UK VISA APPLICATION DEADLINES
Golden visas for Indians: Amid changing rules and global uncertainty, golden visa calculations now include risk-hedging, estate planning, taxation
From EB-5 uncertainty to Portugal’s property ban, wealthy Indian families are rethinking their residency strategies as global rules tighten.
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.
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 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.
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.
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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 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.
Extend income tax audit deadline due to ITR portal glitch, enhanced reporting needs: BCAS
The Bombay Chartered Accountants' Society (BCAS) has urged for extensions to income tax deadlines, citing persistent glitches on the e-filing portal. BCAS, along with other associations, highlighted challenges like delayed utility releases, technical bottlenecks, and overlapping deadlines. They propose extending deadlines for tax audit reports and ITR filings to alleviate taxpayer burden and ensure compliance quality.
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.
ITR filing after deadline: What is condonation of delay request? How it can save you from penalties
The Income Tax Department has enabled condonation of delay applications for Form 10A filings, offering relief to taxpayers who missed deadlines due to genuine reasons. If approved under section 119(2)(b), taxpayers can file their ITR without penalties, interest, or additional taxes.
UK warns international students against overstaying visas
The UK government has initiated a campaign to deter international students from overstaying their visas, directly contacting them with warnings of potential deportation. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized that those without legal status will be removed, particularly targeting asylum claims lacking merit.
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.
Canada's increased fund requirement for student visa applicants now in effect
Starting September 1, 2025, Canada is increasing the required proof of funds for international students applying for study permits. The minimum for a single applicant rises to CA $22,895, with higher amounts needed for accompanying family members. These updated requirements aim to ensure students can financially support themselves throughout their studies, with specific rules for those studying in Quebec.
UK pauses refugee family reunion applications
Britain's government announced Monday it was suspending a scheme enabling families of refugees already in the UK to apply to join their relatives, as it tries to reduce irregular immigration. Cooper said the suspension comes ahead of further reforms set to be announced later this year which will look at "contribution requirements" for family members and "longer periods before newly granted refugees can apply".
Bihar SIR: Claims, objections allowed after Sep 1 but only post-finalisation of roll, EC tells SC
The Supreme Court observed that confusion around the Bihar SIR exercise was “largely a trust issue” and urged political parties to “activate themselves” to address concerns at the grassroots level. To ensure that voters and political parties are able to effectively file claims and objections, the apex court also directed the Bihar State Legal Services Authority to deploy para-legal volunteers to assist in the process.
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.
Columbia University admits record number of freshmen amid Trump visa threats
Columbia University's freshman class of 2029 has surged by 20% to 1,806 students, despite concerns about campus turmoil and Trump administration policies. Increased admissions and waitlist acceptances offset potential enrollment declines. Acting President Claire Shipman cited a strong applicant pool, while the university expands resources to accommodate the larger class.
Where Indian passport holders can visit with a valid US visa
For Indian passport holders, obtaining a US visa unlocks travel to 42 countries across Asia, Europe, and beyond, simplifying international mobility. In 2024, 2.2 million Indians visited the US, marking a significant increase from pre-pandemic levels. The US visa serves as a gateway to numerous destinations, offering convenient access to diverse regions without additional visa requirements.
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.
Expenditure on abroad study hits five-year low
The expenditure of Indian students on abroad studies have hit a five-year low in June 2025. This comes amid stricter rules and restriction on Indian students. However, the UK is gaining popularity as a study destination. Further. travel expenditures remain high.
How the new US visa rule on 'fixed periods of stay' could impact international students
The US plans to replace the “duration of status” system with fixed stay periods for F, J, and I visa holders. Students would get a four-year limit with only a 30-day grace period, reduced from 60 days. The rule adds paperwork, restricts program changes, and removes deference to past approvals, creating uncertainty in higher education.
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