Recent immigration policy changes across significant study destinations have tightened student visa requirements, limited post-study work opportunities, and raised financial thresholds. Aspiring students must plan carefully to understand and steer through these new revisions.
Canada
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Study Permit Cap: A limited number of permits (437,000, a 10% decrease from the 2024 cap of 485,000) have been issued, affecting new applicants.
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PGWP Eligibility Tightened: Fewer students qualify for post-graduation work permits.
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SDS Changes: India was excluded from the SDS program, requiring proof of additional English proficiency.
Australia
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Study Visa Changes: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is now mandatory for onshore applications.
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Financial Requirements for an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500):
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October 2023: Minimum savings requirement increased from AU$21,041 (₹11.6 lakh) → AU$24,505 (₹13.5 lakh) (+17%).
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May 2024: Further increased to AU$29,710 (₹16.4 lakh) (75% of the national minimum wage).
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Post-Study Work Rights: Extended (2–4 years) for graduates in skill shortage sectors.
United Kingdom
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Graduate Visa Reform (2024): Graduates must secure a skilled job within 6 months or leave the UK.
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Financial Requirements (Jan 2025):
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Living expense threshold: Increased from £1,334 → £1,400/month (significantly impacting London-based students).
United States
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F-1 Visa: Increased scrutiny in application reviews.
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Student Advisory: Early financial planning and strict eligibility compliance are needed.
Germany
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Job-Seeker Visa: International graduates get 18 months to find a job.
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Pathways to Work Visa: Eligible graduates can transition to an EU Blue Card or a German work visa for a long-term stay.
With tightening visa rules and financial requirements, international students must stay informed, meet eligibility criteria, and strategize their applications early to secure study and work opportunities abroad.
*The Student Direct Stream (SDS) program allowed international students to apply for a Canadian study permit faster and more efficiently.
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Source: Financial Express