SKILLED WORKER VISA APPLICATION PROCESS
Indian students, visitors can no longer apply abroad for a short-term US visa
The US has barred Indians from applying for student, visitor, or work visas in third countries to bypass long wait times at home. A new State Department directive mandates applications only from the applicant’s country of residence or citizenship. The rule, effective immediately, affects Indians who earlier applied in places like Thailand, Germany, or Brazil.
Beyond tariffs: US creates new visa hurdles for Indian students, visitors
Indians applying for US student or visitor visas in other countries to avoid long wait times at home now face a setback. A new US rule requires non-immigrant visa applications to be made only from the applicant’s home country, ending a Covid-era flexibility and adding more pressure to India's overloaded visa system.
South Korea to fly detained workers back as US vows more raids on employers
Following a raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia, South Korea is retrieving its workers. Negotiations for the release of about 300 detained South Koreans are complete. A chartered plane will bring them back after processing. US President Donald Trump addressed foreign companies to respect immigration laws. The incident occurred after a summit pledging closer business ties.
What to know about Ireland’s ‘Long-Term Residency’ program
Ireland's Long-Term Residency program offers non-EU citizens a pathway to permanent settlement after five years of legal residence. It attracts skilled workers by providing access to Ireland's job market, healthcare, and education. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including employment and a clean criminal record, to obtain a Stamp 4 Visa, granting them the right to live and work in Ireland.
Want to stay in the UAE? Know which visa works for you
The United Arab Emirates boasts a diverse residency system, featuring visas from short-term work permits to decade-long options for various professionals. The Golden Visa offers long-term residency to investors and specialists, while the Blue Visa targets environmental experts.
Trump administration targets employer-sponsored green cards with stricter scrutiny
The Trump administration is planning green card reforms impacting companies, skilled workers, and investors. Scheduled for January 2026, a rule will define “bona fide job offers,” allowing site visits. Tighter scrutiny of job roles, recruitment, and wages is expected, increasing compliance costs. Changes to EB-1 eligibility and EB-5 investor programs are also anticipated.
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OpenAI takes on LinkedIn with new jobs platform for AI-ready workers
OpenAI’s recently appointed CEO of applications, Fidji Simo, announced in a company post that the OpenAI Jobs Platform aims to connect businesses with AI-skilled workers. According to Simo, the platform will "use AI to help find the perfect matches between what companies need and what workers can offer".
Trump administration plans stricter reforms for H-1B visas, keeping cap-exempt category in focus
The Trump administration plans significant H-1B visa changes, tightening eligibility and oversight, particularly for third-party placements. Scheduled for December 2025, the proposal revises cap exemptions and introduces stricter compliance. A new rule prioritizes higher-wage applicants in the lottery, potentially impacting staffing firms and Indian professionals who are the largest beneficiaries of the H-1B program.
'No more visas for India': How Charlie Kirk’s 'we’re full' remark could impact Indian professionals in the US
Charlie Kirk's recent remarks against providing more US visas for Indian professionals have sparked controversy, raising concerns about the potential impact on the US economy and innovation. His statement, made amidst US-India trade negotiations, has been criticized for targeting a community vital to key sectors like technology and healthcare.
Trump's advisor Navarro needles India once again
Peter Navarro, trade advisor to Donald Trump, is stirring controversy by supporting tariffs on foreign remote workers, potentially impacting India's IT services exports. This move resonates with Trump's "America First" agenda, targeting Indian tech workers and outsourcing. While formal tariffs may be challenging, non-tariff barriers could be employed, posing a threat to India's $250+ billion IT industry.
US scrutiny on H-1B visas: MEA stresses mutual benefits of India-US mobility
India has defended the H-1B visa program amid growing US scrutiny over alleged misuse. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the mobility partnership's importance to technology, economic collaboration, innovation, and financial cooperation between the two nations. This response follows US probes into discrimination and concerns that Indian IT firms are leveraging the system to hire lower-cost workers, prompting calls for reforms.
Job offer in hand? Timing can still derail your UK Skilled Worker visa
Securing a Skilled Worker visa is crucial for overseas professionals aiming to work in the UK. The process involves strict deadlines and precise documentation. A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) triggers a three-month application window, and errors can lead to significant delays. Careful planning and attention to detail are essential for a smooth transition and long-term settlement prospects.
New TOEFL initiative gives Indian study abroad aspirants a chance to win Rs 10 lakh
ETS, in collaboration with Credila, has launched the TOEFL SUPER 50 program to support Indian students aspiring to study abroad. This initiative offers a prize pool of Rs 10 lakh, along with test preparation resources and financial planning support. Students registering for the TOEFL iBT test by December 15, 2025, and taking it by December 31, 2025, are eligible.
UK raises English test requirements for work and family visas
The UK has tightened its immigration rules, raising English language standards for migrants seeking work, settlement, or family visas. Skilled worker visa applicants now need B2 proficiency, up from B1. Family visa applicants must demonstrate English skills at entry, progressing from A1 to B2 for settlement.
H-1B reforms may be next, says USCIS chief as White House readies announcement
The White House is considering changes to the H-1B visa program to protect American workers, according to USCIS Director Joseph Edlow. The administration is weighing a "Weighted Selection" rule and exploring broader reforms, potentially prioritizing higher wages. Simultaneously, the Department of Justice is investigating hiring practices that may favor H-1B workers over US citizens, signaling increased scrutiny of the program.
H-1B visa scrutiny rises as DOJ launches discrimination probes
The US Department of Justice is investigating H-1B visa-related hiring discrimination claims amid calls for program reform. Several probes are underway, examining allegations of companies favoring visa holders over qualified American workers. Policy changes are also reshaping the H-1B process, including a shift to a beneficiary-centric lottery and potential wage-based allocation.
Oman’s 10-year Golden Visa: Who is eligible and how much does it cost
Oman launched a golden residency program on August 31, offering long-term visas to attract foreign investors and skilled professionals as part of its Vision 2040 reforms. The program features two tiers with varying investment requirements for 10-year and 5-year residencies. This initiative aims to boost investor confidence, increase capital inflows, and diversify Oman's economy.
US halts EB-2 Green Card issuance till September 30; Indian applicants face longer wait times
The US State Department confirms the EB-2 visa category has reached its annual limit for fiscal year 2025, impacting skilled workers and professionals. No new EB-2 visas will be issued until October 1, 2025. Indian applicants face further delays due to existing backlogs, with no progress in priority dates reported in September 2025.
Want to change jobs on UAE Golden Visa? Here’s what happens to your residency
UAE Golden Visa holders can switch jobs without affecting their residency, provided they secure a new work permit. This self-sponsored residency, designed for investors and skilled professionals, requires the new employer to apply for the permit through MoHRE. The process ensures uninterrupted residency and benefits both employees and employers by streamlining onboarding and promoting career mobility.
Applying for a US visa soon? Key updates every applicant must know
The US government is tightening visa rules with stricter social media checks, a new integrity fee, and fewer interview waivers. Proposed regulations may limit visa durations for international students, media, and exchange visitors. Indian applicants face in-person passport collection and increased visa costs, signaling a shift towards heightened scrutiny and compliance.
No more shortcuts for US visas — interviews are now mandatory for almost everyone
Starting September 2, 2025, the US State Department will require nearly all nonimmigrant visa applicants to attend in-person interviews, ending previous age-based exemptions and 'drop box' renewals. This change impacts students, business professionals, and frequent travelers, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments.
A green card to the Gulf? All you need to know about Saudi's Premium Residency programme
Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency program, launched in 2019, attracts skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors to boost economic diversification. The program offers benefits like business ownership, investment opportunities, and visa-free travel. Seven residency categories cater to diverse talents and investment levels, requiring specific eligibility criteria and fees, fostering long-term growth and global collaboration.
New Zealand updates police clearance certificate requirements for Indian visa applicants
Effective December 1, 2025, Immigration New Zealand will only accept police clearance certificates from Indian visa applicants residing in India if they are issued by a Regional Passport Office. This change is due to inconsistencies and verification difficulties with previously accepted certificates from local police stations. Applicants are advised to plan ahead to meet the new requirement.
Planning to start a business in the UK? This visa could be your gateway
The UK's Innovator Founder visa offers entrepreneurs a route to establish innovative businesses with global potential. Applicants need endorsements, demonstrating their idea's originality, viability, and scalability. The visa allows a three-year stay, extendable with progress checks, and leads to permanent residency. It requires English proficiency, involves fees, and grants flexibility in business activities, excluding public funds and professional sports.
Why the Greece Golden Visa is a top choice for Schengen residency
Greece presents Golden Visa program. Foreign investors can get residence permits through investments. A minimum investment starts at EUR 250,000. Real estate purchases, tourism agreements and financial investments are qualifying routes. Visa-free travel across Schengen Area is available. Investors can live in Greece without mandatory stay. They can pursue citizenship after seven years. The program attracts applicants globally.
Indian IT firms' reliance on it fell over years; are less vulnerable: Mohandas Pai on H-1B concerns
Amidst US scrutiny of H-1B visas, Mohandas Pai, former Infosys CFO, has asserted that Indian IT firms' reliance on these visas has significantly decreased. He highlighted data showing major American tech companies are now among the top applicants.
H1-B visa system is a 'scam', will change it, says US Commerce Secretary Lutnick
The US government plans to reform the H-1B visa and green card system. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick calls the current H1-B visa system a scam. The Trump administration aims for wage-based immigration and merit-driven selection. The goal is to replace the lottery system with a selective model. Past attempts to change the system faced opposition.
‘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.
Why Trump’s America can’t do without Indians
Central bankers at Jackson Hole warned developed economies face labor shortages without foreign workers, especially as US policies under Trump restrict immigration, impacting Indian skilled workers vital to STEM and healthcare. A CBO report highlights the US population decline by 2033 without immigration, leading to slower growth. The US needs Indian workers but policies push them away, risking economic consequences.
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