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New Zealand will increase the Visa Application Centre (VAC) service fee for applicants submitting visa applications in India and 25 other countries starting January 1, 2026. This change affects the service charge collected by VACs for handling applications, biometric collection, and administrative support. It does not change the actual visa application fee set by Immigration New Zealand. Applicants submitting visas through VACs after the effective date will need to pay the revised service fee in addition to the regular visa charges, making the overall cost of applying slightly higher.

The VAC fee increase is driven by higher operational costs, inflation, and the need to maintain service quality across global visa application centres. These centres handle administrative tasks such as document intake, biometric collection, and application forwarding. Rising costs related to staffing, infrastructure, security, and compliance have contributed to the decision. Immigration New Zealand periodically reviews VAC service fees to ensure continued efficiency and sustainability of outsourced visa services. The increase helps ensure applicants continue receiving consistent support and secure processing facilities worldwide.

No, the VAC fee increase does not affect the official visa application fee charged by Immigration New Zealand. The visa fee is paid for processing the application by immigration authorities, while the VAC service fee covers administrative services provided by third-party centres. These two charges are separate and paid independently. Even after the VAC fee hike comes into effect, Immigration New Zealand’s visa fees will remain unchanged unless announced separately. Applicants should budget for both costs when planning their visa application.

The VAC fee increase will apply in India and 25 other countries where New Zealand visa applications are processed through Visa Application Centres. These countries span multiple regions, including Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Pacific. While India is among the key affected countries, applicants in neighbouring South Asian nations and other global locations will also see revised service charges. The exact fee amount may vary by country, depending on local operating costs and service structures.

Applicants can check the latest VAC service fees by visiting the official Visa Application Centre website, such as VFS Global, or by using Immigration New Zealand’s online fee-checking tools. VAC websites usually publish updated fee tables, including service charges, optional services, and local taxes. Applicants are advised to verify fees shortly before submitting their application, as charges may differ by country and visa type. Confirming the updated fees helps avoid payment issues or delays during submission.

The revised New Zealand VAC service fees will come into effect on January 1, 2026. Any visa applications submitted at a VAC on or after this date will be subject to the increased service charge. Applications lodged before the effective date will be charged at the existing rate. Applicants planning to apply close to the deadline should confirm submission dates carefully to understand which fee applies. The timing is particularly important for students, tourists, and work visa applicants planning early applications.

There is no indication that the VAC fee increase will directly impact visa processing times. The fee change is administrative and relates only to service charges, not processing capacity or immigration decision-making. Visa processing timelines continue to depend on application volume, visa type, documentation quality, and Immigration New Zealand’s internal procedures. However, applicants are encouraged to apply early and submit complete applications to avoid delays, especially during peak travel and study seasons.

No, the VAC fee increase may not be uniform across all countries. Service charges can vary depending on local operating costs, currency differences, and service agreements in each country. While the increase applies broadly across India and 25 other countries, the exact revised fee amount may differ from one VAC location to another. Applicants should check country-specific VAC websites or official announcements to confirm the exact service fee applicable to their location.

Yes, the VAC fee increase can impact applicants’ budgeting and planning, especially for families or group applications. While the increase applies only to service fees, it adds to the overall cost of applying for a New Zealand visa. Applicants planning to apply in 2026 should factor the higher VAC charge into their expenses. Those applying before the effective date may benefit from lower service fees. Early planning helps avoid last-minute financial surprises.

Applicants can find the list of affected countries in official announcements from Immigration New Zealand, Visa Application Centre service providers, and reputable news sources reporting on the update. VAC websites often publish country-specific notices explaining fee changes and effective dates. Applicants are advised to rely on official VAC communications rather than third-party sources to ensure accuracy. Checking updates regularly ensures applicants stay informed about fee changes in their country.

Canada’s $1.7 billion initiative is a federal program designed to attract world-leading researchers, innovators, and top academic talent to Canadian institutions. Announced by the Government of Canada, the initiative aims to strengthen the country’s global leadership in research, innovation, and advanced technologies. The funding will support recruitment, long-term research programs, and institutional capacity across universities and research centres. By investing heavily in global talent, Canada seeks to boost economic growth, drive innovation, and position itself as a preferred destination for top researchers amid increasing global competition.

The initiative targets internationally recognized researchers, senior academics, and emerging global research leaders with proven expertise in priority fields. Eligibility is expected to focus on individuals with strong publication records, international research impact, and experience leading major projects. Researchers may be recruited through Canadian universities, public research institutions, and innovation hubs. While specific criteria may vary by institution, the program is designed to attract both established experts and high-potential researchers from abroad, including those currently working in the US, UK, Europe, and Asia.

Canada’s new initiative prioritizes research areas critical to national growth and global competitiveness. These include artificial intelligence, clean energy, climate science, health and life sciences, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, quantum technologies, and digital innovation. Strategic focus is also expected on areas supporting economic resilience, sustainability, and public health. By targeting high-impact sectors, Canada aims to accelerate innovation, address skill shortages, and support industries of the future. This targeted approach ensures that public investment delivers long-term benefits for Canada’s economy and research ecosystem.

International researchers will benefit through competitive funding packages, long-term research support, access to world-class facilities, and collaboration opportunities with Canadian institutions. The initiative is expected to fund salaries, research teams, infrastructure, and multi-year projects, offering stability rarely available elsewhere. Researchers will also gain access to Canada’s strong innovation ecosystem, industry partnerships, and public funding networks. In addition, many recruits may benefit from streamlined immigration pathways, making Canada an attractive destination for both professional growth and long-term settlement.

Major Canadian universities, public research organizations, and innovation-focused institutions are expected to participate. This includes research-intensive universities, national laboratories, and centres of excellence across provinces. Institutions will play a central role in identifying priority research areas, recruiting global talent, and administering funding. By involving a broad range of institutions, the initiative ensures nationwide impact, strengthens regional research capacity, and supports collaboration between academia, industry, and government, enhancing Canada’s overall research competitiveness.

While the initiative itself focuses on research funding, Canada’s immigration system strongly supports permanent residence pathways for global researchers. Many participants are expected to qualify under programs such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, or specialized talent streams. Canada has consistently aligned its immigration policies with innovation and research goals, making it easier for highly skilled professionals to settle permanently. This combination of funding support and immigration opportunities makes Canada particularly attractive compared to other research destinations.

Canada’s program stands out for its scale, stability, and integration with immigration pathways. Unlike the US and UK, where research funding and visa policies have become more restrictive, Canada offers long-term funding certainty and clearer settlement options. The $1.7 billion investment signals strong government commitment, while Canada’s welcoming immigration policies reduce uncertainty for researchers. This makes Canada a competitive alternative for global talent seeking security, funding continuity, and long-term career opportunities.

Funding under the initiative is expected to cover competitive salaries, research grants, laboratory infrastructure, and support for research teams. Institutions may offer multi-year funding packages to attract and retain top talent. This comprehensive support enables researchers to focus on high-impact work without constant funding uncertainty. By combining personal remuneration with project-based funding, Canada aims to create an attractive and sustainable research environment that rivals leading global research hubs.

Application timelines will largely depend on participating institutions and specific funding streams. Universities and research centres are expected to announce recruitment calls following federal funding allocations. Interested researchers should monitor official government announcements and university websites for updates. Given the scale of the investment, recruitment is expected to roll out in phases, allowing institutions to strategically plan long-term hires. Early interest and engagement with Canadian institutions may provide a competitive advantage.

Canada is investing now to capitalize on global shifts in research mobility caused by funding cuts, visa uncertainty, and political changes in other countries. By acting at this moment, Canada positions itself as a stable, welcoming destination for top talent. The investment supports innovation-driven economic growth, strengthens national competitiveness, and ensures Canada remains a leader in critical research fields. Attracting world-leading researchers also helps train future talent and boosts Canada’s global reputation in science and innovation.

Australia’s top universities for international students in 2026 include institutions recognised for global rankings, student satisfaction, research output, and strong employment outcomes. Leading names typically include the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, University of Sydney, University of Queensland, Monash University, and UNSW Sydney. These universities consistently attract students from around the world due to their high-quality programs, modern campuses, international support services, and strong industry connections. In 2026, various rankings highlight these institutions for delivering excellent academic experiences, cultural diversity, and strong global reputation, making them top choices for international applicants.

The universities that offer the best experience for international students in 2026 are those that prioritise academic excellence, student wellbeing, and multicultural support. The University of Melbourne, Monash University, University of Sydney, and University of Queensland are often ranked highly for campus facilities, safety, inclusiveness, and student engagement. These institutions provide extensive orientation programs, international student support centres, career services, and opportunities for internships. They also foster diverse communities, allowing students to integrate smoothly into Australian life. With modern infrastructure and strong industry partnerships, these universities ensure a holistic and fulfilling study experience for international students in 2026.

The best Australian universities for international students in 2026 are ranked using multiple indicators, including academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty-to-student ratio, research performance, international diversity, and graduate outcomes. Rankings also consider the availability of scholarships, cost of living, student satisfaction surveys, and support services for international learners. Organisations such as QS, Times Higher Education, and government bodies analyse these metrics to determine overall performance. In 2026, universities with strong global engagement, high research impact, and extensive student support consistently performed well. These ranking systems help international students evaluate which institutions offer the best academic and living conditions.

A university is ideal for international students in 2026 when it combines strong academic credentials with comprehensive student support. Key factors include global rankings, industry-linked programs, post-study work opportunities, safe campus environments, and vibrant multicultural communities. Universities that offer dedicated international offices, mental health resources, language assistance, and affordable housing also stand out. Access to internships, research opportunities, and career pathways strongly influences student choice. Additionally, cities with good public transport, cultural diversity, and employment prospects further enhance the student experience. These combined elements make a university attractive and beneficial for international students in 2026.

Universities with the highest international student satisfaction in 2026 are those offering excellent teaching quality, strong support services, and a welcoming environment. Institutions like Monash University, University of Melbourne, University of Queensland, and University of Sydney frequently score highly in satisfaction surveys. Students appreciate their diverse campuses, modern facilities, accessible staff, and career development programs. Support services such as visa guidance, counselling, academic workshops, and language support also contribute to positive feedback. These universities’ strong engagement with international communities and commitment to student wellbeing make them some of the most highly rated institutions for satisfaction in 2026.

In 2026, international students in Australia continue to favour programs with strong global relevance and employment prospects. Popular courses include engineering, information technology, business management, data science, health sciences, nursing, and environmental studies. Programs in accounting, finance, and AI-related fields also attract large numbers of students due to Australia’s strong industry growth. Universities offer practical, industry-focused curricula, internships, and research opportunities that appeal to international learners. Post-study work rights further encourage students to choose fields aligned with Australian labour market needs. These trending courses help students build employability and secure global career opportunities.

Australian universities known for excellent employment outcomes in 2026 include the University of Melbourne, UNSW Sydney, Australian National University, Monash University, and University of Queensland. These institutions maintain strong ties with industry partners, offer career development programs, and provide internship and work-integrated learning opportunities. Employers frequently seek graduates from these universities due to their strong academic training and practical experience. International students benefit from career counselling, networking events, and mentorship programs that help them secure jobs in Australia and globally. High graduate employability rankings further highlight these universities as top choices for international applicants in 2026.

Many Australian universities have continued improving or maintaining strong positions in global rankings in 2026, driven by high research output, strong academic reputation, and increased international collaboration. Universities like the University of Melbourne, ANU, and University of Sydney consistently appear among the world’s top institutions. Improvements in citation impact, sustainability initiatives, and industry partnerships also contribute to better rankings. Australian universities are investing heavily in innovation, technology, and student experience, further enhancing their global competitiveness. These factors help attract more international students and strengthen Australia’s position as a leading study destination.

Top study destinations in 2026 include Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and Canberra. These cities host major universities such as the University of Melbourne, Monash University, University of Sydney, UNSW Sydney, University of Queensland, and Australian National University. Each city offers excellent infrastructure, multicultural communities, employment opportunities, and vibrant student life. Melbourne and Sydney are particularly popular due to their global rankings, diverse populations, and extensive public transport networks. Brisbane and Perth attract students seeking affordability and lifestyle benefits. These cities provide a supportive and enriching environment for international students pursuing higher education in 2026.

Australia remains a top destination for international students in 2026 due to its world-class universities, high living standards, and multicultural environment. Students benefit from practical, industry-focused education, strong research capabilities, and excellent post-study work rights. Australia’s safety, welcoming culture, and vibrant cities further enhance the overall experience. Additionally, the country offers clear migration pathways, diverse scholarship opportunities, and strong employment prospects in growing industries. With modern facilities, global rankings, and student-centric support systems, Australia continues to be one of the most appealing and reliable study-abroad destinations for students worldwide in 2026.

Russia has introduced a new skilled visa route that allows qualified foreign professionals to obtain either a three-year temporary residency or, in eligible cases, permanent residency. The programme is designed to attract specialists in key sectors and streamline the process of living and working in Russia. It removes several traditional barriers, offering faster processing and simplified requirements compared to existing pathways. Once approved through the designated agency, applicants receive a one-year business visa that permits them to work in Russia while their residency application is finalized. The initiative aims to support Russia’s workforce needs and modernize immigration options for skilled talent.

Eligibility for Russia’s skilled visa covers foreign nationals working in high-value sectors such as science, business, industry, education, culture, and sports. The programme is open to both professionals and their family members, making relocation more accessible. Unlike traditional visa routes, this pathway does not require applicants to pass Russian language tests, nor does it depend on immigration quotas. The emphasis is on attracting individuals with specialized skills who can contribute to national development. Applicants must submit their documents through an approved agency, demonstrating their qualifications and professional relevance before proceeding to the residency stage with Russian immigration authorities.

Russia’s new skilled visa and residency programme will officially take effect on 15 April 2026. From this date, eligible foreign professionals can begin applying through designated agencies responsible for evaluating applications. The government has created this timeline to ensure smooth implementation and preparation of administrative processes. Starting April 2026, approved applicants will be able to obtain a one-year business visa that allows them to enter and work in Russia while their residency application is processed. The launch marks a major step in Russia’s long-term labour strategy to strengthen its workforce and attract international specialists in priority sectors.

No, the programme removes two major barriers—language tests and immigration quotas. Applicants are not required to demonstrate Russian language proficiency, which simplifies entry for global professionals who may not yet speak Russian. In addition, the scheme is not tied to immigration quotas, making it more flexible and accessible than traditional routes. This approach is designed to encourage more skilled workers to relocate, especially in fields facing shortages. By eliminating these requirements, Russia aims to reduce administrative hurdles, accelerate the visa process, and create a more welcoming environment for foreign specialists seeking residency and long-term career opportunities in the country.

The residency programme targets skilled professionals across science, business, industry, education, culture, and sports. These sectors are experiencing workforce shortages and require international expertise to support national growth. Russia is particularly focused on attracting individuals who can contribute to innovation, advanced industries, and cultural development. Manufacturing sectors have also reported significant labour gaps, reinforcing the need for foreign talent. By broadening eligibility across multiple high-impact fields, the government aims to diversify its talent pool and strengthen economic competitiveness. The programme ensures that applicants with relevant backgrounds can access streamlined pathways to residency without excessive documentation or assessments.

The process follows two key stages. First, applicants must apply through an authorized agency, submitting qualifications and supporting documents digitally from their home country. If the agency approves the application, the individual receives a one-year business visa that allows entry into Russia and grants immediate work rights. The second stage involves submitting a formal residency application to immigration authorities for either a three-year temporary residency or permanent residency, depending on eligibility. Authorities are required to process this application within 30 days. The simplified, two-step structure is designed to reduce waiting times and provide a smooth transition for skilled workers.

Yes. Once applicants receive approval from the designated agency, they are issued a one-year business visa that explicitly permits employment in Russia during the residency processing period. This means professionals do not need to wait for their temporary or permanent residency to be finalized before starting work. The arrangement benefits both employers and applicants by allowing immediate workforce entry, addressing labour shortages quickly, and reducing delays associated with traditional visa categories. This feature also improves the attractiveness of the programme by offering early access to the job market and minimizing uncertainty for skilled workers and their families.

After the applicant submits their residency application through immigration authorities, Russia is expected to issue the temporary or permanent residency within 30 days. This accelerated timeline is a major advantage compared to standard visa and residency processes, which often take longer. The faster processing window is part of Russia’s broader strategy to streamline skilled migration and meet urgent labour market needs. Applicants can also work during this period on their one-year business visa, reducing downtime and allowing them to integrate into the workforce immediately. The predictable 30-day processing timeline offers transparency and convenience for skilled professionals planning relocation.

Russia is facing notable labour shortages in key industries, especially manufacturing, which has emphasized the urgent need for skilled foreign workers. The new visa route is part of a broader strategy to attract international talent, strengthen the workforce, and boost economic productivity. By simplifying eligibility, removing language tests, and accelerating processing, Russia aims to position itself competitively in the global talent market. The programme also aligns with recent bilateral cooperation initiatives, including mobility agreements with countries like India. Overall, it reflects Russia’s intent to modernize its immigration system and create more accessible pathways for qualified professionals seeking long-term opportunities.

Yes. The programme explicitly includes family members of skilled applicants, allowing them to accompany the principal applicant to Russia. Once the agency approves the main applicant, family members also qualify for the one-year business visa and receive the same work rights during the processing period. They can then apply for temporary or permanent residency alongside the primary applicant. This family-friendly approach makes relocation easier, supports long-term settlement, and enhances the attractiveness of the visa route for professionals seeking stability. By including dependents, Russia aims to draw more committed, long-term migrants who can contribute to society and the workforce.

In December 2025, IRCC introduced major changes to support Canada’s healthcare sector. The update launched a new Express Entry category specifically for physicians with Canadian work experience, giving them a more direct pathway to permanent residency. The government also reserved 5,000 federal admissions exclusively for physician nominations and introduced expedited work permit processing for nominated doctors. These reforms aim to address Canada’s ongoing shortages in primary and specialist care, improve pathways for foreign-trained doctors already working in Canada, and strengthen provincial healthcare systems affected by staffing gaps.

IRCC has launched a dedicated Express Entry stream called “Physicians with Canadian Work Experience.” This category is tailored for doctors who have already worked in Canada and meet required eligibility criteria. It addresses immigration challenges physicians previously faced—especially due to self-employment billing models—and creates a more straightforward route to permanent residency. The category prioritizes general practitioners, surgeons, and specialist physicians with verified experience in Canada’s healthcare system. Its purpose is to retain skilled medical professionals and ensure a stable, long-term healthcare workforce across provinces and territories.

Eligibility requires at least 12 months of full-time, continuous Canadian work experience—or the part-time equivalent—earned within the last three years. The experience must fall under eligible physician occupations, including general practitioners, surgeons, or clinical/laboratory medicine specialists. Applicants must also meet general Express Entry requirements such as language proficiency, education, and admissibility. This new category is designed to support physicians who have already contributed to Canada’s healthcare system and removes barriers they previously faced under traditional immigration streams, offering a faster, more predictable route to permanent residency.

IRCC will begin issuing Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under the new physician-focused Express Entry category in early 2026. The rollout timeline allows IRCC to update systems and coordinate with provinces and territories that will participate in the expanded nomination process. Once active, the category will operate through targeted draws similar to other category-based selections. This marks a significant change to Canada’s immigration system, prioritizing foreign-trained doctors who have proven experience in the Canadian healthcare environment and helping address persistent shortages across medical specialties.

IRCC has reserved 5,000 federal permanent residence admission spaces exclusively for provinces and territories to nominate licensed physicians with job offers. These spaces are separate from existing provincial nominee quotas and offer additional capacity to recruit and retain doctors. This allocation ensures that physician immigration does not compete with broader economic immigration targets. By reserving seats specifically for doctors, the government aims to support healthcare systems under strain, especially in rural and underserved regions that rely heavily on international medical professionals.

The new Express Entry category targets specific physician roles critical to Canada’s healthcare system. Eligible occupations include general practitioners and family physicians, surgeons across multiple specialties, and specialists in clinical or laboratory medicine. These occupations align with designated NOC classifications. While this category is physician-focused, other healthcare occupations—such as nurses, dentists, and allied health professionals—remain part of existing healthcare category-based draws. The new category ensures doctors receive a dedicated pathway without competing against broader healthcare roles for invitations.

No. The new Express Entry category is limited to applicants with qualifying Canadian work experience. Physicians outside Canada who have not completed at least one year of eligible work in the country cannot apply through this stream. However, they may still qualify through other federal programs, Provincial Nominee Programs, or existing healthcare-based Express Entry draws. This category is specifically intended to support doctors already working within the Canadian system and facing immigration challenges due to unique employment structures in the medical field.

The announcement creates a separate physician-specific pathway that will operate alongside existing healthcare category-based draws. While the broader healthcare category includes many occupations such as nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, the new stream isolates physicians for priority selection. This structure ensures doctors receive dedicated invitations without competing with other healthcare professionals. The introduction of this category may also allow IRCC to distribute invitations more efficiently across various healthcare roles, strengthening Canada’s overall workforce strategy and improving immigration outcomes for medical professionals.

Provinces benefit significantly from the new measures, gaining access to 5,000 reserved federal admissions for physician nominations. This allows them to recruit more licensed doctors, fill gaps in hospitals and clinics, and support underserved rural communities. The dedicated Express Entry category ensures faster, more reliable pathways for physicians already working in Canada, improving retention. Additionally, expedited work permit processing reduces delays, enabling doctors to begin work quickly. These reforms directly support provincial healthcare systems struggling with rising demand and staffing shortages.

Yes. Under the new measures, nominated physicians will receive expedited work permit processing, with IRCC aiming for turnaround times as short as 14 days. This allows doctors to start or continue working while their permanent residence applications are processed. Faster permits help healthcare facilities respond to urgent staffing needs and reduce service delays for patients. The streamlined process also enhances Canada’s attractiveness to internationally trained physicians seeking stable, long-term employment and residency opportunities. This improvement aligns with the broader goal of strengthening Canada’s medical workforce.