CITIZENSHIP APPLICATION PROCESS
Ireland citizenship applications surge 236% as proposed tougher rules trigger rush
Applications for Irish citizenship surged by 236 per cent in September after the government announced plans to tighten naturalisation requirements. The country received 8,765 applications during the month, compared with 2,611 in August, as migrants rushed to apply before proposed changes take effect.
Eligible CAA applicants to get citizenship by December 31: West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced plans to expedite the citizenship application process under CAA by December 31. He highlighted that around 2.5 lakh applications remain pending due to previous government delays. Adhikari stated that training and administrative measures are being implemented to ensure timely application processing. Additionally, the state government will invest Rs 1,000 crore over two years to restore religious institutions.
US midterms 2026: Democrats win Congress, but can they change Trump's immigration policies?
The recent 2026 midterm elections have shifted the immigration debate, giving Democrats control of Congress and new leverage against President Trump's policies. As calls for reform intensify, lawmakers face challenges in reversing stringent immigration practices. Key issues surround oversight of ICE, protections for Dreamers, and potential pathways to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. How will this political landscape evolve?
Mehli Mistry challenges removal as Tata Trusts trustee, seeks independent inquiry into governance
Mehli Mistry has filed a challenge against his removal as a trustee of the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust. He has raised concerns about procedural irregularities and trustee eligibility in his case. Mistry also seeks an independent inquiry into financial matters related to the trust's administration. He has claimed conflicts of interest and improper financial benefits received by some trustees.
US green card backlog crosses 15.6 lakh, with over 2.68 lakh employment-based cases pending
The backlog of US green card applications has surged past 1.5 million, with family-based cases leading the way. Recent data reveals concerning trends in application approvals and processing times, particularly for employment-based and refugee categories. The significant delays highlight the challenges faced by many immigrants, especially those from India, navigating the complex path to permanent residency.
How the citizenship row matters to immigrants after US Supreme Court rejects Trump’s 20,000-ballot plea
The Supreme Court has turned down an urgent request from the Trump administration to halt California's process of counting over 20,000 mail-in ballots. These ballots belong to registered voters whom federal officials believe might not be US citizens. This decision means California can continue with its ballot counting without interference.
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Should my OCI son continue his Indian health insurance policy or take a new one?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: My son recently became an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI). Earlier, he had insurance coverage in India. Should he continue that or take a new one in India?
US Midterm Elections 2026: Could the SMARTER Act change how Indians get US Green Cards?
With the upcoming midterm elections, a new immigration proposal in Congress could reshape the future of green cards and family sponsorship, especially for Indian professionals. The SMARTER Act aims to introduce a points-based system, eliminate country-based visa limits, and restrict family immigration to closer relatives, but its success hinges on the election outcomes.
US Midterm elections 2026: Who really controls H-1B visas, green cards and student visas for Indians?
As the US Midterm elections approach, their results may have profound implications for immigration regulations regarding visas. Congress's ability to enact changes can directly impact Indian professionals, potentially reducing the green card backlog. Additionally, new legislative dynamics could alter policies surrounding student visas. The electoral outcome may ultimately dictate shifting priorities in immigration enforcement, influencing many lives.
US Midterm elections 2026: Could the results change how long Indian students can stay in America?
The outcome of the US Midterm elections could significantly impact the future of the student visa framework, particularly for Indian learners. Changes suggested for the F-1 visa might enforce set admission periods rather than flexible durations, making the shift from education to real-world employment more complex for graduates opting for Optional Practical Training.
US green card applications face new tax scrutiny; unpaid dues could affect approval and US citizenship
In a move affecting green card applications, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services has altered its stance on tax compliance. Unpaid taxes and unfiled returns could jeopardise an applicant's chances of approval, as immigration officers will closely evaluate tax history. This change extends to US citizens sponsoring relatives and has sparked legal disputes about its conformity to existing regulations.
US Green Card lottery 2027: Court blocks reopening of Diversity Visa programme; what applicants should know
The US Diversity Visa lottery programme for 2027 is currently suspended due to ongoing legal disputes. A federal appeals court has temporarily blocked earlier orders to reopen registrations. The US State Department had previously announced intentions to change the programme, leading to uncertainty for applicants. As of now, the registration window cannot proceed as planned. Prospective applicants must await further developments regarding the lottery and any government announcements.
Canada tightens immigration rules, imposes fines of up to CAD 1.5 million: What it means for employers and applicants
Canada has established new penalties for unauthorized immigration and citizenship advice, which will come into effect in 2026. Individuals providing paid immigration services must have proper authorization to avoid financial penalties. The penalties will range from CAD 5,000 for unauthorized advice to CAD 1.5 million for serious violations. Employers and applicants are advised to verify representative credentials and accuracy of information submitted.
Canada changes limit on work permit applications during LMIA decision waits for foreign workers
Canada has lifted the 90-day limit on certain work permit applications while employers wait for Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs). This change offers eligible foreign workers increased processing flexibility, allowing them to remain in Canada while awaiting decisions. However, stringent LMIA restrictions still exist in high-unemployment regions, highlighting the ongoing challenges in the labor market.
US midterms 2026: Where Indian-American candidates stand on immigration
As the 2026 midterm elections draw near, Indian-American candidates are stepping into the intricate sphere of immigration discussions within the U.S. The different positions taken by these candidates shed light on pressing concerns for Indian professionals, addressing everything from stringent border policies to frustrating green card delays.
US green card backlog explained: Why Indian EB-2 and EB-3 applicants face an eight-year disadvantage over Chinese nationals
Indian professionals face stark challenges in their pursuit of US green cards, with waits far longer than their Chinese counterparts. The November 2026 Visa Bulletin reveals a staggering eight-year backlog for Indian applicants in the EB-2 category, driven by limited annual visas and intense demand. Many find themselves changing jobs during this protracted period, which can complicate their green card applications.
Infosys in talks with US DOJ over H-1B employee classification probe
Infosys has said it is in discussions with the US Justice Department over an investigation into how certain H-1B employees were classified in immigration filings. The company has not disclosed the number of workers involved, the specific classification issue or any alleged violation, and said it cannot yet determine whether the probe could materially affect its business or financial results.
From deportations to million-dollar visas: The two sides of Donald Trump's immigration policy and who gets to live in America
Trump's administration has intensified deportations while restricting immigration paths for skilled workers. The Gold Card program offers wealthy individuals a streamlined path to US residency. Meanwhile, the H-1B visa application process has seen a significant drop in registrations. Refugee admissions have decreased dramatically compared to previous years, raising concerns for many migrants. Overall, immigration policies reflect a stark contrast between enforcement and opportunities for affluent applicants.
US begins approving H-1B petitions without Trump's $100,000 fee: What it means for workers, employers
US Citizenship and Immigration Services has started approving H-1B visa petitions without the $100,000 fee. This change follows federal court orders that blocked the enforcement of this fee requirement. Many employers previously avoided hiring overseas candidates due to these costs, but approvals may open new opportunities. Petition processing is currently uneven, and some applications are still pending beyond premium processing deadlines.
Ilhan Omar claims paycheck-to-paycheck life on $174,000 salary as $30 million disclosure controversy resurfaces amid raid
Ilhan Omar is facing renewed scrutiny over her financial disclosures, which previously listed assets valued at up to $30 million, even as she claims to live paycheck to paycheck on her $174,000 congressional salary. The controversy has resurfaced after federal agents raided her Washington, D.C., home, prompting her to announce that she is moving out.
Immigrants seeking US citizenship targeted in Trump administration's illegal voting crackdown
Federal authorities have charged several immigrants in California with voter fraud related to their citizenship applications. Many have been accused of lying on official forms or during interviews with immigration officials. The individuals facing charges include long-term legal residents who believed they were eligible to vote. These charges stem from a crackdown on alleged illegal voting as the midterm elections approach.
US Midterms 2026: How Trump’s voter fraud crackdown could affect immigrants seeking citizenship
US midterm elections 2026: As the midterm elections near, the Trump administration is intensifying scrutiny on alleged unlawful voting by immigrants. More than two dozen legal permanent residents have faced felony charges related to voting crimes while seeking citizenship. Many of these individuals were unaware they had registered to vote during license applications. The arrests have raised concerns regarding the naturalization process and its implications for immigrants.
India rejects 'imprecise and unsupported' references to it in report by UN expert on rights of migrants
India has firmly dismissed the UN report authored by Special Rapporteur Gehad Madi, citing numerous inaccuracies and unfounded assertions. Deputy Secretary Barkha Tamrakar pointed out typographical mistakes pertaining to Assam, saying the report's ambiguous phrasing lacks precise legal context and identifiable claims.
Where is Ilhan Omar? Her brief video appearance sparks questions
Ilhan Omar is currently under federal investigation regarding her citizenship application and related allegations. She released a video thanking supporters for their donations, emphasizing her commitment to campaigning. Omar denies any wrongdoing, claiming the investigation is politically motivated and intentioned to intimidate her. Her legal team is demanding the return of seized items amidst this scrutiny.
Canada study permit wait rises to 7 weeks for Indians; work permits remain at 11 weeks
Current processing times for study permits for Indian students have surged to about seven weeks in Canada. Work permits, however, maintain a steady pace at 11 weeks. Visitor visa processing has seen a minor improvement, now taking 29 days, while super visa processing has extended to 77 days. Applicants must remain mindful of these timelines, as they can fluctuate depending on the intricacies of applications and the number of submissions.
Canada drops LMIA requirement for eligible Express Entry job offers
Canada is set to introduce changes to the Express Entry system on November 3, 2026. Eligible candidates can use qualifying job offers without a Labour Market Impact Assessment for immigration purposes. The new rules will facilitate the process for Indian professionals seeking permanent residence in Canada. Applicants must follow specific guidelines when updating their profiles to meet the new requirements.
Canada plans to cut student and temporary worker arrivals, fast-tracks PR for 33,000 workers
Canada plans to decrease new temporary resident arrivals over the next three years while maintaining permanent residency targets. The targeted intake for international students will fall to 155,000 in 2026 and further decline in subsequent years. Temporary worker admissions are also set to decrease, with higher priority given to needed skills. Permanent residency admissions will remain steady, focusing on economic and family reunification categories.
How to vote in the US midterm elections: Texas voter registration glitch — what to do if your name is missing from the voter list before early voting begins Monday
How to vote in the US midterm: A new voter registration glitch in Texas has raised concerns ahead of early voting for the 2026 US midterm elections, which begins October 19. Here's how to check your voter registration status, what to do if your name is missing from the voter list, and how to contact election officials.
US denies 35,767 Green Card applicants’ work permits as rejection rate rises to 44 per cent
The US denied 35,767 work permit applications from Green Card applicants between April and June 2026, taking the rejection rate to around 44 per cent. The increase from 25 per cent in the previous two quarters comes as hundreds of thousands of applications remain pending, with applicants waiting an average of 6.4 months for employment authorisation.
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