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Apr 1st, 2026
Canada Introduces New PNP Rule: Provinces Get Full Authority Over PR Selection
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Canada Introduces New PNP Rule: Provinces Get Full Authority Over PR Selection
Highlights: Canada Revises PNP Rules Offering Full Authority to Provinces for PR Process
- Ottawa officially permits provinces and territories to assess their Provincial Nomination Program (PNP) candidates for PR selection.
- The regulatory authorities are transferred to the provinces and territories (PTs) effective from March 30, 2026.
- Upon the transfer of authority from the federal government, Canadian PTs now have two key assessment responsibilities.
- The PTs in Canada can independently decide whether the candidate is eligible to live in the selected province/territory and whether they can economically establish themselves in the country.
- The new PNP rule changes apply to all new and existing PNP applications that have not yet passed the eligibility stage, whether before or after March 30.
*Want to check your eligibility for Canada? Try the FREE Y-Axis Canada CRS points calculator to get an instant score!
Canada Shifts PNP Eligibility Decisions to Provinces and Territories
Provinces and territories in Canada are granted greater authority to assess Provincial Nomination Program (PNP) candidates for Canada permanent residence (PR) as of March 30, 2026.
The two major authorities transferred by the Canadian federal government to provinces and territories (PTs) include the following:
- Assess the eligibility of candidates to reside in the nominating province or territory.
- Assess the eligibility of candidates to establish themselves economically in Canada.
The new PNP rules apply to all new and existing PNP candidates who have not yet passed the eligibility stage, irrespective of whether an applicant applied before or after March 30, 2026.
Under the revised PNP policies, candidates with a provincial nomination certificate are no longer subject to separate assessment or a change of decision by IRCC.
Parameters that IRCC continues to assess for PNP applications:
While IRCC no longer has the authority to evaluate intent to reside or economic establishment, the federal government still continues to assess candidates based on:
- Valid applicant identity and credentials.
- Confirm that the nomination certificate is valid and has not expired.
- Security, medical, and financial checks for admissibility into Canada.
- Minimum entry criteria for their applicable Express Entry program (FSWP, FSTP, CEC).
Note: If the federal government finds an applicant's profile unfit to proceed, the respective PT will be informed of the action within 60 to 90 days.
*Want to apply for Canada PNP? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
How will the New PR Authority Transfer Impact PNP candidates in 2026?
The transfer of authorities to provinces for independent assessment will affect new PNP applicants in the following ways:
- PNP eligibility assessments will be conducted solely by provinces and territories.
- Closer evaluation by PTs based on intent to reside and economic prospects before issuing a nomination.
- Upon securing a valid nomination certificate, IRCC cannot revoke your application based on those two criteria.
- Reduced risk of federal refusal on the grounds of transferred criteria.
- New PNP applicants must thoroughly prepare their documents to meet both criteria.
Existing requirements to establish intent to reside and economic establishment in Canada are as follows:
- Valid job offer/employment contract in a high-demand occupation.
- Work/study experience in the respective province(Canadian work experience).
- Family connection in the selected province/territory.
- Record of temporary residential status in selected PT.
- Strong knowledge of the local community.
- Educational qualifications aligned with labor-market criteria.
- Sufficient settlement funds.
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canada immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world's No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy.
For recent Canadian immigration updates, check out the Y-Axis Canada Immigration News Page.
FAQs
What is Canada’s new PNP rule announced in March 2026?
Canada has introduced a new Provincial Nominee Program rule where provinces and territories now have full authority to assess key eligibility factors for permanent residence applicants. A valid nomination certificate will serve as proof of eligibility, reducing duplicate assessments and helping streamline the immigration process for faster decisions.
When did the new Canada PNP rule come into effect?
The new PNP rule came into effect on March 30, 2026. It applies to new and existing applications. Provinces and territories now assess applicants’ ability to settle economically and their intent to reside locally, while federal authorities focus on admissibility and final approval procedures.
What decisions will provinces now control under the new PNP rule?
Provinces and territories will now determine whether applicants can economically establish themselves and genuinely intend to live in the nominating province. These responsibilities were previously shared with federal immigration authorities but are now primarily handled by provincial governments.
What role will federal immigration officers play after the new rule?
Federal immigration officers will verify applicant identity, confirm valid nomination certificates, ensure applicants are not excluded from the program, and assess admissibility factors such as criminal background, security risks, health requirements, and financial stability before granting permanent residence.
Will the new PNP rule speed up Canada PR processing?
Yes, the new rule is expected to speed up Canada PR processing by eliminating duplicate assessments. Provinces will evaluate candidates once, and federal authorities will conduct final checks, leading to a more efficient immigration process and potentially faster permanent residence approvals.
Who benefits the most from the new Canada PNP rule?
Skilled workers, international graduates, and professionals applying through provincial streams will benefit the most. Provinces can now select candidates based on local labour shortages and economic needs, increasing opportunities for applicants with in-demand skills and relevant work experience.
Does the new rule apply to all Provincial Nominee Program streams?
Yes, the new regulation applies to most Provincial Nominee Program streams, including both Express Entry-aligned and base PNP programs. This ensures a consistent approach across provinces while allowing them greater flexibility in selecting candidates suited to regional needs.
Will provinces now have more control over immigration selection?
Yes, provinces and territories now have greater authority over immigration selection. This allows them to address labour shortages, support regional development, and attract candidates who are more likely to settle long-term and contribute to the local economy.
What does this mean for Canada PR applicants in 2026?
Canada PR applicants may experience faster processing, clearer eligibility assessments, and improved chances if their skills align with provincial labour demands. The new rule also reduces confusion by limiting overlapping reviews between provincial and federal immigration authorities.
Will a provincial nomination guarantee Canada PR approval?
A provincial nomination significantly strengthens a Canada PR application, but it does not guarantee approval. Applicants must still meet federal admissibility requirements, including medical, security, criminal, and financial checks before permanent residence is granted.
Want to apply for Canada PR? Contact Y-Axis today.
Australia announced New Income Thresholds for Employer-Sponsored Visas. Apply for an Australian Work Visa Now!
Highlights: Australia Revises Income Thresholds for Employer-Sponsored Visas
- Australia has announced new salary thresholds for employer-sponsored visas, effective for applications lodged between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026.
- The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold is set at AUD 76,515, while a higher threshold of AUD 141,210 applies to specialist roles.
- The income threshold has been revised for visa categories like Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (subclass 494), Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187), and the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (subclass 494) and the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187).
- The updated salary requirements are linked to annual wage data to align the income of foreign workers with that of regional employees.
- The skilled visa income thresholds in Australia are scheduled to be indexed each year and will take effect from July 1, 2026, for new nomination applications.
*Want to apply for an Australia work visa? Let Y-Axis assist you with the process.
Australia updates Salary Threshold for Employer-Sponsored Visas in 2026
Australia has recently updated its Employer-Sponsored Visa Salary Requirements through Annual Wage Indexation. The Department of Home Affairs has announced that the new salary requirements apply to multiple visa categories to align the income of foreign workers with that of Australian employees.
Skilled Visa income thresholds are indexed annually in the country, based on changes in Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings. These updates are scheduled to take effect on July 1 every year for new nomination applications.
The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) has been set at AUD 76,515 for applications lodged between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026. The new threshold applies to visa categories such as Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (subclass 494), Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187), Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482), and Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186).
Professionals applying to higher-skilled roles will have to meet the Specialist Skills Income Threshold of AUD 141,210 for applications lodged within the same timeline.
The following are the revised salary thresholds in Australia across different visa categories:
|
Category |
Income Threshold |
Applicable Period |
Applicable Visas / Streams |
Details |
|
Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) |
AUD 76,515 |
July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026 |
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494), Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187) |
Minimum salary requirement for employer-sponsored nomination applications |
|
Core Skills Income Threshold |
AUD 76,515 |
July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026 |
Core Skills Stream (Employer-sponsored visas) |
Applies to core skills stream salary requirements for eligible occupations |
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What do the Updated Salary Thresholds Mean for Foreign Workers in Australia?
The updated salary requirements in Australia for skilled visa categories aim to establish fair pay for foreign workers in line with local wage standards.
Here is how the revised salary threshold will affect foreign professionals in Australia:
- Skilled visa applicants must secure jobs that meet the new salary requirements.
- Foreign workers can benefit from improved salaries and stronger financial stability in Australia.
- Employers must provide salaries that align with the revised minimum income and market rates.
- Workers across sectors like hospitality, retail, and some healthcare roles will benefit from higher wages.
Note: The Annual Market Salary Rates in Australia are revised annually to ensure adequate compensation for foreign workers and maintain parity with local job markets.
Are you looking for a step-by-step with Australian Immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 abroad immigration consultancy, for end-to-end support!
For more updates on Australia, check out Y-Axis Australia Immigration Updates!
FAQs
What are Australia's new income thresholds for employer-sponsored visas?
Australia has increased income thresholds for employer-sponsored visas to reflect annual wage growth. These updated salary requirements ensure overseas workers are paid fairly and align with Australian labour market standards. Applicants must meet the revised minimum salary to qualify.
When do the new income thresholds come into effect?
The revised income thresholds for employer-sponsored visas are expected to take effect from July 2026. All new visa applications submitted after the implementation date must meet the updated salary requirements.
Which visas are affected by Australia's new income thresholds?
The changes apply to employer-sponsored visas, including the Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482), Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186), and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494).
Why has Australia increased employer-sponsored visa salary thresholds?
Australia adjusts salary thresholds annually through wage indexation. This ensures migrant workers receive competitive pay, prevents undercutting local wages, and maintains fairness in the labour market.
Will existing visa holders be affected by the new salary thresholds?
Existing visa holders are generally not affected immediately. However, the new income thresholds may apply during visa renewal, employer change, or nomination updates.
What is the purpose of annual wage indexation in Australia?
Annual wage indexation adjusts salary requirements based on economic conditions and wage growth. This helps maintain fair pay standards for migrant workers and protects local employment opportunities.
Can applicants still apply if their salary is below the new threshold?
No, applicants must meet the new minimum salary requirement. If the offered salary falls below the threshold, the visa application may be refused unless exemptions apply.
Who benefits from the updated employer-sponsored visa salary requirements?
Both migrant workers and Australian employees benefit. Migrants receive fair wages, while the changes prevent salary undercutting in the local labour market.
Are these changes applicable to all occupations?
The new thresholds generally apply across eligible occupations under employer-sponsored visa programs. However, specific roles may have different salary benchmarks depending on industry standards.
How can I apply for an Australian employer-sponsored visa?
Applicants must secure a job offer from an approved Australian employer, meet skill and salary requirements, and submit a visa application. Consulting immigration experts can help ensure eligibility and proper documentation.
Greece Announces New Minimum Wage Increase for 2026. Apply Now for a Greece Work Visa!
Highlights: Greece Revises minimum wages for work visas from April 2026
- Greece has announced a rise in the minimum wage for full-time employees, effective April 1, 2026.
- The new minimum wage in Greece will now be 920 euros, up from 880 euros earlier.
- The minimum monthly gross wage will increase by 4.5%, marking the sixth hike in the last four years.
- The updated wages requirement reflects the country’s initiative to reduce financial crisis and the effects of rising energy costs.
- The country aims to raise the minimum wage to 950 euros by 2027, attracting more foreign workers to the Greek job market.
*Interested to apply for a Greece work visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
Greece Plans Sixth Wage Increase Amid Fuel Inflation Crisis in 2026
Greece is set to revise its minimum wage requirements, effective from April 1, 2026. The minimum wage will be increased from 880 euros to 920 euros to restore living standards impacted by inflation in the country.
The U.S.-Israeli-Iranian conflict has significantly affected Greece's financial situation due to surging energy prices. Greece is still recovering from the earlier 2009-2018 debt crisis that cut wages, pensions, and economic output.
As a result, the Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has decided to cut taxes and social security contributions and increase the minimum salary for full-time employees by 5 times since 2022, targeting a minimum monthly salary of 950 euros by 2027.
Additionally, the country has introduced caps on profit margins for fuel and supermarket goods, and subsidies for fertilizers.
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How will the new minimum wage impact foreign workers in Greece?
The revised minimum wage requirement for full-time workers in Greece is an initiative to manage the ongoing fuel inflation crisis. While the country attempts to recover its living standards, the recent changes will impact foreign workers in Greece in the following ways:
- The minimum salary for foreign workers in entry-level jobs will rise to 920 euros.
- Improved compensation for foreign workers across sectors like tourism, construction, agriculture, and hospitality.
- Alignment between the higher cost of living and the average annual earnings.
- Higher minimum wages will attract foreign skilled workers to sectors facing labor shortages in the country.
- Offset rising inflation and fuel costs amid global tension.
Note: Greece’s plan to raise the minimum wage to €950 by 2027 will benefit foreign professionals in the upcoming years.
Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!
For recent immigration updates, check out the Y-Axis Schengen News Page!
FAQs
What is the new minimum wage in Greece?
Greece plans to increase the minimum wage to €920 per month from April 2026. This marks the sixth wage increase in recent years. The move aims to support workers facing rising living costs, inflation, and fuel price pressures while strengthening Greece’s economic recovery and improving income levels.
When will the new minimum wage in Greece take effect?
The new minimum wage in Greece is expected to take effect from April 2026. The government announced this increase as part of its ongoing efforts to improve workers’ purchasing power and support economic growth as the country continues to recover from past financial challenges.
Why is Greece increasing the minimum wage?
Greece is raising the minimum wage to help workers manage rising fuel prices, inflation, and higher living expenses. The government also aims to support economic recovery, improve household income, and attract more workers to sectors currently facing labour shortages.
How will the wage increase impact foreign workers in Greece?
Foreign workers in Greece may benefit from higher starting salaries and improved financial stability. The wage increase could also encourage employers to hire more international workers, especially in industries such as tourism, hospitality, agriculture, and construction where labour demand remains high.
Which sectors in Greece hire foreign workers the most?
Foreign workers are mainly hired in sectors such as tourism, hospitality, agriculture, construction, and seasonal services. These industries often rely on migrant workers due to labour shortages, and higher wages may further increase job opportunities for foreign applicants.
Is Greece facing labour shortages?
Yes, Greece is currently facing labour shortages in several industries, particularly in tourism, agriculture, construction, and hospitality. The wage increase is expected to help attract more workers, including foreign nationals, to fill these roles and support economic growth.
Will Greece increase minimum wages again in the future?
Greece has announced plans to gradually increase the minimum wage further, with a target of around €950 by 2027. This long-term approach aims to improve living standards, boost consumer spending, and support workers across different sectors.
Can foreign workers apply for jobs in Greece after the wage increase?
Yes, foreign workers can apply for jobs in Greece through work visa and employer-sponsored opportunities. With higher wages and labour shortages, Greece may become more attractive for international workers looking for employment in Europe.
How does Greece’s minimum wage compare to other European countries?
Greece’s minimum wage is still lower than many Western European countries, but recent increases are making it more competitive. The rising wages, combined with job opportunities and growing sectors, may attract more foreign workers to Greece.
Is Greece a good destination for foreign workers in 2026?
With increasing wages, labour shortages, and economic recovery, Greece is becoming a more attractive destination for foreign workers. Job opportunities across tourism, agriculture, and construction sectors continue to grow, making Greece a potential option for international job seekers.
Australia Introduces Faster Visa Processing for Students and Workers. Apply Now!
Highlights: Australia to Accelerate Visa Processing Time for Foreign Skilled Workers and Students
- Australia has launched a new immigration system to reduce visa processing time for international students and skilled workers, effective from March 25, 2026.
- The new visa processing system in Australia aims to accelerate visa approval through automation.
- The upgraded system will benefit international students, skilled workers, and tourists by minimising review time for high-demand visa categories.
- Applicants for any Australian visa will be able to track their application progress in real time through new digital tools.
- The new changes will also include fast-track pathways for skilled workers and international students.
*Want to apply for an Australia visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
Australia Introduces New Visa System for Faster Approval
The Department of Home Affairs has launched a new automated visa system to reduce processing times for student and Australia work visas. The upgraded immigration system, effective from March 25, 2026, automates the review process for faster decisions.
Applicants can track the status of their visa processing in real time through new digital tools. A priority processing channel will be used in Australia for fast-tracking urgent visa applications while maintaining verification accuracy.
Australia’s updated visa processing system relies more on digital tools and technology to speed approvals. Manual checking procedures have been moved online to help immigration officers in the country and streamline immigration.
Automation and digital verification of visa applications will directly affect the timelines for tourist, student, and work visas in Australia. The revised system aims to support international mobility, enabling foreign nationals to plan travel and course of action.
Also, read...
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Australia visa processing time for Indians (Updated)
The current visa processing time for different types of Australia visas is as follows:
| Visa Type | Latest Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Australia Skilled Permanent Visa | Approximately 11 months (median) |
| Australia Partner Visa (Provisional / Temporary) | Around 17 months |
| Temporary Skilled Visa (Subclass 482) | About 113 days |
| Australia Student Visa | Around 29 days |
| Australia Visitor Visa | Less than 24 hours |
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Factors affecting the Australia visa processing time from India
While the automated visa system will be effective from March 2026, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has identified potential reasons for delays in visa processing from India.
The factors affecting Australia visa processing time for Indians are as follows:
- Submission of documents adhering to the checklist.
- Respond to the applicant via email to request further information for verification.
- Average time required for health, character, and national security checks.
- Complexity of visa application.
- Latest updates in government migration policy and ministerial directions.
- Volume of visa applications at a particular time.
- Availability of places within the annual migration programme.
Are you looking for a step-by-step with Australian Immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 abroad immigration consultancy, for end-to-end support!
For more updates on Australia, check out Y-Axis Australia Immigration Updates!
Canada Extends LMIA-Exempt Work Permit Pilot for High-Skilled Workers. Check Your Eligibility Now!
Highlights: Canada to boost LMIA-exempted Work Permit Pathway for Innovation Stream
- Canada has recently announced an LMIA-exempt work permit extension for highly skilled workers from the innovation stream.
- The Innovation stream granting employer-specific work permits to skilled professionals has been extended for two more years until March 22, 2028.
- Applicants under the Innovation stream will be eligible for a simplified work permit that does not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMI).
- International workers must have a valid job offer in a high-skilled occupation (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) or under an employer enrolled in the Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP) to apply for the permit.
- LMIA-exempt Innovation stream work permit holders are eligible to sponsor their spouses for a spousal open work permit in Canada.
*Want to apply for a Canada work visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
Canada Extends Innovation Stream work permit for Global Talents
Canada has officially announced a two-year extension of the Innovation stream for highly skilled workers. Under the Innovation category, foreign nationals with high qualifications can obtain a work permit through a simplified pathway that does not require Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA).
Foreign skilled workers must secure a job offer from a Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP)- enlisted company to be eligible to apply for a LMIA-exempt work permit. Professionals from high-skilled, high-skill-based occupational fields under the TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 of the NOC System are also considered for the Innovation stream.
The latest policy changes state that LMIA-exempted work permit holders in Canada are eligible to support their spouse for a Canadian spousal open work permit.
According to official updates, Canada’s Innovation Stream will continue to operate until March 22, 2028.
Also, read...
IRCC speeds up Canada Work Visas and Tourist Visas for Indians. Check your eligibility for Canada!
Who can qualify LMIA-exempted Innovation stream permit?
The eligibility criteria for the LMIA-exempt work permit under the Innovation stream are as follows:
Foreign nationals can also qualify for the Innovation stream with a job offer under the Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities (TEER) category 0, 1, 2, or 3 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) System.
Additionally, overseas skilled workers applying for Canada’s LMIA-exempt work permit must meet the education and experience criteria listed for NOC-approved occupations.
Applicants must secure a valid job offer from an employer participating in the Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP) to apply for an Innovation stream work permit.
The following companies are currently participating in the GHP initiative:
- Ada Support Inc.
- AlayaCare.
- CellCarta.
- Clarius Mobile Health.
- Clio.
- Duchesnay Pharmaceutical Group (DPG).
- Lightspeed Commerce.
- Vive Crop Protection.
Note: Extension of the Canadian Innovation Pilot is part of the government’s strategy to attract highly-skilled professionals across the world for workforce expansion.
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canada immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world's No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy.
For recent Canadian immigration updates, check out the Y-Axis Canada Immigration News Page.