EMPLOYMENT PERMITS
Canada sets annual target of 1.5 lakh new international students for 2027-29
Canada plans to admit 150,000 new international students annually from 2027 to 2029, down from 155,000 in 2026 and less than half the 305,900 target set for 2025. The cap forms part of a broader plan to hold new temporary resident arrivals at 370,000 a year, with students accounting for about 40% and temporary workers making up the rest.
Indonesia tightens scrutiny of language training for foreign workers, plans mandatory proficiency test from February 2027
Indonesia is increasing scrutiny of employers' compliance with mandatory Indonesian language training for foreign workers, although work permit application procedures remain unchanged. Employers must facilitate language education for non-exempt foreign employees, either through in-house programmes or approved institutions. While proof of training completion is not currently required with work permit applications, officials may question workers about their training during permit renewals.
New Zealand moves visitor visa applications online, changing the process for Indian tourists and business travellers
New Zealand has moved most visitor visa applications to its enhanced Immigration Online system, ending the use of several older online forms and selected paper applications. The transition, completed between September 24 and October 8, 2026, affects Indian tourists, business travellers and people visiting family. Applicants who started applications in the old system but did not submit them before the deadline must begin again using the new platform.
Jensen Huang probe: Who will investigate Nvidia CEO? AI giant announces officials
Nvidia co-founder owns 3.6 per cent of Nvidia's stock and has dozens of direct reports, suggesting a tight grip on the company.
France eases job-loss rules for foreign workers, cuts residence permit processing time
France has introduced significant immigration changes from October 30, 2026, giving foreign workers more time to find new jobs after unemployment and reducing residence permit processing timelines. Under the revised rules, Temporary Worker permit holders get three months to secure new employment, while EU Blue Card holders get six months without immediately losing their residence status.
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Yuan holds firm against dollar as seasonal corporate selling offsets greenback strength
China's yuan remained stable against the US dollar as seasonal year-end dollar sales by exporters offset greenback strength following robust US jobs data. Beijing's efforts to manage currency appreciation, alongside foreign exchange reserve adjustments, supported stability. Meanwhile, inflation trends and subdued domestic demand continued influencing monetary policy and currency movements.
Lithuania changes residence permit rules, creating fresh hurdles for Indian workers and students
In a move to tighten immigration control, Lithuania has established new residence permit rules that pose challenges for foreign nationals, especially from India. This shift affects Indian workers and students looking for work or study opportunities within the country. Particular visa types will now encounter more scrutiny, necessitating that employers assess the eligibility of candidates accurately.
Canada plans to welcome up to 622,000 new permanent residents by 2027 under the new immigration plan
Canada plans to grant permanent residence to up to 622,000 people by the end of 2027 through a combination of new admissions and measures to transition temporary residents to permanent status. The government has earmarked up to 200,000 places for temporary residents already in Canada, while its latest Immigration Levels Plan sets a target of up to 422,000 new permanent resident admissions in 2027.
Coal gasification projects may save India Rs 1.5 lakh crore in forex over 5-7 years: Coal Ministry Secretary
Coal gasification projects are expected to provide significant foreign exchange savings for India by substituting imports. The Coal Ministry has initiated financial incentives targeted towards promoting coal gasification. Responsible mining practices are emphasized to encourage sustainable development and investment in the coal sector.
India-EU trade deal to ease mobility for Indian professionals, but work visas will still be required
The proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement is set to simplify temporary entry for Indian professionals. It includes provisions for intra-corporate transferees, contractual service suppliers, independent professionals, and business visitors. Visa applications will still follow existing immigration procedures and conditions, ensuring applicants meet specific requirements.
Supreme Court directs Centre to set up special cell to monitor child labour law
The Supreme Court has instructed the Centre to create a special cell for monitoring child labour law implementation. This special cell is to ensure compliance with the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016. The Ministry of Women and Child Development is responsible for issuing directions to state enforcement agencies. The court noted the importance of strict enforcement of the amended provisions of the law.
US midterms: Trump leaves the door ajar for Democrats on immigration
After the midterm elections, President Trump is feeling optimistic about the possibility of both parties coming together to tackle immigration reform. He recognises that the political scene has changed and emphasises that it's crucial to collaborate on these issues, particularly for foreign workers and their families who are affected by current policies.
Kannada activists visit Bengaluru firms, seek data on local hiring in private sector
Kannada Rakshana Vedike activists have begun visiting IT companies and large retailers in Bengaluru, seeking details of Kannadigas in their workforce, recruitment trends and local hiring initiatives. The month-long campaign has drawn criticism from sections of the industry, with entrepreneur TG Ramesh warning that such visits could create uncertainty for businesses.
Kannada groups defy CM DK Shivakumar’s request, visit IT firms demanding hiring data
The visits are part of Kannada Rakshana Vedike's Agraha Abhiyana, a campaign focused on local employment in the private sector. The visits defy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s request that pro-Kannada outfits must not take the law into their hands and create problems at IT companies.
Kannada activists visit Bengaluru IT firms, seek data on local hiring
Kannada activists are actively engaging with IT firms in Bengaluru regarding local employment statistics and hiring practices. They are gathering information about the number of Kannadigas employed and recruitment trends in these companies. The activist group plans to protest if companies refuse to share this requested information. Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has stated the government will investigate complaints about local hiring discrimination.
Govt employees facing disciplinary action? Know these 7 important rights before accepting charges
Employees in the government sector who find themselves undergoing disciplinary reviews must be informed about their rights before replying to any allegations. They deserve clear charges and at least 15 days to respond. Should they dispute the charges, an oral inquiry, enabling cross-examination of the witnesses, is obligatory. These employees can also present their defense witnesses and seek a personal hearing.
Targeting H-1B holders poses severe economic risks to US: Indiaspora
Indiaspora has raised concerns about rising anti-Indian sentiments and potential immigration regulations that could threaten economic stability. The organization highlighted the significant contributions of Indian H-1B visa holders to key sectors in the US. Proposed measures could disadvantage early-career professionals and jeopardize critical workforce positions in healthcare and technology. Indiaspora called for political leaders to avoid scapegoating foreign workers for temporary political advantages.
Denmark to launch new work permit scheme in 2027; sets DKK 322,000 as the minimum salary
Denmark is set to roll out a fresh work permit scheme for international workers from January 1, 2027. To be eligible, foreign workers must hold jobs that adhere to sanctioned collective agreements and fulfill salary standards. Employers are required to gain certification to join this initiative and affirm compliance with said agreements.
New Zealand expands business visitor visa rules and specialist work visa eligibility for foreign professionals and providers
New Zealand has expanded the scope of activities permitted under its Business Visitor Visa for foreign nationals. Indian professionals planning business engagements should determine the appropriate visa pathway for their activities. The eligibility framework for the Specific Purpose Work Visa has also been clarified to include service suppliers and independent specialists.
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.
Indians working in UK: Per diem paid by Indian company may be tax-free in India if these conditions are met
Indians working in the UK may receive per diem payments from their Indian employers. However, these payments are generally taxable in the UK and not in India under specific conditions. The taxability in India depends on the employee's residential status and where the employment is exercised. A recent ITAT Delhi case illustrates the application of the India-UK DTAA in determining taxability.
South Korea updates international education reforms; introduces incentives to develop Korean language skills
South Korea aims to change its international student visa system by focusing on Korean language proficiency and academic performance. The Ministry of Justice outlined plans to allow students with intermediate Korean skills to obtain visas without financial proofs. Proposed regulations will affect part-time work eligibility based on language achievements and could require language proficiency for visa extensions.
What does it cost to own a luxury home near Cupertino? Inside Silicon Valley's expensive real estate market, where Apple's headquarters is located
Cupertino is known as Apple's headquarters location and is a city in Santa Clara County. Cupertino attracts professionals working in technology and related industries, alongside families drawn to its schools and residential neighbourhoods. Its appeal includes its schools, residential neighbourhoods, access to technology employment and location in the San Francisco Bay Area. Buyers therefore pay for more than proximity to a corporate campus.
Leaving Microsoft with a buyout? US employees have 3 main 401(k) options; what happens if they make one mistake that could trigger taxes?
The technology giant announced a new, time-limited Voluntary Exit offer for eligible employees in participation teams in the US, UK, Canada and India. It covers employees at level 70 and below, with eligibility depending on the employee's organisation and team. Microsoft said the offer provides financial support and career-planning resources to employees considering leaving the company.
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.
What is the difference between buyout and layoff? Microsoft offers buyout to 60,000 employees; check what it means for workers
Microsoft buyout offer to 60,000 workers: Microsoft has introduced a Voluntary Exit Offer (VEO) for eligible employees in India, the US, Canada and the UK, with reports suggesting around 60,000 workers could qualify. The programme allows employees to leave voluntarily with financial support, unlike layoffs, where the company decides to cut jobs. The move comes as Microsoft ramps up AI investments while managing workforce costs.
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.
Want to work in Japan? Skills, language tests and job routes Indians should know about
Indians can explore job opportunities in Japan through the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) programme in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, agriculture, nursing care and food services. Applicants generally need to pass a Japanese language test and an occupation-specific skills examination. Here is how to understand the visa routes, find legitimate employers, estimate living costs and avoid recruitment scams.
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