New Zealand deportations fell short of government targets due to limited flight availability and high costs. In the past year, only 784 deportations occurred, far below the 1,500 target. This includes voluntary departures.

Monthly figures show 239 deportations between July and September, with around 100 paid for by Immigration Compliance. Pre-pandemic deportations were higher, with 1,900 recorded in 2018-19. The Immigration Tribunal reported over half of deportation decisions were overturned on appeal, often citing humanitarian reasons.

The pandemic extended stays, strengthening personal ties and making appeals more successful. In one case, a man who overstayed 37 years successfully appealed deportation, citing family ties and employment.

The Scottish government is discussing a Scotland-specific visa with Westminster to address population decline and skill shortages. Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart highlighted the need for a rural-focused and bespoke visa system to attract workers for Scotland’s job market.

However, the UK Home Office recently dismissed the idea of a Scottish visa system. Scotland’s Migration Service, launched earlier this year, offers free support to employers and migrants navigating immigration rules.

Stewart emphasized that migration could boost the economy, potentially adding £98 million annually if 1,000 high earners move to Scotland yearly. Talks with the UK government remain positive.

Spain plans to legalize 300,000 undocumented immigrants annually over the next three years to address labour shortages and support its welfare system. Migration Minister Elma Saiz emphasized the need for 250,000 to 300,000 tax-paying workers yearly to sustain the economy.

The reform simplifies procedures for work and residence permits, enabling migrants to work as salaried or self-employed individuals while granting additional labour rights.

Spain's leftist government remains pro-immigration, contrasting with stricter border controls in other European nations. The reforms also extend job-seeker visas to 12 months, allowing study visa holders to work up to 30 hours weekly.