Australia is experiencing a significant decrease in the number of international students applying for visas, following recent policy changes aimed at reducing the migrant intake. The shift, marked by a sharp decline in applications, has drawn attention to the potential implications for the education sector and the broader economy. Drop in Visa Applications Linked to … Read more
South Africa is set to introduce a points-based visa system aimed at making it easier for skilled workers to enter the country. The new system will allow individuals with specific qualifications to become automatically eligible for work visas, aiming to attract global talent and boost the country’s economic growth. The plan is part of a … Read more
The United States has officially included Qatar in its Visa Waiver Program (VWP), making travel between the two nations easier for Qatari citizens. Starting no later than December 1, 2024, Qataris will be able to enter the US without a visa for stays of up to 90 days, as long as the purpose of their … Read more
The United States has temporarily paused the issuance of EB-3 visas, as announced by the Bureau of Consular Affairs in its July Visa Bulletin. This decision, which significantly impacts foreign nurse applicants, was driven by the high demand for these visas. Most of the available green card slots for nurses have been filled, and only … Read more
The Australian government has announced a series of significant changes aimed at ending “visa hopping” within its migration system. Starting July 1, visitors and temporary graduate visa holders will no longer be able to apply for a student visa while remaining onshore. This major policy shift was revealed by Clare O’Neil, the Minister for Home … Read more
Australia’s Department of Home Affairs has rolled out major updates to the Temporary Graduate Visa Program, effective from July 1, 2024. One of the notable changes is that the age limit for post-study work visas for research students will remain at 50, while other visa streams will see a lower age limit of 35. Background … Read more
Canada’s immigration system is evolving once again, with new, enhanced caregiver pilot programs set to replace the existing Home Child Care Provider Pilot and the Home Support Worker Pilot. As these current programs near their expiration date of June 17, 2024, the new pilot programs promise significant changes that will benefit home care workers and … Read more
The UK government is planning to introduce new requirements for international students on Graduate Visas, raising the bar for English language proficiency. This move is part of a broader strategy to ensure that only the “best and brightest” candidates remain in the country under the Graduate Route. Introduction of Mandatory Language Tests Soon, international students … Read more
Thailand has taken a significant step to attract more visitors and boost its economy by extending visa stays for tourists, remote workers, postgraduate students, and retirees. This decision, announced by government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke, aims to make the country even more appealing to international travelers and residents. Starting next month, travelers from 93 countries will … Read more
New Changes for Visa Applicants Starting June 11, 2024, the cost of a Schengen visa will rise from €80 to €90 for adults, while for children aged 6 to 12, the fees will increase from €40 to €45. This change is part of the European Union’s regular review, conducted every three years. It takes into … Read more
In a major update, six Gulf countries have joined forces to introduce a new unified tourist visa called the “Grand Visa.” This Schengen-like visa lets tourists visit Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, Oman, and Bahrain without needing separate visas for each country. This move aims to boost tourism and strengthen cooperation among these Gulf … Read more
Fifteen EU countries have asked the European Commission to find “new ways” to manage irregular migrants, including sending some to other countries. This request comes as the EU updates its asylum rules. The demand, made just a month before European Parliament elections, shows rising worries about immigration in the EU. Far-right, anti-immigration parties are expected … Read more