Trending News

Highlights: Canada Reintroduces Job Offer Points for Express Entry Candidates

• IRCC has announced plans to restore additional CRS points for Express Entry candidates with a job offer.
• The Canadian immigration authorities have officially updated their CRS points for job offers on March 13, 2026.
• Foreign nationals with job offers and Canadian work experience in high-wage occupations will receive extra CRS points in Express Entry draws.
• Skilled workers across several in-demand fields of Express Entry’s occupational categories must obtain official certification from a specific regulatory body.
• The recent measures are part of a broader Talent Attraction Strategy in Canada to attract top global talent to address a workforce shortage.

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Canada Updates CRS Points for Express Entry Candidates with Job Offer

Canada recently plans to allot extra CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) points to Express Entry applicants with a secure job offer. (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) had decided initially in March 2025 to remove bonus points for Express Entry candidates with valid job offers, including those backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Under the previous system, foreign nationals working in Canada would receive an additional 50 or 200 CRS points. IRCC later removed point allocation for job offers in Express Entry draws on March 25, 2025, to restore the integrity of the system.

Canada published its plans to reintroduce CRS points for job offers for Express Entry draws later on March 13, 2026, as part of a broader suite of reforms. Although a clear timeline is yet to be released, Canada expresses its firm intention to award points to candidates with “job offers and Canadian work experience in high wage occupations.

The planned measures are here to support Canada’s Talent Attraction Strategy to hire qualified foreign professionals to meet workforce demand.

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Which Canadian Jobs qualify as High-Wages Occupations for Express Entry?

The Express Entry program assesses skilled work based on experience in Training Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) classification and  Canada's National Occupation Classification (NOC) system.

Here is how Canada classifies high-wage roles for Express Entry:

• Higher TEER (0, 1, 2) occupations are broadly considered under the revised Express Entry rules.
• For the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), a job qualifies as a high-wage role if the occupation's hourly wage meets or exceeds the province's median hourly wage.
• The high-wage role is subject to the region where a candidate's work experience was gathered in Canada.
   

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Highlights: New Zealand announces the Salary Threshold work visa applicants

• New Zealand has introduced new wage rules for foreign workers applying for work visas.
• Work visas in New Zealand will be approved for applicants who meet the minimum salary threshold for specific work permit categories.
• The new salary threshold is associated with the national median wage and job market rates in New Zealand.
• Immigration New Zealand will also check the hourly wages criteria while approving work permits for foreign nationals.
• Several visa categories, including Accredited Employer work visas, work-to-residence permits, and skilled migrant programs, will be affected by the revised wages criteria.

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New Zealand to approve work visas for applicants meeting salary thresholds in 2026

Immigration New Zealand has recently announced a new wage threshold for foreign workers seeking to work in the country. Foreign nationals applying for a New Zealand work visa must secure a job that meets the minimum salary requirement. The country updated its salary threshold for foreign workers to determine whether a job offer qualifies for certain work visas.

New Zealand’s revised wages rule assesses eligibility for immigration pathways, including Accredited Employer work visas, work-to-residence permits, and skilled migrant programs.

Immigration authorities have also decided to verify the hourly wages of foreign workers to confirm that the job meets the threshold for the visa category.

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Factors affecting the wage threshold

Wages for international workers in New Zealand are determined by the national median wage and are updated frequently based on labour market data.

National median wages

The minimum salary thresholds for different work visas in New Zealand are linked to the national median wage in the country. New Zealand’s median wages are updated regularly based on labour market statistics. Upon an increase in median wages, the associated immigration threshold will also rise.

The wage rates in immigration assessments are estimated on an hourly basis and expressed in New Zealand dollars.

Note: Existing foreign workers in New Zealand do not have to meet the revised threshold until their current work permit expires.

Also, read...

New Zealand to Revise Open Work Visa Policies from April 20 – Check Your Eligibility!
 

Labour market rates

Work visa salary thresholds are set based on market pay rates in New Zealand. This refers to the average salary that residents of the country earn for a similar job. Depending on industry standards and work experience, these factors affect the average salary requirements for foreign nationals in the country.

New Zealand has also set other wage-related standards, which include the national minimum wage and occupation-specific pay levels.

Also, read...

New Zealand launches Short-Term Graduate Work Visa and expands post-study work options. Apply Now!
 

Types of New Zealand work visas affected by the Minimum Wages Rule
 

The following New Zealand work visa categories fall under the newly announced salary threshold requirement:

• Accredited Employer work visas.
• Visas connected to residence pathways(work-to-residence and skilled migrant programs).
• Visas for seasonal workers, fishing crew members, and partners of workers.
   

Note: Immigration authorities in New Zealand have advised foreign nationals to check the salary criteria for their work visa category before submitting an application.

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Highlights: Philippines Gains Popularity among Indian MBBS Aspirants

• Indian medical aspirants are increasingly choosing the Philippines for affordable education and strong clinical exposure.
• Medical tuition fees in the Philippines typically range between USD 3,000 and USD 6,000 per year.
• The total cost of completing a medical degree, including living expenses, is around ₹25–35 lakh.
• A recent batch saw 1,015 Indian-origin students graduate from the Davao Medical School Foundation.
• Nearly 12,000 Indian students have graduated from the institution since 1999, highlighting the country’s growing popularity.

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Philippines Emerges as a Rising Destination for Indian MBBS Aspirants

Indian students planning to pursue medical education abroad are increasingly choosing the Philippines due to its affordable tuition fees, English-medium instruction, and globally aligned medical curriculum. Experts say the country is becoming a preferred destination for Indian medical aspirants looking for quality education and strong clinical exposure at a relatively lower cost.

The growing interest has also been influenced by global developments such as the Russia–Ukraine conflict, which disrupted the studies of many Indian medical students in Ukraine and pushed them to explore alternative destinations. As a result, the Philippines is gaining attention as a reliable and cost-effective option for studying medicine abroad.

Recent reports also highlight the rising number of Indian graduates from Philippine medical institutions, reflecting the increasing demand for international medical education among Indian students. Universities in the Philippines continue to attract large cohorts of Indian-origin students, reinforcing the country’s reputation as an emerging hub for medical studies.

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Philippines Attracts Indian Students with Affordable Medical Education

The Philippines is increasingly becoming a preferred destination for Indian students pursuing medical education abroad. Factors such as affordable tuition fees, English-medium instruction, and strong clinical exposure are attracting aspiring doctors from India. Experts also point out that global disruptions, including the Russia–Ukraine conflict, have pushed many students to explore alternative countries for medical studies. Recent reports show a growing presence of Indian students in Philippine medical universities, highlighting the rising demand for overseas medical education.
 

 

• The Philippines is emerging as a preferred destination for Indian students seeking affordable medical education abroad.
• Tuition fees range between USD 3,000 and USD 6,000 per year, making it significantly cheaper than Western countries.
• The total cost of completing the program is around ₹25–35 lakh, including living expenses.
• A recent graduating batch at Davao Medical School Foundation included 1,015 Indian-origin students.
• Nearly 12,000 Indian students have graduated from the university since 1999, showing a strong and growing Indian presence.

Also, read…

Affordable destinations to pursue MBBS abroad

 

What Indian MBBS Aspirants Should Know About Studying in the Philippines

With intense competition for medical seats in India, many Indian students are exploring international destinations to pursue an MBBS degree. The Philippines is gaining attention as a viable option due to its affordable education, English-medium instruction, and structured clinical training. The growing number of Indian graduates from Philippine medical universities highlights the country’s rising popularity among Indian medical aspirants.

• Limited medical seats in India push many NEET-qualified students to consider affordable MBBS programs abroad.
• The Philippines offers English-medium medical education, making it easier for Indian students to adapt academically.
• Many universities follow a US-style medical curriculum, which includes strong practical and clinical exposure.
• The country already has a large Indian student community, with nearly 12,000 Indian graduates from Davao Medical School Foundation since 1999.
• Recent reports show 1,015 Indian-origin students graduating from Davao Medical School Foundation in one batch, reflecting the growing demand among Indian students.

 

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FAQs

1. Why are Indian students choosing the Philippines for medical studies?

Indian students are increasingly choosing the Philippines for medical education due to its affordable tuition fees, English-medium instruction, and US-style medical curriculum. Medical programs in the Philippines generally cost between USD 3,000 and USD 6,000 per year, making them more affordable compared to countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, or Australia. Additionally, Philippine medical schools emphasize strong clinical exposure and practical training. The Russia-Ukraine conflict has also pushed many Indian medical aspirants to explore alternative destinations for MBBS abroad. These factors together make the Philippines an attractive and accessible option for Indian students seeking global medical education.
 

2. How much does it cost to study medicine in the Philippines for Indian students?

Medical education in the Philippines is considered relatively affordable compared to many other international destinations. Tuition fees typically range from USD 3,000 to USD 6,000 per year, depending on the university and program. When living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transport are included, the total cost of completing a medical program generally ranges between ₹25 lakh and ₹35 lakh. This cost is significantly lower than studying medicine in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, or Australia. Because of this affordability and reasonable living costs, many Indian students view the Philippines as a practical option for pursuing medical education abroad.
 

3. What makes the Philippines’ medical curriculum attractive to Indian students?

The Philippines follows a US-pattern medical curriculum, which is one of the key reasons Indian students choose the country for medical studies. Many universities offer a structured approach that combines theoretical learning with extensive clinical training. The curriculum is also taught in English, making it easier for Indian students to adapt academically and socially. Clinical rotations in hospitals provide hands-on experience that helps students develop practical medical skills. Additionally, the teaching style emphasizes patient interaction and clinical exposure, which can help students build confidence before entering professional practice in the global healthcare sector.
 

4. How did the Russia-Ukraine conflict influence Indian students’ choice of medical education abroad?

The Russia-Ukraine conflict disrupted the education of thousands of Indian medical students who were studying in Ukrainian universities. Many students had to return to India and look for alternative destinations to continue their medical education. As a result, countries that offer affordable and English-medium medical programs gained attention. The Philippines emerged as one such destination due to its comparatively lower costs, established medical universities, and strong clinical training opportunities. The situation encouraged Indian students and parents to consider safer and more stable countries for studying medicine abroad, which contributed to the growing popularity of the Philippines.
 

5. Which Philippine medical school recently graduated a large number of Indian students?

The Davao Medical School Foundation (DMSF) recently saw a large cohort of Indian-origin students graduate as doctors. According to reports, 1,015 Indian-origin students graduated in a single batch, making it one of the largest groups of Indian graduates from a single overseas medical institution in recent years. The institution has a long history of admitting Indian students and supporting them during their medical training. Over the years, thousands of Indian students have completed their medical degrees from the university. This highlights the growing trust Indian students have in Philippine medical institutions.
 

6. How many Indian students have graduated from Davao Medical School Foundation?

The Davao Medical School Foundation has a long track record of educating Indian medical aspirants. According to officials from the institution, nearly 12,000 students from India have graduated from the university since 1999. This large number reflects the strong presence of Indian students in the Philippines’ medical education system. The university has built support systems for international students, including academic guidance and clinical training opportunities. The growing number of graduates from Indian backgrounds indicates the increasing popularity of Philippine medical programs and their ability to attract students from across India seeking global medical careers.
 

7. What are the key benefits of studying medicine in the Philippines?

Studying medicine in the Philippines offers several advantages for Indian students. The programs are relatively affordable, with tuition fees significantly lower than in many Western countries. The English-medium instruction ensures students do not face language barriers in academics or daily life. Additionally, the US-style curriculum and strong clinical exposure allow students to gain practical medical training. The Philippines also has a long tradition of educating international students, especially from India. These benefits make it a suitable destination for those seeking quality medical education abroad without the extremely high costs associated with many Western universities.
 

8. Which other countries are popular for Indian students studying medicine abroad?

Apart from the Philippines, several other countries are popular destinations for Indian students pursuing medical education abroad. These include Russia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, and several Eastern European countries. These destinations attract Indian students mainly due to their relatively affordable tuition fees and established medical universities. Some of these countries also offer English-medium programs designed specifically for international students. However, global events such as geopolitical conflicts or policy changes can influence student preferences. As a result, students often evaluate factors like safety, affordability, recognition of degrees, and clinical training opportunities before selecting a destination.
 

9. Why is affordability an important factor for Indian medical aspirants studying abroad?

Affordability is one of the most important considerations for Indian students pursuing medical education abroad. Medical degrees in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, or Australia can be extremely expensive, often costing several crores of rupees. In contrast, countries such as the Philippines offer programs where the total cost, including tuition and living expenses, may range between ₹25 lakh and ₹35 lakh. This makes overseas medical education more accessible to middle-income families. Lower costs also reduce financial pressure on students and parents, allowing aspiring doctors to focus on their education and training rather than worrying about large debts.
 

10. What does the growing interest in the Philippines indicate about global medical education trends?

The rising number of Indian students choosing the Philippines reflects broader trends in global medical education. Students today are actively exploring international options that provide quality education, clinical exposure, and affordable costs. The demand for medical education abroad is also increasing because competition for medical seats in India remains very high. Countries that offer English-medium instruction and internationally recognized curricula are becoming more attractive to aspiring doctors. This trend highlights the increasing global mobility of students and the growing importance of accessible international education pathways for those seeking careers in healthcare.

Highlights: New Zealand Expands Post-Study Work Visas with a new Graduate Work Visa for International students

• Immigration New Zealand plans to introduce new short-term graduate work visas while expanding eligibility for post-study work visas.
• The NZ government announced updates to the work visa program on March 12, 2026, to address the country’s workforce shortage.
• The new short-term Graduate work visa will make international students eligible for the initial 6 months of full-time work and an employer-sponsored work visa application by the end of 2026.  
• Candidates applying for the Graduate visa must complete a qualification at levels 5-7 on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework.
• The proposed immigration update will also expand eligibility for existing Post Study Work Visa holders who hold a complete Graduate Diploma at NZQCF level 7 in New Zealand.

 

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New Zealand Launches Short-term Graduate Visas with Expansion of Post-Study Work Permits in 2026

Immigration New Zealand officially announced a new Graduate Work visa for international students. The announcement was made on March 12, 2026, to address the ongoing workforce shortage in the country.

The proposed changes are aimed at supporting international education while helping graduates transition into jobs that meet New Zealand’s skills requirements. The country expects to attract more students seeking international education and work experience through its revised immigration strategies.
 

Under the proposal made this week, New Zealand has updated its immigration system in the following ways:

• The new Graduate work visa offers eligible international graduates 6 months of open work authorization to search for jobs and secure an employer-sponsored work visa.
• International graduates can initially work for an employer under an employment agreement or contract for services before transitioning to a work visa.
• Expansion of eligibility for the existing Post Study Work Visa holders with a Graduate Diploma at NZQCF level 7 in New Zealand.
• Post Study Work Visa holders will be able to support partners and dependent children for visitor, work, or student visas once they meet immigration requirements.
• Graduates are eligible for only one Post Study Work Visa during their stay in New Zealand, even if they later complete another qualification at the same or higher level.

 

Also, read...

New Zealand to Revise Open Work Visa Policies from April 20 – Check Your Eligibility!
 

Eligibility Requirements: New Zealand’s Graduate Work Visa and Revised Post-study Work Permit

Given below are the requirements for the newly launched Graduate work visa and New Zealand’s  post-study work permit:
 

Graduate Work Visa in New Zealand

The eligibility criteria for a new graduate work visa are as follows:

• Qualification of levels 5 to 7 on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework
• Students must pursue full-time courses excluding English language, foundation, or bridging qualifications for at least 24 weeks in the country.
• Sufficient funds of at least NZ $5,000 to support lifestyle expenses for 3 months after the study visa expires.
• Legal employment contract/agreement to be employed on a Graduate work visa.

Note: Graduate work visa holders are not allowed to run an independent business or sponsor dependents for a visa application.
 

Post-Study Work Visa in New Zealand

The recently updated eligibility requirements for a post-study work permit in New Zealand are as follows:

• Graduate Diploma at NZQCF level 7 in New Zealand.
• Mandatory graduation degree completed in New Zealand or overseas.
• Secure documents like a bachelor’s degree certificate and an official academic transcript for a visa application.

New Zealand has announced recent changes to the work permit policies in an effort to offer better education opportunities and address the workforce shortage.
 

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Highlights: IRCC to offer faster Canada work visa and tourist visa approval to Indians

• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced plans to accelerate processing times for Canadian work and tourist visas for Indian applicants.
• Temporary residence processing times as of March 11, 2026, have been reduced to 7 weeks from 8 weeks previously.
• Canada visitor visa processing time for Indians has reduced from 71 days to 57 days, marking the biggest drop among all countries.
• The processing period for Canada super visas has also improved significantly this month.
• Canada permanent residence (PR) applications through Express Entry and PNP have remained stable at 7 months for all the regional streams.

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Canada Updates its Immigration Timelines for Indians in 2026

IRCC recently released updated timelines for various temporary residence permits and the Canadian tourist visa for Indians. The estimated timelines for Canada work and visitor visas from India observed a reducing trend in the current year. The processing time for all temporary residence, permanent residence, and citizenship applications has either remained stable or dropped significantly in March.

Wait times in Quebec have also been revised for Parent and Grandparent (PGP) sponsorship, both within and outside Quebec, while remaining constant for other categories.

 

The table below highlights the average estimated processing time for temporary residence permits, PR, and citizenship in Canada:
 

Also, read...

Canada Launches New TR to PR Pathway for Temporary Residents – Apply Now!
 

Revised Processing time for Quebec Immigration Programs for Indians

In recent IRCC updates, Quebec Immigration Programs observed a faster, steadier timeline in 2026.

Processing time for Quebec’s Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) and Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) remained stable at 11 and 33 months, while family sponsorship programs observed a reducing trend.

 

The wait time for Parent and Grandparent (PGP) sponsorship, both within and outside Quebec, decreased by one month. The processing times for dependent child sponsorship in India have also dropped by 8 months.

 

The table below shows the average processing times for Quebec immigration streams, including dependent sponsorship programs from India.
 

 

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