Canada lifts visa requirement for the Czech Republic

Ottawa, November 14, 2013 — Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander announced that, effective immediately, Czech nationals no longer require a temporary resident visa to visit Canada. Czech nationals can now stay in Canada for up to six months visa-free, which is consistent with all other visa exempt nationals.

“Canada values strong ties with our European friends and after working with Czech officials for some time we are pleased to be able to extend visa-free travel for Czech citizens,” said Alexander. “This move is a testament to the strong relationship between Canada and the Czech Republic and reinforces our government’s commitment to facilitate legitimate trade and travel.”

A recent visa policy review of the Czech Republic has revealed that it now meets the criteria for a visa exemption. Canada’s visa policy is based on a country-by-country assessment, which looks at several criteria. These include a country’s immigration issues, such as violation rates and asylum claims, the integrity of a country’s travel documents, safety and security issues, border management, human rights, and bilateral relations.

Our confidence in lifting the visa requirement is further enhanced by Canada’s improvements to its asylum system, which will serve as an effective deterrence against unfounded asylum claims. In particular, claimants from the Czech Republic will be processed more quickly as it is a designated country of origin, and those whose claims are rejected will be removed from Canada within a few months.

“This is great news for both the Czech Republic and Canada,” said Canadian Ambassador Otto Jelinek. “By making it easier for Czechs to visit Canada, we are strengthening the already close cultural and economic ties that exist between our two countries.”

Canada is committed to the free and secure movement of people between European Union member states, and we will continue to work in cooperation with all member states.

Under Canada’s immigration law, all visitors to Canada require a visa, except citizens of countries for which an exemption has been granted under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations. Visa requirements for travellers to Canada are the country’s first line of defence in maintaining the health, safety and security of Canadians.

News Source from Canada Visa Information website

The Great Living Chola Temples in India

The Great Living Chola Temples are three granite temples dedicated to Shiva, that show the progressive development of Chola architecture and art. They illustrate the Chola civilization between the 10th and 13th centuries, which succeeded the Pallavan dynasty (that was responsible for Mahabalipuram) in South India.

The three included temples are:
- Brihadisvara Temple in Thanjavur: the earliest and most representative monument. Built 1003-1010, during the reign of king Rajaraja, the founder of the Chola Empire which stretched out over South India and the neighbouring islands.
- And the temples of Gangaikondacholapuram and Darasuram, built by his successors and following the main characteristics of the one in Thanjavur

Their layout is different from other South Indian temples, as the Vimana (sanctuary) is the highest point of the complex, not the Gopuram (gates). The tall Vimanas with many tiers as the core feature of the temples and the elaborate sculpted decoration represent the divinities and mythological figures related to the Tamil beliefs. 

In all three temples traditional religious rituals continue to be performed there by the general public. 

The city of Thanjavur has over 200,000 inhabitants, but its center feels much smaller and can easily be explored on foot. Signs guide you to the “Big Temple”, as they call it here. Maybe even the Tamils find “Brihadisvara Temple” too cumbersome, although they manage pretty well with their elaborate place names made up of dozens of syllables. I visited on a late afternoon. There was a steady flow of worshippers and daytrippers going into the temple complex. There’s no entrance fee, or limitations to non-Hindus. Only take your shoes off.

The entrance gate here is not the prettiest construction of the complex, but did already hold my gaze for a while. The decorations here clearly have a greater quality than those at Mahabalipuram, and it is easy to see how the sculptures here have influenced Angkor for example. After the second gate, awaits the large inner courtyard. It’s a vast open space. In the center stands a large black Nandi statue, covered under a pavilion (under construction at the moment). To the sides are smaller temples. The whole area has a festive air: there’s a temple elephant doing tricks, groups of friends are sitting on the grass and taking photos.

The monument at the end of the courtyard is the Temple’s masterpiece: the Vimana, an unbelievably high pyramidical tower, fully covered in sculptures. You really have to sit down to take it all in, it’s exuberant. There are so many little details to admire, and the state of conservation looked very good to me.

After I enjoyed all there is to see on the outside of the buildings, I put my camera away and went inside. Photographing isn’t allowed there. The Vimana contains many dark grey columns and some statues. Although the WHS is marketed as “Living” temples, I did not find the religious atmosphere as special as in Chidambaram for example (or maybe I had already got used to the sight of worshippers in their differently coloured loincloths).

I did not visit the other 2 temples that were added to the WHS later on. They are located 80kms or so away, and as they do not appear to be very different from the one in Thanjavur I decided not to go there. 

Five places to visit in India

Monsoon is finally here and it is time to revive the travel plans which you had shelved because of summer.

Though traveling during rain comes with its own set of problems; however, it is a welcome change from the searing heat of the summer. The waterfalls and greenery make it a pleasant setting for a holiday.

There are many monsoon destinations in India. We list five must visit destinations this year.

COORG

Also known as the Scotland of India, Coorg is one of the rainiest places in india. Situated in the southern part ofKarnataka in the Western Ghats, it has become a popular monsoon honeymoon destination. Monsoon in Coorg is the most romantic season of all.

You could visit one of the many coffee plantations in Coorg. Fields and forests covered in spectacular greenery, gurgling streams and the Kodava populace offer enough incentives to take a gentle stroll.

You could also visit River Kaveri, which is venerated. Head to the Talakaveri pilgrim centre from where Kaveri originates in the Brahmagiri Hills, Omkareshwar  Temple or the Nagarhole National Park.

MANDU

Resting on the crest of the Vindhya Range, Mandu stands on a rocky outcrop planted amidst a bed of green. The fortified city is also home to the love story of Rajput princess Rani Roopmati and the last Sultan of Malwa, Baz Bahadur.

The architectural ruins attract day-trippers from Ujjain and Indore throughout the year. But it is during the monsoon that the rustic facades of the city’s mahals and darwazas attain a rich red tint. You could take a history lesson and visit the country’s first ever marble monument, the tomb of Malwa’s second king Hoshang Shah.

Don’t forget to visit the courtyard of Roopmati’s Pavilion which reverberates with romance and its front lawns look its best with peacocks and kharmours roaming around. The several minarets and domes of Mandu may be lost in time, but find themselves gracefully whenever it rains.

SPITI VALLEY

A desert mountain valley in the Himalayas, Spiti is dotted with Buddhist monasteries and is often called the Middle Land or Little Tibet. Between July and October is pretty much the only time you can go to Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, given the weather and road conditions.

All the houses are white washed and have black painted windows and door frames to keep the houses warm and safe from rain and snow. The area located just south of Ladakh, is one of the most sparsely populated regions in India and is the perfect place to get away from the crowds. Kilometers of the high altitude desert stretch in the rain shadowed side of the Himalayas promises to be perfect get-away.

The rugged awe-inspiring snow-clad mountains are a standing invitation to you if you love to hike or seek an adrenaline rush. The entire district is full of natural scenery where you can imbibe its natural grandeur. The customs, myths and beliefs of the simple people is another unique feature of this border highland.

VALLEY OF FLOWERS

The stunning landscape of the Valley of Flowers, in North Indian state of Uttarakhand, comes alive with the monsoon rains. July and August are the best time to see the wildflowers in full bloom in the Valley of Flowers.

It is the perfect destination for you if you love hiking and exploring nature, as it requires a 15-17 km trek up a steep mountain trail to get there.

The high-altitude Himalayan valley has around 300 different varieties of flowers, which appear as a bright carpet of colour against a mountainous snow capped background. Carpeted with red potentillas, geraniums, asters, gentians, anemones, delphiniums, blue corydalis and wild roses the national park becomes a package made in heaven.

GOA

Goa surprisingly has a lot to offer than just its beaches. Monsoon is off-season in Goa. So, chuck the thoughts of milling crowds and lack of privacy. Being the lean season, don’t be surprised if you get some awesome deals.

Take a walk through Goa’s colonial past, sit in a restaurant and enjoy Goan food. Though beaches would be out of action for quite some time, discover the other treasures of Goa.

Don’t forget to witness the feast of saints Peter and Paul celebrated at the end of June. Locals sail on rafts while performing plays and songs. Head towards Divar Island, off the coast of Panaji where you can experience the traditional Bonderam flag festival. It is more of a violent festival involving mock fights and commemorates the protest by locals against the Portuguese. The festival is held towards the end of August.

Top 5 places to visit in Andhra Pradesh

The state of Andhra Pradesh in India, with its rich culture, history and architecture is a great place to visit if you’re looking to travel to an offbeat place. Here’s a list of five of the most attractive destinations in Andra Pradesh to visit.

Araku Valley

Araku hill station is among the most important tourist destinations in Andhra Pradesh. Situated at over 112 km away from Visakhapatnam, the hill station is known for its scenic landscapes, lush green valleys, waterfalls and streams. Travellers enjoy the journey through the thick forest of the Eastern Ghats.

 Warangal Fort

Located in the Warangal district, the fort has beautifully-carved arches, pillars spread over a radius of over eight km. The fort was the seat of power for the Kakatiya Empire, which brought the Telugu-speaking people from the region under one roof. The Thousand Pillar temple built in the 11th century is another major attraction for its architecture.

Golkonda Fort

Located in the capital city of Hyderabad, the fort was first built of mud by Kakatiya rulers during the 13th century. However, it gained glory under the Qutub Shahi dynasty. The world renowned Kohinoor diamond was found here. An added attraction here are the enchanting sound & light show in the evenings. One of the most interesting features of the Golconda Fort is its system of acoustics. The sounds of hands clapped at the entry gate can be heard clearly at ‘Bala Hissar’, the highest point, a km away.

Nagarjuna Sagar dam

Nagarjuna Sagar dam, located on the borders of Guntur and Nalgonda districts is among the earliest structures built by the government leading to the Green Revolution in the country. The hotels lined around the lake and the dam provide a calm, composed and a serene view. The excavation site and a museum built on the island with relics of Buddha draw history lovers from all over.Nagarjuna Sagar

Laknnavaram Lake

Located around 90 km from Warangal city, the water body is spread across 10,000 acres and is a classic example of a place where one can view civilization that had settled in the area hundreds of years ago. According to PJ Naidu, a senior archaeologist, the lake was constructed by digging over several decades by the then rulers. The lake has since then helped agriculture all round the year in the region. The lake has 13 islands surrounded with lush green forests and mountains. Two of these islands have comfortable accommodation, which have made them into great tourist attractions.

Germany & VFS Global open 10 Visa Application Centres in India, 1 in Bhutan

Germany and VFS Global have recently opened ten Visa Application Centres in India and one in Bhutan to speed up the visa application process. In India, the Germany Visa Application Centres are operational in New Delhi, Chandigarh, Jalandhar, Jaipur, Gurgaon, Chennai, Hyderabad, Puducherry, Bengaluru and Mumbai, while in Bhutan, the Centre is functional in Thimphu. In the next two months, Centres will be operational in Goa, Pune, Ahmedabad, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram and Kolkata. VFS Global is the contract partner of the German Embassy.

Catering to the growing demand of Germany-bound travellers in the region, the strategic move of the German Embassy New Delhi is aimed at offering new services, facilities and benefits to visa applicants to support the growing demand in tourism, trade and investments, and strengthening bilateral ties between Germany and India. With the opening of the new Centres, travellers from India and Bhutan can save time and money in applying for a Schengen Visa (short-term visa) at the German missions, a release stated.

The key features of the new Centres include convenient locations and easily accessible state-of-the-art Visa Application Centres; longer operating hours; shorter waiting period between appointments and submission of applications; counters for applicants and travel agents/tour operators; secure handling of passports, documents and personal information; and online appointment scheduling, payment and tracking of application status.

Michael Steiner, German Ambassador to India, said, “For most Indians and Bhutanese travelling to Europe, be it for business or leisure, Germany is high on the wish list. Therefore, the visa application process should be as smooth as possible. With our new policy, we take the visa application process to the people’s door. This is good service and customer-orientation at its best.”

Vishal Jairath, Regional Head-South Asia, VFS Global, said, “The fact that the German Embassy has commissioned us with the visa outsourcing application process imbibes confidence in our abilities. I am sure this association has a long way ahead. VFS Global in association with the German Embassy New Delhi will bring convenience to all Indian business and leisure travellers.”

Poland now accepting Blue Card applications

From 12 June 2012 Poland has begun accepting EU blue card applications from highly-skilled third country nationals who have an employment contract in place with a Polish company and possess the required qualifications.

Professional level qualifications,The Blue Card is a good way to sidestep what can be complicated work and resident visas requirements in many EU Countries. In order to be eligible to apply for a Blue Card, you must have the following:

• a work contract or job offer from an EU employer with a salary at
• least 1.5 times the average gross salary,
• a valid travel document
• sickness insurance

The EU blue card is valid throughout the duration of the employment contract or for a maximum of two years.

The EU hopes that the EU Blue Card scheme will enable the EU to compete effectively against the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand for skilled migrants. It is an EU-wide work permit scheme allowing highly-skilled non-EU citizens the right to work and live theoretically in any of the EU countries apart from Denmark, Ireland, and the UK.

It may also be possible to renew the EU Blue Card. EU Blue Card holders may apply for permanent residence after:

• five years of legal and continuous residency within the EU as an Blue Card holder, and
• legal and continuous residency for two years immediately prior to the submission of the application within the Member State where the application for the long-term resident's EC residence permit is lodged

Despite the EU Blue Card's creation in 2008, four years later some Member States have yet to fully implement the visa scheme. So far the EU Blue Card does not seem to have been as popular as other skilled immigration schemes such as the Australian General Skilled Migration scheme or Canadian Skilled Worker visa scheme.

Greek crackdown on illegal immigration continues

The Greek government is continuing its crackdown on illegal immigration which began on 4th July. By 6th July, police and troops had arrested over 7,000 suspected illegal immigrants in a series of raids both in Athens and along the north-eastern border with Turkey. 1,600 illegal immigrants were deported after the first weekend. 

Since then, the Greek government has made a concerted effort to take control of its 200km north-eastern land border with Turkey which runs along the Evros River. There are now 2,500 officers on patrol in the area compared to 500 in July. 

The Greeks are worried about illegal immigration through Turkey and so is the rest of the European Union. Border patrol officers from 25 countries are helping with the campaign. It has been estimated that two thirds of illegal immigrants into the EU enter through Greece and almost all of those come in through the Evros region rather than via the Mediterranean islands. Approximately 21,000 illegal migrants were arrested in Greece in the first six months of 2012; an increase of 29% on the same period in 2011. At least 21 people have drowned in the Evros River or died of exposure while trying to cross it this year. Afghans, Pakistanis, Bangladeshis and Syrians are the most numerous among those attempting the crossing. A Greek think tank, Eliamap, estimated that there were 450,000 illegal immigrants living in Greece in 2011.

Until August, the Greek response was chaotic and undermanned; 500 officers could not possibly police a 200km border and Greek detention centres were full to overflowing. It was a well-known ploy among those caught on the border, the Huffington Post reports, to admit to illegal status in the expectation of being taken to an immigrant detention camp near Athens. Immigrants believed, with some justification, it is said, that they would be interned for three months before being released at which point they would be able to make their way to Athens. 

Greece, in the teeth of a brutal recession and facing ejection from the Eurozone, is becoming a dangerous place for immigrants. Golden Dawn, a far right political party, took 7% of the vote in elections earlier this year. There have been a series of attacks on black and Asian people in Athens. Golden Dawn denies any involvement and says that it is more concerned about attacks on Greeks by foreigners. An Iraqi man was stabbed to death in Athens earlier this month and there were public disturbances after allegations of a sexual assault by a Pakistani man on a Greek girl on the Greek island of Paros. There are allegations of police brutality during the anti-immigrant raids but these have been denied. 

Foreign minister Nikos Dendias said that 'the immigration issue is a ticking bomb in the foundations of society and state' but added 'we will handle it with full respect for human rights and European regulations.'

Christos Manouras, a police spokesman said 'It is widely accepted here that the expulsion of immigrants who are here illegally is a national necessity, an issue of national survival'. Mr Manouras said that the operation 'will continue in the long-term'. He said that the government estimated that illegal border crossings had dropped by 90% in the first week. 

There have, however, been criticisms of the police response from human rights organisations. Jezerca Tigani of Amnesty International said 'Greece may be going through financial difficulties while facing one of the highest migration flows among EU countries, but these police operations violate international human rights and should stop immediately.'

The Financial Times reported on August 6th, 2012, that 8,000 foreign nationals had applied for voluntary repatriation under a scheme arranged by the International Organisation for Migration. 

If you would like to apply for a visa WorkPermit.com can help. WorkPermit.com is a specialist visa consultancy with nearly twenty-five years of experience dealing with visa applications. We can help with a wide range of visa applications to your country of choice. Please feel free to contact us for further details.

Join the EU Blue Card Network

Do you have a higher education qualification? Do you want to work in the European Union?

Have you considered joining the EU Blue Card Network? It could help you find the job you've been dreaming of.

Why not sign up? It's free.

The EU Blue Card Scheme is the EU's equivalent of the United States 'green card' scheme. It has been put in place to make it easier and more attractive for highly intelligent and educated people from elsewhere to live and work in the EU. After originally being proposed in 2007, it is finally open for applications. Germany, the EU's largest economy, started accepting Blue Card applications on 1st August 2012

If you have
• A higher education qualification
• And a contract or binding offer of work in Europe
then you may be eligible for a Blue Card. Once you have one, a Blue Card entitles you to work anywhere in the EU (apart from Denmark, the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom).

A Blue Card entitles holders to
• The same working conditions and pay as EU citizens
• The right to bring close family members to live with you
• The prospect of permanent resident status in the EU
• Attractive rates of pay – different countries have different rules as to minimum pay for Blue Card holders but the EU Blue Card directive suggests that Blue Card holders should get a salary of at least 1.5 times the national average. In Germany, the minimum salary for Blue Card holders is €35,000.

But, if you don't have already have a job contract or a binding job offer, then the Blue Card Network could help you find one.

Here's how you do it. Just create your profile on the EU Blue Card Network website. All fields are optional so you can enter as much data as you wish - though employers may be more interested in fuller profiles. You can attach a CV to your profile.

Then, vetted and registered EU recruiters can browse the database and search for suitable candidates for available positions. If you match their requirements, they will give you a call and the interview process will begin. No unregistered recruiters will have access to the Network. Your data will be secure.

If you are successful at interview, your new employer will give you a contract or a letter containing a binding offer. You can then apply for your EU Blue Card either from the immigration authorities in the country where you will be working or from the consulate in your home country

The Blue Card is a fast track scheme. If you supply the correct documentation with your application, you should have your card within three months

If you would like to apply for a visa WorkPermit.com can help. WorkPermit.com is a specialist visa consultancy with nearly twenty-five years of experience dealing with visa applications. We can help with a wide range of visa applications to your country of choice. Please feel free to contact us for further details.

Cyprus immigration lowers cost of 'fast track citizenship'

The Cypriot department of immigration has cut the cost of its Fast Track Citizenship program, also known as 'economic citizenship'. The main change was introduced to placate Russians who had lost money when the Cypriot government grabbed 40% of all deposits for themselves in two of Cyprus's largest banks.

There are now several different ways of qualifying for Cypriot citizenship by making investments in Cyprus. There is no requirement that you should be resident in Cyprus to qualify though you must have a property there.

Investment and Donation

You can qualify for Cypriot citizenship by

• Investing at least €2m in shares and/or bonds of the Cyprus State Investment Company and
• Donating at least €0.5m to the Cypriot Research and Technology Fund

Investment

You can qualify by investing at least €5m in Cyprus. The following types of investments qualify

• Property (but not undeveloped land)
• Cypriot businesses or companies
• Bonds, securities, debentures
• Investment or participation in public works

In a) to c) above, the investments have to be maintained for three years. Where the investment is in shares or bonds, the value of the investment must stay above €5m for the entire three years.

The Minister of the Interior has the option in 2014 of further reducing the minimum investment from €5m to €2m where an investor can show he has invested in a 'special collective real estate purchase scheme' worth over €10bn.

Bank Deposits

You can qualify by depositing at least €5m in a Cypriot bank for three years on fixed terms.

A combination of the above and a donation to a state fund

You can qualify by opening a portfolio of mixed investments and donations to state funds totalling at least €5m

Business activities in Cyprus

You can qualify by owning, or part-owning, a company which has paid taxes and other fees to the Cypriot government and which employs people in Cyprus.

The amount of tax that must be paid varies according to the number of people your business employs in Cyprus. The minimum qualifying tax payments are as follows:

• If the company employs ten or more people in Cyprus, it must have paid taxes of €200,000 in each of the last three years
• If the company employs between five and ten people in Cyprus, it must have paid taxes and other payments of at least €300,000 in each of the last three years
• If the company employs fewer than five people, it must have paid taxes and other fees of at least €500,000 in each of the last three years.

Those who have had money sequestered by the Cypriot government

In March 2013, the Cypriot government was facing bankruptcy. In order to qualify for a bailout from the International Monetary Fund and the European Central Bank, it took extraordinary measures to try to balance the country's budget.

The most controversial step taken by the government was to raid deposits held in two of Cyprus's largest banks. The government took 40% of all deposits over €100,000. Some wealthy Russian depositors lost €millions.

Many wealthy Russian depositors were understandably furious. The Cypriot government has now reduced the amount that must be invested in Cyprus in order to qualify for citizenship. The Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades told a Russian business conference in Limassol that this would 'mitigate to some extent, the damage' caused to Russian deposit holders.

Those losing €3m can apply

Under the new rules, anyone who has had €3m or more taken from their accounts will be eligible to apply for citizenship.

In order to be successful, all applicants

• Must be able to prove that they have no criminal convictions
• Must not have had their assets frozen by the EU
• Must own a resident in Cyprus worth €500,000 or more

Cyprus first opened its Fast Track Citizenship programme in 2012. The original cost of citizenship through investment was as much as €10m but the level was reduced in 2013 after the Cypriot government sequestered money from accounts held in Cypriot banks.

40% taken from accounts

The money was largely held by Russian nationals who favour Cyprus as a holiday destination and as a place to keep their money. After the government raided deposits, taking as much as 40% from some larger accounts. The government needed to raise €10bn to avoid defaulting on the terms of an EU bailout.

The raid on deposits, known as 'a haircut' in international financial circles, was extremely unpopular with the Russians. Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev referred to the raids as 'stealing'.

Sanwar Ali of workpermit.com said 'Even after the reduction in the minimum investment requirement, the Cypriot citizenship scheme is going to remain beyond the reach of most investors. But, if you do have sufficient funds for the citizenship scheme then we can help with your application.

Malta to launch cheaper scheme

'If the Cypriot scheme is too expensive, then there may in future be an alternative. Malta appears to be on the verge of opening a much cheaper scheme which will 'sell' citizenship. Malta is an EU member state like Cyprus so you would, as a citizen of Malta, be free to live and work in the EU.

'And there are also permanent resident schemes in several EU countries which may eventually lead to EU citizenship. Portugal, Greece, Spain and Malta all have permanent residence visa schemes for investors but the cheapest one available at the moment is probably the Latvian Immigrant Investor Visa; This may become much more expensive from January 1st 2014.

If you are interested you should give as a call ASAP'.

If you would like to apply for a visa WorkPermit.com can help. WorkPermit.com is a specialist visa consultancy with 25 years of experience dealing with visa applications. We can help with a wide range of visa applications to your country of choice. Please feel free to contact us for further details.

European Commission seeks power to prevent Malta 'citizenship sale'

The Maltese government has announced that it intends to go ahead with a controversial plan to 'sell citizenship' to applicants who pay €1.15m. The government intends that the Individual Investor Program (IIP) scheme should go live in February 2014.

However, there may be a last minute hitch. European Commission vice-president Viviane Reding is said to be taking legal advice about whether the Commission has the power to stop the scheme under EU Treaty law. The European parliament has already held a vote censuring Malta.

Malta announced in October 2013 that it was planning on selling Maltese citizenship to up to 1,800 applicants. Each applicant under the IIP would have to

• Pay Malta €650,000; 70% of this would go into a national development fund
• Purchase a property worth €350,000 (or rent one for €16,000 a year on a five year contract)
• Invest at least €150,000 in Maltese bonds or shares also for five years

No residence requirement

Applicants are not required ever to have lived on the island. Indeed, IIP applicants would only be required to visit to carry out the transactions that would lead to their citizenship. They would, however, be obliged to sign an 'oath of allegiance' to Malta.

Applicants would also be able to bring with them their spouse and any children aged below 26. They would also be able to bring their parents and grandparents. Each additional visa would cost either €25,000 or €50,000.

The Maltese government has insisted that it has not introduced the scheme because it is in financial difficulty. A spokesman for the prime minister Joseph Muscat told the EU Observer 'We have a strong economy. We're doing this to attract reputable people who can invest in the country'.

Malta – gateway to Europe

But, whatever the intentions of the Maltese government, it is highly likely that those applying for the IIP will have their eyes on other benefits that come with Maltese citizenship. These have little to do with Malta's pleasing Mediterranean climate and everything to do with the fact that Malta is an EU state.

The principle of free movement of people is enshrined in the EU constitution and so anyone who has a Maltese passport, particularly anyone with €650,000 to spend on that passport, can live anywhere in the EU; in London, Berlin, Rome or Saint Tropez as well as in Valetta.

As EU citizens, they will also have rights to travel to many other countries, including the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand with only the lightest of security checks

Security risk

Unsurprisingly, there is considerable disquiet, both among opposition MPs in the Maltese parliament, and in Brussels, that the Maltese scheme may pose a security risk unless the security checks are sufficiently stringent. There are concerns that this may not be the case.

The main ground for concern at present is that the scheme was devised by the Maltese government with the assistance of a London based consultancy. The London firm will also manage the scheme and stands to make at least £60m if the scheme is fully subscribed.

The firm, which we will not name here, is said to have made substantial campaign contributions to the Maltese Labour Party, Mr Muscat's party, before he was elected in 2013. The firm denies any wrongdoing.

Confidential business information

Mr Muscat has refused to reveal the details of the contract with the UK firm saying that to do so would expose confidential business information. This refusal has led some in Malta to suspect corruption.

A further concern arises because the London firm will be allowed to market the scheme to wealthy people from outside the EU but will also be in charge of carrying out security checks on applicants. This has led some to fear that it will favour its own clients over other applicants who apply through another immigration agency or in person.

In addition, because the London firm will only be paid for its security screening if an application is successful, some fear that it may be tempted to allow applicants to pass the security check even if there are legitimate grounds for concern.

Conflict of interest

One opposition MP, Jason Azzopardi, told the EU Observer 'It's like giving a teacher a stack of exam papers to mark and saying 'I'll give you €26,000 for every student who passes the exam.

European Union institutions are opposed to the Maltese scheme but it is not yet clear if there is anything that they can do to stop it.

The European Parliament censured Malta in a debate in early January 2014. The vote censuring Malta had no power to make Malta abandon the IIP but support for the motion was virtually unanimous with only 22 people opposing the motion, among these being Malta's Labour MEPs.

Citizenship is a matter for national governments –European Council

Mr Muscat will draw some comfort from the fact that The European Council has told MEPs that the terms under which citizenship is awarded to foreign applicants is a matter for national governments.

But it seems that the European Commission does not intend to leave the IIP in place if it can possibly prevent it. Viviane Reding has said that citizenship is not for sale. The Maltese news site Maltatoday reports that Ms Reding has asked for legal advice on whether the Commission can bar the Maltese scheme using Article 4.3 of the Treaty on European Union.

This article states that 'The Member States shall facilitate the achievement of the Union's tasks and refrain from any measure which could jeopardise the attainment of the Union's objectives.

European Commission 'not bluffing'

Maltatoday quotes an anonymous expert in EU law as saying 'I think the Commission is not bluffing and it has sufficient legal grounds for proceeding. It is increasing the tempo and taking its time to start infringement procedures to allow Malta to adjust its law'. The expert adds that the EC will probably allow the Maltese government time to change the law voluntarily. Only if it persists with the IIP scheme will it take Malta to the European Court of Justice.

For now, Malta appears to be standing fast. We will report on further developments.

If you would like to apply for a visa WorkPermit.com can help. WorkPermit.com is a specialist visa consultancy with 25 years of experience dealing with visa applications. We can help with a wide range of visa applications to your country of choice. Please feel free to contact us for further details.

USCIS Publishes 63 Countries Eligible for H-2A and H-2B Visa Programs

The latest list of 63 countries whose the  nationals are eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B Visa programs has been published in the Federal Register by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on January 17, 2013.

According to the USCIS's announcement, Austria, Italy, Panama, and Thailand have been added to the list for the coming year by the Department of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Department of State.

Under H-2A and H-2B Visa programs, U.S. employers are permitted to bring foreign nationals to the U.S to fill temporary agricultural and nonagricultural jobs, respectively.

Only H-2A and H-2B petitions for nationals of countries the secretary of Homeland Security designated as eligible to participate in the programs are approved by USCIS generally. However, USCIS may still approve H-2A and H-2B petitions for nationals of countries not on the list if it is determined to be in the interest of the United States.

The status of beneficiaries currently living in the U.S in H-2A or H-2B status is not affected by this notice unless they apply to change or extend their status. Each country's designation is valid for one year from January 18, 2014.

The full list of the 63 countries is now available on the USCIS website.

If you are interested in Visas to the USA, contact Migration Expert for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try our Visa Eligibility Assessment to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to the United States of America.

Top 15 Destinations In the World

Paris, France

Everyone who visits Paris for the first time probably has the same punchlist of major attractions to hit: The Louvre, Notre Dame, The Eiffel Tower, etc. Just make sure you leave some time to wander the city’s grand boulevards and eat in as many cafes, bistros and brasseries as possible.

Don't miss 

• Musee de l'Orangerie 
• Luxembourg Gardens 
• Notre Dame Cathedral

New York City, New York

The first time you go to New York, go ahead and be a sight-seer—everyone should visit the Statue of Liberty, the Met, Times Square, etc. But on a return trip, pick a neighbourhood and go deep. You’ll find hole-in-the-wall bars, great delis, quirky shops… exploring the non-touristy side of New York is an incredibly rewarding experience for a traveller.

Don't miss 

• Top of the Rock Observation Deck
• High Line
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art

London, United Kingdom

There's so much to see and do in London, it's easy to be overwhelmed. Major sights like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace are on most visitors' itineraries, but no matter what your interests, you'll probably find something here. Art lovers should make a beeline for the National Gallery and the Tate Modern. If military history's your thing, don't miss the Cabinet War Rooms. Finally, forget everything you've heard about bland, mushy British food—the restaurant scene here is fabulous.

Don't miss 

• Victoria and Albert Museum
• Churchill War Rooms
• Olympic Stadium

Rome, Italy

It’s nicknamed the Eternal City for a reason. In Rome, you can drink from a street fountain fed by an ancient aqueduct. Or see the same profile on a statue in the Capitoline Museum and the guy making your cappuccino.

Don't miss 

• Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi
• Roman Empire Tours
• Pantheon

Barcelona, Spain

Stroll Las Ramblas and enjoy Barcelona's unique blend of Catalan culture, distinctive architecture, lively nightlife and trendy, stylish hotels. You'll find Europe's best-preserved Gothic Quarter here, as well as amazing architectural works by Gaudi. La Sagrada Familia, considered Gaudi's masterpiece, is still under construction (your entrance fee helps to fund the project).

Don't miss 

• Guell Palace
• St. Mary of the Sea Cathedral (Eglesia de Santa Maria del Mar)
• Camp Nou

Venice, Italy

Stunning architecture. Mysterious passageways. And of course, the canals. Venice is one of the most alluring cities in the world—the type of place where, as a visitor, you'll welcome getting lost (as you inevitably will). Relax in Piazza San Marco, take a moonlit gondola ride or taste the original Bellini at Harry's Bar. Or just wander. No matter where you go, you'll find history, beauty and romance.

Don't miss 

• Grand Canal
• Palazzo Ducale
• Saint Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)

San Francisco, California

Who cares about a little fog (okay, a lot of fog) when there’s so much to do in San Francisco? By day, explore Fisherman’s Wharf and the Aquarium of the Bay, ride a cable car, and stroll around the Presidio; by night, have a fabulous dinner (at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a tiny place in Chinatown), then hit some of the best clubs on the West Coast.

Don't miss 

• Cable Car Museum
• Golden Gate Bridge
• Alcatraz

Florence, Italy

Everyone’s heard the Doors of Paradise, the Duomo, and Michelangelo’s David are captivating, but in Florence, beauty can sneak up on a traveller unexpectedly. You’ll duck into a random church to escape the heat only to spend two hours staring at an impossibly pure blue in a fresco. Or you’ll consider writing a sonnet about pear gelato. It’s just that kind of place. Don't miss the sunset over the Arno and the famous wines of the Chianti region just south of town.

Don't miss 

• Statue of David
• Piazza del Duomo
• Palazzo Vecchio

Prague, Czech Republic

We hear the question, "What’s the next Prague?" a lot. But while we’re all for discovering great new destinations, we hardly think Prague is over. Sure, everyone’s heard of it, but it’s still a grand city with extraordinary historic and cultural sights, and it’s definitely worth a visit. The often-rebuilt Prague Castle has overlooked the city since the 9th century, and the synagogues and cemetery of the Jewish Quarter are must-sees. Nightlife here is diverse and plentiful, from trendy clubs to sophisticated wine bars to late-night cellar bars.

Don't miss 

• Old Town Square (Staromestske namesti)
• Charles Bridge (Karluv Most)
• Prague Castle (Prazsky hrad)

Florence, Italy

Everyone’s heard the Doors of Paradise, the Duomo, and Michelangelo’s David are captivating, but in Florence, beauty can sneak up on a traveller unexpectedly. You’ll duck into a random church to escape the heat only to spend two hours staring at an impossibly pure blue in a fresco. Or you’ll consider writing a sonnet about pear gelato. It’s just that kind of place. Don't miss the sunset over the Arno and the famous wines of the Chianti region just south of town.

Don't miss 

• Statue of David
• Piazza del Duomo
• Palazzo Vecchio

Prague, Czech Republic

We hear the question, "What’s the next Prague?" a lot. But while we’re all for discovering great new destinations, we hardly think Prague is over. Sure, everyone’s heard of it, but it’s still a grand city with extraordinary historic and cultural sights, and it’s definitely worth a visit. The often-rebuilt Prague Castle has overlooked the city since the 9th century, and the synagogues and cemetery of the Jewish Quarter are must-sees. Nightlife here is diverse and plentiful, from trendy clubs to sophisticated wine bars to late-night cellar bars.

Don't miss 

• Old Town Square (Staromestske namesti)
• Charles Bridge (Karluv Most)
• Prague Castle (Prazsky hrad)

Sydney, Australia

City slickers, culture vultures and beach bums alike fall in love with Sydney. Hang ten at famed Bondi Beach or stroll the calmer sands of Coogee. Cash burning a hole in your pocket? You’ll find great shopping in the Rocks district and along George and Pitt Streets. Climb to the top of the Harbour Bridge or take a skywalk on Sydney Tower for a 360-degree view of the city. But whatever you do, don’t leave town without cuddling the koalas in the Taronga Park Zoo—they’re ridiculously adorable.

Don't miss 

• Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Bondi to Coogee Beach Coastal Walk
• Sydney Opera House

Berlin, Germany

In progressive Berlin, the old buildings of Mitte gracefully coexist with the modern Reichstag. Don't miss top historic sights like the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz. The city's great zoo makes for a fun break from touring the staider attractions.

Don't miss 

• Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor)
• Memorial of the Berlin Wall
• Museumsinsel (Museum Island)

Istanbul, Turkey

Europe and Asia meet in Istanbul, and throughout this vibrant city, you’ll find centuries-old mosques, churches and markets happily co-existing with modern restaurants, galleries and nightclubs. And plan on visiting a hamman (traditional Turkish bath)—for about $20 your skin will be scrubbed clean. And we mean scrubbed. Your wimpy loofah has nothing on this.

Don't miss 

• Sultanahmet District
• Bosphorus Strait
• Suleymaniye Mosque

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is full of exquisitely decorated Buddhist temples—as you go from one to the next you’ll be continually blown away by the craftsmanship and elabourate details. But if you’d rather seek enlightenment in a gourmet meal, or dance the night away, you’ll also enjoy Bangkok—the restaurant and nightclub scenes here are among the best in the world.

Don't miss 

• Siam Niramit
• Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho)
• The Grand Palace

Chicago, Illinois

If you’re a history buff and a die-hard foodie, Chicago’s your kind of town. Take an architectural-history walking tour, then dine at Alinea (the most celebrated molecular-gastronomy restaurant in the U.S.). And don’t miss the Museum of Science and Industry, the biggest science museum in the Western Hemisphere.

Don't miss 

• Lake Michigan
• Museum of Science and Industry
• Cloud Gate

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo can't be judged from the outside, since those expecting ancient monuments will instead be greeted with modern drabness. The Imperial Palace, still home to the Emperor, shouldn't be missed, and the Edo-Tokyo Museum details the city's history. Sensoji Temple is the city's oldest, and the Tokyo National Museum holds the largest collection of Japanese art in the world.

Don't miss 

• Sensoji Temple (Asakusa Kannon Temple)
• Tokyo Tower
• Meiji Jingu