US Temporarily Stops EB-3 Visa Issuance: Impact on Foreign Nurses and Healthcare

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

Australia’s new migration rules to stop “Visa Hopping” – what students need to know

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 keeps high age limit for research student visas – do not miss these changes!

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 Announces New Caregiver Pilot Programs: A Fresh Start for Home Care Workers

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

UK plans new language tests for Graduate Visa holders to select top students

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 extends visa stays for tourists, students, and remote workers

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

Gulf nations introduce a single Schengen-style visa for visitors

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

EU Member States Urge New Measures to Manage Asylum Seekers, Including Transfers to Third Countries

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

Australia Implements Stricter Visa Rules for International Students

Australia is introducing tougher financial requirements for international student visas, as the government aims to manage a spike in migration and address issues of exploitation in the education sector. Starting this Friday, the Australian government will require international students to prove they have savings of at least A$29,710 (approximately $19,576 USD) to qualify for a … Read more