VISA RULE
UK plans facial recognition surveillance to identify visa overstayers and immigration offenders
The UK government is set to broaden the application of live facial recognition technology to detect immigration violations across various venues such as transport hubs, ports, and major public gatherings. The Home Office's goal is to track down individuals who have overstayed their visas or arrived unlawfully in the UK.
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 launches free CRS calculator to help Express Entry candidates check new high-wage points
CanadaVisa has released a free online calculator for Express Entry candidates to determine their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores following the implementation of Canada's high-wage occupation changes, effective November 3, 2026. The updated calculator factors in points for qualifying high-wage Canadian work experience or job offers, alongside other CRS factors such as age, education, language skills and employment history.
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.
US midterm results bring hope for Indian students, but visa worries remain
The recent midterm elections in the US could provide optimism for Indian students seeking to study abroad. Experts suggest that while immediate policy changes are not expected, immigration restrictions may be challenged. The shift in Congressional control may help protect against further cuts to student and work visas. Students and families remain concerned about job opportunities amidst existing visa scrutiny.
Centre relaxes passport, visa rules for select foreign nationals; revises Nepal, Bhutan travel norms
The Centre has announced amendments to immigration rules for several categories of foreign nationals residing in India. Pakistani citizens who entered India before December 31, 2009, may be exempt from renewing their passports. Additionally, certain refugees from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan fleeing persecution are included in these exemptions. Registered Sri Lankan Tamil nationals and Tibetans with specific entry permits also benefit from relaxed requirements.
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UAE Golden Visa: International graduates from top 100 universities can qualify for 10-year residency
The UAE has rolled out a remarkable 10-year Golden Visa aimed at graduates from the world's top 100 universities. Candidates must boast a minimum GPA of 3.5 and submit their applications within two years of graduation. The Golden Visa permits these graduates to reside and work in the UAE without needing a local sponsor.
US midterm outcome offers limited relief to India; oil, Russia sanctions remain key risks: Report
The outcome of the US midterm elections is expected to offer only marginal relief to India. Crude oil prices and potential tariffs on Russian oil purchases will continue to present economic challenges. While a Democratic majority may enhance diplomatic engagement, immediate trade relief seems unlikely. The rupee and foreign portfolio investor inflows could see some positive impact.
Midterm results may slow US visa curbs, but no quick relief likely for IT
The opposition party’s takeover of both chambers of US Congress is expected to bring greater scrutiny of the administration’s policy decisions, potentially slowing further restrictions, industry experts told ET. However, any improvement in sentiment is unlikely to translate quickly into higher hiring or technology spending.
Sentiment boost for students chasing the American dream as election verdict could temper Trump’s immigration agenda
The recent midterm elections in the United States have raised hopes for Indian students aspiring to study there. Experts believe that while the electoral outcome may boost sentiments, policies regarding immigration are unlikely to change immediately. Existing visa restrictions and uncertainties pose challenges for prospective students as they transition to employment. The Democrats can potentially mitigate any further restrictive immigration measures through their Congressional control.
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.
UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood scraps 15-year settlement wait for migrant care workers earning £25,000
The UK government has revised its immigration settlement rules, particularly for foreign care workers. Eligible care workers can now qualify for permanent residency after five years instead of 15. In addition, changes will extend the standard settlement period for most migrants from five to ten years. Stricter eligibility conditions are also being introduced for all applicants and refugees.
New Zealand to remove 17 occupations from Green List Work to Residence pathway from March 2027
Effective March 8, 2027, New Zealand will revise its Green List Work to Residence visa pathways, eliminating 17 specific occupations. While these workers can transition to residency through fresh Skilled Migrant Category routes, special education teachers will notably have direct access to residency without needing prior work experience.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Visa rules deter 43% of air travellers as immigration complexity becomes a barrier: IATA Global Passenger Survey 2026
International travel is facing challenges due to increasingly complex immigration requirements affecting passenger behaviour. The International Air Transport Association's survey reveals that many passengers are discouraged from travelling because of these complexities. Additionally, passengers show a preference for completing immigration procedures digitally before travelling to avoid delays. Concerns about personal data privacy persist despite the growing acceptance of digital travel solutions.
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.
New Zealand updates student visa regulations, reducing research students' work rights significantly
New Zealand has revised its student visa regulations to enhance work rights and English proficiency assessments. The changes will align master's-by-research students with other master's students regarding work limits. Visa processing will also be suspended in more circumstances to ensure compliance with educational standards. Additionally, students will have an extended period of two months after course completion for their visas.
New visa rules for Australian students may force some international students to apply from overseas
Students from abroad planning to study in Australia may need to apply for a new Student visa from overseas. This new process is crucial for those switching educational institutions or those who anticipate requiring more than 12 months to finish their studies. Importantly, applicants must stay outside of Australia until their visa is approved.
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