Many developed and some developing countries impose expatriate quotas on expats wanting to work in their country. This is done to ensure that locals are considered above expats and that the local inhabitants chances of attaining gainful employment is increased. It is largely important for governments to impose certain quotas on the amounts of expats, especially when the skills are locally available. These restrictions have been intensified after the economic collapse in 2008.
In 2008, several world banks collapsed due to the collapse in the housing market in the USA which led to a mass loss of jobs globally and a slowdown of the world economic growth. It was the worst financial crisis since the great depression of the 1930’s. As an indication, in October of 2008 there were 28 000 job applications for bar tenders, patrons and other service staff type jobs. The American unemployment rate reached the 10% marker that ultimately slowed down the consumer expenditure to allow for a fast recovery. The loss of jobs in USA and various other countries led to an agreement that expatriate quotas would be tightened to ensure that locals were employed before expatriates would be considered.
Expats from poorer countries are often willing to work for less pay. This decreases the overall costs of projects which in turn increases the net profit of an operation. Having these quotas in place is not good for expats wanting to live in a country that does not have the same social issues as their home countries. It is unfortunate for these individuals, whose governments have let them down and now seek a better life. More established governments want the best for their citizens and thus enforce these regulations on the expats. More specialised professionals that are not locally available are generally exempt from these quota systems as they are vital to the success of an operation.
Before trying to embark on expatriating to another country, it is important to realise what limitations may be faced in certain countries and if any expat quotas exist. Understanding the criteria will enable the right decisions to be made as to where would be the best place to relocate. The same is applicable for organisations that wish to employ expats in various countries. Expat Africa Payroll are able to provide such information and assist organisations with the immigration process and advisory on what quotas exist in various African countries. assisting companies to be completely compliant in all facets of their business payroll services and assistance in immigration helps companies to ensure that they are compliant and can avoid any penalties that may occur.
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