2025 could not only affect sectors dependent on foreign labour, but also intensify political tensions surrounding Canadian migration policy.

 
10-year residence permit in France: 3 mistakes to avoid for foreign workers

By balkis | December 15, 2024 at 9:27 p.m.

A key step for foreign workersAfter several years in France with one-year residence permits, many foreign workers hope to obtain a 10-year residence permit. However, this crucial step can be refused by the prefecture for reasons that are often avoidable. Sonia Cherfa, a lawyer specializing in immigration law, has identified three common mistakes to avoid in order to maximize your chances of obtaining this long-term permit.

1. Stable pay slips: an imperative
One of the most common mistakes concerns pay slips from the last three years. According to the lawyer, any drop in salary during this period can compromise the application, even if the employee has been in France for more than five years.

To avoid: Sick leave or unpaid leave, as well as salary advances, which reduce the amount displayed on the pay slip.

Key advice: Maintain a salary equal to or higher than the minimum wage to avoid a pay slip showing an insufficient amount, such as 300 or 400 euros. Even if several transfers are made during the month, only the amount indicated on the pay slip will be taken into account by the prefecture.

2. Always declare your income to the tax authorities
The prefecture pays particular attention to tax notices, sometimes more than to pay slips. The lawyer emphasizes that an annual income declared below 16,000 euros risks being refused due to insufficient resources.

Recommendation: Declare all of your income to the tax authorities to avoid any inconsistencies. The tax notice must reflect stable and sufficient resources to demonstrate financial independence.

3. Reassess your salary after several years
The 10-year residence permit is based on salaried activity, which means that the amount of the salary is closely scrutinized. Sonia Cherfa advises foreign workers to consider a salary reassessment after several years in the same company.Why? A salary increase proves professional progression and strengthens the strength of the file with the prefectural authorities.

Increased vigilance to succeed in your application

Obtaining a 10-year residence permit requires rigor and vigilance. It is essential to avoid errors related to pay slips, tax returns and total compensation. Foreign workers must ensure that their financial situation remains consistent and stable to maximize their chances of success

Conclusion: By following these three key recommendations, applicants put all the chances on their side to take this decisive step towards administrative and professional stability in France.

 
Finland : Earnings of €1,600 to be eligible for residence permits from January 2025

1734857209429.png

By M T | 20 December 2024 at 12:25

According to schengen.news, the Finnish government has decided that only foreigners earning at least €1,600 per month will be able to obtain a residence permit through employment. This income threshold will come into effect on 1 January 2025, mainly affecting skilled workers from third countries.

“A person arriving in Finland with a residence permit for an employed worker must receive a monthly salary of at least €1,600 for the work performed in Finland. The reform aims to ensure that people coming to work in Finland receive a salary sufficient to live on. The income threshold refers to the salary that the person must receive for the work they come to do in Finland. “Other income is not taken into account in this threshold,” reads a statement from the Finnish Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment.
 
Tunisia : Three Sub-Saharan Africans Arrested for Unauthorized Religious Practices in La Marsa

1735124051579.png

By balkis | December 23, 2024 at 6:35 PM

Tunisian police arrested three nationals from sub-Saharan Africa in La Marsa, on the orders of the public prosecutor, on charges related to unauthorized religious practices and violations of the laws on entry and residence in Tunisia.

A place of worship set up without authorizationAccording to the General Directorate of National Security, the suspects are accused of having illegally set up a space intended for religious rites without the required authorizations, in violation of Tunisian regulations.

The investigation revealed that this place, equipped with religious books, audio equipment, a laptop and chairs, served as a center for undeclared activities. These items were seized during the operation carried out by the La Marsa judicial police brigade.

Suspicions of illegal migrationIn addition to accusations related to religious practices, the individuals are also allegedly involved in planning illegal border crossings, the statement said. The case raises questions about potential illegal migration networks operating in the region.In custody and under investigation

The suspects have been taken into custody. Authorities are continuing their investigations to determine the extent of their activities and possible connections.

This case highlights the heightened vigilance of Tunisian authorities on issues of illegal migration and practices that do not comply with national regulations, in a context where the management of migration flows and compliance with local laws remain sensitive issues.
 
Family allowances : a victory for foreign families in France?

By balkis | December 23, 2024 at 11:22 PM

The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has ruled in favor of the rights of foreign workers in France. From now on, families will no longer have to prove the legal entry of their children born abroad to benefit from family allowances.
This decision, made public on December 19, 2024, marks a major step forward in terms of equal treatment and administrative simplification.

A decision that stems from an emblematic caseThe case originated from the situation of an Armenian national residing in France. He had applied for family allowances for his three children, but the Hauts-de-Seine Family Allowance Fund (CAF) had rejected his request for two of them, due to lack of evidence justifying their legal entry into French territory.
In 2022, the French Court of Cassation, considering that European law had been misapplied, brought the dispute before the CJEU. The latter ruled that the requirement for proof of legal entry was contrary to European law on equal treatment.

The removal of the legal entry requirementIn its ruling, the CJEU ruled that a Member State cannot make access to family benefits conditional on proof of legal entry of children born in a third country. This condition, deemed discriminatory, contravenes the fundamental principles of the European Union on equal treatment between foreign and national workers.
From now on, foreign workers will only need to prove their legal residence in France to receive family allowances, regardless of the entry status of their children.

A simplification of administrative procedures
This decision should considerably simplify administrative procedures, often perceived as complex and dissuasive. Many foreign families, sometimes in precarious situations, will now be able to access these benefits without administrative obstacles.
Migrant rights associations welcome this progress, stressing that it reaffirms the fundamental values of non-discrimination and integration advocated by the European Union.

Mixed reactions
While this measure is seen as a victory for migrants' rights, it also raises fears. Some voices are raised against a potential risk of abuse and an increase in public spending.
However, for supporters of the decision, this reform is above all a compliance with European standards and a guarantee of fairness between all workers residing in France.

A key step for the rights of foreign families
By removing a requirement deemed discriminatory, France is fully in line with European law. This reform paves the way for better recognition of the rights of foreign families, while laying the foundations for a debate on the long-term social and economic implications.

 
Migration : The center of gravity shifts from Italy to Spain, more than 10,400 deaths in 2024

1735292033806.png

By Souleymane Loum | December 26, 2024 at 8:11 p.m.

More than 10,400 migrants died or went missing at sea while trying to reach Spain in 2024. The year saw a record migratory flow in the Canary Islands archipelago, according to a report published this Thursday, December 26 by the Spanish NGO Caminando Fronteras…

On average, 30 people die daily, between January and December 15 of this year, specifies in a press release this NGO which alerts maritime authorities about boats in distress. “This year is becoming the deadliest” since the organization began counting victims at sea.

The number of deaths is 58% higher than that recorded by the NGO last year, when the figure was 6,618 migrants who died or disappeared while trying to reach Spain. According to the document, 421 women and 1,538 children and adolescents lost their lives in these crossings.

“These figures highlight a profound failure of the rescue and protection systems,” comments Helena Maleno, coordinator of the report; she points out “an unacceptable tragedy.” She insists that “priority be given to protecting the right to life, that search and rescue operations be strengthened, and that justice be guaranteed for the victims and their families.”
 
Tunisia – Sinking of a migrant boat : 17 survivors and two bodies recovered… Those responsible arrested

1735595212736.png

By LM | 2 hours ago Dec 30, 2024

The General Directorate of the National Guard indicated in a press release, Monday, December 30, 2024, that the units of the Maritime Guard of the Northern Region and the Navy were able to respond urgently, yesterday, to a call concerning a boat broken down at sea. The boat was carrying 19 Tunisian illegal migrants.

The same source added in the press release that the rapid rescue units moved to the specified location, where they were able to rescue 17 people and recover the body of a person and the body of a 5-year-old child who was missing and was found this morning after precise search operations.

The General Directorate of the National Guard indicated that the necessary first aid was provided to the migrants, medical care was provided to them and 7 of them were transferred to hospitals to receive treatment.

According to the same statement, four people suspected of being involved in the transportation of illegal immigrants and in the organization of illegal migration operations were arrested.
 

Tragedy in Kalaât Al Andalous : 5-year-old child found dead, search continues​


By R
| 31 décembre 2024

1735727836416.png

A tragic sinking of an illegal migrant boat happened near Kalaat El Andalous, Ariana governorate.

Civil Protection teams retrieved the body of a 5-year-old child and continued search operations for a missing individual.

Efforts are ongoing for the second day, with maritime authorities coordinating the response.

 
Back
Top