Canada: Stricter Visa Policies
- 31% Decline in Study Permits: In the first quarter of 2025, Canada issued 31% fewer study permits to Indian students compared to the same period in 2024.
- Increased Financial Requirements: Effective September 1, 2025, international students must demonstrate higher financial capacity, including proof of funds covering tuition, living expenses, and transportation, without relying on employment in Canada.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Restrictions: PGWP eligibility is now limited, affecting students from certain institutions.
United Kingdom: Tighter Immigration Controls
- Extended Settlement Period: The qualifying duration for permanent residency has increased from 5 to 10 years.
- Graduate Route Visa Under Review: Potential reduction of the post-study work visa duration from 2 years to 18 months is under consideration.
- Salary Threshold Increase: The salary requirement for a Skilled Worker visa has been raised to £38,700 per year.
United States: Increased Scrutiny and Declining Interest
- 27% Drop in F-1 Visas: Between March and May 2025, there was a 27% decline in F-1 visa issuances to Indian students compared to the same period in 2024.
- Heightened Visa Scrutiny: The Trump administration’s policies have led to increased visa scrutiny, including social media checks and potential revocations, causing uncertainty among Indian students.
Emerging Destinations: Opportunities and Growth
Germany
- 35% Increase in Applications: Germany has seen a 35% rise in applications from Indian students in 2025, attributed to its affordable education and clear post-study work pathway.
- Stable Visa Policies: Despite global visa challenges, Germany maintains consistent and transparent visa requirements, attracting more Indian students.
France
- Ambitious Enrollment Targets: France aims to welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030, with initiatives like “classes internationales” to ease academic integration.
- Streamlined Visa Processes: Efforts are underway to simplify visa procedures for Indian students, enhancing France’s appeal as a study destination.
New Zealand
- Eased Qualification Assessments: Indian degrees no longer require New Zealand qualification assessments, reducing visa processing times and costs.
United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
- Significant Indian Student Population: Indians constitute 42% of international students in the UAE, drawn by job prospects, cultural familiarity, and proximity.
Key Considerations for Indian Students
- Return on Investment (ROI): Prioritize countries offering affordable education, strong job markets, and clear immigration pathways.
- In-Demand Fields: Focus on programs in data science, healthcare, business analytics, engineering, and skilled trades.
- Policy Stability: Stay informed about immigration and visa policy changes in prospective study destinations.
- Alternative Destinations: Explore emerging study hubs like Germany, France, New Zealand, and the UAE for favorable opportunities.
In 2025, Indian students are increasingly evaluating study abroad options based on long-term benefits, policy stability, and career prospects, moving beyond traditional destinations to embrace new opportunities globally.