Firstly an apology, it was my intention to flesh this out properly as there is much to cover and much ignorance on the topic. A lot of talking heads baying for an immigration moratorium when in reality most of this chaos can be sorted by enforcement of existing immigration laws. While there has been lux enforcement of immigration laws in America over the Southern Border and even in Europe a reinterpretation of existing laws to permit massive waves of untenable migration most countries have very robust laws that are meant to protect the sovereignty of a country all the while granting a small percentage of individuals willing to immigrate the opportunity to do so. This being said, immigration, even on a temporary basis when done via legal channels and via the right procedures is exceedingly difficult. It does seem that many countries, if not most, have a very protectionist stance when it comes to labour laws. Getting to a country is only but the start. Often, under the right immigration criteria, you arrive at the country of destination only after thorough checks ensuring you have the relevant financial means to cover your stay.
During my stay in South Africa as a temporary migrant for about 10 years it often fascinated me how many locals would assume that I could simply come and go into the country as I pleased. Even more so was how many assumed I could simply find employment owing to my unique skill set relative to the South African market. This was especially shocking when it came from potential employers. Immigration and labour laws require that one have the right visa and right permit to live and work in the country. Other than what was outlined in your visa attempting to go beyond that which was stated therein meant running afoul of immigration laws and risking deportation. Migration on a permanent basis granting one the ability to come and go as they please and freedom to choose what career path to follow is only granted after 5 consecutive years living in the country and with the relevant work permits. Citizenship is granted after 7 years. Even then, neither of these are automatic.
The waves of illegal and uncontrolled immigration in America and Europe have led many to assume that all one has to do as a migrant is to cross the border safely and they are set for life. In reality they are consigned to a life of uncertainty. Even under refugee status immigrants often have to present themselves every 6 months, in the case of South Africa, to have their refugee status renewed. This doesn't guarantee work without risk of running afoul of labour laws with steep penalties for companies that employ illegal immigrants or harbour them. There is discussion to be had over the abuse of the B1 and B2 visa category in America that have permitted tech companies to have their pick of foreign nationals, usually from India, over their American counterparts. However, it is worth noting that some companies have opted to outsource their labour(call centres, etc)to foreign countries with lower wage requirements on the employer rather than stick to the local work force.
