Global Scans · Migration & Mobility Shifts · Weekly Summary

• [New] As part of the government's Going for Growth program, Immigration New Zealand will overhaul the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. Fragomen - Immigration attorneys, solicitors, and consu
• [New] The population of Australia is predicted to increase due to changes in net migration and natural change, standing at a total of 32.1 million citizens by 2040. Euromonitor
• [New] 2026 is unlikely to provide any relief for tenants with new home building levels remaining chronically recessed despite government policies designed to reduce surging migration. Property Update
• [New] The Trump administration plans to cut refugee admissions to a record low in fiscal year 2026 and prioritize relief for certain groups like white Afrikaners from South Africa whom it deems face unjust discrimination. Cyrus D Mehta & Partners PLLC
• [New] The Tories will pledge to create a new Removals Force tasked with deporting 150,000 people a year as part of plans to end irregular migration into the UK. City AM
• [New] More than 1,000 migrants, primarily Cubans, began the 1,100-kilometer trek seeking to expedite asylum claims in Mexico rather than risk crossing to the U.S. under Trump's strict immigration policies. Mexico News Daily
• [New] Russia's war in Ukraine and ongoing refugee flows have heightened tensions, while Europol reports that the volume and intensity of extremist propaganda online are increasing across multiple ideologies-Islamist, far-right and far-left-raising cross-border security risks. Toda Peace Institute
• [New] Despite the anticipated drop in tariffs, net migration into the U.S. is expected to be lower than previously thought. Government Contracting Consultant | SGCR
• [New] With sweeping UK immigration reforms and further changes anticipated, staying current with regulatory developments is crucial for immigration advisers. HJT Training
• [New] The looming Snap cuts come as food prices are still rising under the Trump administration and are expected to continue rising due to tariffs and labour shortages in the food industry due to Trump's immigration policies. The Guardian
• [New] Immigration-Driven Labour Costs: The H-1B surcharge could add $1 billion in annual expenses, forcing a reevaluation of staffing strategiesAmazon to Restart Green Cards for Foreign Workers in 2025. Ainvest
• [New] US President Donald Trump says he will send troops to Portland, Oregon, authorising full force, if necessary to protect federal immigration facilities from domestic terrorists as he expands his controversial deployments to more American cities. Australian Broadcasting Corporation
• [New] Digital ID will be mandatory in order to work in the UK, as part of plans to tackle illegal migration. BBC News
• [New] How DHS will manage non-immigration threats - Cybersecurity, critical infrastructure, climate disasters and misinformation, all areas where AI capabilities are increasingly essential. Potomac Officers Club
• [New] President Trump plans to introduce a new $100,000 application fee for H-1B worker visas, in an effort to reduce their use as part of his broader immigration crackdown. Blue Delaware
• [New] Without global talent, the U.S. risks falling behind in the AI race, especially as countries like Canada and the U.K. are offering attractive immigration options for tech talent. Nemo IT Solutions
• In the coming years, the UK will face a decisive choice: either to implement comprehensive migration reform that balances humanitarian obligations with national security requirements, or to turn to a radically restrictive policy, which is likely to happen if Reform UK comes to power. Szazadveg
• In recent days, there have been clear signs that a new war between Israel and Iran could break out at any moment, which could further increase the rate of immigration. Szazadveg
• Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell's 2026 budget proposal would add $4 million to the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, a 60% increase, to expand legal aid, job training, and citizenship support. JD Supra
• The evidence from countries with established digital ID systems show it will not reduce irregular migration. Law Gazette
• Instead of annual adjustments, Australia will now align its migration targets with broader housing, infrastructure, and population strategies. Visa And Immigrations

Last updated: 11 October 2025