The (caretaker) Cabinet has explored options for tightening the labour migration policy, with the intention of strengthening the knowledge economy while simultaneously seeking to restrict migration. Below you will find a brief overview of the most important changes that were proposed.
It is proposed to make both the acquisition and retention of the recognised sponsorship status more challenging by imposing stricter requirements.
The proposal further includes an increase in the salary criterion for highly skilled migrants, with the possibility of limiting the use of the reduced salary criterion.
Regulations regarding the salary criterion will also be clarified, including its definition and payment.
Besides, the labour market conformity test will be applied more rigorously to prevent abuse.
Furthermore, payrolling and secondment arrangements will be prohibited for recognised sponsors, except in certain exceptional categories, such as for innovative start-ups.
Tightening of requirements is also proposed for the EU Blue Card and other admission schemes.
Please note: this is currently a policy exploration by the Cabinet; implementation and legislative amendments are not yet under consideration.
