New Delhi: India and Pakistan Wednesday agreed to liberalise business visa regime to facilitate bilateral trade and investment.
"The issue of multiple entry visa was discussed and the decision is expected soon," Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma said addressing a press conference after meeting his Pakistani counterpart Makhdoom Muhammad Amin Fahim.
The new business visa regime would allow multiple entry and could be for a period up to one year, Sharma said.
According to a joint statement issued after the meeting, the two countries have agreed to conclude issue of liberalising business visas by this year.
The ministers expressed hope that a liberal visa regime would rapidly expand and strengthen bilateral economic and business relation.
"A more secure regional environment would progressively help both countries to keep liberalising the visa arrangements for business people," the joint statement said.
The business communities of both the countries have been demanding liberalisation of visa regime and the move is likely to give a big relief to them.
"More business visas should be stamped to facilitate stronger trade ties between the two countries," DHL Express' vice president (South Asia) Ramesh Natarajan had said during the business meeting Tuesday in Mumbai.
Short-term visas to clear way for business visitors
(CNS): The five day instant visa for people visiting Cayman on business, first mooted by the premier last year, could become law by November 2011. The Immigration Review Team has suggested that a short term visa lasting one to five days for business visitors could be paid for at the airport and would not require a police clearance certificate. The business visitor would simply need a letter from a local sponsor and would no longer fall foul of the law that requires people coming to the island on business to acquire a work permit, even when they are here on a business trip lasting just a few days.
The premier has persistently complained that business visitors are not well treated when they arrive at the airport here and are questioned about permits. He said he wanted to improve the system for potential investors to enable them to receive a warmer welcome and get a better impression when visiting the Cayman Islands on a business trip.
The introduction of the new visa is expected to be one of a number of impending changes to the immigration law (which is expected to be presented to the Legislative Assembly in November) that the premier hopes will create a more business friendly approach.
The final initiative currently being worked on by the IRT is the removal of the requirement for a child or grandchild of a Caymanian living abroad to be a legal resident before applying for Caymanian status.
“At the moment you cannot apply for status unless you become legally resident on the Island. But the only way to become legally resident is to have a work permit. That has created real problems because people who have lived away and want to come back have found themselves in a catch 22 situation where employers are saying they won’t give them a work permit because they don’t want to hire a work permit holder, and that they should come back only when you have Caymanian Status.
"There is a backlog of applications which cannot be dealt with because the individuals are not legally resident here. So we are removing the requirement of legal residence from that section of the law,” Bodden-Cowen explained.
The IRT is currently working on a paper to Cabinet and hopes the bill will be on time to be read for the November session of the House.
The premier has persistently complained that business visitors are not well treated when they arrive at the airport here and are questioned about permits. He said he wanted to improve the system for potential investors to enable them to receive a warmer welcome and get a better impression when visiting the Cayman Islands on a business trip.
The introduction of the new visa is expected to be one of a number of impending changes to the immigration law (which is expected to be presented to the Legislative Assembly in November) that the premier hopes will create a more business friendly approach.
The final initiative currently being worked on by the IRT is the removal of the requirement for a child or grandchild of a Caymanian living abroad to be a legal resident before applying for Caymanian status.
“At the moment you cannot apply for status unless you become legally resident on the Island. But the only way to become legally resident is to have a work permit. That has created real problems because people who have lived away and want to come back have found themselves in a catch 22 situation where employers are saying they won’t give them a work permit because they don’t want to hire a work permit holder, and that they should come back only when you have Caymanian Status.
"There is a backlog of applications which cannot be dealt with because the individuals are not legally resident here. So we are removing the requirement of legal residence from that section of the law,” Bodden-Cowen explained.
The IRT is currently working on a paper to Cabinet and hopes the bill will be on time to be read for the November session of the House.
USCIS Announces FY 2011 Grant Recipients During Constitution Week
WASHINGTON - U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced the award of $9 million in grants to expand citizenship preparation programs for permanent residents. Forty-two organizations from 27 states and the District of Columbia will receive funding.
The agency’s Citizenship and Integration Grant Program has assisted more than 19,000 permanent residents since its launch in October 2009.
“This important announcement embodies USCIS’s ongoing commitment to promote civic integration and citizenship among eligible permanent residents,” said USCIS Director Alejandro Mayorkas. “Recognizing the demand for high-quality citizenship preparation programs, this funding will provide greatly needed services to approximately 20,000 permanent residents striving to become U.S. citizens.”
Awards were granted through three competitive funding opportunities. The first provides funding for local citizenship instruction to prepare permanent residents for the civics and English (reading, writing and speaking) components of the naturalization test. The second supports citizenship instruction and naturalization application services within the scope of the authorized practice of immigration law. The third increases the capacity of members or affiliates of national organizations to provide citizenship preparation services in communities across the country.
The Citizenship and Integration Grant Program is part of a multifaceted effort to provide citizenship preparation resources, support, and information to immigrants and immigrant-serving organizations. USCIS complements this program with its Citizenship Resource Center, a Web-based portal that centralizes resources for immigrants, educators and organizations, and the Citizenship Public Education and Awareness Initiative, which was launched in May 2011.
This year’s announcement is part of USCIS’s celebration of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, celebrated every Sept. 17 in honor of the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. In 1952, President Harry Truman signed a bill formalizing the celebration of Citizenship Day. In 2004, Congress established Sept. 17 as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day.
For additional information on the Citizenship and Integration Grant Program, please visit www.uscis.gov/grants.
The agency’s Citizenship and Integration Grant Program has assisted more than 19,000 permanent residents since its launch in October 2009.
“This important announcement embodies USCIS’s ongoing commitment to promote civic integration and citizenship among eligible permanent residents,” said USCIS Director Alejandro Mayorkas. “Recognizing the demand for high-quality citizenship preparation programs, this funding will provide greatly needed services to approximately 20,000 permanent residents striving to become U.S. citizens.”
Awards were granted through three competitive funding opportunities. The first provides funding for local citizenship instruction to prepare permanent residents for the civics and English (reading, writing and speaking) components of the naturalization test. The second supports citizenship instruction and naturalization application services within the scope of the authorized practice of immigration law. The third increases the capacity of members or affiliates of national organizations to provide citizenship preparation services in communities across the country.
The Citizenship and Integration Grant Program is part of a multifaceted effort to provide citizenship preparation resources, support, and information to immigrants and immigrant-serving organizations. USCIS complements this program with its Citizenship Resource Center, a Web-based portal that centralizes resources for immigrants, educators and organizations, and the Citizenship Public Education and Awareness Initiative, which was launched in May 2011.
This year’s announcement is part of USCIS’s celebration of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, celebrated every Sept. 17 in honor of the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. In 1952, President Harry Truman signed a bill formalizing the celebration of Citizenship Day. In 2004, Congress established Sept. 17 as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day.
For additional information on the Citizenship and Integration Grant Program, please visit www.uscis.gov/grants.
Canada ranked one of best countries in the world for women
A recent compilation of rankings by the U.S. website Newsweek found Canada to be the third-best country in the world to be a woman.Canada ranks behind Iceland and Sweden which placed first and second respectively. Canada was also the only non-European country in the top seven.
Countries were graded on five factors and used a scale of one to ten. The five factors include justice, such as protecting women from violent crimes, health, education levels for women, economics including women’s work pay, and politics, which includes the number of women in government positions.
Canada earned an overall score of 96.6 out of 100. Out of the specific categories, Canada earned 100 points for justice, 92.7 for health, 92 for education, 91 for economics, and 66.9 on politics.
Countries were graded on five factors and used a scale of one to ten. The five factors include justice, such as protecting women from violent crimes, health, education levels for women, economics including women’s work pay, and politics, which includes the number of women in government positions.
Canada earned an overall score of 96.6 out of 100. Out of the specific categories, Canada earned 100 points for justice, 92.7 for health, 92 for education, 91 for economics, and 66.9 on politics.
USCIS to Welcome More Than 27,000 New Citizens
USCIS to Welcome More Than 27,000 New Citizens During Annual Constitution Day and Citizenship Day Celebration
Note: The Sept. 23 special naturalization ceremony originally scheduled to take place at the Washington Monument has been moved to the Department of the Interior's Sidney R. Yates Auditorium due to inclement weather.
WASHINGTON - In recognition of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day on Sept. 17, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will welcome more than 27,000 new American citizens during 285 naturalization ceremonies held across the country and around the world during the week of Sept. 15. As part of this celebration, USCIS is again partnering with the National Park Service (NPS) to hold naturalization ceremonies at 14 national park sites across the country.
"Each year on Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, we commemorate the signing of the U.S. Constitution and what it means to be a citizen of this great nation," said USCIS Director Alejandro Mayorkas. "We continue to be enriched by our diversity and united by our shared respect for the foundational rights and responsibilities enshrined in the Constitution."
To introduce our newest citizens to the natural wonders and treasured historic sites across our great country, USCIS and NPS have partnered again this year to hold naturalization ceremonies at NPS sites across the country.
The capstone ceremony will take place on Sept. 23 at the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. In addition, this year’s celebration includes a ceremony at Federal Hall in New York City, where George Washington took his oath of office as the first President of the United States, and at Yosemite National Park in California, one of America’s first wilderness parks. Other national park ceremonies will include Fort Vancouver National Historic Site in Washington state, the Roger Williams National Memorial in Providence, R.I., and Point Reyes National Seashore in California.
"I can't think of places more appropriate to welcome our newest citizens than national parks," said NPS Director Jonathan Jarvis. "National parks preserve significant natural resources and cultural heritage sites, and are places where one can learn about and reflect on the American identity and the responsibilities of citizenship."
USCIS will also host ceremonies at Golden Hall in San Diego, the National Archives in Atlanta and Boston, and the Campbell Heritage Theater in California, in addition to a military naturalization ceremony on the USS North Carolina in Wilmington, N.C.
To view a list of special 2011 Constitution Day and Citizenship Day naturalization ceremonies, please visit www.uscis.gov/news. For more information on USCIS and its programs, please visit www.uscis.gov or follow us on Twitter (@uscis), YouTube (/uscis) and the USCIS blog The Beacon.
Note: The Sept. 23 special naturalization ceremony originally scheduled to take place at the Washington Monument has been moved to the Department of the Interior's Sidney R. Yates Auditorium due to inclement weather.
WASHINGTON - In recognition of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day on Sept. 17, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will welcome more than 27,000 new American citizens during 285 naturalization ceremonies held across the country and around the world during the week of Sept. 15. As part of this celebration, USCIS is again partnering with the National Park Service (NPS) to hold naturalization ceremonies at 14 national park sites across the country.
"Each year on Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, we commemorate the signing of the U.S. Constitution and what it means to be a citizen of this great nation," said USCIS Director Alejandro Mayorkas. "We continue to be enriched by our diversity and united by our shared respect for the foundational rights and responsibilities enshrined in the Constitution."
To introduce our newest citizens to the natural wonders and treasured historic sites across our great country, USCIS and NPS have partnered again this year to hold naturalization ceremonies at NPS sites across the country.
The capstone ceremony will take place on Sept. 23 at the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. In addition, this year’s celebration includes a ceremony at Federal Hall in New York City, where George Washington took his oath of office as the first President of the United States, and at Yosemite National Park in California, one of America’s first wilderness parks. Other national park ceremonies will include Fort Vancouver National Historic Site in Washington state, the Roger Williams National Memorial in Providence, R.I., and Point Reyes National Seashore in California.
"I can't think of places more appropriate to welcome our newest citizens than national parks," said NPS Director Jonathan Jarvis. "National parks preserve significant natural resources and cultural heritage sites, and are places where one can learn about and reflect on the American identity and the responsibilities of citizenship."
USCIS will also host ceremonies at Golden Hall in San Diego, the National Archives in Atlanta and Boston, and the Campbell Heritage Theater in California, in addition to a military naturalization ceremony on the USS North Carolina in Wilmington, N.C.
To view a list of special 2011 Constitution Day and Citizenship Day naturalization ceremonies, please visit www.uscis.gov/news. For more information on USCIS and its programs, please visit www.uscis.gov or follow us on Twitter (@uscis), YouTube (/uscis) and the USCIS blog The Beacon.
Malaysia ready to extend 'visa on arrival' to Indians
Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia Tuesday said it was open to the idea of extending "visa on arrival" facility to Indians but it could be done only if the tourists leave the country on the expiry of their visa and not stay on illegally.
Acknowledging that a large number of Indians visit Malaysia as tourists, Prime Minister Najib Razak said the facility of visa on arrival could be considered but the authorities were not able to take this step due to the large number of "overstayers" who continued to be in the country despite the expiry of the visa.
Few years ago, Malaysia had extended the visa on arrival facility to Indians but scrapped it after hundreds of Indian tourists stayed back and started working illegally at restaurants and other places without any work visa.
"We don't know what happened to the overstayers...," Najib told a group of visiting Indian journalists. He felt that if the problem of overstayers was not there, Malaysia was "open to the idea of extending visa on arrival." "Indians like Malaysia very much," he quipped referring to the overstayers. He admitted that there was a huge demand for Indian labour and also a constant demand for priests, barbers and cooks from India. "Our priests apparently are not good in Sanskrit and that is why priests from India are needed to conduct prayers," he added.
Acknowledging that a large number of Indians visit Malaysia as tourists, Prime Minister Najib Razak said the facility of visa on arrival could be considered but the authorities were not able to take this step due to the large number of "overstayers" who continued to be in the country despite the expiry of the visa.
Few years ago, Malaysia had extended the visa on arrival facility to Indians but scrapped it after hundreds of Indian tourists stayed back and started working illegally at restaurants and other places without any work visa.
"We don't know what happened to the overstayers...," Najib told a group of visiting Indian journalists. He felt that if the problem of overstayers was not there, Malaysia was "open to the idea of extending visa on arrival." "Indians like Malaysia very much," he quipped referring to the overstayers. He admitted that there was a huge demand for Indian labour and also a constant demand for priests, barbers and cooks from India. "Our priests apparently are not good in Sanskrit and that is why priests from India are needed to conduct prayers," he added.
E-gates at Dubai airport to clear immigration in 14 sec
Dubai: Passengers at Dubai airport will soon be spared of time-consuming immigration clearance procedures as 'smart electronic gates', which will solve the purpose in just 14 seconds, are being set up, according to authorities who expect around 90 million visitors here in next two years.
The smart e-gate, expected to come up by next year, will have a passport reader, which will instantly check from the existing data base whether the entry of a passenger is legal. Besides, a pre-installed camera will verify the passenger's identity by matching his image against the photograph on the passport. The new e-gate will also have an advanced automated facility to capture iris scans, to ensure that individuals who have already been blacklisted are unable to enter the country. "The e-gate will enable a passenger to clear immigration in 14 seconds flat," said Khalid Nasser Al Razooqi, the Director General of the immigration department's e-services sector. "We hope to provide the smart e-gate service by next year," Razooqi said.
With 90 million visitors expected here in the next two years after the completion of a dedicated terminal for the giant A380 aircraft, Dubai immigration authorities have taken up various hi-tech measures to manage the heavy influx of passengers. The immigration department has established an integrated interface with the departments of labour, health and police to improve the efficiency of issuing and renewing visas. Under the initiative called 'Amer' Service, kiosks have been established in seven Dubai locations, which provide a variety of services. "The kiosk is like an ATM machine where people can quickly attend to their task without having to join long queues," an official said. These kiosks can electronically respond to enquiries regarding residence and visit visas. If the necessary legal requirements are fulfilled, the machine can instantaneously print the required visa.
The smart e-gate, expected to come up by next year, will have a passport reader, which will instantly check from the existing data base whether the entry of a passenger is legal. Besides, a pre-installed camera will verify the passenger's identity by matching his image against the photograph on the passport. The new e-gate will also have an advanced automated facility to capture iris scans, to ensure that individuals who have already been blacklisted are unable to enter the country. "The e-gate will enable a passenger to clear immigration in 14 seconds flat," said Khalid Nasser Al Razooqi, the Director General of the immigration department's e-services sector. "We hope to provide the smart e-gate service by next year," Razooqi said.
With 90 million visitors expected here in the next two years after the completion of a dedicated terminal for the giant A380 aircraft, Dubai immigration authorities have taken up various hi-tech measures to manage the heavy influx of passengers. The immigration department has established an integrated interface with the departments of labour, health and police to improve the efficiency of issuing and renewing visas. Under the initiative called 'Amer' Service, kiosks have been established in seven Dubai locations, which provide a variety of services. "The kiosk is like an ATM machine where people can quickly attend to their task without having to join long queues," an official said. These kiosks can electronically respond to enquiries regarding residence and visit visas. If the necessary legal requirements are fulfilled, the machine can instantaneously print the required visa.
Careers to Watch in 2012
Even after Obama's promise of jobs, people are still wary of whether or not the unemployment rate will decrease in 2012. The job market has been tough for years now, and many are starting to become disillusioned – believing that things won't turn around regardless of who is in the White House.
However, in spite of all the negativity, there are a few industries that are expected to grow in the upcoming year, and they are expected to create thousands of new positions. A few of these industries include:
Healthcare
Because of the aging baby-boomers, hospitals are increasing their staff to accommodate them.Physical therapy, medical coding and billing, and nursing are all expected to open more positions in the future. While that doesn't mean everyone with a degree with obtain the position they wish, it does mean that they have a greater likelihood at getting a job than their liberal arts counterparts.
Management
Lower end positions are becoming more and more automated or outsourced which is reducing the need for many “blue collar” positions, but managers are still needed. A robot can't manage a robot. Those with managerial experience or degrees in Business Administration will be prime candidates for these types of positions.
Accounting
The worsening state of the economy has actually made accountants and personal finance officers in high demand. Individuals and companies alike are looking for good professionals to keep their books in order, and to make sure that retirement is right on track.
Information Technology
There is no doubt that computers are the way of the future, and as we become more connected through technology the need to IT positions will only continue to grow. Expect positions within IT such as project managers, network developers, and web developers, to increase in the upcoming year.
Animal Healthcare
Animal care is one of the only recession proof industries left in the US. Even when the economy is bad, people will still purchase their dog some clothes, buy special cat toys, and take their pet to the vet whenever necessary. In the following year, the need to vets and veterinarian technicians is expected to grow as the growing population of humans will only mean a growing population of pets.
Finding a job can be a little difficult in this market. However, finding a job in this market that you love can seem nearly impossible. Take note of your talents and interests, and make sure to obtain the education necessary for any field you wish so that you are able to stand out amongst other job applicants.
However, in spite of all the negativity, there are a few industries that are expected to grow in the upcoming year, and they are expected to create thousands of new positions. A few of these industries include:
Healthcare
Because of the aging baby-boomers, hospitals are increasing their staff to accommodate them.Physical therapy, medical coding and billing, and nursing are all expected to open more positions in the future. While that doesn't mean everyone with a degree with obtain the position they wish, it does mean that they have a greater likelihood at getting a job than their liberal arts counterparts.
Management
Lower end positions are becoming more and more automated or outsourced which is reducing the need for many “blue collar” positions, but managers are still needed. A robot can't manage a robot. Those with managerial experience or degrees in Business Administration will be prime candidates for these types of positions.
Accounting
The worsening state of the economy has actually made accountants and personal finance officers in high demand. Individuals and companies alike are looking for good professionals to keep their books in order, and to make sure that retirement is right on track.
Information Technology
There is no doubt that computers are the way of the future, and as we become more connected through technology the need to IT positions will only continue to grow. Expect positions within IT such as project managers, network developers, and web developers, to increase in the upcoming year.
Animal Healthcare
Animal care is one of the only recession proof industries left in the US. Even when the economy is bad, people will still purchase their dog some clothes, buy special cat toys, and take their pet to the vet whenever necessary. In the following year, the need to vets and veterinarian technicians is expected to grow as the growing population of humans will only mean a growing population of pets.
Finding a job can be a little difficult in this market. However, finding a job in this market that you love can seem nearly impossible. Take note of your talents and interests, and make sure to obtain the education necessary for any field you wish so that you are able to stand out amongst other job applicants.
An Interview with Joan Camp, 1946 Fulbright Alumnus
The U.S.-UK Fulbright Teacher Exchange Program began in 1924, making it the oldest U.S. exchange program with the UK. Since the program's inception, it has benefited over 16,000 American and British teachers. Joan Camp, was one of the first Fulbright teachers, she taught for one year in the U.S. and made this professional exchange her life's work. Watch Joan reminisce about her valuable teaching experience in 1946 and take a look back in time.
Kuwait Visa-to-work-permit system to be reintroduced
KUWAIT: Kuwait will once again allow expatriates to obtain a work permit through transferring their commercial visa by the beginning of next year, after the current system was suspended at the start of this month in order to introduce amendments to impose stricter immigration criteria.
Work is currently underway to introduce new controls and conditions for obtaining commercial visas which can prevent violations in the process of turning visas into work permits, before the procedure is allowed again by January 1, 2012", said a senior Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor (MSAL) official.
Although one of the conditions for obtaining commercial visas is that all applicants must have a university degree, the insider believes that this is inadequate without any verifiable proof of this qualification.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, the MSAL official said, "A lot of cases were discovered of people without any academic qualifications being able to obtain commercial visas and then turn them into work permits," he claimed.
The MSAL based its decision to change the old system followed concerns that the continued immigration of unskilled expatriate workers could negatively affect Kuwait's demographic composition. The move was taken as part of the ministry's efforts to reduce the number of unskilled expatriate workers in order to restructure the Gulf state's population figures, with this group currently forming an overall majority of the population.
Work is currently underway to introduce new controls and conditions for obtaining commercial visas which can prevent violations in the process of turning visas into work permits, before the procedure is allowed again by January 1, 2012", said a senior Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor (MSAL) official.
Although one of the conditions for obtaining commercial visas is that all applicants must have a university degree, the insider believes that this is inadequate without any verifiable proof of this qualification.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, the MSAL official said, "A lot of cases were discovered of people without any academic qualifications being able to obtain commercial visas and then turn them into work permits," he claimed.
The MSAL based its decision to change the old system followed concerns that the continued immigration of unskilled expatriate workers could negatively affect Kuwait's demographic composition. The move was taken as part of the ministry's efforts to reduce the number of unskilled expatriate workers in order to restructure the Gulf state's population figures, with this group currently forming an overall majority of the population.
Kuwait to streamline process of visa issuance
Dubai, Sep 19 (PTI) Kuwait plans to streamline the process of visa issuance to allow expatriates to obtain work permit through transferring their commercial visa, an official said.
"Work is currently underway to introduce new controls and conditions for obtaining commercial visas which can prevent violations in the process of turning visas into work permits," an official of Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour (MSAL) said.
The system was suspended earlier to introduce amendments that will impose stricter immigration criteria.
"The revamped procedure is expected to be allowed again by January 1, 2012," he was quoted as saying by Kuwait Times daily.
The condition that the applicant for a commercial visa must hold a university degree was inadequate without any verifiable proof of the qualification, according to the official.
"A lot of cases were discovered of people without any academic qualifications being able to obtain commercial visas and then turning them into work permits," he said.
The MSAL had changed the old system following concerns that the continued immigration of unskilled expatriate workers could negatively affect Kuwait''s demographic composition.
The move is part of the ministry''s efforts to reduce the number of unskilled foreign workers in order to restructure the Gulf state''s population figures.
Kuwait is home to a total population of 3.3 million, including 2.2 million foreigners, mainly from Asia. The group of unskilled labourers currently forms the overwhelming majority of the population.
"Work is currently underway to introduce new controls and conditions for obtaining commercial visas which can prevent violations in the process of turning visas into work permits," an official of Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour (MSAL) said.
The system was suspended earlier to introduce amendments that will impose stricter immigration criteria.
"The revamped procedure is expected to be allowed again by January 1, 2012," he was quoted as saying by Kuwait Times daily.
The condition that the applicant for a commercial visa must hold a university degree was inadequate without any verifiable proof of the qualification, according to the official.
"A lot of cases were discovered of people without any academic qualifications being able to obtain commercial visas and then turning them into work permits," he said.
The MSAL had changed the old system following concerns that the continued immigration of unskilled expatriate workers could negatively affect Kuwait''s demographic composition.
The move is part of the ministry''s efforts to reduce the number of unskilled foreign workers in order to restructure the Gulf state''s population figures.
Kuwait is home to a total population of 3.3 million, including 2.2 million foreigners, mainly from Asia. The group of unskilled labourers currently forms the overwhelming majority of the population.
Career Opportunities at Cisco
Cisco believes the most important change to the network experience is upon them. They see a future where the network is the platform. A network that is no longer used just for transactions, but for real-time collaboration to deliver the experience anytime and anywhere. They would not only change the way the world works, lives, plays and learns – they would change life experiences.
Cisco is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.
Cisco is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.
Cops ask for nod to register all immigration firms
Chandigarh (India): At a time when immigration firms in the region have come under the scanner for allegedly cheating hundreds of people, the Chandigarh police has decided to write to the Deputy Commissioner, Chandigarh, requesting him to authorise them to register all immigration firms in the city.
Police records indicate that there are nearly 6,000 immigration companies operating in the region.
A senior police officer of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), probing the immigration racket, said, “After the surfacing of the immigration frauds, it is now important that we keep a tab on all the immigration firms.”
He said that they decided to take this measure to bring in more transparency and accountability. “If we are allowed to register these companies, no one will be in a position to cheat any resident,” he said.
The SIT is investigating eight cases of immigration fraud against Sector 42-based Healthyway Immigration. About 26 cases of immigration frauds are also being investigated against other immigration firms.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Chandigarh Naunihal Singh said that they will be writing to the Deputy Commissioner, Chandigarh and requesting him to authorize them to register all these immigration companies under sector 144 CrPc.
“During the investigation of the immigration racket, the SIT found many loopholes and we are trying to plug them all,” he said.
Police records indicate that there are nearly 6,000 immigration companies operating in the region.
A senior police officer of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), probing the immigration racket, said, “After the surfacing of the immigration frauds, it is now important that we keep a tab on all the immigration firms.”
He said that they decided to take this measure to bring in more transparency and accountability. “If we are allowed to register these companies, no one will be in a position to cheat any resident,” he said.
The SIT is investigating eight cases of immigration fraud against Sector 42-based Healthyway Immigration. About 26 cases of immigration frauds are also being investigated against other immigration firms.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Chandigarh Naunihal Singh said that they will be writing to the Deputy Commissioner, Chandigarh and requesting him to authorize them to register all these immigration companies under sector 144 CrPc.
“During the investigation of the immigration racket, the SIT found many loopholes and we are trying to plug them all,” he said.
Improvements made for Latin American travellers to Canada
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is expanding its visa application centre network around the world to make visa application processes more efficient. Last month, nine visa application centres were opened in various countries around Latin America, including Santiago, Chile. Eight more offices are set to open this month. After these openings, there will be visa application centres in 35 countries.
“Service improvements are key to making the system for processing visas more effective and responsive to the needs of travellers,” said Minister Ablonczy, speaking on behalf of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney. “The outcome is a better use of resources, which will benefit both travellers to Canada and Canadians alike.”
Visa application centres provide travellers administrative support by phone, email, or in person. Client service agents at these centers are available to verifty if visa applications are complete.
“VACs are an example of our government’s commitment to improving service to applicants and processing efficiency,” added Minister Ablonczy. “By facilitating the process and making it easier to travel, we make Canada a preferred destination for visitors and business travellers alike.”
For a complete list of the visa application centres, please visit the CIC website.
“Service improvements are key to making the system for processing visas more effective and responsive to the needs of travellers,” said Minister Ablonczy, speaking on behalf of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney. “The outcome is a better use of resources, which will benefit both travellers to Canada and Canadians alike.”
Visa application centres provide travellers administrative support by phone, email, or in person. Client service agents at these centers are available to verifty if visa applications are complete.
“VACs are an example of our government’s commitment to improving service to applicants and processing efficiency,” added Minister Ablonczy. “By facilitating the process and making it easier to travel, we make Canada a preferred destination for visitors and business travellers alike.”
For a complete list of the visa application centres, please visit the CIC website.
The Road to 2012: Nastia Liukin
Gold medal winning American gymnast Nastia Liukin visited London in September 2011. Here she is, talking to our Deputy Ambassador Barbara Stephenson about her sporting-life, London 2012 and what it takes to reach the top.
USCIS Publishes CNMI Transitional Worker Final Rule
WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published a final rule in today’s Federal Register that establishes a Transitional Worker (CW) classification for workers in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). The CW classification allows employers in the CNMI to hire nonimmigrant workers who are otherwise ineligible to work.
A foreign worker may be eligible for CW status if he or she is:
The CW visa classification is valid only in the CNMI and provides no basis for travel or work in any other part of the United States, except for nationals of the Philippines who may travel between the Philippines and the CNMI through the Guam airport. The final rule also provides for the grant of derivative CW status to spouses and minor children of CW workers.
USCIS is the agency within the Department of Homeland Security responsible for immigration benefits. For more information and announcements on immigration benefits specific to the CNMI, please visit the agency’s CNMI Web page at www.uscis.gov/cnmi. For more information on USCIS and its programs, please visit www.uscis.gov or follow us on Twitter (@uscis)
, YouTube (/uscis) and the USCIS blog The Beacon.
A foreign worker may be eligible for CW status if he or she is:
- Ineligible for a nonimmigrant or immigrant classification under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA);
- Entering or staying in the CNMI to work as a needed foreign national worker to supplement the resident workforce;
- The beneficiary of a petition filed by a legitimate employer who is doing business in the CNMI;
- Not present in the United States, other than the CNMI;
- Lawfully present in the CNMI or, if not present, intending to enter the CNMI with a visa; and
- Admissible to the United States or is granted any necessary waiver of a ground of inadmissibility.
- Is conducting a legitimate business, as defined in the final rule;
- Has considered all available U.S. workers for the position;
- Offers terms and conditions of employment consistent with the nature of the employer’s business in the CNMI;
- Is complying with federal and CNMI employment requirements;
- Files a Form I-129CW, Petition for CNMI-Only Nonimmigrant Transitional Worker, and a CW-1 Classification Supplement with USCIS; and
- Submits the appropriate filing fees.
- A $325 fee for the Form I-129CW;
- A mandatory CNMI education funding fee of $150 per beneficiary per year; and
- A biometric fee of $85 if the worker is located in the CNMI.
The CW visa classification is valid only in the CNMI and provides no basis for travel or work in any other part of the United States, except for nationals of the Philippines who may travel between the Philippines and the CNMI through the Guam airport. The final rule also provides for the grant of derivative CW status to spouses and minor children of CW workers.
USCIS is the agency within the Department of Homeland Security responsible for immigration benefits. For more information and announcements on immigration benefits specific to the CNMI, please visit the agency’s CNMI Web page at www.uscis.gov/cnmi. For more information on USCIS and its programs, please visit www.uscis.gov or follow us on Twitter (@uscis)
, YouTube (/uscis) and the USCIS blog The Beacon.
Study finds skilled immigrants highest earners for immigrants in Canada
The study, entitled Immigrant Earnings Differences Across Admission Categories and Landing Cohors in Canada, was conducted by Queen’s University. The study examined the first ten years after immigrants landed in Canada in three different time periods: 1982, 1988, and 1994.
"The ten-year average of median earnings levels of skill-assessed economic immigrants exceeded the average median earnings levels for all immigrants by 30-37 percent across the [three periods studied] for men and by 39-56 percent for women," the study noted.
Refugees and family class immigrants had the lowest earnings of the four immigrant categories. However, refugees had the higest earnings growth rates for both male and female immigrants during the first ten years after arriving in Canada.
Immigrants who landed in Canada during 1998 generally had the lowest earnings growth rate and the highest growth rate was in the 1994 study period.
The study also noted that "since skill-assessed independent economic immigrants had substantially higher earnings levels throughout their first ten post-landing years, Canada should continue to place heavy weight on skill-assessed immigrants and not reduce the proportion of new immigrants admitted in the skilled worker category."
Find out if you qualify for Canadian immigration by completing free immigration assessment.
"The ten-year average of median earnings levels of skill-assessed economic immigrants exceeded the average median earnings levels for all immigrants by 30-37 percent across the [three periods studied] for men and by 39-56 percent for women," the study noted.
Refugees and family class immigrants had the lowest earnings of the four immigrant categories. However, refugees had the higest earnings growth rates for both male and female immigrants during the first ten years after arriving in Canada.
Immigrants who landed in Canada during 1998 generally had the lowest earnings growth rate and the highest growth rate was in the 1994 study period.
The study also noted that "since skill-assessed independent economic immigrants had substantially higher earnings levels throughout their first ten post-landing years, Canada should continue to place heavy weight on skill-assessed immigrants and not reduce the proportion of new immigrants admitted in the skilled worker category."
Find out if you qualify for Canadian immigration by completing free immigration assessment.
Unemployed Americans looking to Canada for jobs
More Americans are knocking on Canada's door for jobs as their economy worsens and unemployment rates rise.
In July, the unemployment rate in the U.S. stood at 9.1 per cent versus 7.3 per cent in Canada.
Numbers from Immigration Canada show that the number of Americans applying for temporary work visas has doubled since 2008 when the global recession hit. In 2010, the ministry received 4,109 applications versus 2,115 in 2008.
On Monday, U.S. President Barack Obama urged Congress to quickly pass a $447-billion jobs bill to stimulate an ailing labour market.
"This is a bill that will put people back to work all across the country.
This is a bill that will help our economy in a moment of national crisis," Obama said.
"This is a bill that Congress needs to pass. No games. No politics. No delays."
The U.S. Census Bureau said the number of Americans living below the poverty line rose to a record 46 million last year, with the national poverty rate climbing for a third consecutive year to 15.1 per cent in 2010.
Americans are the second largest group of temporary workers in Canada, behind Filipinos. As of December 2010, there were 32,615 Americans with permanent residence status in Canada.
Janette Luu, a Toronto-based television journalist from Fort Wayne,
Ind., said she migrated to Canada five years ago to work in a bigger city.
"I came up to Toronto for a visit and sent resume tapes and emailed TV stations and they were receptive, which was impressive because Toronto is pretty big city and when you said I'm an American journalist, they seemed interested or wanted to meet," said Luu.
However, her job hunt wasn't always easy since employers had to prove they could not find any suitable Canadian to do the job before hiring international talent.
Despite living in Canada for five years, Luu was considered "not really Canadian" enough for some employers.
"I may pronounce 'process' as 'prawcess' sometimes, but otherwise, how would viewers know I'm American? Toronto is so diverse and most people are from somewhere else to begin with," said Luu.
Windsor-based immigration lawyer Drew Porter, who has dealt with a lot of employment cases because of the shared Detroit border, said Americans need to obtain an offer of employment before a work permit is issued. Under NAFTA, there are certain occupations, including engineers and accountants, that are exempt from going through a Labour Market Opinion, a prerequisite for foreign nationals to be hired in Canada. These candidates can automatically secure a work permit at the border once they show proof of employment.
However, candidates who don't fall under the NAFTA list of occupations usually hit a wall since they need an offer of employment to get a work visa.
For Luu's American friends who thought about coming to Toronto for work, they say they love the city but the "paperwork was too complicated" since it could be a burden for the employer.
"If you're under NAFTA, it's not a burden for the employer, but for those who fall between the cracks an LMO could be onerous," Porter said.
"Both countries show intent to protect their labour force but with the aging population and certain skill trades in deficit positions . my reading is there is going to be a need for foreign nationals to come to Canada to fill certain voids," said Porter.
In July, the unemployment rate in the U.S. stood at 9.1 per cent versus 7.3 per cent in Canada.
Numbers from Immigration Canada show that the number of Americans applying for temporary work visas has doubled since 2008 when the global recession hit. In 2010, the ministry received 4,109 applications versus 2,115 in 2008.
On Monday, U.S. President Barack Obama urged Congress to quickly pass a $447-billion jobs bill to stimulate an ailing labour market.
"This is a bill that will put people back to work all across the country.
This is a bill that will help our economy in a moment of national crisis," Obama said.
"This is a bill that Congress needs to pass. No games. No politics. No delays."
The U.S. Census Bureau said the number of Americans living below the poverty line rose to a record 46 million last year, with the national poverty rate climbing for a third consecutive year to 15.1 per cent in 2010.
Americans are the second largest group of temporary workers in Canada, behind Filipinos. As of December 2010, there were 32,615 Americans with permanent residence status in Canada.
Janette Luu, a Toronto-based television journalist from Fort Wayne,
Ind., said she migrated to Canada five years ago to work in a bigger city.
"I came up to Toronto for a visit and sent resume tapes and emailed TV stations and they were receptive, which was impressive because Toronto is pretty big city and when you said I'm an American journalist, they seemed interested or wanted to meet," said Luu.
However, her job hunt wasn't always easy since employers had to prove they could not find any suitable Canadian to do the job before hiring international talent.
Despite living in Canada for five years, Luu was considered "not really Canadian" enough for some employers.
"I may pronounce 'process' as 'prawcess' sometimes, but otherwise, how would viewers know I'm American? Toronto is so diverse and most people are from somewhere else to begin with," said Luu.
Windsor-based immigration lawyer Drew Porter, who has dealt with a lot of employment cases because of the shared Detroit border, said Americans need to obtain an offer of employment before a work permit is issued. Under NAFTA, there are certain occupations, including engineers and accountants, that are exempt from going through a Labour Market Opinion, a prerequisite for foreign nationals to be hired in Canada. These candidates can automatically secure a work permit at the border once they show proof of employment.
However, candidates who don't fall under the NAFTA list of occupations usually hit a wall since they need an offer of employment to get a work visa.
For Luu's American friends who thought about coming to Toronto for work, they say they love the city but the "paperwork was too complicated" since it could be a burden for the employer.
"If you're under NAFTA, it's not a burden for the employer, but for those who fall between the cracks an LMO could be onerous," Porter said.
"Both countries show intent to protect their labour force but with the aging population and certain skill trades in deficit positions . my reading is there is going to be a need for foreign nationals to come to Canada to fill certain voids," said Porter.
Kuwait: Dependent visa for In-Laws
Question: I am working for a leading private contracting company as an engineer, my salary is KD1,100/- and have been in Kuwait for 5 years. I would like to bring my mother-in-law (age 65) to Kuwait on a dependent visa. My father-in-law has died, my mother-in-law is not having anybody other than my wife, since she is the only daughter, to look after her. My father-in-law’s death certificate and his dependent certificate duly attested by the Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Justice are with me. Now, I would like to bring my mother-in-law and my wife and son together on dependent visas to Kuwait since she doesn’t have anybody to take care of her. Can I get the dependent visa? - Name withheld
Answer: We can’t say definitely ‘yes or no’ because all such applications are decided on a case by case basis by the head of the Immigration Dept in your area. But considering the circumstances, it is likely that you may be able to get the dependent visa.
Answer: We can’t say definitely ‘yes or no’ because all such applications are decided on a case by case basis by the head of the Immigration Dept in your area. But considering the circumstances, it is likely that you may be able to get the dependent visa.
Kuwait: Visa transfer - University Degree Holder for Commercial Visit Visa
An Arab Times reader asked, "I read an article last month stating that people with a university degree will be exempted from ban on transfer of commercial visit visas to work permits. But now it seems they have banned the transfer completely. I got my commercial visit visa last month. I hold a masters degree in computer science and currently awaiting my police clearance in India. Will the rule be applicable to me?"
Answer: Yes, the transfer rule will also be applicable to you. According to the latest rule, all those — with university degrees — who entered the country on commercial visit visas before September will be allowed to transfer to work permits. As you are still in India, you can use your visa to come to Kuwait but can’t transfer your visit visa to a work permit.
Answer: Yes, the transfer rule will also be applicable to you. According to the latest rule, all those — with university degrees — who entered the country on commercial visit visas before September will be allowed to transfer to work permits. As you are still in India, you can use your visa to come to Kuwait but can’t transfer your visit visa to a work permit.
US Employment Situation Summary - August 2011
Nonfarm payroll employment was unchanged (0) in August, and the unemployment rate held at 9.1 percent, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. Employment in most major industries changed little over the month. Health care continued to add jobs, and a decline in information employment reflected a strike. Government employment continued to trend down, despite the return of workers from a partial government shutdown in Minnesota.
Household Survey Data
The number of unemployed persons, at 14.0 million, was essentially unchanged in August, and the unemployment rate held at 9.1 percent. The rate has shown little change since April.
Among the major worker groups, the unemployment rates for adult men (8.9 percent), adult women (8.0 percent), teenagers (25.4 percent), whites (8.0 percent), blacks (16.7 percent), and Hispanics (11.3 percent) showed little or no change in August. The jobless rate for Asians was 7.1 percent, not seasonally adjusted.
The number of long-term unemployed (those jobless for 27 weeks and over) was about unchanged at 6.0 million in August and accounted for 42.9 percent of the unemployed.
The labor force rose to 153.6 million in August. Both the civilian labor force participation rate, at 64.0 percent, and the employment-population ratio, at 58.2 percent, were little changed.
The number of persons employed part time for economic reasons (sometimes referred to as involuntary part-time workers) rose from 8.4 million to 8.8 million in August. These individuals were working part time because their hours had been cut back or because they were unable to find a full-time job.
About 2.6 million persons were marginally attached to the labor force in August, up from 2.4 million a year earlier. (The data are not seasonally adjusted.) These individuals were not in the labor force, wanted and were available for work, and had looked for a job sometime in the prior 12 months. They were not counted as unemployed because they had not searched for work in the 4 weeks preceding the survey.
Among the marginally attached, there were 977,000 discouraged workers in August, down by 133,000 from a year earlier. (The data are not seasonally adjusted.) Discouraged workers are persons not currently looking for work because they believe no jobs are available for them. The remaining 1.6 million persons marginally attached to the labor force in August had not searched for work in the 4 weeks preceding the survey for reasons such as school attendance or family responsibilities.
Read full report here.
Household Survey Data
The number of unemployed persons, at 14.0 million, was essentially unchanged in August, and the unemployment rate held at 9.1 percent. The rate has shown little change since April.
Among the major worker groups, the unemployment rates for adult men (8.9 percent), adult women (8.0 percent), teenagers (25.4 percent), whites (8.0 percent), blacks (16.7 percent), and Hispanics (11.3 percent) showed little or no change in August. The jobless rate for Asians was 7.1 percent, not seasonally adjusted.
The number of long-term unemployed (those jobless for 27 weeks and over) was about unchanged at 6.0 million in August and accounted for 42.9 percent of the unemployed.
The labor force rose to 153.6 million in August. Both the civilian labor force participation rate, at 64.0 percent, and the employment-population ratio, at 58.2 percent, were little changed.
The number of persons employed part time for economic reasons (sometimes referred to as involuntary part-time workers) rose from 8.4 million to 8.8 million in August. These individuals were working part time because their hours had been cut back or because they were unable to find a full-time job.
About 2.6 million persons were marginally attached to the labor force in August, up from 2.4 million a year earlier. (The data are not seasonally adjusted.) These individuals were not in the labor force, wanted and were available for work, and had looked for a job sometime in the prior 12 months. They were not counted as unemployed because they had not searched for work in the 4 weeks preceding the survey.
Among the marginally attached, there were 977,000 discouraged workers in August, down by 133,000 from a year earlier. (The data are not seasonally adjusted.) Discouraged workers are persons not currently looking for work because they believe no jobs are available for them. The remaining 1.6 million persons marginally attached to the labor force in August had not searched for work in the 4 weeks preceding the survey for reasons such as school attendance or family responsibilities.
Read full report here.
Australia: Enterprise Migration Agreement submission guidelines released
02 Sep 2011
The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) today announced the release of the submission guidelines for Enterprise Migration Agreements (EMA), to assist project owners and prime contractors on eligible resources projects.
The guidelines contain all the necessary information for those who wish to make a submission for an EMA. The agreements are a new migration initiative that will allow major resource projects to gain access to overseas skilled workers for genuine vacancies that cannot be filled from the Australian skilled labour market.
“Now that the submission guidelines have been released, eligible projects will be able to make submissions for access to an EMA,” a departmental spokesman said.
“The agreements are available to resource projects which have been approved by the relevant state or territory government with capital expenditure of more than $2 billion and with a peak workforce of more than 1500 workers.”
The spokesman said the EMA program would ensure that skills shortages do not put constraints on major resource projects and jeopardise Australian jobs.
"Access to overseas skilled workers will ensure the workforce needs of major resource projects are met, realising the economic and employment benefits of the projects,” the spokesman said.
“Overseas workers will only be supplementary, with resources projects required to demonstrate effective and ongoing local recruitment and training efforts.”
The policy settings in the guidelines reflect extensive consultation with relevant industry, unions and government stakeholders.
The department has committed to negotiating the agreements within three months from the time a project owner submits a complete request.
To download a copy of the submission guidelines, visit: www.immi.gov.au/skilled/enterprise-migration-agreements.htm.
For further information or enquiries email: ema@immi.gov.au.
Media Enquiries: National Communications 02 6264 2244
The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) today announced the release of the submission guidelines for Enterprise Migration Agreements (EMA), to assist project owners and prime contractors on eligible resources projects.
The guidelines contain all the necessary information for those who wish to make a submission for an EMA. The agreements are a new migration initiative that will allow major resource projects to gain access to overseas skilled workers for genuine vacancies that cannot be filled from the Australian skilled labour market.
“Now that the submission guidelines have been released, eligible projects will be able to make submissions for access to an EMA,” a departmental spokesman said.
“The agreements are available to resource projects which have been approved by the relevant state or territory government with capital expenditure of more than $2 billion and with a peak workforce of more than 1500 workers.”
The spokesman said the EMA program would ensure that skills shortages do not put constraints on major resource projects and jeopardise Australian jobs.
"Access to overseas skilled workers will ensure the workforce needs of major resource projects are met, realising the economic and employment benefits of the projects,” the spokesman said.
“Overseas workers will only be supplementary, with resources projects required to demonstrate effective and ongoing local recruitment and training efforts.”
The policy settings in the guidelines reflect extensive consultation with relevant industry, unions and government stakeholders.
The department has committed to negotiating the agreements within three months from the time a project owner submits a complete request.
To download a copy of the submission guidelines, visit: www.immi.gov.au/skilled/enterprise-migration-agreements.htm.
For further information or enquiries email: ema@immi.gov.au.
Media Enquiries: National Communications 02 6264 2244
How do you balance work and play?
Whether you’re a student looking for part time jobs in London to cover your living costs or a graduate needing a job to tide you over while you get on the career ladder, getting part-time work can be essential to keeping your finances ticking over.
However, it’s important not to burn yourself out. It’s very easy to take on too much and forget that we all need a bit of down time every now and again. And by balancing work and play you won’t end up resenting your job or course.
Stretch!
We all need to stretch ourselves to reach our potential, and that includes funding our way through – and after – uni. And this is a good thing that future employers like to see even though it would be more fun to backpack through Australia for a year. By getting a part-time job you’re learning important transferable skills that you can make the most of when getting into a career. And it’s never wrong to have a bit of extra cash.
Always be realistic
While stretching to reach your full potential, make sure you figure out how much work you can physically do and still have a life outside of work. If you’re still a student, count how many hours you need to spend in lectures, how many you need to spend on coursework and how many you realistically need for your social life. Whatever is left over can be put to good use in a part-time job. If you’re job hunting for graduate jobs in Leeds or somewhere else in the UK then you need to put time aside for actively looking for work and this can be very time consuming. Don’t lose sight of your end goal and become so engrossed in your day-to-day part-time job that you forget what you’re doing it all for!
Money, money, money
Once you get a part-time job and have set your hours, it can be very easy to see pound signs if you’re offered extra shifts. While doing a bit more work for a few more quid every now and again can be good for you, always make sure you don’t start taking on more than you can handle. You don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to get a proper full-time graduate job because you couldn’t say no to a bit of extra cash.
Boring taxes
Taxes can get very complicated as a student or part-time worker and you need to stay on top of things to get the most out of your part-time job. If you’re a student and working in your holidays then you won’t need to pay tax – you just have to ask for a P38S Student Employees form from your employer to prove you’re exempt. However, if you’re working during term time or are a graduate trying to earn some extra cash while job-hunting then you will have to pay tax, but only if you earn more than your Personal Allowance.
Time to relax
The most important thing about working part time is to remember to make time to relax. If you’re studying at uni or looking for work all day and then have to go straight into a long shift in the evening, you will quickly resent all of the work you’re doing and will become ineffective. If you’re desperate for the cash, see if budgeting better can help to reduce overheads and free up some time. Remember those priorities!
However, it’s important not to burn yourself out. It’s very easy to take on too much and forget that we all need a bit of down time every now and again. And by balancing work and play you won’t end up resenting your job or course.
Stretch!
We all need to stretch ourselves to reach our potential, and that includes funding our way through – and after – uni. And this is a good thing that future employers like to see even though it would be more fun to backpack through Australia for a year. By getting a part-time job you’re learning important transferable skills that you can make the most of when getting into a career. And it’s never wrong to have a bit of extra cash.
Always be realistic
While stretching to reach your full potential, make sure you figure out how much work you can physically do and still have a life outside of work. If you’re still a student, count how many hours you need to spend in lectures, how many you need to spend on coursework and how many you realistically need for your social life. Whatever is left over can be put to good use in a part-time job. If you’re job hunting for graduate jobs in Leeds or somewhere else in the UK then you need to put time aside for actively looking for work and this can be very time consuming. Don’t lose sight of your end goal and become so engrossed in your day-to-day part-time job that you forget what you’re doing it all for!
Money, money, money
Once you get a part-time job and have set your hours, it can be very easy to see pound signs if you’re offered extra shifts. While doing a bit more work for a few more quid every now and again can be good for you, always make sure you don’t start taking on more than you can handle. You don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to get a proper full-time graduate job because you couldn’t say no to a bit of extra cash.
Boring taxes
Taxes can get very complicated as a student or part-time worker and you need to stay on top of things to get the most out of your part-time job. If you’re a student and working in your holidays then you won’t need to pay tax – you just have to ask for a P38S Student Employees form from your employer to prove you’re exempt. However, if you’re working during term time or are a graduate trying to earn some extra cash while job-hunting then you will have to pay tax, but only if you earn more than your Personal Allowance.
Time to relax
The most important thing about working part time is to remember to make time to relax. If you’re studying at uni or looking for work all day and then have to go straight into a long shift in the evening, you will quickly resent all of the work you’re doing and will become ineffective. If you’re desperate for the cash, see if budgeting better can help to reduce overheads and free up some time. Remember those priorities!
What to Consider Before Taking Online Classes
The education environment has changed quite a bit since accredited online colleges have become available to the broader public. Just a few years ago, the predominate way to get an education was through a traditional brick-and-mortar education institution, but now, with online degree programs, we've seen an increase in the diversity of students and programs being offered.
In the past, online colleges received a lot of stigma from the public because they've been seen to be less credible than traditional educations. This seems to be changing according to an article that appeared on MSNBC. The article discussed how, in the last couple years, employers are looking at online degrees with a greater level of seriousness and acceptance. This is largely due to the huge numbers of individuals entering the workforce with a degrees from online colleges.
Now that employers are taking online degrees seriously, more people are giving higher education a serious thought. Even though these programs are very helpful, there are several things you should consider before investing in one of these programs:
Learning Style
You should first consider, before making any decision one way or the other, how you learn best. Learning styles don't always translate well to online courses. If you need a structured environment to get anything done, it's going to be more difficult for you to get the same level of comprehension and retention through an online education. Online learning is relatively independent of time and location. You can access your class any time you want through an online site where you can involve yourself in discussions with the instructor and other students. If you need a time and location to remain motivated, you might want to consider other options.
Face Time Vs. Web Time
This relates to learning styles, but considering the differences between face time and web time is important. As our country is new to online learning techniques, some people have a difficult time making this adjustment. It's important to note that online courses are very user friendly and informative, but some just don't like the lack of human face-to-face learning.
How Well Do You Follow Instructions
The quality of your education through online courses is going to rely heavily on your ability to follow written instructions. Some people require a step-by-step verbal explanation of an assignment. Though you may be able to work with your professor and do this over the phone, in most cases, you'll have to follow an outline and do the assignments that way.
Communication Skills
Not everyone is able to express their ideas effectively through the written word. Some people rely heavily on speaking in a classroom setting to get their idea or message across. When you're taking an online class, you don't have this luxury. You will have to rely heavily on your ability to express any idea through a well written response. If you feel this may be an issue, you might want to brush up on your communication skills so you don't find yourself at a disadvantage.
With all of that said, there's nothing wrong with online classes. These colleges go through the same accreditation process as any traditional university and their standards are just as high. If you want to go back to school but face a difficult schedule, online classes might be the answer for you. Before you enroll in any programs, look online for other tips to help you overcome any obstacles you might face with online classes.
In the past, online colleges received a lot of stigma from the public because they've been seen to be less credible than traditional educations. This seems to be changing according to an article that appeared on MSNBC. The article discussed how, in the last couple years, employers are looking at online degrees with a greater level of seriousness and acceptance. This is largely due to the huge numbers of individuals entering the workforce with a degrees from online colleges.
Now that employers are taking online degrees seriously, more people are giving higher education a serious thought. Even though these programs are very helpful, there are several things you should consider before investing in one of these programs:
Learning Style
You should first consider, before making any decision one way or the other, how you learn best. Learning styles don't always translate well to online courses. If you need a structured environment to get anything done, it's going to be more difficult for you to get the same level of comprehension and retention through an online education. Online learning is relatively independent of time and location. You can access your class any time you want through an online site where you can involve yourself in discussions with the instructor and other students. If you need a time and location to remain motivated, you might want to consider other options.
Face Time Vs. Web Time
This relates to learning styles, but considering the differences between face time and web time is important. As our country is new to online learning techniques, some people have a difficult time making this adjustment. It's important to note that online courses are very user friendly and informative, but some just don't like the lack of human face-to-face learning.
How Well Do You Follow Instructions
The quality of your education through online courses is going to rely heavily on your ability to follow written instructions. Some people require a step-by-step verbal explanation of an assignment. Though you may be able to work with your professor and do this over the phone, in most cases, you'll have to follow an outline and do the assignments that way.
Communication Skills
Not everyone is able to express their ideas effectively through the written word. Some people rely heavily on speaking in a classroom setting to get their idea or message across. When you're taking an online class, you don't have this luxury. You will have to rely heavily on your ability to express any idea through a well written response. If you feel this may be an issue, you might want to brush up on your communication skills so you don't find yourself at a disadvantage.
With all of that said, there's nothing wrong with online classes. These colleges go through the same accreditation process as any traditional university and their standards are just as high. If you want to go back to school but face a difficult schedule, online classes might be the answer for you. Before you enroll in any programs, look online for other tips to help you overcome any obstacles you might face with online classes.
US Metropolitan Area Employment and Unemployment Summary JULY 2011
Unemployment rates were lower in July than a year earlier in 257 of the 372 metropolitan areas, higher in 94 areas, and unchanged in 21 areas, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. Twelve areas recorded jobless rates of at least 15.0 percent, while ten areas registered rates of less than 5.0 percent. Two hundred thirty-two metropolitan areas reported over-the-year increases in nonfarm payroll employment, 133 reported decreases, and 7 had no change. The national unemployment rate in July was 9.3 percent, not seasonally adjusted, down from 9.7 percent a year earlier.
Metropolitan Area Unemployment (Not Seasonally Adjusted)
In July, 117 metropolitan areas reported jobless rates of at least 10.0 percent, down from 127 areas a year earlier, while 62 areas posted rates below 7.0 percent, up from 54 areas in July 2010. El Centro, Calif., and Yuma, Ariz., recorded the highest unemployment rates in July 2011, 30.8 and 30.0 percent, respectively. All of the remaining 10 areas with jobless rates of at least 15.0 percent were located in California. Bismarck, N.D., registered the lowest unemployment rate, 3.0 percent. The areas with the next lowest rates were Fargo, N.D.-Minn., and Lincoln, Neb., 3.7 and 3.8 percent, respectively. Of the 10 areas with jobless rates of less than 5.0 percent, 8 were located in the West North Central census division. A total of 219 areas recorded July unemployment rates below the U.S. figure of 9.3 percent, 150 areas reported rates above it, and 3 areas had rates equal to that of the nation.
The largest over-the-year unemployment rate decrease in July was registered in Rockford, Ill. (-3.3 percentage points), followed by Steubenville-Weirton, Ohio-W.Va. (-3.0 points). An additional 14 areas recorded jobless rate decreases of at least 2.0 percentage points. Pascagoula, Miss., reported the largest over-the-year jobless rate increase (+1.9 percentage points). Eight additional areas had increases of at least a full percentage point from a year earlier.
In the 49 metropolitan areas with a Census 2000 population of 1 million or more, the highest unemployment rate in July was registered in Riverside-San Bernardino- Ontario, Calif., 14.7 percent. Sixteen additional large areas posted rates of 10.0 percent or more. The lowest jobless rate among the large areas was recorded in Oklahoma City, Okla., 5.5 percent, followed by Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, D.C.-Va.-Md.-W.Va., 6.0 percent. Forty of the large areas reported over-the-year unemployment rate decreases, while seven areas registered rate increases and two had no change. Las Vegas-Paradise, Nev., experienced the largest unemployment rate decrease from July 2010 (-1.7 percentage points). Nine other large areas reported rate decreases of at least 1.0 percentage point. The large area with the largest over-the-year jobless rate increase was San Antonio-New Braunfels, Texas (+0.6 percentage point). Full article here.
Metropolitan Area Unemployment (Not Seasonally Adjusted)
In July, 117 metropolitan areas reported jobless rates of at least 10.0 percent, down from 127 areas a year earlier, while 62 areas posted rates below 7.0 percent, up from 54 areas in July 2010. El Centro, Calif., and Yuma, Ariz., recorded the highest unemployment rates in July 2011, 30.8 and 30.0 percent, respectively. All of the remaining 10 areas with jobless rates of at least 15.0 percent were located in California. Bismarck, N.D., registered the lowest unemployment rate, 3.0 percent. The areas with the next lowest rates were Fargo, N.D.-Minn., and Lincoln, Neb., 3.7 and 3.8 percent, respectively. Of the 10 areas with jobless rates of less than 5.0 percent, 8 were located in the West North Central census division. A total of 219 areas recorded July unemployment rates below the U.S. figure of 9.3 percent, 150 areas reported rates above it, and 3 areas had rates equal to that of the nation.
The largest over-the-year unemployment rate decrease in July was registered in Rockford, Ill. (-3.3 percentage points), followed by Steubenville-Weirton, Ohio-W.Va. (-3.0 points). An additional 14 areas recorded jobless rate decreases of at least 2.0 percentage points. Pascagoula, Miss., reported the largest over-the-year jobless rate increase (+1.9 percentage points). Eight additional areas had increases of at least a full percentage point from a year earlier.
In the 49 metropolitan areas with a Census 2000 population of 1 million or more, the highest unemployment rate in July was registered in Riverside-San Bernardino- Ontario, Calif., 14.7 percent. Sixteen additional large areas posted rates of 10.0 percent or more. The lowest jobless rate among the large areas was recorded in Oklahoma City, Okla., 5.5 percent, followed by Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, D.C.-Va.-Md.-W.Va., 6.0 percent. Forty of the large areas reported over-the-year unemployment rate decreases, while seven areas registered rate increases and two had no change. Las Vegas-Paradise, Nev., experienced the largest unemployment rate decrease from July 2010 (-1.7 percentage points). Nine other large areas reported rate decreases of at least 1.0 percentage point. The large area with the largest over-the-year jobless rate increase was San Antonio-New Braunfels, Texas (+0.6 percentage point). Full article here.
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