Posted on September 01 2017
Some H-1B visa seekers, especially fresh graduates, will find it tough to get their visa applications approved, say immigration lawyers.
This is because of the new guidelines, which will scrutinise applicants of those foreigners who are most likely to receive wages in the lowest range. These changes are in accordance with the Trump administration’s objective to restrict foreigners with low earnings entering the country.
USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) officials are focusing on applicants who would be paid ‘Level 1’ wages, considered be the lowest salaries to be paid in some professions to allow foreigners to be hired by the Department of Labor.
As per the H-1B visa scheme, foreign workers having expert skills are allowed to work for three to six years at an American sponsor company. Every year, 85,000 visas are assigned to companies through a lottery.
They are said to be earmarked for ‘speciality occupations’ where applicants have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Ron Hira, a researcher at the Economic Policy Institute, a not for profit organisation, was quoted by San Francisco Chronicle as saying that the H-1B was actually meant for individuals holding expertise in niche fields. Its usage over years has got diluted, said Hira. The Economic Policy Institute added that the fiscal year 2015 saw 41 percent of H-1B visas being issued to people earning Level 1 wages.
To address this issue, Congress is to table bills that would increase the minimum salary for all H-1B visas to up to $130,000. This would make it tough for individuals in entry-level positions to secure H-1B visas in the future. It has, however, yet be made into law.
If you are looking to migrate to the US, get in touch with Y-Axis, a renowned consultancy for services in immigration, to apply for a relevant visa.
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Indians Can Secure Finland PR for Just ₹24,800. Apply now!
*Want to migrate to Finland? Sign up with Y-Axis for end-to-end assistance.
To qualify for Permanent Residency in Finland, Indian applicants must meet the following criteria:
Note: Ensure you are on the correct residence permit category before applying (students on temporary permits must switch to an A-type permit).
Also, read…
Finland Eases Work Visa Rules in 2025 – The Easiest Time EVER to Move to Europe?
Finland has introduced clearer and stricter rules for permanent residency, making the process more transparent while setting higher standards for eligibility. For Indian applicants, this means understanding what has changed compared to the previous system. Below are the key updates:
Also, read…
Finland to Welcome English-Speaking Professionals from August 2026
For Indians looking to build a long-term future in Finland, the updated PR rules bring both clarity and opportunity. The requirements are now transparent, with set timelines, income standards, and educational or language pathways clearly laid out. While the bar has been raised, especially with the upcoming shift to six years of residence from 2026, those who prepare early can align their careers, studies, and finances to meet the criteria.
Students who pursue postgraduate studies in Finland, skilled professionals in high-demand sectors, and families seeking stability all stand to benefit from the permanent residency pathway. With careful planning and proper documentation, Indians can secure not only the right to live and work in Finland but also enjoy world-class healthcare, education, and the renowned Finnish quality of life.
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No.1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!
For recent Finnish immigration updates, check out Y-Axis Schengen News page!
Attention Travellers! Europe Rolls Out Digital Entry/Exit Checks & EES System from October
*Want to visit abroad? Get in touch with experts at Y-Axis to assist you with the process
The European Union has officially announced that the Entry/Exit System (EES) will be introduced on 12 October 2025, marking a historic change in how travellers enter and exit the Schengen Area. This announcement ends months of speculation and confirms that non-EU visitors, including Indian nationals, will soon experience a fully digital border process.
The EES will gradually replace the age-old passport stamping method with biometric registration, ensuring stronger border management and real-time monitoring of travel flows. Over the next six months, the system will be deployed across 29 European countries, with full operation targeted by April 2026.
Authorities highlight that the new system aims to make travel more secure, transparent, and efficient, while reducing cases of overstays and illegal entries. For millions of visitors worldwide, including thousands from India each year, the announcement signals a new era of travel—one that is technology-driven, but designed to simplify movement in the long run.
Also read…
Is it possible to live in Europe with $2,000 per month?
From 12 October 2025, Europe will begin phasing in the Entry/Exit System (EES), replacing manual passport stamps with biometric checks. Here’s what Indian travellers should know:
For Indian visitors, the system may mean slightly longer queues initially, but once enrolled, it promises faster re-entries, smoother checks, and safer travel across Europe.
*Want to apply for a Schengen visa? Let Y-Axis assist you with the steps.
The shift from manual passport stamps to biometric scans is more than just a technical upgrade—it is a complete transformation of how travellers enter Europe. For Indian visitors, the Entry/Exit System (EES) will bring both challenges and opportunities. While the first few months after October 12, 2025, may see longer queues and added checks, the system ultimately promises faster re-entries, clearer tracking of stay limits, and improved border security.
By embracing this change and preparing in advance, Indian travellers can look forward to a smarter, safer, and more seamless journey across Europe. The digital border is not just about compliance—it’s about shaping a more convenient travel future.
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No.1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!
For recent Schengen updates, check out Y-Axis Schengen News page!
Great News! Canada Opens PR Pathway for Education Students
*Want to migrate to Canada? Sign up with Y-Axis for end-to-end assistance.
Canada’s immigration updates now give international students in education a clear pathway from temporary study to permanent residency. By pursuing the right programs, gaining Canadian work experience, and using Express Entry’s new category-based selection, students can move step by step toward PR.
Stage 1: Choosing a Study Program
Students must enroll in a PGWP-eligible program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Even programs below a bachelor’s level, such as Early Childhood Education diplomas, now qualify. For regulated professions, like early childhood educators in Ontario, registration with the provincial authority is required to work legally and gain full eligibility under Express Entry.
Stage 2: Getting a PGWP
After graduation, students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), valid for up to three years depending on the program length. Since June 25, 2025, education has been added as a PGWP-eligible field of study. Language requirements apply—CLB 5 for college-level programs and CLB 7 for university-level programs. The PGWP provides graduates with open work rights, allowing them to gain Canadian work experience needed for immigration.
Stage 3: Pursuing Permanent Residence
With at least one year of Canadian work experience, graduates become eligible for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and gain additional points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Education professionals also benefit from category-based Express Entry draws, where recent cut-offs were as low as 479 CRS, compared to 534 in general CEC draws.
Example: Candidates like Taima—an Early Childhood Education graduate with strong English proficiency and Canadian work experience—can achieve competitive CRS scores and secure an Invitation to Apply (ITA). A Bridging Open Work Permit can also be requested to maintain legal status while PR applications are processed.
*Want to apply for Canada PR? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
One of the most important updates for international students in education is the advantage they now have in Express Entry draws. With education professionals included in Canada’s category-based selection, candidates in this field no longer need as high a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score as others to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
For international students, especially from India, this policy shift opens up greater chances of permanent settlement while meeting Canada’s growing demand for skilled educators.
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canadian immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!
For recent Canadian immigration updates, check out Y-Axis Canada immigration News!
Alberta invites 1376 candidates in September 2025
*Want to apply for Alberta PNP? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
Alberta held a series of immigration draws between September 2 and 10, 2025, inviting candidates from healthcare, construction, agriculture, aviation, and the Alberta Opportunity Stream. With CRS cut-offs ranging from 44 to 64, these draws opened doors for a wide range of skilled workers. The largest draw targeted the Alberta Opportunity Stream, while sector-focused draws ensured that in-demand industries got the talent they need.
Draw Date |
Stream / Pathway |
Minimum CRS |
Invitations Issued |
Sep-10 |
Alberta Express Entry – Priority Sectors (Aviation) |
50 |
30 |
Sep-09 |
Alberta Express Entry – Priority Sectors (Health Care) |
64 |
70 |
Sep-08 |
Alberta Express Entry – Priority Sectors (Construction) |
61 |
121 |
Sep-05 |
Alberta Express Entry – Priority Sectors (Agriculture) |
48 |
71 |
Sep-04 |
Alberta Opportunity Stream |
56 |
891 |
Sep-03 |
Dedicated Health Care Pathway – non-Express Entry |
44 |
67 |
Sep-02 |
Dedicated Health Care Pathway – Express Entry |
49 |
126 |
*Want to know more about the latest Canada PNP draws? Sign up with Y-Axis for end-to-end assistance with the process.
Alberta’s September draws show why the province has become one of the most attractive options for skilled workers worldwide. With thousands of invitations issued and cut-off scores kept low, the draws open new doors for candidates who may otherwise struggle in federal pools.
Why Alberta’s Latest Draws Matter:
*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, check out Y-Axis Canada immigration News!
Can Indians Apply for Ireland’s Long-Term Residency Program?
*Want to migrate to Ireland? Sign up with Y-Axis to guide you with the steps.
Ireland’s Long-Term Residency Program has well-defined rules to ensure only genuine and skilled applicants benefit. The criteria focus on continuous residence, employment status, and good character.
*Want to work in Ireland? Let Y-Axis assist you with the procedure.
You can follow the below steps to apply for Ireland’s long-term residency program:
Step 1: Complete 5 years of legal residence in Ireland.
Step 2: Hold a valid employment or critical skills permit.
Step 3: Apply online through the Immigration Service Delivery website.
Step 4: Pay the EUR 500 application fee within 28 days of approval.
Step 5: Wait for 6–8 months of processing time.
Step 6: Receive your Stamp 4 Visa, confirming residency.
Also, read…
Ireland granted 40,000 work permits in 2024
Yes, Indian professionals and skilled workers are fully eligible to apply for Ireland’s Long-Term Residency Program, provided they meet the official requirements. With Ireland being home to a growing Indian community, this pathway offers a structured route to long-term settlement in Europe.
Key Points for Indian Applicants:
For many Indian migrants, Ireland’s program is especially attractive due to its shorter settlement timeline compared to other EU countries and the opportunity to eventually apply for Irish citizenship.
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No.1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!
For recent immigration updates, check out Y-Axis Immigration News page!
Canada issued 13,632 Invitations in the first week of September
*Want to apply for Canada PR? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
Canada’s first week of September 2025 was marked by a surge in invitations across both federal and provincial pathways, underscoring the country’s commitment to meeting its ambitious immigration targets.
Date |
Program |
Category / Stream |
Invitations |
Cutoff / Score |
Sep-02 |
Express Entry |
PNP-only |
249 |
CRS 772 |
Sep-03 |
Express Entry |
Canadian Experience Class (CEC) |
1,000 |
CRS 534 |
Sep-04 |
Express Entry |
French-language proficiency |
4,500 |
CRS 446 |
Sep-02 |
Ontario PNP (OINP) |
Employer Job Offer – Foreign Worker |
1,305 |
EOI 41+ |
Employer Job Offer – International Student |
1,105 |
EOI 58+ |
||
Employer Job Offer – In-Demand Skills |
233 |
EOI 33+ |
||
Sep-03 |
Ontario PNP (OINP) |
Employer Job Offer – Foreign Worker |
1,134 |
EOI 42+ |
Employer Job Offer – International Student |
759 |
EOI 63+ |
||
Sep-04 |
Manitoba PNP (MPNP) |
International Education Stream |
1,866 |
— |
Skilled Worker in Manitoba (Citizens of Ukraine) |
1,466 |
— |
||
Skilled Worker Overseas (Strategic Recruitment) |
15 |
Score 844 |
Together, these draws bring the total to 13,632 invitations in just one week, reflecting Canada’s strategy of combining national-level selection efficiency with provincial flexibility to attract the right talent.
*Click here to know more about the next Canada PR Draw!
Canada’s September 2025 draws underline the country’s ongoing commitment to welcoming skilled professionals, international graduates, and families. For Indian applicants, the numbers carry encouraging signals:
*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, check out Y-Axis Canada immigration News!
New Rule! U.S. visa applicants must now apply in their home country, State Department.
*Want to apply for a US visa? Let Y-Axis help you with the process.
Read more…
U.S. Department of State mandates in-person interviews for all US visas, with immediate effect.
The new U.S. visa interview rule makes one thing very clear, Indian applicants must prepare smarter and earlier than ever before. With the option to book appointments in third countries now closed, the demand on U.S. consulates in India is expected to surge.
India is already one of the busiest countries for U.S. visa processing. In 2023 alone, more than 1.4 million U.S. visas were issued to Indians, including a record 140,000 student visas. This makes Indian nationals the largest group of international students in the United States
For students planning to join U.S. universities, professionals applying for work visas, and families preparing for visits, this change means careful planning is essential. Applicants should keep track of appointment availability, gather their documents early, and allow extra time for processing.
With visitor visa wait times already exceeding 500 days in India, the competition for slots is only expected to grow. The key takeaway for Indian applicants is to stay informed, act quickly, and plan well in advance to avoid disruptions to their study, work, or travel plans.
*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!
For recent immigration updates on the US, check out Y-Axis US Immigration News!
Australia welcomes 185,000 migrants in 2025–26
*Want to migrate to Australia? Sign up with Y-Axis to guide you with the steps.
The Australian Government has confirmed the 2025–26 Migration Program planning levels at 185,000 places, maintaining the same as 2024–25. The program continues to strike a balance between addressing skill shortages in the labour market and enabling family reunification.
Visa Stream / Category |
2023–24 Planning Levels |
2024–25 Planning Levels |
2025–26 Planning Levels |
Skill |
|
|
|
Employer Sponsored |
36,825 |
44,000 |
44,000 |
Skilled Independent |
30,375 |
16,900 |
16,900 |
Regional |
32,300 |
33,000 |
33,000 |
State/Territory Nominated |
30,400 |
33,000 |
33,000 |
Business Innovation & Investment |
1,900 |
1,000 |
1,000 |
Talent and Innovation |
– |
– |
4,300 |
Global Talent (Independent) |
5,000 |
4,000 |
– |
Distinguished Talent |
300 |
300 |
– |
Skill Total |
1,37,100 |
1,32,200 |
1,32,200 |
Family |
|
|
|
Partner |
40,500 |
40,500 |
40,500 |
Parent |
8,500 |
8,500 |
8,500 |
Child |
3,000 |
3,000 |
3,000 |
Other Family |
500 |
500 |
500 |
Family Total |
52,500 |
52,500 |
52,500 |
Special Eligibility |
400 |
300 |
300 |
Total Migration Program |
1,90,000 |
1,85,000 |
1,85,000 |
Also, read…
Australia raises Student Visa Cap to 295,000 for 2025. Apply now!
Australia’s 2025–26 Migration Program is more than an announcement—it’s a roadmap for those looking to build their future Down Under. For Indians, it means higher chances of securing permanent residency through skill-based routes, while still ensuring family reunification stays a priority.
Given below are some ways that can help you with the Australia PR process:
*Are you looking for step-by-step with Australia Immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end support!
For more updates on Australia, check out Y-Axis Australia Immigration Updates!
Ontario to introduce 'As of Right' for regulated professions from Jan 1, 2026.
*Want to work in Canada? Let Y-Axis guide you with the steps.
The new “As of Right” framework, effective January 1, 2026, brings major changes for certified professionals across Canada. Here’s how it works:
Also, read…
Top 10 Most In-Demand Jobs in Ontario
Ontario’s “As of Right” framework, launching on January 1, 2026, offers skilled workers a much faster route to begin their careers in the province.
To benefit from these changes, professionals can follow a simple pathway:
Step 1: Find your regulator
Each regulated profession in Ontario is overseen by a specific regulatory authority. The first step is to identify the body that governs your field.
Step 2: Apply under mobility provisions
Submit your application under the labour mobility process, ensuring it meets the authority’s requirements.
Step 3: Prepare your documents
Credentials, proof of certification, and other supporting materials will be needed to verify your eligibility.
Step 4: Get a timely decision
Ontario’s regulators are required to make a decision within 30 calendar days, eliminating long delays.
Step 5: Start working quickly
Once validated, you can begin working in Ontario within 10 business days, with up to six months provided to complete full registration.
This streamlined process ensures that qualified professionals can enter Ontario’s workforce faster, giving both workers and employers the chance to meet labour market needs without unnecessary waiting periods.
*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, check out Y-Axis Canada immigration News!
Indian students show 37% higher interest in studying in US, UK, Germany & Korea
*Want to study abroad? Let Y-Axis help you with the steps.
Indian students are no longer restricting their ambitions to just the US and UK. A growing number are exploring affordable, future-ready destinations that combine quality education with strong career opportunities.
Here’s how the study-abroad landscape is shifting in 2025:
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Indian students are carefully weighing not just prestige, but the overall value of studying abroad. The choice of destination now reflects a balance between affordability, opportunities, and long-term career prospects.
Here are the key reasons driving this shift:
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!
For recent immigration updates, check out Y-Axis News Page!