US STUDENT VISA APPLICATION
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.
US immigrants now face higher deportation risks. Here's why
Immigrants in the U.S. are facing increased deportation risks as immigration enforcement agencies utilize IRS data to identify unauthorized employment. Reporting income from side jobs while on visas like H-1B or F-1 can lead to visa denials and removal proceedings. Attorneys advise caution, as tax records are under greater scrutiny, potentially impacting immigration status.
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.
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.
'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.
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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.
Indian students look beyond US; Germany posts record growth in 2024-25: Report
Indian students are increasingly looking beyond the US for higher education. Applications to US universities have dropped by 13%, while Germany has seen a significant jump of 32.6% in 2024-25. The UAE and the Middle East are also gaining popularity, offering degree programs from global campuses of elite US universities. Canada has also witnessed reduced applications.
Indian students in US struggle due to visa restrictions and job crunch
Indian students in the US are facing increased hardship. Stricter visa enforcement and fewer job opportunities are making it difficult to manage living costs. Many students are struggling with finances. They are cutting expenses and sharing accommodation to survive. The OPT program is offering fewer opportunities. Consultants are advising caution to prospective students.
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.
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.
How Trump is killing the US tourism industry: $12.5B gone, visitors down 8.2% in 2025
US tourism is collapsing in 2025 as Trump-era tariffs, immigration crackdowns, and a new $250 ‘visa integrity fee’ drive international arrivals down 8.2%. The World Travel & Tourism Council warns America is the only major country seeing declines, with $12.5 billion lost as Canada, China, and Colombia surge
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.
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.
A Chinese student was questioned for hours in the US, then sent back even as Trump policies shift
A Chinese student, Gu, faced deportation despite having proper documents to study in the US. He was going to the University of Houston. Customs officials interrogated him about his ties to the Chinese Communist Party. The Chinese Embassy reports several similar incidents. Students faced harassment and repatriation. They cite discriminatory law enforcement.
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.
Colleges face financial struggles as Trump policies send international enrolment plummeting
American colleges face financial strain due to a drop in international student enrollment. Visa issues and policy changes are causing this decline. University of Central Missouri is among those affected, impacting their budget. Many institutions rely on international students' tuition. Smaller colleges are particularly vulnerable. Lee University in Tennessee is also experiencing a significant revenue drop.
Run from the USA: Students will have to pack their bags fast
Proposed US visa rule changes, limiting durations to four years, are expected to disproportionately affect Indian students compared to their Chinese counterparts. This is because many Indian students rely on post-study work opportunities like OPT and H-1B visas, while Chinese students often return home or pursue funded PhD programs.
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.
New US rule bars student visa holders from changing courses in first year
The US Department of Homeland Security proposes new restrictions on F-1 student visas, limiting program changes and prohibiting enrollment in programs at the same or lower levels after completion. A fixed stay period of up to four years would be implemented, requiring extensions and increasing the risk of overstaying.
US to limit visa duration for international students, media professionals & cultural exchange visitors
The Trump administration proposed new rules to limit the duration of visas for international students, cultural exchange visitors, and journalists. F visas for students and J visas for exchange workers would be capped at four years, while I visas for journalists would be limited to 240 days, or 90 days for Chinese nationals.
Trump administration moves to tighten visa checks — what 'continuous vetting' really means
The U.S. State Department's announcement of 'continuous vetting' for all visa holders has sparked concerns about potential impacts on over 55 million foreign nationals. While the government asserts its right to revoke visas for various reasons, critics fear unjust targeting based on flawed data, particularly regarding social media activity and perceived 'anti-American' sentiments.
Trump's tactics mean many international students won't make it to campus
American universities are facing a potential decline in international student enrollment due to stricter visa vetting and travel restrictions. Students from Iran, Afghanistan, China, and India are encountering significant obstacles, leading to application dips and visa delays. This could result in a substantial loss of talent and revenue for U.S. institutions, impacting both academic diversity and financial stability.
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