RESIDENCE PERMIT PROCESSING TIME
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.
Air quality deteriorates in north India post-Diwali; Delhi records highest AQI since 2021
A significant increase in air pollution was observed across north India following the recent Diwali celebrations. The Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and western Uttar Pradesh surpassed 350, indicating poor air quality. Many cities reported severe pollution, with readings at 439 recorded at Delhi Technological University. Residents experienced health issues such as breathing difficulties and eye irritation after the celebrations.
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.
Canada introduces a single online asylum application system, revises refugee claim rules
Canada has introduced new asylum regulations from November 3, 2026, bringing a single online application process for all refugee claims, whether submitted within the country or at a port of entry. The changes, introduced under the Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act, also establish clearer timelines for processing claims, rules for withdrawn applications and additional support for vulnerable applicants.
NRIs can now complete online KYC from the US, UK, UAE and other FATF-compliant countries
For Indian investors residing overseas, a new development brings good news. A recent circular from Sebi allows them to open investment accounts without needing to return to India. By permitting digital KYC submissions from various compliant countries, this initiative simplifies the process for non-resident Indians (NRIs) and overseas citizens of India (OCIs).
Away From Bihar This Chhath Puja? Check These Ghats in Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru
Thousands of families from Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh celebrate Chhath Puja in cities far from their hometowns. From Yamuna-side ghats and neighbourhood ponds in Delhi to Juhu Beach in Mumbai and community-organised celebrations in Bengaluru, here are some places where devotees can observe Chhath Puja in 2026, along with practical details to check before visiting.
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Gurgaon offices calling more than half of staff to office, violating 50% WFH rule, will be issued show-cause notices; employees can complain on 112
Gurgaon administration has opened two helplines, including 112, for residents to report companies violating the 50% work-from-home requirement. Anonymous complaints will trigger inspections. The move follows show-cause notices to law firms Trilegal and JSA after inspections found more than 60% of their employees working from office.
Delhi govt urges citizens to burst only green crackers, stick to specific timings: Check permitted time, restricted areas and other key details
Delhi pollution news: Delhi government has outlined restrictions on firecracker use for the upcoming Diwali festival. Green firecrackers will be allowed only on specific dates and times in November. The sale is limited to certified green firecrackers at authorized locations only. Violators of these regulations may face penalties and confiscation of illegal products. Supreme Court has mandated these conditions to reduce pollution and noise during the celebrations.
Offline Aadhaar verification to get easier for users as UIDAI onboards 300 entities to complete process
UIDAI has successfully onboarded 300 Offline Verification Seeking Entities since the launch in January 2026. This initiative aims to enhance Aadhaar-based offline verification across various sectors including healthcare, education, and hospitality. Users can now complete identity checks without submitting physical copies of their Aadhaar cards.
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.
OpenAI kicks off charm offensive to change voters' view of data centers
Stunning victories by Democrats in US midterm elections this week have been interpreted by many as Americans repudiating tech industry plans to build data centers across the country.
Govt eases passport, visa rules for foreign nationals residing in India
The Union home ministry has announced relaxed passport and visa requirements for certain foreign nationals. These amendments apply to individuals including Pakistani citizens and minority refugees. Exemptions also cover members of religious communities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan on humanitarian grounds. Registered Sri Lankan Tamils and Tibetans who entered India under specific permits are included in the amendments.
Why Nithin Kamath believes NRI investing in India has become easier than ever
Zerodha CEO Nithin Kamath welcomed Sebi's simplified NRI account-opening rules, enabling eligible overseas investors to complete digital KYC within two to three days. Effective December 3, 2026, the framework aims to boost overseas participation in Indian equities.
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.
Sebi eases KYC norms for NRIs, OCIs and foreign nationals, allows digital onboarding from overseas
Securities and Exchange Board of India has relaxed Know Your Client requirements for overseas investors. This change enables non-resident Indians, Overseas Citizens of India, and foreign nationals to onboard digitally. Individuals from FATF-compliant countries can now submit KYC details remotely without being in India. Intermediaries are allowed to rely on existing KYC records and conduct video verifications when necessary.
Sebi eases KYC norms for NRIs, OCIs, allows digital onboarding from December 3
SEBI has relaxed KYC requirements for NRIs, OCIs and foreign nationals, allowing eligible overseas clients in FATF-compliant countries to complete onboarding digitally. The revised framework introduces video verification, electronic documents and simplified repeat KYC, effective December 3, 2026.
Sebi cancels registrations of 8 investment advisers for non-payment of renewal fees
Sebi has announced relaxed KYC requirements for Non-Resident Indians, Overseas Citizens of India, and foreign nationals. These changes will allow them to complete digital onboarding from FATF-compliant countries effectively. Intermediaries can accept KYC submissions without requiring physical presence in India. Video In-Person Verification is now permitted where in-person verification isn't feasible, enhancing compliance capabilities. The revised framework, effective from December 3, is aimed at simplifying the entire onboarding process.
Pioneer Urban to invest Rs 3,500 crore in ultra-luxury Gurugram residences
Pioneer Urban Land & Infrastructure Ltd plans to invest Rs 3,500 crore in the Alura project in Gurugram. This project aims to offer approximately 250 ultra-luxury serviced residences with multiple configurations, including duplexes and penthouses. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the development promises expansive living spaces with high-end amenities and services. Each residence will benefit from well-being features, ensuring occupant health and comfort.
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.
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.
RBI eases forex rules for services exports and imports
The changes form part of the Foreign Exchange Management (Export and Import of Goods and Services) which came into effect from October 1, 2026. Under the amended regulations, a resident individual exporting services will be deemed to have submitted the Export Declaration Form, or EDF, once the individual provides the authorised dealer bank with the information required to credit the payment to the exporter's account. No transaction-value threshold has been prescribed for resident individuals.
Has Nicolas Cage become 'homeless'? Actor reveals why he was forced to leave his $10.5 million Malibu mansion. 'Something happened to my house'
Nicolas Cage has revealed that he is currently living in hotels after damage to his $10.5 million Malibu beachfront mansion forced him to leave the property. Speaking at L.A. Comic Con, the 62-year-old actor described himself as “a little bit homeless” and explained that something had happened to his house. A massive sinkhole caused by coastal erosion damaged the mansion's driveway in September, also affecting nearby properties and forcing residents to evacuate.
Resident Evil 2026 OTT release date: Where to watch Zach Cregger's reboot that crossed $400 million worldwide at home
Zach Cregger's Resident Evil has crossed $400 million worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing film in the 24-year-old horror franchise. The reboot has earned over $157 million domestically and $242 million internationally. Starring Austin Abrams, the film also marks Cregger's biggest box office success, surpassing Weapons and Barbarian. Check where to watch it on OTT.
Razorpay gets final Gift City licence to expand cross-border payments
Razorpay has attained a payment service provider licence from the International Financial Services Centres Authority. This licence allows the company to process foreign-currency payments from its base in Gift City, Gujarat. The approval enables Razorpay to offer multi-currency accounts and facilitate international transactions. With established integrations with RBL Bank and ICICI Bank, the service is expected to be utilized shortly.
New Zealand Parent Resident Visa applicants receive estimated selection dates under the queue system
New Zealand has released a new system that allows applicants to monitor their position in the Parent Resident Visa queue. The Immigration New Zealand agency is employing a mixed selection method, which includes both queue selection and ballot draws. Estimated dates for selections are provided, though they can change quarterly.
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.
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.
Nicolas Cage’s Malibu home faces a 25-foot sinkhole threat, raising coastal erosion fears as 31 evacuated homes await answers amid El Niño concerns
A 25-foot-deep sinkhole that opened on September 8 has swallowed the driveway of Nicolas Cage’s Malibu beach house, and it is still growing. The city has red-tagged 31 homes on Sea Level Drive and asked residents to leave, as the road is blocked. Cage has taken four repair permits. With El Niño fears rising, Malibu declared an emergency on October 7.
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