The reasons why people migrate are classified into four main categories, namely social, economic, environmental, and political. Migration from one country to another is the most complex. The immigrant may be in search of work (economic) or safety (political), a better quality of life, or to be closer to their families (social). Have a look at the migration policies to know during this COVID-19.
Natural calamities (environmental) such as drought and floods may also force people to move from one country to another as refugees. Despite always being a complex process, even in the past, COVID-19 has made immigration even harder. If you are planning to migrate, there are several new immigration policies that you should know during this pandemic. This article highlights the top five most significant ones.
Closure of Borders to Curb the Spread of COVID-19
The spread of COVID-19 is primarily linked to contact between huge crowds and movement within countries or countries. People on the move are believed to be the most vulnerable and primary promoters of the spread of the disease. Closing of borders was among the first measures that were taken to curb the spread of COVID-19. While the borders are slowly beginning to open, the process of immigration was severely hit and is still recovering from COVID effects. Most countries are still reluctant to accept immigrants. If you are lucky to be approved, you should be prepared to meet all the set COVID-19 guidelines before moving to your new country.
Pre-departure COVID-19 Test
With a few countries reluctantly opening their borders which translate to slow immigration, the pre-departure COVID-19 test is necessary. Immigration means accepting the citizens of another country to move into the host country. As mentioned earlier, movement within a country or between countries is believed to promote COVID-19.
Most countries require anyone traveling in to take a COVID-19 test before their departure. Besides testing negative, the immigrant must also carry proof of the negative test into the host country. The pre-departure COVID-19 test is a precautionary measure against the spread of the disease. It ensures that only COVID-19 free immigrants are allowed into the country, which minimizes the effects of the pandemic.
Post-travel Quarantine Measures
Traveling across borders brings you in contact with different people, which makes you vulnerable to COVID-19. Most countries have included the post-travel quarantine measure among their immigration policies. The between 7 and 21-day post-travel quarantine period keeps you away from other people as you monitor yourself. If you do not show any signs of the disease within the period, then you are free to mingle with others. If you were unfortunate to contact COVID-19 during your trip, then the technique keeps everyone safe as you receive treatment.
Health Screening on Arrival
With the ongoing pandemic, health screening is no longer a new practice when you arrive at your destination. Besides presenting the required medical documents, immigrants are also subject to COVID-19 tests. The screening process involves blood sampling, swabs, thermal screenings, and temperature checks. In case of anything unique, the immigrant is taken into quarantine for monitoring between 7 days and 21 days.
Visa Requirements Changes and Narrower Exemptions
COVID-19 has also forced countries into changing their visa requirements and narrowing the exemptions. Countries with the friendliest visa requirements and massive exemptions have made considerable changes to their visa and immigration requirements. The goal is to minimize the number of travelers and immigrants coming into the country. Minimizing movement between countries is the primary way of curbing the international spread of COVID-19. Very few people meet the current visa requirements set by most countries in this COVID-19 era. Migrating in the middle of this pandemic is the hardest thing, and you should be prepared for any outcome as you make your application.
Besides the above, many other immigration policies have been set to curb the international spread of COVID-19. Vaccination being the most effective way of preventing the spread of the disease is among the policies. Besides being vaccinated in your home country, you should also carry proof of the same on your trip. The certificate is among the health documents that you should present on arrival. With the most complex policies in this era, you should consult with a reputable firm such as Migration Agent Perth for great advice and understanding.
Autobiography
Eric Reyes is a passionate thought leader having been featured in 50 distinguished online and offline platforms. His passion and knowledge in Finance and Business made him a sought-after contributor providing valuable insights to his readers. You can find him reading a book and discussing current events in his spare time.
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vinay