China and Russia discuss simplifying of visa processes for Chinese visiting Russia

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. 
   

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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.     
 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.
 

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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!

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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.

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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)

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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.
 

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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

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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.
 

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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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Highlights: Latest Express Entry Draw invites 225 PNP candidates

• IRCC conducted the first Express Entry draw of August on August 6, 2025.
• A total of 225 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream.
• The minimum CRS score required in this round was 739.
• This was a category-specific draw, targeting only candidates with a provincial nomination.
• Canada continues to prioritize skilled workers through PNP and category-based draws under its 2025 immigration levels plan.
   

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Express Entry Draw on August 6, 2025 issues 225 ITAs

On August 6, 2025, IRCC conducted a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)-only Express Entry draw, inviting 225 candidates to apply for permanent residence. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 739, reflecting the additional 600 points awarded to PNP nominees. This draw was the first for August and part of Canada’s ongoing strategy to address regional labour shortages. The focus on PNP candidates reinforces the government's commitment to targeted immigration through provincial selection.
 

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How to Submit Your Express Entry Profile?

You can follow the below steps to submit your Express Entry profile:

Step 1: Check your eligibility for an Express Entry program (FSWP, FSTP, or CEC).

Step 2: Get your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) and complete a language test (IELTS/CELPIP or TEF/TCF).

Step 3: Create an account and fill out your Express Entry profile on the IRCC website.

Step 4: Enter the pool to receive your CRS score and wait for a draw.

Step 5: If invited, submit your permanent residence application within 60 days.
 

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Highlights: Australia Increases Foreign Student Cap to 295,000

• Australia has increased its foreign student intake cap to 295,000 for the year.
• The move aims to revive the international education sector after the pandemic.
• India continues to be a leading source of international students in Australia.
• Focus has expanded to include stronger engagement with Southeast Asia, including countries like Vietnam and Indonesia.
• The initiative is part of the ‘Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040’.
   

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Australia Raises Foreign Student Cap to 295,000 under New Regional Strategy

Australia has increased its annual foreign student cap to 295,000 as part of a broader shift in international education policy. This move is aligned with the ‘Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040’, which aims to deepen ties with Southeast Asian nations including Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Malaysia. While India remains one of the top source countries, the revised approach signals a more regionally diversified focus.
 

The government has recognised that education and migration are key economic drivers, and the expanded cap supports both economic growth and strategic regional engagement. The increase also reflects Australia’s goal to revitalise its post-pandemic education sector and enhance long-term talent pipelines.
 

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How Australia’s Regional Education Strategy Impacts Indian Students in 2025

Australia’s decision to lift the foreign student cap to 295,000 is part of a broader strategy to deepen engagement with Southeast Asia. While this regional shift introduces new priorities, India continues to hold a strong position in Australia’s education and migration policy. Here's what Indian students should know:
 

• Australia’s new strategy focuses on stronger education ties with Southeast Asia under its 2040 economic plan.
• India remains a top three source country for international students in Australia.
• The strategy promotes diversified student intake, reducing pressure on popular sectors.
• International education is seen as key to filling future workforce gaps in Australia.
• Indian students will find more opportunities in high-demand fields like IT, healthcare, and engineering.
   

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Highlights: New English Curriculum in Finland Targets International Skilled Workers

• Starting August 2026, Finland will introduce upper secondary education in English to attract skilled foreign professionals with school-aged children.
• The reform follows a law passed in December 2024, aimed at making the country more welcoming for international families.
• English-language matriculation exams will be available from autumn 2028, offering the full range of subjects beyond the current IB curriculum.
• The new exam option is designed for students without strong Finnish or Swedish skills, increasing accessibility in the national system.
• By removing language barriers in education, Finland aims to support long-term relocation and integration of global skilled workers.

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Finland Removes Language Barrier with English High School Curriculum

In a major step to welcome skilled foreign professionals, Finland will begin offering upper secondary education in English from August 2026. The reform, backed by legislation passed in December 2024, aims to make relocation easier for international workers with school-aged children. In addition, matriculation exams will be available in English from autumn 2028, expanding beyond Finnish and Swedish. Unlike the existing IB curriculum, this will cover the full range of upper secondary subjects. The initiative is designed to reduce language barriers and promote smoother integration for globally mobile families.

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What Finland’s English-Language Schooling Policy Means for International Families

Finland’s decision to expand its national education system to include English-language instruction is part of a broader strategy to attract skilled foreign professionals. The following are key points of the reform:

• English-medium upper secondary education will begin from August 2026, following curriculum approval by the Ministry of Education.
• Matriculation exams in English will be introduced from autumn 2028, offering the full range of national subjects.
• The new option extends beyond the current International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes offered in select schools.
• The policy is designed to assist international families, particularly those without proficiency in Finnish or Swedish.
• The measure is part of Finland’s efforts to create a more accessible and globally competitive environment for skilled migrants.
   

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