Asia-Pacific
Key trends shaping Asia-Pacific's labor and immigration landscape
Modernization and digitization
Malaysia
In Malaysia, as part of an ongoing digital transformation, the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) began issuing electronic passes (ePASS) for both new and renewal expatriate applications starting March 1 2025. This move aims to enhance efficiency in the visa endorsement process, aligning with Malaysia’s broader efforts to streamline immigration.
Travel restrictions
Thailand
Thailand will require all non-Thai nationals to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before arrival starting May 1, 2025, centralizing entry data to improve border processing.
New Zealand
New Zealand took a different approach by updating visitor visa rules as of January 27, 2025, allowing tourists to work remotely for overseas employers, providing greater flexibility for travelers.
Japan
Meanwhile in Japan, starting June 23, 2025, a new health regulation will require certain nationals to submit a Tuberculosis-Free Certificate when applying for long-term visas, marking a stricter health requirement as part of the visa process.
Broader policy trends
Philippines
In the Philippines, a new order, effective from February 9, 2025, has been issued which emphasizes Filipino worker prioritization and introduces new regulations for foreign nationals applying for Alien Employment Permits (AEP). The new rules include a reduction in application fees, a requirement for skills development programs, and penalties for non-compliance.
Philippines also made adjustments in its labor market strategy with the introduction of the Skills Development Program under Department Order No. 248, encouraging companies to hire and train local talent. This shift aims to balance foreign expertise with the growth of domestic talent pools.
Malaysia
Malaysia introduced the 1:3 Internship Policy, which mandates companies hiring expatriates to offer three local internships for every foreign worker they employ. The policy, which began in a pilot phase in February 2025, will officially roll out in 2026, aiming to develop the local workforce while attracting necessary foreign expertise.
Australia
Meanwhile, Australia is increasing the income thresholds for the Skills in Demand visa program starting 1 July 2025, affecting Core Skills and Specialist visa streams. This change reflects the country's push to attract highly skilled foreign workers.
Regional economic strategies
Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s 2025-2026 Budget places a strong emphasis on fostering economic growth through technology innovation. It also proposes measures to attract international talent and investors, including a new fee structure for various admission visa schemes. These policies seek to bolster Hong Kong’s competitiveness amidst global economic challenges.
Australia
Similarly, Australia’s 2025-2026 Federal Budget focuses on strengthening economic ties with India, boosting refugee employment, and enhancing local workforce integration. The government’s priorities reflect a broader strategic push to increase international trade and investment while managing migration more cautiously.
New Zealand
New Zealand is also working to attract high-value investment with changes to its Active Investor Plus visa, effective from April 1, 2025. These changes streamline the investment process and allow for a wider range of qualifying investments, further bolstering the country's appeal to wealthy investors.
Want more information on Asia-Pacific immigration policy and updates?
Reach out to our experts.
Cherie Wright
Partner
Alice Zhong
Senior Associate