Finland saw a 5% drop in work-based residence permit applications from January to September 2024, totalling 12,498. This decrease reflects fewer applications from sectors like construction and healthcare, as well as a 24% decline in specialist applications. Meanwhile, student permit applications rose 9%, with most applicants from Bangladesh, Nepal, and India. Finland now processes student permits in just nine days.
Italy plans to welcome 50,000 foreign nurses by 2025 to fill its 65,000 nursing vacancies, with 10,000 expected from India. Most foreign nurses in Italy currently come from Romania, Albania, Poland, and Peru. To support Indian nurses, Italy will ease regulations and open Italian language centers in India, making it easier for qualified candidates to meet local requirements.
To improve visa approval chances under Canada’s new guidelines, applicants should prepare strong documentation. This includes proof of visit purpose, finances, and home ties. Those visiting for medical reasons should have health insurance. Processing times differ by country; currently, Indian applications average 113 days, U.S. 26 days, and Nigeria 175 days.
Starting November 8, 2024, Canada’s updated visitor visa rules give immigration officers more flexibility in deciding between single-entry and multiple-entry visas based on each applicant’s personal circumstances. Officers will consider factors like purpose of visit, financial stability, and home-country ties. This change could mean shorter visa validity and more personalized assessments for international travelers.
BREAKING: As of November 8, 2024, IRCC has closed the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express (NSE). These programs had expedited study permits for certain countries. Now, all applications will follow the standard process, which may mean longer waits. SDS applicants previously needed a language test and a $20,635 CAD Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC).
Starting in 2025, Germany, France, and Portugal will offer new visas to attract skilled professionals, especially in tourism and hospitality. Germany’s Opportunity Card, France’s Talent Passport Visa, and Portugal’s seasonal and long-term visas aim to meet labour demands and simplify immigration. These visas provide new pathways for qualified foreign workers looking to work in Europe.
Canada’s 2025 list of 25 high-paying diploma programs offers quick, affordable career options in popular fields. Programs like Cybersecurity and Paralegal Studies last 1-2 years and teach job-ready skills with salaries from CAD $40,000–$90,000. These programs are good for new graduates and professionals upgrading their skills. Visit Canada’s education resources for details on programs and job opportunities.
Keeping Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) is crucial, as it can be cancelled for reasons like not meeting residency rules, giving false information, or criminal activity. Other causes include fake marriages, security concerns, and misuse of benefits. Losing PR can stop you from returning to Canada or becoming a citizen. Appeals are possible if your PR is cancelled.
New Zealand will raise visa fees and charges from October 1, 2024. Student visa fees will increase to NZD 485, while post-study work visa fees will drop to NZD 320, with levies rising significantly. The Accredited Employer Work Visa fee will decrease, but its charge will rise. New skill and English language requirements for low-skilled workers will also be introduced. 2024
Quebec has set a new immigration cap effective October 9, 2024, to balance economic and social needs. The minister will regulate invitations, ensuring no more than 25% come from one country, promoting diversity. This policy, lasting until October 9, 2025, encourages applicants to enhance their skills and French proficiency, supporting integration in key industries.
Starting November 1, 2024, Canada will change the rules for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP). Graduates from public colleges can only get a PGWP if their studies are in fields with a long-term need for workers. The five main areas are healthcare, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), trades, transportation, and agriculture. Students should choose their study programs carefully, as only those linked to these areas will qualify for a PGWP. If you applied for a study permit before November 1, the old rules will still apply.
Indian nationals applying for Canadian visas are facing significant delays, with processing times rising sharply. As of October 9, 2024, visitor visas now take 112 days, up from 51 in July. Super visa delays are up by 99 days, study permits by 6 weeks, and work permits by 28 weeks. The reasons for these delays remain unclear.
Temporary residents in Canada for over 18 months can apply for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). Income from the previous tax year must be reported. The next payment is on October 18, 2024. Families with children under 6 can receive up to $7,787 annually, with applications made online via the CRA portal.
Temporary residents living in Canada for at least 18 months can now apply for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). Applicants must report last year’s income and file tax returns to avoid delays. The next payment date is October 18, 2024, with up to $7,787 per year available for each child under 6.
In June 2024, Alberta changed its immigration process for worker streams due to high demand. The province now accepts a limited number of applications each month to meet its 2024 target of 9,750 nominations. This change affects streams like the Alberta Opportunity Stream, which was paused earlier because of too many applications.
