Global Immigration Updates: February 2026
This report provides a comprehensive overview of recent changes in global immigration policies, focusing on key developments in China, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam as of February 2026. These updates are crucial for employers and individuals navigating international mobility and ensuring compliance in an ever-changing landscape.
China
Significant Increase in Salary Thresholds for Operate Permits in Beijing and Shanghai
On February 5, 2026, the Foreign Expert Bureau announced stricter enforcement of new local average social salary standards in Beijing and Shanghai, leading to substantial increases in minimum salary thresholds for Category A and some Category B work permits.
The new standards are as follows:
- Beijing: RMB 11,937 (approximately $1,665 USD) monthly average salary.
- Shanghai: RMB 12,434 (approximately $1,733 USD) monthly average salary.
These adjustments impact both new applications and renewals, with stricter salary reviews based on multiples of the new local average monthly wage:
| Category | Beijing (RMB) | Shanghai (RMB) |
|---|---|---|
| Category A (High Salary) | 71,622 (6 times the Beijing average) | 74,604 (6 times the Shanghai average) |
| Category B2 (Skilled Senior Worker) | 47,748 (4 times the Beijing average) | 49,736 (4 times the Shanghai average) |
Foreign nationals whose current salaries do not meet these new thresholds may face re-evaluation upon renewal and may need to apply under a different category, potentially requiring additional documentation such as authenticated academic credentials and police clearance certificates.
Stricter Review for Work Permit Applicants Over 60 Years Old
Review criteria for work permits for foreign nationals over 60 years of age have been tightened. Even as Category A work permits have no age limit, Category B and C permits generally require applicants to be under 60. Previously, cities like Dalian, Qingdao, and Shenzhen sometimes granted Category B permits to individuals over 60 based on experience and corporate need.
However, since 2026, most regions – including Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Dalian, and Qingdao – are strictly enforcing the age limit for new Category B applications. Renewal policies vary: Dalian may grant a one-year extension, Shanghai typically allows only one renewal, and Shenzhen and Qingdao will review based on Category A talent criteria. Individuals approaching or over 60 should explore options such as applying for a Category A work permit or Permanent Residence (“Chinese Green Card”).
Canada and UK Passport Holders Included in Visa-Free Program
Effective February 17, 2026, the Chinese government introduced a visa-free policy allowing nationals of Canada and the UK to enter China for short-term visits of up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, and transit. Travelers must have a valid passport and proof of onward travel. Visas are still required for stays exceeding 30 days or for activities not covered under the visa-free categories.
Fingerprint Collection Waived for Certain Applicants Applying for Short Term Visas
Until December 31, 2026, Chinese consular posts in Australia, Canada, Ireland, Macau SAR, New Zealand, the Palestinian Territories, Singapore, and the United Kingdom will waive fingerprint collection for applicants applying for short-term visas with a duration of stay of no more than 180 days. This waiver likewise applies to third-country nationals applying at these consulates. Fingerprint collection remains required for applicants of D, J1, Q1, S1, X1 and Z visas.
Indonesia
Launch of the Global Citizenship of Indonesia (GCI) Program
On January 26, 2026, Indonesia launched the Global Citizenship of Indonesia (GCI) program, providing a pathway to permanent residence for eligible foreign nationals with strong ties to the country. This program addresses complexities related to dual citizenship by allowing individuals with Indonesian roots to obtain PR status without forfeiting their existing citizenship.
Eligibility is limited to:
- Former Indonesian nationals.
- Descendants of former Indonesian nationals (up to the second generation).
- Spouses of Indonesian nationals (marriage must be legally registered in Indonesia).
- Children born from legally recognized marriages between Indonesian and foreign nationals.
Individuals from Timor-Leste, those involved in separatist activities, and those serving in foreign armed forces or intelligence agencies are ineligible.
Key benefits include permanent residence, retention of current citizenship, and a secure legal connection to Indonesia. Obtaining PR under the GCI program does not automatically confer work authorization; a separate work permit is required.
Japan
JAPAN eVISA System Expansion
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan announced the availability of the JAPAN eVISA (online tourist visa) system for nationals/residents of Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Taiwan, the UK, and the U.S. (unless visa-exempt). Applications from China, Philippines, Vietnam, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia, Republic of Korea, and UAE must be filed through accredited agencies (with tour-package requirements for the Philippines and Vietnam).
Philippines
Visa-Free Entry for Chinese Nationals
Effective January 16, 2026, Chinese nationals may enter the Philippines visa-free for stays of up to 14 days for tourism or business purposes, limited to arrivals at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Metro Manila) and Mactan-Cebu International Airport (Cebu). Travelers must present a valid passport (at least six months validity), confirmed hotel accommodation, and a return/onward ticket. The visa-free stay is non-extendible and non-convertible.
Singapore
Increase in Minimum Qualifying Salaries for Employment and S Passes
As announced in Budget 2026, the minimum qualifying salaries for new Employment Pass and S Pass applications will be raised starting January 1, 2027.
| Pass Type | Current Salary | From January 1, 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Employment Pass (All Sectors except Financial Services) | SGD 5,600 | SGD 6,000 |
| Employment Pass (Financial Services Sector) | SGD 6,200 | SGD 6,600 |
| S Pass (All Sectors) | SGD 3,300 | SGD 3,600 |
These changes will capture effect for renewals on January 1, 2028.
Vietnam
Accession to the Hague Convention (Apostille Convention)
On December 31, 2025, Vietnam acceded to the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents (Apostille Convention), effective September 11, 2026. This is expected to streamline the process of using foreign public documents in Vietnam and vice versa, reducing administrative layers, timelines, and costs. Vietnamese authorities will finalize implementing regulations in the coming months.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
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