Posted on September 02 2017
The UK and the EU have failed to break the deadlock over Brexit talks. EU warned the UK that the discussions held so far have failed to make sufficient progress on future trade talks due to commence in October.
After 4 days of talks, Michel Barnier the Chief Brexit negotiator for the EU said that adequate progress is yet very distant. The talks held so far are inadequate for him to signal EU leaders to commence talks for future trade deals, said Barnier.
David Davis the Chief Brexit negotiator for the UK accepted that vital differences still remain. He asked the EU to display more flexibility to break the deadlock over Brexit talks, as quoted by The Hindu.
The EU has demanded that three major areas of concerns must be resolved prior to any future talks on trade deals. These include rights of EU nationals, UK’s exit bill payment and border issue between Ireland and Northern Ireland.
The UK has triggered the 2-year exit deadline in March 2017. It is hoping that the talks for future trade relations with the EU begin as early as October this year. David Davies said that with every passing day the exit deadline was fast approaching and talks must progress at a faster speed. He also declined to endorse the monetary commitments that UK will have to make to the EU for its exit.
Michel Barnier said that the EU was prepared to enhance the pace of the talks with the UK. It has been projected that UK’s exit bill to cover its commitments could go up to 60 billion Euros. On the other hand, the UK government has rubbished any such high exit bill.
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Planning for a business trip to New Zealand? Get this visa in 4 days.
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If you are planning a short-term business trip to New Zealand, the Business Visitor Visa is your gateway. This visa is designed for professionals and entrepreneurs who wish to visit the country for business activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations — without applying for a work visa.
To qualify for this visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Also, read…
Applying for New Zealand’s Business Visitor Visa is a quick and straightforward process, designed to facilitate smooth entry for professionals. Here’s how to get started and what to know once you arrive:
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Gather essential documents – passport, financial proof, employer letter, identity documents.
Step 2: Choose your application method – online (recommended) or paper-based.
Step 3: Upload or attach documents and submit the visa application.
Step 4: Pay the visa fee – NZ $341.
Step 5: Wait for processing – 80% of applications are completed within four days.
Step 6: Receive your eVisa if approved, including all visa conditions.
Arrival and Stay Conditions in New Zealand
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Saudi Arabia to launch a pension and savings programme for foreign workers
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Saudi Arabia’s upcoming Public Pension and Savings Programme is set to be a game-changer for foreign workers, including the large Indian expat community. For the first time, expats will have the option to participate in a structured savings system within the Kingdom—aimed at encouraging long-term financial planning and reducing reliance on outward remittances. In 2024 alone, foreign workers remitted over SR144.2 billion ($38.4 billion), highlighting the scale of funds leaving the country each year.
The initiative is part of broader pension reforms passed in July 2024, which included raising the retirement age, extending contribution periods, and increasing rates. As of the first quarter of 2025, foreign nationals accounted for 77% of the 12.8 million social insurance subscribers in Saudi Arabia.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has praised the move, stating it could significantly strengthen household savings and enhance the sustainability of the pension system. However, it also urged Saudi authorities to maintain financial transparency, especially in managing the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI)—whose assets make up about 32% of the Kingdom’s GDP.
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Here are the key takeaways Indian expats in Saudi Arabia should keep in mind:
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Great News! IRCC to accept TOEFL Essentials Test for Canada PR applicants.
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Administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS), TOEFL Essentials is a globally recognized English language test designed to evaluate real-world communication skills. On August 21, 2025, ETS was officially added as a designated language testing agency by IRCC. While the test is not yet accepted, IRCC and ETS are working together to finalise timelines and test centre availability.
Once implemented, TOEFL Essentials will be available to candidates applying under the following economic immigration programs:
The test itself includes four timed sections—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—and features a short, unscored Personal Video Statement. It is designed to simulate practical, real-world interactions, making it relevant for both academic and everyday use.
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Currently, IRCC accepts three English language tests:
TOEFL Essentials will soon join this list, offering a more flexible and fast-paced option. While CELPIP and IELTS are well known among Indian candidates, the inclusion of TOEFL Essentials gives applicants another globally respected option—particularly useful for those who have already taken TOEFL for academic purposes.
The test also allows free score reporting to an unlimited number of institutions, which can be a cost-effective benefit for applicants exploring multiple immigration or study options.
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For recent immigration updates on Canada, check out Y-Axis Canada Immigration News!
*Want to apply for Canada PR? Let Y-Axis guide you with the steps.
Administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS), TOEFL Essentials is a globally recognized English language test designed to evaluate real-world communication skills. On August 21, 2025, ETS was officially added as a designated language testing agency by IRCC. While the test is not yet accepted, IRCC and ETS are working together to finalise timelines and test centre availability.
Once implemented, TOEFL Essentials will be available to candidates applying under the following economic immigration programs:
The test itself includes four timed sections—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—and features a short, unscored Personal Video Statement. It is designed to simulate practical, real-world interactions, making it relevant for both academic and everyday use.
*Want to improve your English language test scores? Avail the Y-Axis Coaching services to ace your scores!
Currently, IRCC accepts three English language tests:
TOEFL Essentials will soon join this list, offering a more flexible and fast-paced option. While CELPIP and IELTS are well known among Indian candidates, the inclusion of TOEFL Essentials gives applicants another globally respected option—particularly useful for those who have already taken TOEFL for academic purposes.
The test also allows free score reporting to an unlimited number of institutions, which can be a cost-effective benefit for applicants exploring multiple immigration or study options.
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canadian immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!
For recent immigration updates on Canada, check out Y-Axis Canada Immigration News!
Did you know? The UAE offers 13 types of work permits – find out which one is best for you!
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Whether you're a full-time employee, freelancer, or trainee, the UAE has a dedicated work permit tailored to your employment type. These permits are issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) and regulate legal employment across the private sector and free zones.
Here’s a breakdown of the 13 official work permits, who they’re for, and how long they are typically valid:
Permit Type |
Who It’s For / Purpose |
Validity |
Recruitment from Outside UAE |
Hiring workers from overseas |
2 years |
Transfer Permit |
For employees shifting to another UAE-based employer |
2 years |
Family Sponsorship Permit |
Allows residents on family sponsorship to take up employment |
2 years |
Temporary Work Permit |
Short-term assignment with another company |
Short-term |
Mission Work Permit |
Project-based work for foreign nationals |
Project duration |
Part-Time Work Permit |
For those working limited hours or for multiple employers |
As per contract |
Juvenile Work Permit |
For youth aged 15–18 under regulated conditions |
1 year |
Student Training & Employment Permit |
For students aged 15+ in internships or training roles |
3 months |
UAE/GCC National Work Permit |
For hiring UAE or GCC nationals in private sector roles |
2 years |
Golden Visa Holder Work Permit |
For Golden Visa residents working for UAE companies |
2 years |
National Trainee Work Permit |
For training UAE citizens in line with qualifications |
12 months, renewable |
Freelance Work Permit |
For self-employed professionals without employer sponsorship |
Varies |
Private Teacher Work Permit |
For qualified private tutors |
2 years (free of charge) |
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To ensure regulatory compliance and uphold labour standards, the UAE has established specific conditions for the issuance, renewal, and cancellation of work permits under the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
Issuance Requirements:
Renewals and Cancellations:
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Indian Students Abroad Hit New High With 7.6 Lakh in 2024
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India continues to lead globally in outbound student mobility, with 760,073 Indian students going abroad for higher education in 2024, as per the Bureau of Immigration (BoI) data. While this represents a slight decline from the 8.94 lakh students in 2023, it still signals a strong post-pandemic trend, with numbers tripling since 2020 when only 2.6 lakh students studied overseas. The number of Indian students pursuing higher education overseas has seen a sharp rise over the last five years, with the post-pandemic years witnessing record growth.
The table below has complete details of the total numbers of students who migrated abroad for their studies starting 2020-2024:
Year |
Number of Students |
2020 |
2,60,363 |
2021 |
4,45,582 |
2022 |
7,52,111 |
2023 |
8,94,783 |
2024 |
7,60,073 |
To support this continued momentum, the Indian government has implemented several measures such as Mutual Recognition of Qualifications (MRQs) and Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreements with various countries. Additionally, Indian students abroad are supported through the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) and are encouraged to register on the MADAD portal for timely assistance.
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According to official data shared in the Lok Sabha, student mobility varies widely across Indian states. While states like Andhra Pradesh lead in absolute numbers, Chandigarh recorded the highest per capita student migration, with over 10,000 students per 1 lakh residents heading abroad between 2016 and 2021.
Here's a quick state-wise breakdown:
State/UT |
Number of Students (approx.) / Per Lakh Residents |
Chandigarh |
10,000+ per 1 lakh residents (highest per capita) |
Punjab |
869 per 1 lakh residents |
Delhi |
851 per 1 lakh residents |
Andhra Pradesh |
Highest by absolute numbers |
Maharashtra |
Among top 3 in total students sent abroad |
Gujarat |
High in absolute numbers |
Kerala |
331 per 1 lakh residents |
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New Zealand to introduce Global Workforce Seasonal Visa and Peak Seasonal Visa to fill workforce shortages
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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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New Zealand’s new visa categories, the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV), are designed for specific roles tied to seasonal industries.
Here’s a breakdown of the occupations eligible under each route:
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) |
Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) |
Agricultural and horticultural mobile plant operators |
Mussel or oyster farm workers |
Agricultural technicians (e.g., sheep or animal pregnancy scanners) |
Calf rearers and relief milkers |
Chairlift operators |
Forestry workers |
Snow groomers and snow makers |
Meat boners, slicers, and meat processing workers |
Mountain or glacier guides |
Seafood process workers |
Whitewater rafting guides |
Winery cellar hands |
Outdoor adventure instructors |
Wool handlers |
Winemakers and winery senior cellar hands |
|
Shearers |
|
Slaughterers |
|
Primary products inspectors |
|
Snow sports instructors |
|
Snowsport equipment technicians |
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First Express Entry draw of August invites 225 PNP candidates
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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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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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Australia raises Student Visa Cap to 295,000 for 2025. Apply now!
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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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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:
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For more updates on Australia, check out Y-Axis Australia Immigration Updates!
Finland to Welcome English-Speaking Professionals from August 2026
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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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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:
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Is it possible to live in Europe with $2,000 per month?
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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
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
Greece
Cyprus
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For recent Schengen updates, check out Y-Axis Schengen News page!