Australia Skill Select updates from latest invitation round

Highlights: US Tightens Visa Rules: Drop Box and Age Exemptions Removed

• From September 2, 2025, nearly all non-immigrant visa applicants must attend in-person interviews.
• Age-based exemptions and “drop box” renewals for visas like H-1B, L-1, F-1, O-1, and B-1/B-2 are mostly removed.
• Exceptions remain for diplomatic, official, and certain international organization visas, as well as specific B-1/B-2 renewals.
• For 57 countries (including Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Iran), the new rules apply immediately with no exemptions.
• India not included in this list, but applicants should prepare for longer wait times at US consulates.

*Want to apply for a US visa? Get in touch with experts at Y-Axis to guide you with the steps.
 

Big Changes Ahead: No More Easy Waivers for US Visas

The new US visa policy marks one of the biggest shifts in recent years. From September 2, 2025, almost every non-immigrant visa applicant, whether applying for the first time or renewing, will now need to attend an in-person interview. Here’s what’s different:

• End of Exemptions: Waivers for children under 14, seniors over 79, and many visa renewals (H-1B, L-1, F-1, O-1, and B-1/B-2) are mostly discontinued.
• Limited Exceptions: Diplomatic, official, and certain international organization visas, plus specific B-1/B-2 renewals, still qualify for waivers.
• Stricter Rules for Some Nations: Applicants from 57 countries—including Afghanistan, Nigeria, Iran, and Cuba—will have no exemptions at all.
• Impact on Indians: India is not on this stricter list, but Indian applicants should still expect longer queues and extended wait times at consulates.

Also, read…

 US to cap F, J, and I visa stay periods
 

US Visa Interviews Now Mandatory—Here’s How You Can Stay Ready

With interviews now compulsory for most visa categories, Indian applicants need to plan their travel, study, and work timelines more carefully. The change could lead to longer queues at US consulates in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata, making early preparation critical.

Here’s what you should do:

• Apply Early: Begin the visa application process months before your intended travel.
• Track Wait Times: Use the US State Department’s Global Visa Wait Times portal for real-time updates.
• Prepare Documents Carefully: Always carry the correct DS-160 confirmation page and supporting papers. If you make corrections, bring both versions to the interview.
• Remember Reschedule Rules: From January 1, 2025, only one free reschedule is allowed—further changes mean paying a new fee.
• Stay Updated: Keep an eye on official announcements to avoid last-minute surprises.

Note: For Indian students heading for new academic sessions, IT professionals traveling on work assignments, or families visiting relatives, these new rules could mean added stress. But with the right planning, delays can be minimized.
 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with US immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No.1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!

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Highlights: Asia’s Safest Country Revealed: Singapore Ranks 6th Globally in 2025

• Singapore ranks 6th worldwide, maintaining its position as Asia’s safest country with a score of 1.357.
• The nation dropped one spot from 2024, yet showed improvement in its peace score (from 1.339 to 1.357).
• India remains at 115th place, recording a score of 2.229, with no movement from last year.
• Iceland tops the global list, followed by Ireland and New Zealand as the world’s most peaceful nations.
• Japan and Malaysia follow Singapore as Asia’s next safest countries, with scores of 1.440 and 1.469 respectively.
   

*Planning to visit Singapore? Sign up with Y-Axis for end-to-end assistance with the process.
 

Asia’s Safest Nations Revealed in 2025 Rankings

The Global Peace Index 2025 places Singapore at the top in Asia, followed by Japan and Malaysia.

Here’s a look at the region’s top 10 most peaceful countries:

Rank	Country	Score
1	Singapore	1.357
2	Japan	1.44
3	Malaysia	1.469
4	Bhutan	1.536
5	Mongolia	1.719
6	Vietnam	1.721
7	Taiwan	1.73
8	South Korea	1.736
9	Timor-Leste	1.758
10	Laos	1.783

 

*Want to visit abroad? Let experts at Y-Axis guide you with the steps.
 

Global Peace Index 2025: The World’s Most Peaceful Nations Ranked

The Global Peace Index 2025 crowns Iceland as the world’s most peaceful nation, with Ireland and New Zealand close behind. Singapore proudly features in the global top 10, securing its position as the safest country in Asia.

Rank	Country	Score
1	Iceland	1.095
2	Ireland	1.26
3	New Zealand	1.282
4	Austria	1.294
5	Switzerland	1.294
6	Singapore	1.357
7	Portugal	1.371
8	Denmark	1.393
9	Slovenia	1.409
10	Finland	1.42

 

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Highlights: US to Limit Stay for F, J, I Visa Holders

• The US Department of Homeland Security has proposed replacing the current “duration of status” system with fixed visa stay limits for F, J, and I visa categories.
• F-1 and J-1 visa holders may be limited to a stay of up to four years, including Optional Practical Training (OPT) and exchange programs.
• Unlawful presence would begin immediately after the fixed stay expires—risking 3- or 10-year bans for overstaying.
• Students could face restrictions on changing majors or academic programs, especially in the first year.
• USCIS officers may no longer defer to previous visa approvals, leading to stricter reviews for extensions and renewals.

*Want to apply for a US visa? Let Y-Axis help you with the process. 
 

US May Cap Student and Media Visas at Four Years — What Indian Applicants Must Know

If you're planning to study or work in the U.S. on an F, I or J visa, here’s how the proposed changes could affect you.
 

• Shorter Stay Periods: The current “duration of status” model may be replaced with fixed stays—up to 4 years for most students and exchange visitors, and just 240 days for foreign media professionals.
• Tighter Academic Flexibility: Restrictions may prevent undergraduate students from changing majors in the first year and stop graduate students from changing their level of education.
• Higher Risk of Overstay Penalties: Overstaying a fixed visa period may trigger immediate accrual of unlawful presence, leading to re-entry bans of 3 or 10 years.
• No Deference to Prior Approvals: USCIS officers may no longer consider earlier approvals when reviewing extension applications—potentially resulting in more rejections or longer processing times.
• More Administrative Burden: Applicants may need to plan for additional paperwork, costs, and careful travel decisions if extensions are required during their stay.

*Want to apply for a US student visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
 

Planning to Study in the US? Here’s What You Should Keep in Mind

As the US rethinks visa rules for international students and professionals, here are a few important takeaways Indian applicants should consider:

• Stay updated on policy changes: The new rule is still under review. Keep an eye on announcements from the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and your university.
• Plan your academic path carefully: Under the proposed rules, changing your course or program may be restricted—especially within the first year or at the graduate level.
• Understand your visa limits: Be aware of the fixed visa duration and renewal requirements. Extensions may not be automatic or guaranteed.
• Avoid overstays at all costs: Overstaying your visa can now immediately trigger penalties and long-term bans from re-entry.
• Seek expert guidance early: Whether it’s understanding your visa options or preparing your documents, consult reliable advisors to stay ahead of changes.
   

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with US immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No.1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!

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Highlights: Canada Reveals Express Entry Draw Focus for 2025 with Priority Sectors and ITA Schedule

• IRCC will conduct more category-based draws in 2025, aligning with the Immigration Levels Plan 2025–2027.
• Education, healthcare, and trades will be top priority categories in upcoming Express Entry rounds.
• A total of 8,000 ITAs were allocated to healthcare professionals, with 7,500 already issued.
• Over 18,500 ITAs were issued in French-proficiency draws held between February and March 2025.
• A three-month ITA schedule will be shared with provinces and territories to support better PNP planning. 
   

*Want to apply for Express Entry? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
 

Canada’s Immigration Focus Shifts to Key Sectors with Targeted ITAs

In a move to attract talent where it’s needed most, Canada is ramping up its focus on category-based Express Entry draws for the rest of 2025. According to an official report, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has laid out a clear roadmap prioritising occupations in healthcare, education, and skilled trades.
 

This targeted approach is part of Canada’s broader effort to align immigration with labour market needs and support long-term growth. For skilled Indian professionals in these fields, this opens up more opportunities to receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence. 

 

Here’s a look at the ITA allocation for these categories in 2025:

Category	Total ITAs in 2025	ITAs Issued So Far	Remaining ITAs for 2025
Healthcare	8,000	7,500	500
Education	3,000	1,000	2,000
Trades	3,300	0	3,300

 

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Canada Issues 55,820 PR Invitations So Far in 2025 as More Express Entry Draws Expected

Canada has issued a total of 55,820 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under the Express Entry system as of August 2025, and there’s still more to come. With category-based draws continuing throughout the year, applicants in priority sectors like education, healthcare, and skilled trades still have plenty of opportunities.

The IRCC’s structured invitation calendar, shared with provinces and territories, is expected to bring more predictability to the process. This approach supports Canada's 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan and helps applicants align their submissions with upcoming draws.

If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada, now is the time to get your profile ready. Focus on:

• Enhancing your CRS score
• Securing relevant work experience
• Gathering documentation in advance
• Following category-specific trends

With Canada’s Express Entry system continuing to issue invitations throughout the rest of 2025, Indian professionals still have a great chance to apply.     
 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canadian immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!

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Highlights: Professionals Can Now Visit New Zealand on a Streamlined Business Visa

• New Zealand has introduced a Business Visitor Visa for short-term business visits.
• The visa allows a stay of up to three months within a twelve-month period.
• The visa costs NZ $341, and 80% of applications are processed within 4 days, making it ideal for quick trips.
• Applicants must meet health and character requirements and show proof of sufficient funds worth NZ $1,000/month.
• The visa also permits limited study, includes family members under 19, and supports a range of professional visits.

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Who Can Apply for New Zealand’s Business Visitor Visa and What You Need?

If you are planning a short-term business trip to New Zealand, the Business Visitor Visa is your gateway. This visa is designed for professionals and entrepreneurs who wish to visit the country for business activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations — without applying for a work visa.

To qualify for this visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must be visiting exclusively for business purposes (not for paid employment).
• Must be in good health (medical tests usually not required for visits under 6 months).
• Must be of good character (police certificates required if spending 24 months or more over multiple visits).
• Must show genuine intent to leave New Zealand at the end of the visit.
• Must provide a letter from the employer or the New Zealand business partner confirming the purpose of visit.
• Must demonstrate financial capacity to support the stay:
• NZ $1,000 per month, or
• NZ $400 per month if accommodation is pre-paid.
• Accepted financial proof includes:
• Recent bank or credit card statements
• Prepaid hotel bookings
• Traveller’s cheques or bank drafts
• If sponsored, a Sponsorship Form for Temporary Entry must be completed with relevant financial documents.

Also, read…

New Zealand to introduce Global Workforce Seasonal Visa and Peak Seasonal Visa to fill workforce shortages    

 

How to Apply for New Zealand’s Business Visitor Visa and What to Expect on Arrival?

Applying for New Zealand’s Business Visitor Visa is a quick and straightforward process, designed to facilitate smooth entry for professionals. Here’s how to get started and what to know once you arrive:

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Gather essential documents – passport, financial proof, employer letter, identity documents.

Step 2: Choose your application method – online (recommended) or paper-based.

Step 3: Upload or attach documents and submit the visa application.

Step 4: Pay the visa fee – NZ $341.

Step 5: Wait for processing – 80% of applications are completed within four days.

Step 6: Receive your eVisa if approved, including all visa conditions.

Arrival and Stay Conditions in New Zealand

• Complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) before arrival.
• Be prepared for border checks – health status, character, and proof of onward travel may be reviewed.
• Proof of return travel or funds to buy a ticket must be provided, unless sponsored.
• Visa holders must only carry out business activities as stated in their application.
• You may study for up to 3 months if needed.
• Re-entry is allowed only if the visa includes multiple entry permissions.
• Paid employment is not permitted under this visa category. 

 

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Highlights: Saudi Arabia Opens Pension Savings Plan to Foreign Workers for the First Time

• Saudi Arabia will include foreign workers in its upcoming voluntary pension and savings programme for the first time.
• The aim is to boost domestic savings and curb rising remittance outflows, which reached SR144.2 billion ($38.4 billion) in 2024.
• Foreign workers make up 77% of the country's 12.8 million social insurance subscribers (Q1 2025).
• The scheme follows reforms that raised the retirement age, contribution periods, and contribution rates.
• The IMF supports the programme and has called for greater financial transparency in Saudi’s social insurance assets.

*Want to work in Saudi Arabia? Sign up with Y-Axis to guide you with the steps.
 

Big Reform Ahead: Saudi Expands Pension Scheme to Expats

Saudi Arabia’s upcoming Public Pension and Savings Programme is set to be a game-changer for foreign workers, including the large Indian expat community. For the first time, expats will have the option to participate in a structured savings system within the Kingdom—aimed at encouraging long-term financial planning and reducing reliance on outward remittances. In 2024 alone, foreign workers remitted over SR144.2 billion ($38.4 billion), highlighting the scale of funds leaving the country each year.

The initiative is part of broader pension reforms passed in July 2024, which included raising the retirement age, extending contribution periods, and increasing rates. As of the first quarter of 2025, foreign nationals accounted for 77% of the 12.8 million social insurance subscribers in Saudi Arabia.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has praised the move, stating it could significantly strengthen household savings and enhance the sustainability of the pension system. However, it also urged Saudi authorities to maintain financial transparency, especially in managing the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI)—whose assets make up about 32% of the Kingdom’s GDP.

*Want to work abroad? Let Y-Axis help you with the process.
 

What Indian Workers Should Know about Saudi Arabia’s New Pension Scheme

Here are the key takeaways Indian expats in Saudi Arabia should keep in mind:

• Voluntary Participation: The scheme will be optional, allowing foreign workers to contribute if they choose to start saving within Saudi Arabia.
• Encourages Local Savings: Designed to reduce remittances, the programme aims to help expats retain and grow their income locally through structured savings.
• Target Audience: Indian professionals and workers, who form a major share of Saudi’s expat population, stand to benefit from long-term financial planning tools.
• Social Insurance Context: As of Q1 2025, 77% of 12.8 million social insurance subscribers in Saudi Arabia were foreign nationals—highlighting the importance of including them in savings reforms.
• Further Details Awaited: Exact contribution rates, withdrawal conditions, employer roles, and return on investment details are yet to be officially announced.
• Advice for Expats: Keep track of updates from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Indian missions for official guidelines and enrolment information.
   

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Highlights: Canada to Accept TOEFL Essentials for PR Applications under Economic Programs

• IRCC will soon accept TOEFL Essentials as proof of English proficiency for permanent residence applications.
• The test covers listening, reading, writing, and speaking through real-life, task-based assessments.
• Eligible for use in Express Entry, FSWP, FSTP, CEC, PNPs, and the Atlantic Immigration Program.
• Lasts approximately 1.5 hours, offering instant unofficial scores for reading and listening.
• Official scores are released within six days and can be sent to unlimited institutions free of charge.

*Want to apply for Canada PR? Let Y-Axis guide you with the steps. 
 

What Is TOEFL Essentials and Who Can Take It?

Administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS), TOEFL Essentials is a globally recognized English language test designed to evaluate real-world communication skills. On August 21, 2025, ETS was officially added as a designated language testing agency by IRCC. While the test is not yet accepted, IRCC and ETS are working together to finalise timelines and test centre availability.

Once implemented, TOEFL Essentials will be available to candidates applying under the following economic immigration programs:

• Express Entry-managed programs:
• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) (subject to provincial discretion)

The test itself includes four timed sections—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—and features a short, unscored Personal Video Statement. It is designed to simulate practical, real-world interactions, making it relevant for both academic and everyday use.

*Want to improve your English language test scores? Avail the Y-Axis Coaching services to ace your scores!
 

How TOEFL Essentials Compares with Canada’s Approved Language Tests

Currently, IRCC accepts three English language tests:

• IELTS (General Training)
• CELPIP (General)
• Pearson Test of English (PTE Core)

TOEFL Essentials will soon join this list, offering a more flexible and fast-paced option. While CELPIP and IELTS are well known among Indian candidates, the inclusion of TOEFL Essentials gives applicants another globally respected option—particularly useful for those who have already taken TOEFL for academic purposes.

The test also allows free score reporting to an unlimited number of institutions, which can be a cost-effective benefit for applicants exploring multiple immigration or study options.
 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canadian immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!

 For recent immigration updates on Canada, check out Y-Axis Canada Immigration News!
 

Highlights: Canada to Accept TOEFL Essentials for PR Applications under Economic Programs

• IRCC will soon accept TOEFL Essentials as proof of English proficiency for permanent residence applications.
• The test covers listening, reading, writing, and speaking through real-life, task-based assessments.
• Eligible for use in Express Entry, FSWP, FSTP, CEC, PNPs, and the Atlantic Immigration Program.
• Lasts approximately 1.5 hours, offering instant unofficial scores for reading and listening.
• Official scores are released within six days and can be sent to unlimited institutions free of charge.

*Want to apply for Canada PR? Let Y-Axis guide you with the steps.
 

What Is TOEFL Essentials and Who Can Take It?

Administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS), TOEFL Essentials is a globally recognized English language test designed to evaluate real-world communication skills. On August 21, 2025, ETS was officially added as a designated language testing agency by IRCC. While the test is not yet accepted, IRCC and ETS are working together to finalise timelines and test centre availability.

Once implemented, TOEFL Essentials will be available to candidates applying under the following economic immigration programs:

• Express Entry-managed programs:
• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) (subject to provincial discretion)

The test itself includes four timed sections—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—and features a short, unscored Personal Video Statement. It is designed to simulate practical, real-world interactions, making it relevant for both academic and everyday use.

*Want to improve your English language test scores? Avail the Y-Axis Coaching services to ace your scores!
 

How TOEFL Essentials Compares with Canada’s Approved Language Tests

Currently, IRCC accepts three English language tests:

• IELTS (General Training)
• CELPIP (General)
• Pearson Test of English (PTE Core)

TOEFL Essentials will soon join this list, offering a more flexible and fast-paced option. While CELPIP and IELTS are well known among Indian candidates, the inclusion of TOEFL Essentials gives applicants another globally respected option—particularly useful for those who have already taken TOEFL for academic purposes.

The test also allows free score reporting to an unlimited number of institutions, which can be a cost-effective benefit for applicants exploring multiple immigration or study options.
 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canadian immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!

 For recent immigration updates on Canada, check out Y-Axis Canada Immigration News!

Highlights: Navigating UAE Employment: Overview of 13 Official Work Permit Types

• The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) now offers 13 types of work permits for diverse employment categories.
• The Work Bundle, a new digital platform, reduces hiring steps from 15 to 5 and cuts processing time from 30 to just 5 working days.
• Permits cover options for full-time, freelance, part-time, student, and project-based employment.
• Employers must meet conditions like valid trade licences, age criteria, and activity alignment to obtain permits.
• Violations such as false documentation or non-compliance can lead to permit suspension or cancellation.

*Want to work in the UAE? Let Y-Axis assist you with the process.
 

Working in the UAE Made Simple: Explore These 13 Work Permit Types

Whether you're a full-time employee, freelancer, or trainee, the UAE has a dedicated work permit tailored to your employment type. These permits are issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) and regulate legal employment across the private sector and free zones.
 

Here’s a breakdown of the 13 official work permits, who they’re for, and how long they are typically valid:
 

Permit Type	Who It’s For / Purpose	Validity
Recruitment from Outside UAE	Hiring workers from overseas	2 years
Transfer Permit	For employees shifting to another UAE-based employer	2 years
Family Sponsorship Permit	Allows residents on family sponsorship to take up employment	2 years
Temporary Work Permit	Short-term assignment with another company	Short-term
Mission Work Permit	Project-based work for foreign nationals	Project duration
Part-Time Work Permit	For those working limited hours or for multiple employers	As per contract
Juvenile Work Permit	For youth aged 15–18 under regulated conditions	1 year
Student Training & Employment Permit	For students aged 15+ in internships or training roles	3 months
UAE/GCC National Work Permit	For hiring UAE or GCC nationals in private sector roles	2 years
Golden Visa Holder Work Permit	For Golden Visa residents working for UAE companies	2 years
National Trainee Work Permit	For training UAE citizens in line with qualifications	12 months, renewable
Freelance Work Permit	For self-employed professionals without employer sponsorship	Varies
Private Teacher Work Permit	For qualified private tutors	2 years (free of charge)

*Looking for jobs in the UAE? Avail the Y-Axis Job search services to find the right one.
 

UAE Work Permits: Conditions, Renewals, and Compliance Guidelines

To ensure regulatory compliance and uphold labour standards, the UAE has established specific conditions for the issuance, renewal, and cancellation of work permits under the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
 

Issuance Requirements:

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old, except for student or juvenile permits.
• The job role must align with the employer’s licensed business activity.
• Employers must hold a valid trade licence and comply with UAE labour laws.
• Regulated professions require the necessary qualifications.
• An authorised company representative must submit the application.
• Permits may be denied or revoked in cases involving false documentation, inactivity, or violations of systems such as the Wages Protection System.

Renewals and Cancellations:

• Work permits can be renewed under the same conditions as initial issuance.
• Fees range from AED 250 to AED 3,450, depending on the employer’s compliance classification (Category A, B, or C).
• Cancellations require formal employer requests, complete documentation, and confirmation that all dues have been paid to the employee.
   

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Highlights: India Sees 7.6 Lakh Students Go Abroad for Higher Studies in 2024

• 760,073 Indian students went abroad for higher education in 2024, according to data from the Bureau of Immigration.
• The highest figure was recorded in 2023, when 894,783 students pursued overseas education.
• Student mobility rose sharply post-pandemic, increasing from 2.6 lakh in 2020 to 7.52 lakh in 2022.
• The government is boosting international student mobility through Mutual Recognition Agreements and migration partnerships.
• Chandigarh reported the highest per capita student visa issuance, followed by Punjab, Delhi, and Andhra Pradesh.

*Want to study abroad? Let Y-Axis guide you with the complete steps.
 

Study Abroad Surge Continues as 7.6 Lakh Indians Choose Global Universities in 2024

India continues to lead globally in outbound student mobility, with 760,073 Indian students going abroad for higher education in 2024, as per the Bureau of Immigration (BoI) data. While this represents a slight decline from the 8.94 lakh students in 2023, it still signals a strong post-pandemic trend, with numbers tripling since 2020 when only 2.6 lakh students studied overseas. The number of Indian students pursuing higher education overseas has seen a sharp rise over the last five years, with the post-pandemic years witnessing record growth.
 

The table below has complete details of the total numbers of students who migrated abroad for their studies starting 2020-2024:
 

Year	Number of Students
2020	2,60,363
2021	4,45,582
2022	7,52,111
2023	8,94,783
2024	7,60,073

To support this continued momentum, the Indian government has implemented several measures such as Mutual Recognition of Qualifications (MRQs) and Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreements with various countries. Additionally, Indian students abroad are supported through the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) and are encouraged to register on the MADAD portal for timely assistance.
 

*Planning on studying abroad? Sign up with Y-Axis for end-to-end assistance with the process.  

 

Indian States Sending the Most Students Abroad in 2024 Revealed

According to official data shared in the Lok Sabha, student mobility varies widely across Indian states. While states like Andhra Pradesh lead in absolute numbers, Chandigarh recorded the highest per capita student migration, with over 10,000 students per 1 lakh residents heading abroad between 2016 and 2021.
 

Here's a quick state-wise breakdown:
 

State/UT	Number of Students (approx.) / Per Lakh Residents
Chandigarh	10,000+ per 1 lakh residents (highest per capita)
Punjab	869 per 1 lakh residents
Delhi	851 per 1 lakh residents
Andhra Pradesh	Highest by absolute numbers
Maharashtra	Among top 3 in total students sent abroad
Gujarat	High in absolute numbers
Kerala	331 per 1 lakh residents

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!
 

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Highlights: Two New Seasonal Visas to Open in New Zealand amid Rising Labour Demand

• New Zealand will introduce the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) starting December 8, 2025.
• The GWSV is valid for up to three years and targets skilled seasonal workers with prior experience.
• The PSV allows for seven months of work in entry-level roles and requires at least one season of experience.
• Both visas aim to fill seasonal labour shortages in key sectors like agriculture, horticulture, tourism, and food processing.
• These routes fall under the Accredited Employer Work Visa framework and are not pathways to permanent residence.
   

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New Zealand Launches Two New Seasonal Visas to Ease Labour Shortages

To meet increasing workforce demands during peak seasons, New Zealand has announced two new visa categories—the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)—set to launch on December 8, 2025. These visas fall under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework and are designed to help accredited employers hire workers for short-term, high-demand roles in sectors like agriculture, horticulture, tourism, food processing, and more.
 

The GWSV, valid for up to three years, targets skilled seasonal workers who have completed at least three relevant work seasons in the past six years. Meanwhile, the PSV caters to lower-skilled roles and offers a seven-month stay, requiring just one season of prior experience in the last three years. Both visas remove English language requirements and Labour Market Tests, and include specific job roles under each category. However, they are not pathways to permanent residency and applicants will need to meet strict eligibility and seasonal alignment criteria.
 

*Want to work abroad? Get in touch with Y-Axis to help you with the steps.
 

Who Can Apply? Job Roles Covered under New Zealand’s Seasonal Visas

New Zealand’s new visa categories, the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV), are designed for specific roles tied to seasonal industries.
 

Here’s a breakdown of the occupations eligible under each route:

Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)	Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)
Agricultural and horticultural mobile plant operators	Mussel or oyster farm workers
Agricultural technicians (e.g., sheep or animal pregnancy scanners)	Calf rearers and relief milkers
Chairlift operators	Forestry workers
Snow groomers and snow makers	Meat boners, slicers, and meat processing workers
Mountain or glacier guides	Seafood process workers
Whitewater rafting guides	Winery cellar hands
Outdoor adventure instructors	Wool handlers
Winemakers and winery senior cellar hands
Shearers
Slaughterers
Primary products inspectors
Snow sports instructors
Snowsport equipment technicians

 

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