Immigration

US Immigration Reform and Indian Technology Firms: As President Trump begins his second term, there are ripples of both challenge and hope. The strict immigration policies his government had enforced for H-1B visa aspirants in the previous administration made Indian tech firms tread back in the opposite direction while reducing their reliance on these visas and increasing their presence onshore. Below, we analyze what the second term may do to the Indian IT sector, skilled immigration policies, and the business environment in general. Trump’s Return and the Changes for H1-B Visas In Donald Trump’s first term, there were significant policy changes noticed, especially related to the H-1B visa program, through which Indian IT companies hire their skilled tech talent in the U.S. Now, the annual quota of H-1B visas, capped at 85,000 at present, may witness stricter regulations, with a higher test of eligibility and longer scrutiny periods for granting visa approvals. Experts such as Poorvi Chothani, founder of LawQuest, say that under Republican-led Congress, she expects changes in the Immigration and Nationality Act, perhaps of which will come as strict policies for foreign workers. The denial rate for H-1B visas went as high as 24% during his first term, and it could shoot up again. Curbing Optional Practical Training (OPT) of international students would also affect Indian students who would love to work in the United States after completing their course. Indian IT Sector to Cut Dependence on H-1B Visas Shaji Nair, Sharekhan by BNP Paribas: Lower ImpactShaji Nair, Sharekhan by BNP Paribas research analyst, says the re-election of Trump may not have much of an effect on the Indian IT industry since businesses of these companies are transforming. By focusing on talent development in the U.S., Indian IT companies have managed to somewhat decouple their business from H-1B clearance. This trend will also help negate the impact of tighter immigration rules. GCCs and India’s Onshore Talent: The Emerging ForceGlobal Capability Centers (GCCs) of India-based companies have now become a must-have for U.S. top companies as they offer cost-effective skilled labor solutions in India. “They really provide good quality solutions in tech and business for American companies,” says Yugal Joshi, partner at Everest Group. This trend may neutralize the adverse effects of tightened immigration laws in the second term of Trump. Another interesting development would be a new relationship in collaboration under the Trump administration with tech visionary Elon Musk, who had been an advocate for highly skilled immigration. Pareekh Jain, CEO of IT consulting firm EIIRTrend, believes that the influence of Musk may mitigate a hard-line stance on highly skilled immigration, especially in the high-tech sector, crucial to U.S. economic growth. NASSCOM’s Hope for US-India Tech TiesIt appears that the NASSCOM, India’s leading technology trade body, remains hopeful over the bilateral relationship between the U.S. and India. The U.S. happens to be India’s largest market for its $254 billion tech sector, and therefore NASSCOM underscores the role of the tech sector in cementing ties between both nations. According to NASSCOM, the Indian tech services sector adds a value of $80 billion to the U.S. GDP, while American companies use the Indian digital infrastructure for cheaper solutions. IT Sector Rally: Cautious Optimism Amid UncertaintyIndian IT shares reacted positively to the win by the Trump presidency. The rally suggests cautious optimism from the sector side, as there is an expectation that India’s IT sector will benefit from the pro-business orientation that the Trump administration exhibits. Conclusion Opportunities and challenges for India’s IT sector in the Second Trump Term Indian IT will face challenges and opportunities during his second term of office. He may consider tightening H-1B regulations or immigration laws that may force Indian tech companies to hire more onshore talent and workforce within the United States. However, the deep-standing economic partnership between the U.S. and India, coupled with the advocacy of voices like Elon Musk at a minimum, puts Indian tech firms in an unpredictable American market. Whether it is a blessing or a curse, Indian IT companies will learn to adjust and continue to support the US tech landscape with innovative solutions and talent.

The Trump second presidency benefits for Indian students and professionals have generated much discussion, especially in regard to the perceived education, immigration policies, and job opportunities. Recruitment experts and college admissions officials predict a more favorable approach toward international students, by easing paths toward permanent residency. Let’s focus on how these changes may positively impact Indian students and job seekers in the U.S. Trump’s proposal for international students: Clear Pathway to the Green Card The latest statements from the Trump administration suggest there could be a shift in policy towards international students. As the South Asia Regional Director at IDP Education tells IE, Donald Trump had promised to offer green cards to international students during his presidential campaign. That change would make the U.S. vastly more attractive to Indian students who are seeking stability and long-term career possibilities in areas like STEM-science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. A Glimmering Prospect for Indian Students Kumar said that Trump’s policies can push the number of Indian students looking for the U.S. as a destination to study up by 15-20% in 2025. More Indians would get attracted towards the U.S. because of its numerous STEM courses, for which the rest of the particular student intake directly gets access to permanent residency that enables them to stay and work in the U.S. after completion of their studies, during which they earn valuable work experience and help boost the economy. Economic policies and employment growth Trump’s policies, for example, on taxation reduction, deregulation, and business-friendly initiatives might also bode well for Indian professionals with IT, pharmaceutical industries, and manufacturing. Karthikeyan K, director of permanent recruitment at Adecco, feels that these policy measures will lead to the creation of jobs in sectors where Indian professionals flourish. Relaxing regulatory restrictions would spur business growth, hence strengthening the job market for highly skilled international workers. Legal Immigration Paths This is a mixed bag for students and professionals, says Akshay Chaturvedi of Leverage.biz, in that the virulent rhetoric about border security might just scare off many would-be illegal immigrants while opening up possibly more legitimate channels for highly skilled international talent. The Trump administration could ultimately smooth out the immigration process, reenforcing pathways for students and skilled workers to migrate legally and build careers in the US. Hope for Indian Students and Professionals Such potential immigration reforms under Trump have also ushered in a new hope for Indian students, who form the majority in the U.S. international student body. Nearly 200,000 Indian students are now studying in the U.S., accounting for close to 20% of the international student population in the country. More students will most probably take advantage of green cards when easily available. Conclusion: A Future in Greener Pastures for Indian Students in the U.S With renewed interest in business-friendly policies and immigration reform, the second term of Trump could prove to be a better one for Indian students and job aspirants. Easier accessibility towards permanent residency, a booming job market in key sectors, and more would form the developments offering promising prospects for those choosing the U.S. as their destination of choice. Only time will tell how long these tendencies of his will stay friendly for international students, but for now, the situation looks pretty promising for those Indians who would like to come to study in the U.S. and then settle there by working.

If you are an Indian and looking to apply for UK citizenship, then it’s great that you understand the whole process regarding eligibility criteria, application steps, and documents required by an individual to ensure a seamless and successful journey to turn out to be a proud citizen of Britain. Many immigrants, including Indians and Indians, find the country appealing due to its highly rich culture, quality of education, and job facilities. This blog will break down the basic steps and requirements involving Indians seeking UK citizenships. Eligibility Criteria for Indians to Apply for UK Citizenship There are various ways to apply for UK citizenship, and eligibility criteria have to be understood before applying. Here are the key eligibility criteria you have to meet: 1. Age requirementYou have to be 18 years of age or older to apply for British citizenship. If you are a minor below 18 years of age, then citizenship can be obtained through your parents. 2. Residency requirementsYou have to spend at least five years in the UK without being absent for more than 450 days during those five years. The three-year’ requirement applies to someone married to or entering into a civil partnership with a British citizen. At least the last 12 months of this period must have been in the UK and held Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Settled Status under the EU Settlement Scheme. 3. ILR StatusA minimum period of one year for the granting of ILR status must precede the date when one intends to apply for naturalization as a British citizen. On the contrary, ILR grants someone unrestricted life and work opportunities within the UK. 4. Good character requirementOne has to be of “good character.” This means not having any severe criminal convictions. A person must have a clean record free of any serious crime convictions for him or her to qualify for British citizenship. 5. Fluency in the English Language RequirementThe applicant must be able to show that he or she meets the requirements of the English language requirement. This can be done by passing an English language test at level B1, B2, C1, or C2, among other approved means, including having a degree taught in English. 6. Life in the UK TestYou must pass the Life in the UK Test, which tests your knowledge about British history, culture, traditions, and laws. This test is meant to validate your understanding of what it means to be a part of British society. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for UK citizenship. Step 1: Taking the Life in the UK TestTake the UK test from the official page of the government of the UK, where you make a reservation to take and sit, and after that, make it your qualification certificate. Step 2: English Language RequirementYou should prove that you are able to use the English language. You can prove this by presenting a certificate that shows the results of an English language test that you have undertaken, showing that you have achieved B1 or higher. Additionally, you may be asked to give the names of two referees who can confirm your identity. Step 3: Fill out the application form.Click to the official website of the UK and make an application by filling out a form. There will be an online form where it will ask you for various personal details regarding your living, family background, etc. Step 4: Upload Required DocumentsNow, when you have submitted the above form, upload the scans of the important documents from your end. The ones that are being asked:1. Passport or identification proof2. Life in the UK Test Certificate3. Proof of language proficiency in English 4. Biometric Residence Permit, where required5. Relevant residence and ILR evidence After submitting your application, you will be asked to book a biometric appointment. In this appointment, the authorities will take your fingerprints and photograph to confirm your identity. You are required to book this appointment at any UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services UKVCAS service point. Step 6: Wait for the DecisionAfter the reception of the application and the biometric data, it is the Home Office’s duty to process your case. It may take many months to process UK citizenship applications. You will hear their decision once they are ready to make one. Step 7: Get Your UK PassportIf you are accepted, then you are qualified to obtain a UK passport. It is your last step in your entire process to becoming a British citizen. Documents to Apply for UK Citizenship Below is the list of the must-have documents you’ll need to provide the UK citizenship application: Proof of Identity: passport, driving license, birth certificate, or Home Office travel document.  Biometric Residence Permit (optional but highly recommended) Life in the UK Test Certificate Evidence of English language proficiency: evidence that at least B1 or above level has been demonstrated. Proof of being a law-abiding citizen: police clearance report or any other document showing that you have maintained a clean record. Proof of Stay in UK: Utility bills, tenancy agreement, tax returns, and all other documents that will confirm that you have been a UK resident for at least the required period. Proof of Indefinite Leave to Remain Status: This is crucial in case you have stayed as an ILR holder for more than one year. Conclusion Indian citizens who want to become British citizens must also understand and apply for the eligibility criteria in the proper way. You can easily meet the residency, language, and character requirements and pass the Life in the UK Test by doing so. So make sure you have all the relevant documents ready and approach each step with great care so that there are no unwarranted delays or complications.

The 2024 U.S. Presidential Election will have a strong impact on Indian nationals in the US. because the result would determine changes in immigration policies, which directly affects millions. Kamala Harris approach to immigration is utterly opposite from the current President Donald Trump, especially when talking about policies relating to border control, processing of asylum, safe channels of legal immigration, and even a pathway to citizenship. Given that these policies could have an impact on residence, work permits, and family reunification for Indian nationals, it would be interesting to know in what ways the stances of the two leading candidates may cause a seismic shift. For instance, the immigration policy stance of Kamala Harris is actually considered more balanced toward humanitarian concerns. Kamala Harris’s immigration plan is a balanced approach focused on law enforcement, humanitarian approach, and support towards pathways to citizenship. The framework of Harris’s policy focuses on Enhanced Border Security and Root Causes: Harris supports border security but also would address the root causes of migration, particularly from Latin America. This could mean better, more stable immigration processes for Indian nationals without increased barriers. Harris also supported pathways to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, especially for the DACA recipients. This approach would be able to offer Indian families long-standing relationships with the U.S. a pathway to secure legal status and eventually citizenship. This streamlines the legal immigration process, and this includes H-1B work visas, which can prove advantageous for the Indian professional in the working of technology as well as many other sectors reliant on the skilled workforce. Harris’s policy will promote a more predictable and stable immigration environment for Indian families and companies. Legal immigration reforms, family reunification, and the reduction in immigration focus on what Indian IT firms and other businesses need-the preservation of critical pathways to employment and residency. Donald Trump Immigration Policy: Border Control and Reduced Immigration Immigration: Trump’s campaign focuses on more stringent control of borders, a reduction in legal immigration, and strict enforcement of undocumented immigrants. These include: Strict Border Control Measures: Trump is said to revive some of these programs, such as the “Remain in Mexico” and Title 42, which enable the exclusion of immigrants based on a health emergency. For the Indians, strict policies would relate to entry into the border, increasing stringent checks with fewer options for the asylum seekers or job prospectives in the United States. Reduction of Legal Immigration and Merit-Based System: Trump will reduce legal immigration levels and end diversity visa lottery programs. Trump is more in favor of a merit-based system, giving more preference to those who have something unique to offer instead of those with families. This could affect family-based immigration for Indian nationals looking to join family members there. Huge Repatriation: Trump has vowed to be a part of one of the biggest repatriation efforts in American history, which may spell doom for many Indian residents in the country who do not have clear legal status. His enforcement policy is broadly defined and may increase confusion for Indian nationals, especially those on temporary visas or awaiting pathways to citizenship. Impact on Indian Nationals and Business Houses Immigration policies of Trump would pose challenges for Indian nationals and businesses. Lesser hope of family reunification and deportation would send shockwaves of fear in Indian families living in the United States. Companies, especially technology, would be restrained as fewer candidates will remain for H-1B and work visas. It will become tough for Indian professionals to get jobs in the United States. Key Comparing Factors: Harris vs. Trump on Immigration Roads to CitiershipKamala Harris: She favors roads to citizenship, particularly to DACA recipients and those with long-term connections in the U.S.Donald Trump: He opposes any new pathways for undocumented immigrants, pushing for enforcement and removal instead. Asylum PoliciesKamala Harris: Intentions to restore a more humane and organized asylum process, and criticizing previous family separation policies.Donald Trump: Plans to make asylum standards tougher, and strictly separate the families under the “zero tolerance” policy. Legal Immigration and H-1B VisasKamala Harris: Wants to speed up legal immigration, this will provide preferences to workers skilled and family reunification.Donald Trump: Hope for fewer legal immigration services while focusing on merit-based entry and a drastic decrease of family-based legal admissions. Enforcement and DeportationDonald Trump: He promises massive deportation supported by laws like the Alien Enemies Act, leaving no more uncertainty for an illegal immigrant than he ever would. Conclusion: So What Does This Mean For Indian Nationals And Companies The future of immigration in the U.S. will be decided by the outcome of the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election. Harris’s policies are more pro-immigrant than Trump’s as she focuses on both enforcement and openings to lawful immigration and citizenship. In contrast, Trump’s approach offers tighter controls, greater deportations, and lower legal immigration levels, which raises uncertainty for Indian families and businesses in the U.S. Indian nationals and companies now await the manner in which these policies will shape their future in the U.S. whether for family reunification, career opportunities, or stability-the stakes are high for Indian communities as they await the direction in which U.S. immigration policies will be shaped.

This deportation has focused attention on India-US cooperation on migration. This latest incident of deporting Indian nationals who had illegally resided in the United States has brought into the international mainstream discussion on issues related to migration. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has shown an optimistic view regarding increased bilateral engagement that helps curb illegal immigration by providing alternative legitimate channels for lawful migration between the two nations. Terms: India-US cooperation in matters of migration and reducing illegal immigration, while developing corridors for legal movements India US mobility partnership. India and the US have further intensified engagements related to migration so that the process strengthens the legal pathways while countering illegal immigration. India’s MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal recently underlined continuous engagement between the two through “regular dialogue” with the collaborative efforts. Getting Familiar with the India-US Mobility Partnership Recently, the India-U.S. mobility partnership has slowly moved away from the mainstream diplomatic debate. This very framework creates legal channels for aspiring migrants while also being tough on illegal migrants. This partnership encourages plans that prevent illegal immigration with alternative options. October 2023 Deportation: The Reality Check on Illegal Immigration On October 22, 2023, the U.S. The Department of Homeland Security, in conjunction with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, scheduled a chartered flight for the deportation of Indian nationals who had no legal reasons to remain in the United States. DHS has reassured its commitment to bilateral cooperation with the Indian government, focusing on reducing illegal immigration and addressing human trafficking issues. Total Indian nationals repatriated stood at 1,100 in the US fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. It is a testament to how serious this cooperation is. Core Elements of India-US Mobility Dialogue The migration dialogue between India and the U.S. emphasizes the need to create avenues of migration apart from deterrent means of unlawful migration. The program comprises regularized consular dialogues and includes the government of India, which shares the interest of the safe and lawful repatriation of Indian citizens who would otherwise remain undocumented. The Road Ahead: Legal Pathways for MigrationThe real aim of this dialogue is to increase opportunities for legal migration into the United States for education, employment, or permanent residency. It deals with the root causes of illegal immigration, giving aspirant migrants transparent processes through which they can lawfully establish residency. Conclusion Increased cooperation between India and the United States on issues of migration and mobility has a lot to offer hope to solve illegal immigration. In case both governments remain involved, this partnership could set an example for other countries facing similar issues. The two countries hope to deter illegal migration while offering easy, legal opportunities to the people to fulfill their international aspirations as their cooperation develops.

The Canada Immigration Plan 2025-2027 is an important change in the scope of immigration targets to stabilize population growth through sound economic stability and social cohesion. The Canada Immigration Plan 2025-2027 aims at balancing increases in populations by restricting annual intakes of new permanent residents in an effort to ease pressures on houses, relieve pressures in the public service, and meet demands in the labour market, as also discussed amply below. Shifting immigrant numbers: balancing the number After a few years of successive increases in immigrant intake levels, Canada has implemented, for the first time ever, reduction policies. The program will decline from 485,000 new permanent residents in 2024 down to 395,000 in 2025 and then to 380,000 in 2026, then further drop to 365,000 in 2027. This new strategy now changes the focus from mere growth to stability with respect to numbers, which targets sustainable numbers of growth while still bringing into the mainstream skilled immigrants where they are required most. New Routes to Permanent Residence for Temporary Residents A central feature of the Canada Immigration Plan 2025-2027 will be a specific route to permanent residence for temporary residents—the international students and temporary foreign workers—who are already contributing to the Canadian economy and social fabric. In 2025, it’s projected that more than 40% of new permanent residents will be individuals who have already been living, working, or studying in Canada. For international students and temporary workers, this means a smoother transition to permanent residency. Their pathway would now be open to those who have long-term commitment shown, with Canadian qualifications attained, and also the proof of economic contribution. Such individuals already invested in the society of Canada will find an opportunity for stability as offered by permanent residency. Stricter Eligibility Criteria for International Students and Workers This effect of immigration on international students would be the newly strengthened, stricter eligibility requirements and admissions caps on programs regarding international student intakes, which might potentially lower applications from such students in the future. More likely, it will also make it more burdensome for students already in Canadian schools to achieve work permits or permanent residency as with the shift. International students may be expected to be trained in certain skills or credentials that are pertinent to the labor needs of Canadians, like the healthcare providers, engineers, or tradespeople may demand. For temporary workers, new conditions may mean changes to work permits that make it tougher to renew permits or even to begin a pathway to permanent residency. The idea is to ensure the people remaining in Canada meet the present economic demands and integrate well. Alleviating Housing and Infrastructure Pressures In many ways, new immigration targets are designed to ease the pressure on housing systems, public transportation, and health care. For people who live in larger cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, these cuts will relieve pressures in different arenas of the housing market, making finding a place to rent and buy into a less burdensome situation. Additionally, a smaller influx of newcomers would mean easier access to health care and public transportation for existing residents, particularly those in denser urban centers. This increases the potential to create a sustainable living environment for both the new immigrants and the old ones by scaling back on population growth in the country. Modification of the Job Market Towards Labor Demand A core goal is to stabilize the job market for temporary workers in Canada by calibrating the imperative of the immigration policy with the needs of the labor market. Under specific targets in areas such as healthcare and skilled trades, as well as STEM fields, it ensures that an inflow of newcomers brings about economic gain without translating into a high rate of unemployment. This will give more prospects to foreign students and migrant workers in those in-demand areas, as the reduced competition will, therefore, probably result in higher wages and job security. For Canada, focusing on a targeted number of immigrants will enhance economic resilience while assisting residents to better standards of living. Better oversight for a safer immigration system In keeping with the movement to maintain sanctity in Canada’s immigration policy, the Canadian government is planning on squeezing the nose on the International Student Program by tightening control mechanisms. So foreign students will be allowed in Canada only based on more stringent academic criteria as well as only to the extent and in steps in line with Canada’s economic needs. Work permits also would undergo stringent provisions, primarily with respect to spouses working while their spouse is either an international student or a temporary worker, so that these permits don’t go about providing employment to unproductive persons. Regional Effects of Shifts in Immigration Policies While the major cities may have negatives observed in respect of demand for housing, the demographics in rural areas and smaller provinces are likely to differ. High-demand sectors would comprise the theme of Canada’s immigration plan, thus bringing more skilled professionals where there is a shortage, such as health and trades in rural and Francophone regions. The effect on the local economies may turn out to be more favorable, and regional needs may be better met with such a focused approach. Conclusion For instance, Canada’s new immigration strategy to 2025-2027 would favor quality over quantity in selecting the immigrants who would be able to contribute towards economic and social stability in Canada. In return, for international students, temporary workers, and residents in the country, these changes open new paths for permanent residency and balance, stability, in the environment in Canada. The Canadian policy prioritizes sustainable growth and creates a welcoming, economically secure, and diverse environment for its residents.

The most vivid contrasts to her policies on immigration, though, are the ones—with less than a year to go before the 2024 presidential election—Vice President Kamala Harris has grown ever more divergent from former President Donald Trump. With Harris poised to continue on with many of the Biden administration’s policies and Trump looking to return to his hardline approach, voters face a clear choice on the future direction of U.S. immigration policy. Kamala Harris: Building up Biden’s Immigration Reforms Vice President Kamala Harris chairs the head of Biden’s administration immigration plan and pledges to push the efforts further. Of late, Harris has billed her time as Attorney General of California, having managed border security problems on something like drug smuggling and human trafficking. She addresses the immigration reform found with the basic belief that general priorities of reform are in order to be made, considering a myriad of complexities characteristic of the present U.S. immigration system. Key Policy Objectives: Comprehensive Immigration Reform: She believes in comprehensive immigration reform that gives a pathway to citizenship for the current undocumented living in the United States. Harris further adds that special consideration due to young immigrants, mostly brought into the U.S. as children, also called the “Dreamers,” should have a faster route towards their citizenship. Bipartisan Cooperation: Harris touted her work to reach across the aisle on immigration reform. She pointed to the introduction of a bipartisan Senate deal that called for stronger standards for asylum seekers, more resources for security at the border, and support for immigration courts, saying that it was torpedoed because Trump was hostile. Getting to the Root Causes of Migration: As point person on immigration for Biden, Harris has become a considerable focus towards efforts designed to address the root causes of Central American migration: poverty, violence, and corruption. She says long-term solutions are necessary in order for there to be a decrease in the amount of migrants who make their way to the U.S. looking for refuge. Donald Trump: A Return to Hardline Immigration Policies Turning to another White House bid, former President Donald Trump vows a firmer immigration hold than he previously did during his first term in office. He’s going to try even harder if he wins. Key Policy Objectives Mass Deportations: Donald Trump has promised the largest ever mass deportation operation in the USA against millions of illegal immigrants. He has illustrated that it all can be done with camps and the National Guard, setting the example to influence general anti-immigrant sentiment. Pushing back, strengthening previous policies: According to Trump, in his case, he will reinstate a good number of policies, even those in the first term, such as the Remain in Mexico program that kept asylum seekers waiting in Mexico while their cases were processed and Title 42, the public health measure used to expel migrants at the border. Ideological screening and travel ban: Trump said he would extend the travel ban, which was initially issued to citizens from seven countries with Muslim majorities, with new restrictions to ideological screening that prohibit the entrance of those people who have been considered for “dangerous” and “extremist” views. Ending Birthright Citizenship: Perhaps one of the more controversial proposals from Trump relates to ending birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to parents who are both undocumented. That would have required a constitutional amendment or a very significant re-interpretation of the 14th Amendment. The Future of U.S. Immigration Policy The 2024 election presents decisively contrasting choices between two starkly different visions over what U.S. immigration policy is to be. Harris zeroes in on a balanced and comprehensive reform of the pathways to citizenship and attention to the root causes of migration. In contrast, Trump’s proposals make very clear that he returned to hardline measures designed to sharply cut immigration and deportations. The destiny of U.S. immigration policy now rests directly in the hands of voters at the electorate, with pivotal choices to be made at the ballot box in one direction or another that will affect many millions of immigrants and the future character of the country’s immigration system.

Canada has long been an immigrant favourite, with numerous opportunities awaiting and a great quality of life. Aligned with its 2023–2025 Immigration Levels Plan, Canada has been quite serious about the active implementation of new visa policies in a bid to revamp its immigration system to fuel its economic growth. Beginning from work permits for international students to Super Visas for parents, these changes are aimed at “strengthening Canada’s immigration framework.” Here’s the rundown of the new visa rule changes in Canada. 1. Tightening of Study Permit Regulations With growing concerns over the misuse of study permits, Canada has tightened the regulations a little further. As of this July,. The government has ceased to process study permits in programs where the institution is not continually monitoring the student’s enrolment status. International students have been, thus, forced by these conditions to seek a new study permit when transferring to a new institution, which ensures quality in the system of education. These changes will ensure that study permits are not abused and that students do not easily drop their programs. 2. Work Visa Extensions for Israeli Nationals In the midst of the Israel-Hamas conflict, Canada extended its work visa options for Israeli nationals until July 31, 2025. This policy was adopted in February 2024 and allowed Israeli nationals to apply for a work visa, consequently giving them a temporary haven in Canada. This move to extend it further exemplifies Canada’s commitment to extending a helping hand amid international conflicts while taking care of its labour needs at home. 3. No More Post-Graduation Work Permits at the Border Canada has just officially stopped the practice of processing or issuing post-graduation work permits at the border, a method commonly referred to as “flagpoling.” In years past, some temporary residents briefly left and re-entered Canada in efforts to speed up the processing of their work permits. Well, starting in June of this year, this option is no longer an option. The change is part of the broadest efforts by Canada to see fairness and consistency in its immigration processes, thus pushing applicants through the regular application channels. 4. Permanent Immediate Residency for Foreign Carers Canada will establish two new pilot programs that aim to make it easier for foreign carers to qualify for permanent residency. The program will grant permanent residence status immediately upon the qualified carer entering Canada, thus meeting Canada’s requirement for skilled caregiving professionals. Such a measure illustrates how Canada comes to recognise that carers have a very vital role in supporting families and communities across the country. 5. ‘Super Visas’ for Parents, Grandparents Canada has begun issuing Super Visas to about 35,700 potential sponsors who applied as far back as 2020 to reunite families across borders. The ‘Super Visa’ was a special opportunity wherein Canadian citizens and permanent residents could bring their parents and grandparents to live with them in Canada for an extended period of time. This will not only bring families closer but also give immigrants peace of mind, knowing that their parents and grandparents could equally relocate to where they live. 6. Start-up and self-employed visa categories are relatively quicker in terms of wait times Canada overhauled the Start-Up Visa Program to bring in more innovation and entrepreneurship into the country. As of April 30, 2024, measures have been taken by IRCC that would reduce processing times and clear the application backlog. Directed at the admission of innovative entrepreneurs and self-employed persons to assist them better in establishing business enterprises in Canada. 7. More Work Hours for International Students To overcome labour shortages and facilitate economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada increased the off-campus work hour limit from 20 to 24 hours per week for international students, effective in September. It will allow the international students to gain more work experience while contributing to the Canadian economy and provide them with extra income opportunities that can be more easily managed with living expenses while studying. Conclusion The new changes in the visa policy reaffirm Canada’s dynamic, adaptive immigration system. Streamlining regulations, continued help for the unfortunate, and permanent residence have made Canada the most sought-after destination for a diversity of potential immigrants. Keeping up with the latest Canadian immigration updates is paramount for any person moving to Canada

The establishment of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement between the two countries has further deepened the bilateral relationship between Australia and India. This landmark pact may enhance collaboration on migration matters, thereby offering Indian graduates and early professionals tremendous opportunities. Here is an in-depth view of what this arrangement holds for them and how it benefits Indian nationals. What is a Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement? The establishment of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement between the two countries has further deepened the bilateral relationship between Australia and India. This landmark pact may enhance collaboration on migration matters, thereby offering Indian graduates and early professionals tremendous opportunities. Here is an in-depth view of what this arrangement holds for them and how it benefits Indian nationals. What is a Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement? The MMPA is thus a step towards deepening the relations between Australia and India in terms of migration and mobility. This agreement embodies existing visa streams being retained and further strengthened with one new initiative, the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme for Indian graduates and professionals. In addition to that, it strengthen business ties and allows for an extension of up to five years for all new subclass 600 business visitor stream visas. Key Features of the MMPA Enhanced Mobility Pathways: MMPA reaffirms and enhances visa options for students, visitors, business people, and other professionals. New MATES Scheme: Introduces a new mobility pathway for Indian graduates and early-career professionals in specific sectors. Increased Visa Validity: Extends the validity of subclass 600 business visitor stream visas to up to five years. The Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES). One of the salient features of the MMPA has been the MATES scheme, which is aimed at facilitating the mobility of young Indian professionals to Australia. Details regarding its break up are given below: Eligibility Criteria for MATES Age Limit: Applicants must be 30 years old or younger on the date of application. Previous Participation: Those who have previously participated in MATES are not eligible to apply again. English Language Proficiency: Applicants must achieve a minimum overall score of 6 in IELTS, with no less than 5 in any individual module. Educational Qualification: Applicants must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in one of the following fields: Renewable Energy Mining Engineering Information Communications Technology (ICT) Artificial Intelligence (AI) Financial Technology (FinTech) Agricultural Technology (AgriTech) Graduation Timeline: Applicants must have completed their studies within the last two years from an eligible educational institution. Key Details of the MATES Scheme No Australian Employer Sponsorship: An applicant does not need to seek the sponsorship of an Australian employer for this particular visa category called MATES. Permissible Activities: The members are eligible to stay along with working in Australia for a time period of 2 years. There is no requirement under the scheme to work in one’s principal area of study; however, it aims at providing support regarding skill expansion and networking in listed sectors. Family Members: MATES participants are allowed to bring dependants including spouses and children. These dependent family members will be granted the same work rights as the participant in Australia. Dependants will not be counted in the annual cap of 3,000 places. Visa Duration: Visa holders must enter Australia within 12 months from the visa grant date and may stay for up to 24 months from their initial entry. The visa permits multiple entries. Further Extension: The applicant can apply further for another visa and continue to stay; however, he / she can’t again apply for MATES. Costs: Visa subclass and details of costs will be published shortly. Additional costs will be payable for including dependants, etc. and other rising expenses while making an application. Implementation and Further Developments An Implementation Protocol is currently in the works, designed to spell out the modalities of the MATES scheme and generally ensure that it will be a process that is fair and equitable towards all claimants. Full implementation of MATES has not been precisely located on the timeline yet; however, updates will be provided as more information is received. Conclusion The Australian–India Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement is very exciting for Indian graduates and professionals. Opening opportunities for mobility and work in Australia will, under this vision, be much more collaboratively engaged between the two nations. Indian nationals seeking career opportunities in Australia should be encouraged to continue monitoring the MAC scheme and be ready to seize this new opportunity. For more details, visit the official website.