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Will Indian diaspora rally behind Rishi Sunak in UK elections?
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is rallying conservative voters ahead of the upcoming election, warning against a potential landslide victory for Keir Starmer's Labour Party, which has campaigned on a platform of change after 14 years of Conservative rule. The Conservative Party's tenure has been marked by major events like Brexit, the Covid-19 pandemic, and economic challenges.
Indian students in the US can now look for internship opportunities through a new platform: Here’s how to apply
The Consulate General of India in New York has launched a platform to help Indian students find internships at companies in the United States. This initiative aims to support Indian students in the consulate's jurisdiction. Indian and American companies have agreed to consider Indian students for internships.
Nordic "coolcations" turn up the chill factor
Cati Padilla and other tourists from southern Europe are increasingly opting for "coolcations" in Nordic countries like Norway and Sweden to escape the summer heatwaves. The trend is driven by a desire for cooler weather and less crowded destinations. Norway saw a 22% increase and Sweden an 11% rise in foreign overnight stays in 2023, influenced by the easing of Covid restrictions and fluctuating Scandinavian currencies.
New Zealand’s popularity soars as a study hub, witnesses 69,000 international student enrollments in 2023
Education New Zealand reported a significant increase in international student enrolments in 2023, reaching 69,135, marking a 67% rise compared to 2022 and representing 60% of 2019 figures. This surge underscores New Zealand's appeal as a study destination known for quality education in a safe environment. Linda Sissons from Education New Zealand highlighted the positive impact of international students on the education sector and communities, emphasizing the enriching cultural exchange that fosters global understanding.
BLS International joins hands with Poland embassy for visa outsourcing services in Philippines
BLS International has signed a contract with the Embassy of Poland in the Philippines to provide visa outsourcing services, marking a significant step in streamlining the visa application process for travellers to Poland from the Philippines. The agreement includes managing both Schengen and National visa applications, which can be submitted at two visa centres in Manila and Cebu.
This European nation now allows international students to work part-time for 90 hours per month
International students in Denmark can now work part-time for 90 hours per month. The Danish Immigration Service also allows them to work full-time for 90 hours in June, July, and August. Previously, foreign workers needed to extend their stay before their permits expired, with a maximum stay of 90 days within the last 365 days.
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Thailand's tourism thrives with $22.4 bn revenue: India key driver along with China, Malaysia
Thailand's tourism ministry reported a significant increase in foreign tourists during the first half of 2024, recording 17.5 million arrivals, marking a 35% rise from the same period last year. These visitors contributed 825 billion baht ($22.42 billion) in revenue, with China, Malaysia, and India as the leading source markets. Tourism remains a crucial economic driver for Thailand amidst challenges like slowing exports and high household debt.
India, Belarus hold first-ever consular dialogue in Minsk
India and Belarus conducted their inaugural Consular Dialogue in Minsk, addressing a wide range of consular issues including the welfare of Indian students in Belarus and boosting tourism between the two nations. The Indian delegation, led by Aman Puri, Joint Secretary (Consular, Passport and Visa Division), engaged with Belarusian counterparts headed by Andrei Kozhan, Head of General Directorate for Consular Affairs at Belarus' Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
10 most expensive cities for Expats
According to Mercer's 2024 cost-of-living data, half of the top 10 most expensive cities for international assignees are in Western Europe, with Switzerland hosting four of them. Nevertheless, it is cities in Southeast Asia that dominate the rankings, with Hong Kong and Singapore retaining the first and second positions, respectively.
Applying for a US student visa? American Embassy has a warning for you
Indian students continue to favor the United States as their top destination for overseas education, with expectations of increased student visa applications in 2024. In 2023, India issued 140,000 student visas, and the number of Indian students in the US surged by 35 percent to reach a record 268,923, constituting over 25 percent of the international student population in the country. Acting spokesperson Nicole Holler highlighted the appeal of US universities for their facilities, faculty quality, research opportunities, and career benefits.
Canada's Quebec introduces cap on family sponsorship applications
Quebec has introduced a limit on family sponsorship applications, effective until June 25, 2026. The cap imposes a limit of 13,000 applications, with specific allocations for different categories. Out of the total, 10,400 applications are reserved for spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children aged 18 and above.
Studying in the US: Understanding the difference between CPT vs OPT
The United States remains a top destination for international students, providing a dynamic academic environment and diverse cultural experiences. India leads with the largest student population in the US based on F-1 visa issuances in the first half of 2024, and the US Consulate General in Mumbai anticipates a 10% increase in visa applications from Indian students this year. Beyond academics, many students seek practical work experience, which is facilitated by two US visa programs: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Japan imposes new fees on Mount Fuji climbers to limit tourists
Park rangers on Japan's Mount Fuji launched this year's climbing season before sunrise, implementing new trail fees and capping daily hiker numbers at 4,000 to manage overcrowding. Climbers now pay ¥2,000 ($12) per person amid concerns over litter and trail congestion from last year. The season runs until September 10, aiming to mitigate environmental impact and safety issues, especially among eager "bullet climbers". Despite Japan's tourism boom, authorities seek to balance visitor numbers with sustainable management practices.
Australia's new visa rules kick in; here's how they will affect Indians
Starting July 1, individuals seeking Australian student visas must apply from outside the country. This change affects holders of certain visas, including Visitor and Temporary Graduate visas, who can no longer apply for Student visas while in Australia. Applications submitted within Australia before July 1, 2024, will still be processed, and Working Holiday Maker and Work and Holiday visa holders remain unaffected.
Australia doubles foreign student visa fee in effort to curb migration
Australia has raised visa fees for international students starting July 1, from A$710 to A$1,600, aiming to manage record migration and housing market pressure. The changes also prevent visitor visa holders and temporary graduate visa students from applying for student visas within the country. The move is part of a strategy to create a fairer migration system and address loopholes in student visa rules that have led to a significant increase in subsequent visas.
Inclusion of Taiwan in Laos Govt's visa-waiver program for Chinese tourists gives false impression: Taiwan's Foreign Ministry
Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) criticised Laos' visa-waiver program for Chinese tourists, stating it falsely implies Taiwan is part of China. The program, valid from July 1 - December 31, allows Chinese nationals to visit Laos visa-free for up to 15 days as part of a group tour. MoFA expressed concerns that Laos' collaboration with China undermines Taiwan's sovereignty and international standing, emphasising that Taiwan and China are not subordinate to each other.
New Zealand tightens rules for foreign workers looking to sponsor dependants
New Zealand has implemented new immigration rules restricting foreign workers in certain roles from sponsoring their dependents for visas, aligning with economic priorities. Changes affect Accredited Employer Work Visa holders at ANZSCO levels 4 and 5 without residency pathways. Existing visa holders and those meeting specific criteria remain unaffected.
Canada delays changes to citizenship rules
Changes to Canada's first-generation limit (FGL) concerning the inheritance of Canadian citizenship have been delayed until at least August, as reported by CIC News. The FGL rule dictates that children born outside Canada to Canadian citizens born abroad do not automatically receive Canadian citizenship. Ontario’s Supreme Court deemed this rule unconstitutional, setting a June 19, 2024 deadline for the federal government to address it.
Obtaining a German citizenship becomes easier: All about the new changes
Germany's new citizenship law, effective June 27, allows foreigners in Germany to obtain citizenship faster without giving up their original nationality. It aims to increase eligibility for citizenship, expecting a rise in naturalization figures in 2024. Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized adherence to German values while rejecting discriminatory behaviors.
Consumer spending peaks in non-metro Indian cities: Visa
Visa, a global digital payments provider, revealed on Thursday that non-metro cities in India such as Dharamshala, Mullanpur, and Vishakapatnam are emerging as the biggest daily spenders. This insight comes from Visa Consulting and Analytics' consumer spending trends for the 2024 summer cricket season. Notably, there has been an overall increase in online transactions across all segments, with food and grocery delivery apps showing a 23% surge in usage.
Indians spent over €12 million in rejected Schengen visa applications last year
In 2023, Indians faced high rejection rates for Schengen visas, resulting in a loss of €12.1 million. Schengen states rejected 1.6 million visa applications, generating €130 million. Indians, Turks, Algerians, Moroccans, and Chinese were among the most affected, with Indian and Turkish nationals experiencing the highest financial losses.
US eyes India for STEM talent, China for humanities students: US diplomat
Campbell urged for increased Indian students in American universities for technology fields while cautioning restrictions on Chinese students' access to sensitive technology due to U.S.-China scientific cooperation concerns.
10 reasons your Schengen Visa could be rejected
Applying for a Schengen visa can be a complex process, and avoiding common pitfalls is crucial to ensure a smooth application experience. Here are ten mistakes applicants should steer clear of.
Australian study visa grants drop sharply in 2024
Australia has experienced a significant decrease of nearly 30% in study visa grants during the first four months of this year, with 74,421 visas granted to offshore applicants from January to April, compared to 104,808 granted in the same period in 2023. This decline, although substantial, is less severe than the 53% drop observed between 2019-20 and 2020-21 due to the pandemic.
Top 10 universities in Europe for international students
When considering higher education opportunities abroad, Europe stands out as a premier destination for international students. With its rich cultural heritage, cutting-edge research facilities, and renowned academic institutions, Europe offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. In this guide, we explore the top 10 universities in Europe for international students, detailing their standout features, top courses, and estimated costs.
Understanding the F-2 visa: Can you work, study in the US if you're an F-1 dependent?
The F-2 Visa is a non-immigrant permit for F-1 Student Visa holders' immediate family members to join them in the US. This guide covers eligibility, application process, and regulations.
Comprehensive guide to the L-2 visa for dependents of L-1 visa holders
The L-2 visa allows spouses and unmarried children under 21 of L-1 visa holders to accompany them to the US, providing work and study benefits. It requires specific documents for application and can be extended with the L-1 visa. Dependents can work with an EAD and pursue education in the US.
Germany: The top choice for obtaining multiple-entry Schengen Visa this year
The report suggests that Germany is the best option for obtaining a multiple-entry visa to enter Schengen Area countries, as it has a high rate of issuing such visas. In 2023, 90.4% of visas issued by German consulates were multiple-entry, only slightly lower than the previous year's rate of 90.6%. Out of the 1,459,560 visa applications received, Germany approved 1,233,561, with 1,115,424 being multiple-entry visas.
Moving to the US: Understanding the H-4 visa for dependents of H-1B visa holders
The H-4 visa, issued by USCIS, is for dependents of certain nonimmigrant workers like H-1B and H-1C visa holders. It allows spouses and children to accompany the primary visa holder to the US and study there.
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