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MEA makes emigration clearance mandatory for Indians going to Iran
The Ministry of External Affairs has withdrawn the exemption for Indians travelling to Iran, making emigration clearance mandatory. In its August 26 notification, the ministry said the decision, taken under the Emigration Act, 1983, aims to protect and safeguard the interests of Indian citizens going to Iran, thereby ending the exemption granted since December 2006.
Argentina eases entry to Indian citizens holding a US visa
Argentina has relaxed entry requirements for Indian citizens holding valid US tourist visas, eliminating the need for an Argentine visa or Electronic Travel Authorization. This initiative aims to boost inbound tourism and support sports, aligning with efforts to simplify entry procedures.
US to resume neighborhood investigations for citizenship applicants
USCIS is resuming neighborhood investigations for naturalization applicants, ending a long-standing waiver. These checks, authorized by the INA, assess residency, moral character, and attachment to the Constitution. USCIS officers will now apply this provision on a case-by-case basis, potentially requesting testimonial letters to ensure applicants meet all statutory requirements.
‘Gold Card’ for wealthy investors, wage test for H-1B: Trump administration’s new immigration push
H1B Visa News: The Trump administration is preparing a sweeping overhaul of US immigration rules, targeting both H-1B visas and green cards. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed the shift from a lottery-based system to one focused on wages and merit. A new ‘Gold Card’ plan, offering permanent residency in exchange for a $5 million investment, is also under discussion. With Indian workers making up more than 70 percent of H-1B recipients, the proposed changes could have far-reaching effects for professionals and companies alike.
Green card process: Why I-140 approval alone does not grant US residency
An approved I-140 petition is a crucial step toward a green card, establishing eligibility and securing a priority date. However, it doesn't grant immediate residency, work authorization, or lawful status in the U.S. Beneficiaries must maintain their nonimmigrant status and either adjust status within the U.S. or pursue consular processing abroad once their priority date is current, navigating potential backlogs.
Belgium tightens family reunification visa rules
Belgium has tightened family reunification visa rules, raising income requirements and the minimum age for partners to 21. These changes, part of the 'Easter Agreement,' aim to reduce migration and strain on social services. Critics warn the measures could increase irregular migration and hinder integration, despite the government's intention to deter migrants seeking better opportunities.
Oman’s new Golden Visa to open doors to business ownership and long-term residency
Oman is set to launch its Golden Visa program on August 31 for investors. This initiative aims to attract foreign capital and boost the economy. The government will also support high-performing Omani firms through the 'Al Majida Companies' initiative. Digital trade reforms are planned, including electronic transfer of commercial registrations.
Saudi Arabia to expand pension and savings programme to foreign workers
Saudi Arabia is set to launch a voluntary pension and savings programme, including foreign workers for the first time, aiming to boost household savings and reduce remittances. The initiative follows pension reforms increasing retirement age and contribution rates. The IMF welcomes the programme, highlighting its potential to enhance savings and calling for greater transparency in social insurance assets.
US Embassy explains how a simple mistake can lead to visa revocation
The US Embassy in India clarifies two common US visa refusal categories. These are 221(g) and 214(b). A 221(g) refusal means the application is on hold. It is due to incomplete documents or further review. A 214(b) refusal means the applicant did not prove visa eligibility. Applicants need to understand the difference. This helps in planning their next steps.
Canada to accept new language test for Permanent Residence applications
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will soon accept the TOEFL Essentials test for permanent residency applications. Administered by ETS, the test assesses English proficiency through listening, reading, writing, and speaking. This addition aims to provide applicants with more flexibility in meeting Canada's immigration language requirements across various economic programs.
Must Watch
Free speech stops at the border? ‘Anti-American’ scrutiny is raising the bar for immigrants
US immigration authorities are broadening discretionary review, scrutinizing "anti-American activity" and antisemitism in visa and green card decisions. A new "good moral character" memo raises naturalization standards, demanding active civic engagement beyond simply avoiding crime. These policy shifts highlight how free speech, protected for citizens, can jeopardize immigrants' status, particularly impacting students and professionals.
Canada is cutting immigration but making one big exception
Canada is reducing overall immigration but increasing targets for French-speaking immigrants settling outside Quebec, aiming for 12% by 2029. This initiative addresses the decline of francophone communities and labor shortages, with the government implementing express entry draws and pilot programs. Despite scaling back total immigration numbers, French-speaking admissions have grown, reflecting efforts to support linguistic diversity.
US' new ‘good moral character’ rule: Flexibility or a tougher barrier to citizenship?
A new USCIS policy on Good Moral Character (GMC), effective August 15, 2025, raises concerns despite its seemingly flexible approach. While it aims for a "holistic" review, applicants may now face a higher burden to prove their worthiness beyond just lacking a criminal record.
How India’s partition forged a diaspora empire
Following the bloody Partition of India in 1947, Hindu Sindhi merchants, including the author's family, scattered globally. Despite facing displacement, many thrived, building successful businesses and contributing significantly to their adopted nations. Their journey underscores how migration can drive economic growth, benefiting both migrants and host countries, highlighting the importance of open immigration policies.
Waiting for US citizenship? Immigration authorities to now scrutinize applicants’ good moral character
USCIS is shifting to a more comprehensive evaluation of 'good moral character' for citizenship applicants, moving beyond a simple checklist to consider an individual's behavior and contributions. The new policy weighs positive attributes like community involvement and stable employment alongside negative conduct, such as repeated DUIs or tax evasion.
UK work and family visa applications fall after rule changes; study visas steady
UK Health and Care Worker visa applications plummeted in July 2025 following stricter employer scrutiny and overseas recruitment restrictions. Applications dropped drastically from August 2023 peaks, while Skilled Worker visas saw a smaller decline. New immigration rules in July 2025, including higher skill and salary requirements, further impacted visa trends across various categories.
