The United Kingdom Border Agency, through their website; http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk contains updated guidelines on the requirements, procedures and other vital information on how to apply for a  specific type of visa.

Specifically, there are four modes of  entering the UK, depending on the purpose of the travel -  to visit, to study, to work or join family. A visit means a short stay (generally of up to 6 months) in the UK while study means a course of study at a UK school, university or college. Work in essence means paid or unpaid (voluntary) work for an employer in the UK on the other hand ‘Join Family’ means coming to the UK, with the aim of staying for a long period or permanently, as the partner or family member of a British citizen or someone who has (or is applying for) temporary or indefinite permission to stay here.

Read more about UK student visa.

The US Embassy Manila is inviting all residents of Cebu province and its neighboring areas to experience American culture values, and services for three days as they bring America in 3D in Cebu City this month. This initiative is part of the Embassy’s efforts to reach out to more Filipinos and further strengthen the relationship of the Philippines and America. Prior to this, the US embassy also held this expo in Quezon City and Baguio City.

The America in 3D will be held from September 16-18 at the SM City Cebu, North Wing Atrium from 10:00 am to 9:00pm. The Embassy Information Officer, Yolly de Guzman said in a press statement that US Ambassador Harry K. Thomas, Jr. will formally open the three-day expo on September 16.

What can I expect from this event?
Check the program schedule here.

The following jobs are still in demand in UK: healthcare workers, environmental specialists, information technology and scientist, telecoms specialists, marketing executives, teachers, and social care personnel

However, not all who want to wok in UK can fulfill their dream. The competition is stiff not only with fellow Filipino workers but also with workers of other nationalities. To be able to enter UK, qualified applicants need to go through the points based system that is being implemented by the Borders and Immigration System since 2008. Under this system, all foreigners who wish to enter UK are required to undergo a managed immigration program with a five-tier system.

Click here to know more about the different types of visas in UK.

Filipinos who want to work and live in New Zealand should be aware that there are several pathways they can take to achieve their aim. The best options available for you would depend on your qualifications, status, work experience, skills and capital.

The said factors would determine which of the available pathways to enter New Zealand you can take. You can enter via the Skilled Migrant Category which is points based, as a Work Visa Permit which is not points based, via Active Investment, as an Entreprenuer, or thru a family member. For Filipinos the first two pathways is the most common way of entering New Zealand. Read more.

The Philippine Senate recently approved a bill that calls for the improvement of the present Migrant Workers Act. The proposed changes aim to give better assistance and further promote the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) thus strengthening the present law.

Estrada added that the Senate still needs to confirm if the Office of the President also ratified the bill. Once confirmed, they would transmit an enrolled copy to Malacanang for action by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

The improved Migrant Workers Act includes preventive measures that would minimize and solve the problems encountered by OFWs in the process of recruitment and deployment. It also calls for the creation of better rescue and assistance mechanisms. Read more.