TEMPORARY VISA
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?
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 Midterm elections results: Indian-American Democrat Pramila Jayapal wins against Nirav Sheth from Washington; continues fight for immigrant rights
Pramila Jayapal, the Indian-American Democrat, secures her re-election in Washington's 7th Congressional District with a commanding 87.5 per cent of the vote. A prominent advocate for immigration reform and healthcare, Jayapal's journey from immigrant rights activist to Congress showcases her commitment to progressive issues. Read about her impact on immigration policies and her wide-ranging legislative focus beyond just her district.
Austria opens Working Holiday visa programme to Indians aged 18-30, including 11 other countries
Young Indians can now embrace adventure through Austria's Working Holiday Programme, allowing them to explore the country while engaging in temporary jobs and education. With eligibility extended to 12 nations, this initiative offers a unique cultural experience. Interested applicants should consult the nearest Austrian embassy to initiate their journey and check eligibility requirements.
Trump White House maps path to govern without Congress if Democrats win
Trump's White House has been preparing for a potential Democratic Congress and its implications for his administration. Senior officials are identifying executive actions across various sectors that Trump can implement without congressional approval. This planning includes new tariffs, rules on visas, and methods to influence federal spending. While Trump could face congressional investigations into his administration, he retains extensive executive authority.
UK Budget 2026: Skilled Worker salary thresholds, Graduate visa and HPI route changes signal new immigration direction
In its 2026 Budget, the UK Government has unveiled pivotal changes to immigration policies with a focus on driving economic growth and increasing productivity. Key updates include an adjustment to salary thresholds for the Skilled Worker visa and an expansion of the High Potential Individual visa pathway. Additionally, the two-year Graduate visa for international students will continue, emphasizing the importance of skilled migration in the country’s economic strategy.
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Green card lottery cancelled for fiscal year 2027? Check latest status of Diversity Visa Program that offers 55,000 US visas?
Diversity Visa Program is also called the green card lottery. It was introduced to extend immigration opportunities for people of particular countries that remained underrepresented in the US immigration system.
Australia's new biometric rule for Indian visa applicants: Who will have to comply? High Commission clarifies
Australian High Commission in India has exclusively mentioned that Australia’s expanded biometric requirements will cover most temporary and permanent visa applicants in India, including visitor, student, skilled-worker and permanent-migration applicants, while the requirement will be determined by individual circumstances; Indian officials travelling on official business are exempt.
UK work visa applications fall 43%, and student visa applications drop 19% in latest figures
Applications for Skilled Worker and Health and Care Worker visas have declined sharply in the UK. The decline in student visa applications reflects stricter immigration rules and higher salary thresholds. Seasonal Worker route applications, however, saw a slight increase, contrary to other routes. Indian applicants must verify eligibility for dependants and current regulations before applying. Recent data highlight the broader impact of tightened immigration policies on overseas migrants.
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.
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.
Microsoft buyout offer: Will taking the exit package mean H-1B visa workers may have to leave the country?
Microsoft’s voluntary buyout gives eligible employees financial support to leave but this may also bring trouble in their living status. For some H-1B workers, accepting the exit package could affect their ability to remain in the United States.
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.
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.
Australia’s new arrival control law raises questions for students and workers returning home
New amendments grant the Minister for Home Affairs of Australia enforces visa-specific restrictions. Currently, these guidelines primarily affect individuals outside Australia who possess Visitor visas associated with Iranian passports. Indian students and workers need to confirm their visa status and any exemptions to ensure smooth travel plans.
India eyes a $20 billion pot of gold in New Zealand as its trade pact goes live
The free trade agreement between India and New Zealand promises to promote trade and enhance professional movement. While some goods may enjoy duty-free status, a significant rise in merchandise exports might take time. However, New Zealand's engagement in several service sectors holds potential benefits for Indian companies. The agreement also opens up new job opportunities for Indian students and creates pathways for skilled professionals.
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.
India-New Zealand FTA brings in new work visas and longer post-study rights for Indians
The India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement introduces new work visa options for Indian professionals and students. Indian PhD graduates can enjoy extended post-study work rights of up to four years after their studies. A working holiday scheme is also be created for young Indian citizens aged 18 to 30.
US EAD rule change explained and why an expired work permit could put your job at risk
Changes in the Employment Authorisation Documents (EAD) policy are set to affect foreign workers depending heavily on these documents. Renewal delays can lead to gaps in employment for many, particularly impacting H-4 spouses of H-1B visa holders. This scenario underscores the necessity for these individuals to thoroughly comprehend renewal protocols and seek guidance from employers or immigration attorneys to mitigate any potential financial hardships during the renewal process.
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.
India-New Zealand FTA comes into force, offers zero-duty access for Indian goods, new visa pathways
The India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) came into force on Tuesday, marking India's 17th operational free trade pact and opening up new opportunities for Indian exporters.
India-New Zealand FTA kicks in October 20, gives all Indian goods zero-duty access
India's free trade agreement with New Zealand will begin on October 20 and provide duty-free access for Indian goods. This agreement aims to boost bilateral trade significantly by 2030, increasing it from $2.4 billion to nearly ₹35,000 crore. New Zealand will grant 100% market access, while India will provide tariff concessions on 70% of its tariff lines. Customs clearance timelines will be expedited, enhancing trade efficiency and reducing costs.
H-1B workers from India, China take US jobs with cheaper labour, says Congressman Riley Moore
US Congressman Riley Moore has argued that H-1B visa holders are displacing American graduates in the workforce. He cited statistics indicating a significant number of graduates and visa holders in related fields. Moore contends that employers prefer foreign workers due to their willingness to accept lower wages. He also criticized the H-1B program for enabling chain migration among visa holders.
JD Vance defends US immigration policy, says social cohesion must be a priority
In a recent town hall meeting, US Vice President JD Vance stood by the Trump administration's immigration policy, which emphasizes community integration. He pointed out the necessity to protect American workers from exploitative hiring tactics while discussing H-1B visa holders. Vance stressed the risks faced by foreign workers dependent on their job security and green card sponsorship, contributing to the ongoing debate on immigration's socioeconomic effects.
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to suspend flights for Arattu procession on October 20
Flight operations at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport will be paused for five hours on October 20 to accommodate the Alpassi Arattu procession from Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Airlines have been informed to revise their flight schedules during this period. Passengers should check with their airlines for any changes in flight timings, as this temporary suspension aligns with historic customs of the Travancore royal family.
Cloudera settles with the US government, barred from PERM program for two years over labour discrimination allegations
Cloudera has agreed to a $2 million settlement amidst claims of discrimination against qualified American employees. The company will create a $1.4 million fund to aid eligible workers and incur penalties of $600,000. Additionally, Cloudera faces a two-year prohibition from the employment-based green card labour certification program. This settlement is part of a Justice Department initiative aimed at safeguarding the rights of workers in the U.S.
Air India, AI Express extend temporary suspension of flights to Saudi Arabia until October 24
Air India and Air India Express have extended their suspension of flights to Saudi Arabia until October 24. Bookings issued before October 15 for specific travel dates can benefit from a complimentary date change. Passengers may also opt for rebooking from alternative locations in the GCC region to minimize travel disruptions. Several airlines, including IndiGo and Akasa Air, have similarly suspended operations in Saudi Arabia.
US immigration fees rise effective today: What Indians applying for work permits and other benefits need to know
Starting today, US immigration fees will increase for certain applications due to inflation adjustments. Indians applying for asylum, Temporary Protected Status, or immigration parole will be affected by these changes. The revised fees range from $3 to $30, depending on the specific application category. H-1B visa holders and green card applicants will not experience these specific fee changes.
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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