UK VISA APPLICATION
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.
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.
UAE visa pre-approval simplified: Options for Indian travelers explained
Indian travellers can obtain a 14-day entry visa upon arrival in the UAE by holding a US green card or a residence visa from the UK or any EU country. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFAD) offers a pre-approval service to streamline immigration procedures. To apply, individuals can visit the GDRFAD website, log in with their UAE Pass or online account details, and complete the application form under "Port services."
Top UK universities face funding and foreign student shortage
The QS 2025 university rankings revealed challenges for UK universities, with funding cuts and regulations impacting their global appeal. Four British universities ranked in the top 10, with Imperial College London surpassing Oxbridge schools. The decline in student applications and restrictions on international students are concerning trends.
UK announces plans to introduce new caps on work & family visas
UK's ruling Conservative party plans to implement new annual caps on work and family visas to curb rising net migration levels ahead of the upcoming July election.
Study Abroad: Challenges and opportunities for Indian students
Studying abroad has long been a cherished aspiration for many Indian students, offering opportunities for global careers and expanded knowledge. Despite the challenges posed by stricter immigration policies and increased scrutiny, the desire for international education remains strong. Factors driving this trend include the diversity of academic programs, global exposure, availability of scholarships, and access to advanced technology and innovation.
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Navigating financial requirements: Essential steps for international students to study in Canada
Studying abroad offers students the opportunity to experience new cultures and gain valuable academic insights. However, financial logistics are crucial. To study in Canada, international students must demonstrate sufficient financial support for their studies and living expenses, including additional funds for any accompanying family members. From 2019 to 2021, 10% of student visa applications were rejected due to insufficient funds.
Indians top list of immigrants to UK in 2023: Here's how many went to work, study and play
In 2023, Indians were the largest group of immigrants to the UK, with 250,000 arrivals. Net migration to the UK dropped by 10% to 685,000, down from 764,000 in 2022.
Bonjour! Pointers to start your French higher education
France has announced a plan to triple the number of Indian students by 2030, aiming to welcome around 30,000 students within six years. This initiative enhances France's appeal as a destination for global education, attracting students with its multiculturalism and academic prestige. However, studying in France differs significantly from anglophone countries due to language and cultural differences.
Indian entrepreneur shares plight of Schengen Visa delays, says even Rs 4 lakh and months of waiting aren't enough
An Indian investor based in London, Aashima Arora, missed an international flight despite spending over Rs 4 lakh and waiting months for a Schengen visa to visit Denmark. Arora, a venture capitalist at LocalGlobe, expressed frustration over the lengthy visa process, highlighting the impact on her business plans. The wait time for Schengen visas remains particularly high for Indian travelers.
UK tightens student visa rules but keeps Indian students' favourite graduate route intact for now
The UK's Graduate Route scheme, popular with Indian students for post-study work, remains safe for now, though it will be "kept under review," as the government announced new proposals to tighten student visa regulations to prevent misuse for immigration. The measures follow a 10% fall in net migration, welcomed by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The Home Office highlighted a 25% drop in visa applications due to stricter rules on family dependents and plans to regulate international student recruitment to crack down on rogue agents.
Indian students shun UK universities for Master's degrees amid visa clampdown
Official statistics from London reveal a significant decrease in Indian students pursuing higher education in the UK, with over 21,000 fewer applicants for Master's degrees compared to the previous year. This decline, highlighted by UK Home Office data based on Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures, marks a 16% drop in Indian student applicants over the year ending December 2023, contributing to a 10% overall decline in net migration compared to 2022. The decrease is attributed to stricter visa regulations affecting students' ability to sponsor family dependents, spouses, or children, prompting concerns from universities reliant on overseas student fees.
Swiftly Soaring: Taylor Swift's Eras tour sparks surge in European air travel for upcoming summer season
Taylor Swift's Eras tour is significantly impacting travel and the economy, causing a 25% increase in demand for flights to European destinations like Lisbon and Madrid. United Airlines and Delta plan to fly around three million passengers over Memorial Day weekend, a 5% rise from last year. Tourism is expected to surge as American fans flock to cheaper European concerts, with ticket prices exceeding $1,000 due to high demand and strict resale rules. Milan saw a 45% rise in passengers for Swift's July concert debut.
Universities, student groups lobby PM Sunak to protect UK's post-study visa offer
Universities and student groups urge PM Rishi Sunak to retain UK post-study visa, crucial for Indian students seeking work experience. Concerns arise over potential restrictions amidst soaring migration figures. Letters highlight economic benefits and positive impact on UK's global standing. Universities warn of financial repercussions without visa scheme.
UK's Graduate Visa programs may stay, but Sunak plans crackdown on foreign education agents
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to announce crackdown on agents marketing graduate visa schemes overseas, aiming to toughen migration stance before elections.
Are foreign students taking advantage of UK's graduate visas? Govt-backed review finds no evidence
A recent report by the Migration Advisory Committee highlights the vital role of international graduates under the UK's Graduate Route visa, benefiting universities and enriching research. Concentrated among top nationalities, this route has seen significant growth, raising concerns about exploitation but overall contributing positively to the higher education sector.
Antigua, Grenada, Dominica: Citizenship-related visas explained
Caribbean's CBI programs offer diverse benefits like visa-free travel, low living costs, and multiple citizenships. Antigua, Grenada, and Dominica provide unique investment options. CARICOM allows free movement and residency in 20 countries, fostering economic cooperation and integration.
UK sees drastic drop in student dependents after visa crackdown
UK government's visa changes impact dependents and Indian students. Restrictions on visa switches and care workers. Focus on reducing legal migration. Indian study visas decline. Skilled Worker visa threshold raised ahead of general election.
UK makes it more expensive for residents and citizens to sponsor relatives on Family Visas
The UK increased Family Visa income to GBP 29,000, aligning with Skilled Worker visa levels. Measures aim to curb legal migration, ensure income sustainability, and address public services strain, impacting around 300,000 people.
UK's higher salary thresholds for skilled work visas kick in
UK has increased Skilled Worker visa thresholds for foreign workers to reduce migration and protect local workers. Family Visa income requirements have also risen, aligning with Skilled Worker criteria. New measures target cheap labor and support resident workforce development.
Indian student group begins 'Fair Visa, Fair Chance' campaign in UK
The independent Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has been commissioned to review the Graduate Route visa by UK Home Secretary James Cleverly to ensure it is "fit for purpose" and is expected to report by next month.
Visa application volume from Mumbai sees 30% YoY growth in 2023, recovers to 90% of pre-pandemic level
In 2023, visa application volumes from Mumbai saw a 30% year-on-year growth, nearly reaching pre-pandemic levels, according to a report by VFS Global. Compared to pre-pandemic numbers, Mumbai's visa applications reached 90% of 2019 levels. This growth trend was consistent with India's overall increase of 16% in visa applications.
UK study visa issuance drops in 2023, India remains top market despite decline
The latest data from the UK's Home Office indicates a decrease in study visas issued to main applicants in 2023 compared to the previous year. Despite this dip, the total number of study visas issued remained high, with India leading as the largest market despite a 14 per cent decrease. China saw a 6 per cent increase, while Nigeria experienced a significant drop.
India-UK Young Professionals Scheme: 3000 visas up for grabs. Everything to know about the February ballot
The UK Home Office has announced a new ballot for the India Young Professional Scheme, allowing successful applicants to reside, work, and study in the United Kingdom for 24 months. The ballot will take place from February 20-22, 2024, and eligible Indian nationals with a bachelor's degree or higher can participate.
Indian students are turning away from UK universities
Indian students are losing interest in pursuing undergraduate studies in the United Kingdom. Official statistics show a 4% drop in applications. Concerns arise as Nigerian students also contribute to the downward trend. The ongoing review of the Graduate Route visa may be a contributing factor.
Apply for visas in advance: VFS Global tells travelers as demand spikes
Visa application volumes from New Delhi grew by 10% YoY in 2023, reaching 82% of pre-pandemic levels. India recorded a 16% YoY increase. Popular destinations for travelers from India included Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, UK, and the US.
UK sets April deadline for new Skilled Worker applicants to meet hiked salary requirements
Starting April 4, 2014, the UK increases salary requirements for Skilled Worker route. The minimum salary rises to £38,700. Exemptions apply to Health and Care visa route, national pay scales, and teachers. Going rates are based on occupation codes and ASHE data. The ISL will replace the Shortage Occupation List.
UK employers rush to fill Skilled Worker Visa applications ahead of cost surge
UK employers are rushing to file visa applications for skilled workers before immigration rule changes take effect in April. The alterations proposed by the UK government are set to raise the costs of hiring overseas personnel, causing companies to accelerate hiring plans and renew existing visas to secure their current status.
UK visa fees spike as Sunak government hikes health surcharge by 66%
Starting February 6, the United Kingdom will introduce a significant hike in its immigration health surcharge (IHS) for visa applicants. Applications submitted before January 6 will not be subject to the higher surcharge. The Sunak government also raised visa fees for tourists, students, and foreign workers, including an additional £15 for visit visas and an increase of £127 for student visas.
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