January 2014 ASEAN Regional Meetings
There are a number of important forums being held in January, including the ASEAN Foreign Ministers Retreat and the Preparatory Meeting of Senior Officials. The key meetings of note for our readers are as follows.
ASEAN’s Demographic Dividend
Oftentimes referred to as ASEAN’s demographic dividend, ASEAN countries’ decreasing dependency ratios have the potential to translate into significant GDP growth if accompanied by effective government policies that liberalize trade, attract FDI, and mobilize capital and labor productively.
New Issue of Asia Briefing: The 2014 Asia Tax Comparator
In this issue, we examine the different tax rates in 13 Asian jurisdictions – the 10 countries of ASEAN, plus China, India and Hong Kong. We examine the on-the-ground tax rates that each of these countries levy as well as residency triggers, available tax incentives for the foreign investor, and important compliance issues.
Work Visa Procedures in the Philippines
The Philippines’ Bureau of Immigration is responsible for processing and issuing visa requests in the country. For foreigners seeking employment in the Philippines, there are eligible non-immigrant visa types for short-term business, pre-arranged employment and for foreign treaty traders or foreign investors.
November 2013 ASEAN Regional Meetings
There are a number of important regional forums being held in November, including the ASEAN-Australian New Zealand FTA Economic Cooperation Meeting and the 26th ASEAN-Australia Forum. The key meetings of note for our readers are as follows.
Work Permits and Visas in Indonesia
Indonesia passed new immigration laws in 2011, and as a result there are now various options available to foreign workers for obtaining visas and working permits in the country. We examine Indonesia’s work permits and visa types here.
Indonesia to Relax Tourism Visa Process
Indonesia, currently hosting the annual APEC CEO Summit, will relax its tourist visa application process in a move that should help increase the numbers of travelers visiting the country.
October 2013 ASEAN Regional Meetings
This month there are a number of important international ASEAN summits being held in Brunei, including the first ASEAN-United States summit. The key meetings of note for our readers are as follows.
Singapore Tightens Employment Rules For Foreigners
The Singapore government today announced rules that will require many companies operating in the country to consider Singaporeans for skilled job vacancies before turning to candidates from abroad.
New Issue of Asia Briefing: Work Visa and Permit Procedures Across Asia
In this edition of Asia Briefing Magazine, we outline the specific documents required for foreign nationals working in China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, as well as highlight the relevant application processes in each of these countries. Attention is also given to the role of the sponsoring company and the regulations they must adhere to.