Students can apply for U.S. Green card while working on OPT

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.

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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:
 

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:
 

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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:

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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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Highlights: Comfortable Living in Europe Possible on $2,000/Month, Says Report

• Living in Europe on a monthly budget of $2,000 (₹1.74 lakh) is realistic in many regions beyond major cities.
• Countries like Hungary, Greece, and Cyprus offer a balanced lifestyle with lower costs and essential amenities.
• Budapest stands out for its affordability and quality urban living, with monthly costs between $1,200 and $1,800.
• In Greece, sea-view homes can be rented for as low as $400/month, especially outside tourist areas.
• Cyprus offers coastal living, low taxes, and English-speaking communities—all within a budget of $1,800/month.
   

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From Hungary to Cyprus: Affordable European Destinations for Indians

If you have ever dreamed of open-air cafés, seaside sunsets, or strolls through historic European towns but worried about the cost, there’s good news. According to Forbes, a monthly budget of $2,000 (around ₹1.74 lakh) can go a long way in destinations like Hungary, Greece, and Cyprus. In Budapest, you can enjoy a cosmopolitan lifestyle with excellent healthcare, culture, and transport while keeping expenses between $1,200 and $1,800/month.
 

Greece offers seaside living for as low as $400/month outside the tourist hubs, and Cyprus delivers a relaxed, sun-soaked lifestyle with modern infrastructure and low taxes, all within a modest budget. These countries don’t just offer affordability, they promise community, quality of life, and accessible visa pathways, making the European dream possible for more Indians than ever before.
 

Also, read…

Top 10 countries with best work life balance in 2025
 

Top Three Budget-Friendly European Countries for Indian Citizens in 2025

For Indians seeking a slower pace of life, scenic surroundings, and affordability abroad, a handful of European countries make it possible to live comfortably on a modest monthly income. With the right location, you can enjoy a quality lifestyle, healthcare access, and community warmth, all for around ₹1.74 lakh per month.
 

The top 3 countries that are budget-friendly for Indians is as follows:
 

Hungary

• City Highlight: Budapest
• Monthly Cost: $1,200–$1,800
• Why It Stands Out: Budget-friendly city life, efficient public transport, accessible healthcare, and rich cultural heritage.
   

Greece

• City Highlight: Coastal towns beyond tourist hubs
• Monthly Cost: $1,000–$1,700 (rent as low as $400)
• Why It Stands Out: Warm climate, affordable coastal living, tax perks for expats, and a strong sense of community.
   

Cyprus

• City Highlight: Beachside towns across the island
• Monthly Cost: $1,200–$1,800 (rents between $500–$800)
• Why It Stands Out: Low taxes, English-speaking population, modern infrastructure, and a relaxed, sunny lifestyle.
   

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Highlights: Big Changes Coming to US Visas in 2025 for Indian Applicants

• From June 23, 2025, student and exchange visa applicants (F, M, J categories) must make their social media accounts public as part of enhanced digital screening.
• A new $250 Visa Integrity Fee will apply to most non-immigrant visa categories, including student, visitor, and work visas, starting October 1, 2025.
• The total visa cost for Indian applicants could now range from $425 to $473, depending on the category and existing fees.
• From September 2, 2025, the US will tighten interview waiver eligibility, requiring most applicants to attend in-person interviews—even for renewals.
• Only limited categories such as diplomats and certain officials may continue to qualify for automatic interview waivers under the revised rules.
   

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Planning a US Trip? Here’s What Will Be Different in the 2025 Visa Process

Starting in 2025, the US is introducing a series of visa reforms aimed at increasing transparency, security, and enforcement. These include mandatory public social media for student visa applicants, a new $250 visa integrity fee for most non-immigrant categories, and stricter eligibility for interview waivers.
 

While these steps reflect broader immigration tightening, they also mean Indian applicants will need to prepare earlier, review their online presence, and budget for higher costs. For students, professionals, and tourists alike, understanding these changes will be critical to a smooth visa experience.
 

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Top 3 US Visa Changes Indians Must Prepare for in 2025

In 2025, Indian applicants will see key policy changes in the US visa process aimed at increasing screening and compliance.
 

• Mandatory Public Social Media for Student Visas (Effective June 23, 2025)

Applicants for F, M, and J visas must make their social media profiles public at the time of application. US consular officers may review usernames, posts, and affiliations as part of digital security screening.
 

• $250 Visa Integrity Fee for Non-immigrant Visas (Effective October 1, 2025)

Most non-immigrant visa applicants, including students, workers, and tourists—will be required to pay an additional $250 fee on top of existing visa charges.
 

• Stricter Interview Waiver Rules (Effective September 2, 2025)

In-person interviews will become mandatory for most applicants. Renewals will only qualify for a waiver under limited conditions and at the discretion of consular officers.
 

These updates reflect a shift toward greater scrutiny, and Indian applicants are encouraged to plan ahead, ensure profile transparency, and budget for the added costs.
 

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Highlights: Germany Offers Freelance Visa at Just ₹7,500 for Global Professionals

• The German Freelance Visa permits eligible foreign nationals to reside and work independently in Germany for up to one year.
• The visa is available at a fee of €75 (approximately ₹7,500), making it financially accessible to applicants.
• It is primarily intended for professionals such as creatives, artists, technology consultants, writers, and digital nomads.
• Applicants are required to demonstrate proof of income, valid health insurance, and confirmed accommodation in Germany.
• The visa may be renewed or extended, depending on the applicant’s earnings and professional engagement in the country.
   

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From Artists to Accountants: Who Can Apply for Germany’s Freelance Visa

Germany’s Freelance Visa is open to a wide range of self-employed professionals across scientific, educational, creative, legal, and medical fields. If you belong to one of the following categories, you may be eligible to apply and live in Germany for up to one to three years.
 

Here is the list of categories of freelance employment in Germany:
 

• Independent scientists
• Artists, teachers, or those in educational work
• Lawyers
• Notaries
• Patent agents
• Surveyors
• Engineers
• Architect
• Veterinarians
• Commercial chemists
• Accountants
• Tax consultants
• Consulting economists
• Sworn accountants
• Tax agents
• Dentists
• Non-medical practitioners
• Physiotherapists
• Journalists
• Photojournalists
• Interpreters
• Translators
• Pilots and similar aviation-related professions
   

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Germany Offers Freelance Visa for Just ₹7,500 — here’s What You Need to Apply

Germany is offering a one-year Freelance Visa that allows eligible professionals to live and work independently in the country. At just €75 (approx. ₹7,500), the visa offers an affordable entry into one of Europe’s most vibrant economies, perfect for creatives, consultants, writers, and digital nomads.
 

To apply, you will need to prepare the following documents:

• Valid passport
• Proof of accommodation in Germany (such as a rental agreement)
• Proof of health insurance coverage valid in Germany
• Cover letter outlining your freelance plans and professional goals
• Portfolio highlighting past freelance work or projects
• Letters of intent from German clients (if available)
• Proof of income or financial resources (such as bank statements or income history)
• Updated CV
• Academic and professional qualifications
• Completed application form for the visa
• Visa appointment confirmation letter from the immigration office
• Proof of visa fee payment (€75)
   

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Highlights: Global Survey Reveals Best Destinations for Work-life Balance in 2025

• Remote, a HR platform, has released the list of top 10 countries globally that offer the best work-life balance to expats.
• The survey focused on key factors like working hours, work-life satisfaction, and overall job contentment from expats across the world.
• New Zealand ranks No. 1, followed by Ireland, Belgium, Germany, Norway, etc. rounding out the top five destinations.
• Countries in the top 10 offer shorter work weeks, low stress levels, and a strong emphasis on employee well-being and personal time.
• These rankings reflect a growing global shift toward healthier, more balanced lifestyles, especially for professionals seeking to migrate for work.
   

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Remote Survey Reveals Countries Leading the Way in Work-Life Balance

In its 2025 global report, Remote, a leading HR and payroll platform, ranked the top countries that offer the best work-life balance. The study evaluated key factors including statutory paid leave, sick leave policies, minimum wage, and average working hours, among others, depending on data from 60 highest-GDP nations. These indicators help determine how well a country supports a healthy balance between personal well-being and professional life.
 

New Zealand emerged as the top-ranking country, followed closely by Ireland and Belgium. Others in the top 10 include the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, France, Spain, Finland, and Sweden. Each of these nations demonstrated strong worker protections, flexible working conditions, and a national culture that values downtime.
 

The report reflects a growing awareness globally that employee well-being is essential for productivity and long-term growth. For Indian professionals seeking a healthier lifestyle abroad, these countries offer a compelling mix of opportunity and quality of life.
 

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10 Best Countries for Work-Life Balance in 2025 Ranked by Remote

A global study by Remote, an international HR platform, has ranked countries based on key indicators like minimum wage, paid leave, working hours, and family-friendly policies and after analysing data from 60 highest-GDP nations.

The table below has the list of top 10 countries that offer the best work-life balance in 2025:

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Highlights: Mutual recognition pacts between India and UK expected in the next 36 months

• India and the UK are working to finalize Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) within the next 36 months.
• MRAs will benefit Indian professionals in regulated fields such as engineering, architecture, law, and accountancy.
• The goal is to remove the need for retraining or requalification when migrating to the UK.
• India has submitted a model MRA framework to the UK to fast-track implementation.
• The initiative forms part of the broader India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), currently nearing completion.
   

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New India–UK Pact May Let Indian Experts Work in the UK without Requalification

India and the UK are making significant progress toward finalising Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) that would allow professionals from both countries to have their qualifications officially recognised across borders. These agreements, expected to take shape within the next 36 months, will play a vital role in easing migration for Indian professionals.
 

Once implemented, MRAs will enable professionals in regulated sectors, including engineering, architecture, accountancy, and law to practice in the UK without the need for additional training or requalification. This would not only save time and costs for Indian migrants but also help fill skill gaps in the UK’s workforce. India has already proposed a model MRA framework to streamline negotiations and accelerate the process. The initiative is part of the India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is currently in its final negotiation stages.
 

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India–UK Trade Deal Brings Easier Mobility and Longer Stays for Skilled Indians

As part of the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), the UK has committed to a liberalised mobility regime that will greatly benefit Indian professionals across multiple sectors. These provisions are designed to ease market access, reduce visa-related barriers, and offer long-term stay options for skilled individuals and their families.
 

Under the agreement:
 

• Business visitors from all sectors can stay in the UK for up to 90 days within any six-month period.
• Intra-corporate transferees, including their partners and dependents, will be eligible for three-year visas.
• Graduate trainees are included in the mobility provisions, enhancing opportunities for young professionals.
• Investors will be allowed to stay for up to one year.
• Contractual service suppliers from 33 sub-sectors such as IT, finance, hospitality, and transport can work in the UK for 12 months within a 24-month period.
• Independent professionals from 16 sub-sectors including IT, telecom, and business consulting will also have access under similar terms.
   

Note: The UK has also agreed not to impose numerical restrictions on the number of workers entering under these categories. Currently, around 60,000 Indian IT professionals are working in the UK as intra-corporate transferees.
 

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