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Yes. Indian passport holders are currently eligible for visa-free entry to Thailand under the newly introduced 60-day visa exemption scheme. This replaces the earlier 30-day Visa on Arrival facility. Under the updated rules, Indian nationals can enter Thailand for tourism or short-term purposes without obtaining a visa in advance. The Thai Embassy has confirmed that this exemption is valid until further notice. However, travellers must meet entry requirements, including proper documentation and compliance with immigration regulations at the port of entry.

Indian travellers can now stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa under the revised visa-exemption policy. This is a significant extension from the earlier 30-day Visa on Arrival. The 60-day stay is granted for tourism, short-term business visits, and certain permitted activities. Immigration officers may verify travel documents and purpose of visit upon arrival. Travellers must ensure their stay does not exceed the permitted duration unless they apply for an official extension within Thailand through the immigration authorities.

Yes. In addition to the 60-day visa-free entry, Indian travellers may apply for a further 30-day extension at a local Thai Immigration Office. The extension is granted at the discretion of immigration authorities and usually requires payment of an extension fee. Travellers must apply before the expiry of their initial 60-day stay. Approval is not automatic, and applicants must provide valid reasons and supporting documentation. It is advisable to apply early to avoid overstaying penalties.

Indian travellers entering Thailand under the 60-day visa exemption must carry a valid passport with sufficient validity, genuine proof of accommodation for the entire stay, and a confirmed return or onward flight ticket. They must also complete the mandatory Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before travel. Immigration authorities may request proof of sufficient financial means during the stay. It is important to ensure that all documentation is accurate and verifiable to avoid entry refusal at the border.

Yes. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is mandatory for all travellers, including Indian nationals. The TDAC replaced the earlier TM.6 paper form and must be completed online at least three days before travel. This digital system helps Thai immigration authorities streamline arrival procedures. Travellers must provide travel details, accommodation information, and passport data while submitting the form. Failure to complete the TDAC may result in delays or denial of entry at the airport.

Under the updated rules, visa-exempt entry allows short-term business visits in addition to tourism. This includes attending meetings, conferences, or exploring business opportunities in Thailand. However, it does not permit full-time employment in Thailand. Those intending to work long-term must apply for the appropriate Non-Immigrant visa. Immigration officers have the authority to assess the purpose of travel, so visitors must clearly demonstrate that their activities fall within permitted short-term business categories.

Previously, Indian travellers were eligible for a 30-day Visa on Arrival, which required processing at immigration counters upon entry and payment of a visa fee. Under the new policy, Indians are granted visa-free entry to Thailand for up to 60 days without applying for a visa beforehand. This simplifies travel, reduces paperwork, and eliminates visa-on-arrival processing fees. The updated rule also provides an optional 30-day extension, offering greater flexibility for travellers planning longer stays.

Yes. Thailand introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) to attract digital nomads and remote workers. This visa allows eligible foreign nationals, including Indians, to stay in Thailand for an extended period while working remotely for overseas employers. The DTV is separate from the 60-day visa exemption and requires a formal application process. Applicants must meet eligibility criteria, including proof of remote employment or professional activity. This initiative reflects Thailand’s focus on supporting flexible work lifestyles.

Yes. The Non-Immigrant ED Plus visa allows foreign nationals to stay in Thailand for study purposes, including certain combined study-and-work programs. Indian students wishing to pursue education in Thailand must apply for this visa through the appropriate Thai embassy or consulate. The visa requires proof of admission from a recognized educational institution, financial documentation, and other supporting documents. It is separate from the 60-day visa exemption and is intended for structured academic programs.

Japan has officially crossed 400,000 international student enrolments, reaching approximately 435,200 students by mid-2025. This means the country has achieved its 2033 target nearly eight years early. The increase reflects Japan’s strategy to internationalise its higher education system and attract global talent to address labour shortages caused by its ageing population. For prospective students, this signals expanded academic opportunities, stronger institutional support for foreign learners, and a more welcoming environment for international applicants planning to study in Japan in the coming years.

Japan is facing a declining birth rate and a rapidly ageing population, leading to workforce shortages in several sectors. By attracting international students, the government aims to build a skilled talent pipeline that can transition into long-term employment in Japan after graduation. International students are viewed as potential contributors to innovation, research, and economic growth. This policy direction makes Japan an increasingly attractive destination for students who wish to combine quality education with future career opportunities in a stable and technologically advanced economy.

As of June 2025, Japan recorded around 435,200 international students enrolled across universities and other institutions. This represents an 8.2% increase compared to the previous year. A significant portion of this growth came from approximately 180,000 first-time international students. These numbers highlight Japan’s growing popularity as a global study destination and demonstrate the country’s success in attracting overseas talent through policy reforms, expanded academic programs, and improved post-study employment prospects.

Yes, many Japanese universities are expanding English-medium programs to attract a broader international audience. Since Japanese is considered a challenging language for many foreign students, offering courses in English makes higher education more accessible. Several institutions are strengthening their global competitiveness by introducing more English-based degrees, particularly at the master’s and research levels. However, students are still encouraged to learn basic Japanese to improve integration, employment opportunities, and overall daily life experiences while living in Japan.

Some Japanese universities have been permitted to revise tuition structures for international students. In recent years, the cap limiting foreign student tuition to 1.2 times domestic fees was lifted. Certain national universities have announced higher annual tuition fees starting from upcoming academic intakes. Despite these increases, tuition fees in Japan remain comparatively lower than many major global study destinations such as the US or UK. Students should check specific university websites for the latest fee details and scholarship opportunities before applying.

Yes, Japan views international graduates as an important talent pool for its economy. The government encourages skilled graduates to transition into the workforce, especially in sectors experiencing shortages. Many students can apply for post-study work opportunities by changing their visa status once they secure employment. Japan’s growing demand for highly skilled professionals, including in technology, engineering, and research fields, makes it a promising destination for students seeking long-term career prospects after completing their studies.

Recent policy discussions indicate that Japan is reviewing certain immigration and residency regulations. Authorities have announced stronger language support measures for international students and workers to improve integration. At the same time, there have been indications that the time required to qualify for permanent residency may be adjusted. Students planning long-term settlement should stay updated through official Immigration Services Agency announcements to understand the latest eligibility requirements and timelines.

Japan’s Ministry of Education has allowed selected national universities to admit more international students beyond previous quota limits. Institutions such as Tohoku University, Hiroshima University, and the University of Tsukuba have received permission to expand their intake in selected programs. This flexibility allows universities to respond to global demand and strengthen their international presence. Prospective students should monitor official university admissions pages for updated program availability and intake numbers.

Even with gradual tuition revisions at certain universities, Japan remains relatively affordable compared to countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, or Australia. In addition to moderate tuition costs, Japan offers various government and institutional scholarships to support international students. Living expenses vary by city, with Tokyo being more expensive than regional areas. Overall, Japan continues to balance affordability with high-quality education, advanced research facilities, and strong employment prospects.

Canada has introduced new priority categories under the Express Entry system to attract skilled professionals in critical sectors such as research, healthcare, aviation, and defence. The updates also include certain highly skilled foreign military recruits, including doctors, nurses, and pilots joining the Canadian Armed Forces. These changes aim to better align immigration selection with Canada’s labour market needs while managing overall permanent resident admissions. The government has clarified that existing categories, such as healthcare, skilled trades, and French-language proficiency, will continue alongside the newly introduced targeted streams.

Canada’s decision to include military and defence-related roles under Express Entry aligns with its broader national strategy to strengthen defence capabilities and reduce reliance on external partners. By attracting highly skilled foreign military professionals, including medical personnel and aviation specialists, Canada aims to enhance its workforce readiness in critical sectors. The move supports long-term plans to increase defence research, investment, and job creation. These changes reflect Canada’s focus on building a self-reliant, skilled workforce that can contribute to national security, innovation, and essential public services from the first day of arrival.

The newly introduced Express Entry categories include researchers, senior managers, aviation professionals such as pilots and aircraft mechanics, and foreign-trained medical doctors with Canadian work experience. In addition, highly skilled foreign military recruits, including military doctors, nurses, and pilots, are now part of the targeted selection. These occupations have been identified as critical to Canada’s economic growth and public service needs. By prioritizing these roles, the government aims to address labour shortages in essential industries while ensuring that newcomers possess the skills required to integrate quickly into the Canadian workforce.

Yes, Canada will continue conducting invitation rounds under existing Express Entry categories. Candidates with French-language proficiency, healthcare experience, and skilled trades backgrounds will still be considered in category-based and general draws. The newly introduced streams will operate alongside these existing categories rather than replacing them. This ensures that skilled workers across various sectors continue to have opportunities to receive Invitations to Apply for permanent residency. The government’s objective is to balance targeted recruitment in priority sectors with broader economic immigration goals while maintaining a structured and transparent selection process.

The government has indicated that the new Express Entry categories are part of a broader plan to restore immigration levels to more sustainable numbers. While Canada continues to welcome skilled professionals, it is also adjusting permanent resident targets to ease pressures on housing and social infrastructure. The focus is now on selecting candidates who can immediately contribute to critical sectors rather than increasing overall intake numbers. This means immigration remains a key pillar of economic growth, but with a stronger emphasis on workforce alignment, sector-specific needs, and long-term sustainability.

Yes, healthcare professionals remain a key priority under Canada’s Express Entry system. In fact, the 2026 updates reinforce the importance of medical and health-related roles, including foreign-trained doctors with Canadian experience and military medical personnel. Canada continues to face labour shortages in healthcare across several provinces, making this sector vital for category-based draws. Candidates with relevant qualifications, work experience, and language proficiency may benefit from targeted selection rounds. Healthcare remains one of the most consistent and in-demand fields under Canada’s economic immigration strategy.

Foreign workers should carefully assess whether their occupation falls under the newly introduced priority categories or existing targeted streams. Those with experience in research, aviation, healthcare, or defence-related fields may see improved opportunities in category-based draws. However, meeting eligibility criteria under programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades Program remains essential. Applicants must still maintain competitive Comprehensive Ranking System scores and valid documentation. The changes highlight the importance of aligning one’s professional profile with Canada’s evolving labour market priorities.

Under category-based selection, Canada invites candidates who meet specific criteria linked to identified priority occupations or language abilities. Eligible candidates must first qualify under one of the federal economic programs managed by Express Entry and enter the candidate pool. The government then conducts targeted draws focusing on selected sectors, inviting those with relevant experience and competitive Comprehensive Ranking System scores. This approach allows Canada to address labour shortages more efficiently while maintaining transparency in the selection process. Category-based draws operate alongside general and program-specific invitation rounds.

The recent update does not remove or reduce opportunities for French-language candidates or skilled trades professionals. These categories continue to be part of Canada’s targeted Express Entry draws. French-speaking candidates remain especially important in supporting Canada’s Francophone immigration goals outside Quebec. Similarly, skilled trades workers continue to address workforce gaps in construction, manufacturing, and related industries. The addition of new categories simply expands the focus to include research, aviation, healthcare, and defence sectors, ensuring that immigration supports a broad range of economic priorities.

France has announced an ambitious goal to attract 30,000 Indian students annually by the year 2030. This target reflects France’s commitment to strengthening educational ties with India and positioning itself as a preferred global study destination. The announcement was made as part of broader bilateral cooperation in education, research, and innovation. The initiative aims to increase academic exchanges, promote French universities among Indian students, and encourage long-term collaboration between institutions in both countries. This move is expected to significantly increase Indian student enrolment in French higher education institutions over the coming years.

France considers India a key strategic partner in education, technology, and innovation. Indian students represent one of the fastest-growing international student populations globally. By attracting more Indian students, France aims to strengthen cultural ties, enhance research collaboration, and build a skilled talent pipeline that contributes to both economies. The initiative also aligns with France’s internationalisation strategy for higher education. Increasing Indian student enrolment helps French institutions diversify campuses, promote English-taught programs, and support long-term diplomatic and economic partnerships between the two countries.

The number of Indian students in France has grown steadily in recent years, crossing 10,000 enrollments according to recent estimates. France aims to nearly triple this figure to reach 30,000 Indian students per year by 2030. This growth reflects rising awareness among Indian students about France’s globally ranked universities, affordable tuition fees compared to other Western countries, and increasing availability of English-taught programs. The upward trend also indicates stronger educational cooperation and promotional efforts by French authorities in India.

Indian students in France commonly pursue programs in business management, engineering, artificial intelligence, data science, luxury brand management, hospitality, and sustainable development. France is home to several globally ranked business schools and engineering institutions that offer English-medium master’s programs. Additionally, France is known for strong research programs in technology, design, fashion, and culinary arts. The country’s growing startup ecosystem and innovation-driven industries also make it an attractive destination for students seeking practical exposure and career opportunities after graduation.

Yes, France offers a wide range of English-taught programs, particularly at the master’s level. Many business schools, engineering institutions, and public universities provide programs fully taught in English to attract international students. This has significantly increased accessibility for Indian students who may not initially speak French. However, learning basic French is encouraged, as it improves daily life integration and enhances employment prospects in France. The availability of English programs has played a major role in France’s strategy to increase international student enrollment.

France has streamlined student visa procedures to encourage more Indian applicants. The long-stay student visa allows students to reside in France for the duration of their academic program. Students must secure admission from a recognized French institution and complete the visa application process through the official system. France has also simplified certain documentation processes and enhanced cooperation with Indian authorities to make applications smoother. Additionally, post-study work opportunities are available, allowing graduates to gain international work experience.

Yes, France offers post-study work options for international students. Graduates of master’s programs can apply for a temporary residence permit that allows them to stay in France and look for employment or start a business. Once employed, students can transition to a work permit under French immigration regulations. These opportunities make France attractive for Indian students seeking international exposure and global career growth. The ability to gain European work experience enhances long-term career prospects both in Europe and globally.

France provides several scholarship opportunities for Indian students, including government-funded and institution-specific scholarships. Programs such as Eiffel Excellence Scholarships and other merit-based grants help reduce tuition and living expenses. Many French universities and business schools also offer partial tuition waivers and financial aid for outstanding international applicants. These scholarships are aimed at encouraging high-achieving students to pursue higher education in France and contribute to academic and research excellence.

France is emerging as a competitive study destination in Europe due to its affordable public university tuition fees, globally ranked institutions, and growing number of English-taught programs. Compared to some other Western destinations, living costs in certain French cities can be moderate. France also offers strong post-study work pathways and access to the broader European job market. The government’s clear target of welcoming 30,000 Indian students annually demonstrates long-term commitment, providing reassurance and stability for prospective applicants.

On February 17, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted an Express Entry draw targeting candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). A total of 3,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued to eligible candidates who met the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) requirement. This draw focused on individuals with skilled Canadian work experience, reinforcing Canada’s commitment to retaining temporary workers and international graduates already contributing to its economy. The draw marked the fourth Express Entry round conducted in February 2026, reflecting consistent immigration activity and strong momentum in Canada’s economic immigration system.

The minimum CRS score required in the February 17, 2026 Canadian Experience Class draw was 505. Candidates with a score of 505 or higher received Invitations to Apply for permanent residence. CRS scores are calculated based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. A score above 500 remains competitive, especially for CEC-specific draws. Candidates below this score may need to improve their language results, gain additional skilled work experience, or explore Provincial Nominee Programs to strengthen their profiles and increase their chances of selection in upcoming draws.

In February 2026, IRCC conducted four Express Entry draws. These included program-specific and category-based rounds, demonstrating Canada’s structured approach to meeting its immigration targets. The consistent frequency of draws within a single month indicates active selection from the Express Entry pool. Regular draws provide more opportunities for candidates to receive ITAs, particularly those with strong CRS scores or those qualifying under targeted categories such as CEC, PNP, or French-language proficiency. For Indian professionals planning Canada PR, multiple draws in one month signal stable immigration processing and continued demand for skilled talent.

Across four Express Entry draws in February 2026, IRCC issued a total of 15,202 Invitations to Apply (ITAs). This significant number reflects Canada’s continued commitment to welcoming skilled immigrants under its economic immigration programs. The ITAs were distributed across various categories, including Canadian Experience Class, Provincial Nominee Program, and French-language proficiency category-based draws. A high number of invitations in a single month suggests steady progress toward annual immigration targets and creates strong opportunities for eligible candidates in the Express Entry pool to secure permanent residency.

The February 2026 Express Entry draws targeted candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and French-language proficiency category-based selections. CEC draws focused on candidates with Canadian work experience, while PNP draws invited candidates who had secured a provincial nomination. French-language category draws targeted candidates with strong French proficiency, supporting Canada’s goal of increasing Francophone immigration outside Quebec. These varied selection categories indicate that IRCC is strategically addressing labor market needs and regional demographic goals while maintaining balanced economic immigration intake.

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is one of the three programs managed under the Express Entry system. It is designed for individuals who have gained at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years and meet required language benchmarks. CEC is particularly popular among international students transitioning from Post-Graduation Work Permits and temporary foreign workers. Since candidates already have Canadian experience, they are often well-integrated into the labor market, making CEC a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for those already living and working in Canada.

Receiving a Provincial Nomination significantly increases your chances of selection. A nomination under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) adds 600 additional CRS points to your Express Entry profile. Since recent CRS cut-offs are typically around 500, an additional 600 points virtually guarantees an Invitation to Apply in the next Express Entry draw. Provinces nominate candidates based on local labor shortages and economic priorities. For candidates with lower CRS scores, applying through a PNP stream can be one of the most effective strategies to secure Canada PR.

Candidates can improve their CRS scores by retaking language tests to achieve higher IELTS or CELPIP bands, especially aiming for CLB 9 or above. Gaining additional skilled work experience, either in Canada or abroad, also increases points. Applying for a Provincial Nomination adds 600 points, significantly boosting chances of selection. Learning French and achieving qualifying scores in TEF or TCF exams can provide additional bilingual points. Updating Educational Credential Assessments for multiple qualifications can further strengthen profiles. Strategic improvements can enhance competitiveness for upcoming Express Entry draws.

Express Entry draws are generally conducted regularly, often every two weeks, although frequency can vary depending on immigration targets and category-based priorities. In February 2026 alone, four draws were held, demonstrating active selection from the pool. IRCC may conduct program-specific draws (CEC or PNP) or category-based draws focusing on occupations or language skills. While there is no fixed calendar published in advance, candidates can expect consistent rounds throughout the year. Monitoring draw trends helps applicants understand CRS movements and plan profile improvements accordingly.