Recent changes in immigration policies, while intended to yield long-term benefits, are creating immediate hurdles for students aspiring to study internationally. These new regulations are making it increasingly difficult for students to pursue higher education abroad, with significant rises in visa application fees and stricter permit caps in countries like Australia, the United States, and Canada. Low-income families and students from developing nations are particularly hard-hit by these changes.
Sharp Increase in Visa Application Fees and Stricter Eligibility
Ankit Mehra, CEO and Co-Founder of GyanDhan, provided a comprehensive overview of these changes and their implications.
Australia
In Australia, visa application fees have nearly doubled, jumping from Rs 39,000 to Rs 88,000. The stricter eligibility criteria have resulted in a visa rejection rate of approximately 30% in 2024, up from 20% in 2023.
United States
The United States has increased the fee for extending an H1B visa to roughly Rs 3.33 lakh. Despite Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s resignation in the United Kingdom, the Graduate Route visa remains in place, though its future is uncertain.
Impact on Various Visa Categories
Mehra highlighted that the immediate impact of these changes is most apparent for students planning to study abroad. The increased financial burden from higher visa fees and more stringent proof of funds requirements adds to the challenges. Additionally, caps on study visas create fierce competition for available spots, complicating the application process further. Post-graduation work permits have also become more challenging to secure.
Disproportionate Impact on Low-Income Families and Developing Countries
Low-income families face stricter financial requirements for family visas, complicating family reunification efforts. Students from developing countries are disproportionately affected by the increased fees and stringent visa rules. Asylum seekers and refugees in the U.S. also face greater challenges due to tightened asylum regulations. While effective planning can mitigate these challenges, sudden changes pose significant initial difficulties for students.
Unforeseen Consequences
The rise in visa application fees and stricter eligibility criteria have led to longer processing times and backlogs in countries like the UK and Australia. The increased immigration health surcharge in the UK has resulted in a decline in applications from international students and skilled workers. Visa rejection rates have also spiked; for instance, New Zealand saw about 5,000 study visa applications in the first quarter of this year, with nearly half being rejected due to stringent scrutiny processes.
Potential Future Changes
Mehra noted that there are ongoing discussions about further changes to immigration rules. For example, the income requirement for spouse or partner visas in the UK will gradually increase, reaching £38,700 by spring 2025. Additionally, some countries are considering raising the allowable part-time work hours for international students.
Advice for Prospective Visa Applicants
For those considering applying for visas, especially in high-demand fields or with family reunification needs, Mehra advises accounting for increased visa costs and proof of funds early in the planning process. Keeping abreast of work visa policies is crucial, as economic conditions and immigration rules frequently change. Early application is recommended to provide a buffer period for any processing issues or delays. Regularly researching immigration policy updates for target countries is essential to navigate the complexities of immigration successfully.
Long-Term Trends in Immigration Policies
Looking ahead, Mehra sees immigration policies increasingly focused on economic needs, security, and demographic changes. Countries will prioritize skilled workers and students in STEM fields to drive growth, presenting significant opportunities for these individuals. However, security concerns will maintain rigorous visa requirements, complicating the application process but ensuring managed immigration. Aging populations in countries like Germany and Japan may lead to favorable policies for young international students to address labor shortages. While increased costs and policy uncertainty pose challenges, opportunities lie in favorable work visas and potential pathways to residency. Staying informed and adaptable is key for students navigating these changes.