Over 13.35 lakh Indian students pursued higher education abroad in 2024, continuing a trend of global academic mobility. However, recent immigration policy changes in countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Germany are reshaping opportunities for Indian students. Here’s an in-depth analysis of these changes and their impact:
New Zealand: Expanded Opportunities for Postgraduate Students
New Zealand recently updated its visa policies, allowing international students pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma for 30 weeks and transitioning to a Master’s degree to qualify for a Post Study Work Visa (PSWV). This change provides greater flexibility for students planning long-term academic and career goals. New Zealand’s appeal has been growing, with Indian students constituting 17% of the 69,135 international students in 2023.
Germany: Increasing Visa Quotas for Indian Professionals
Germany is significantly expanding its visa allocations for skilled Indian workers, raising the annual limit from 20,000 to 90,000. This reflects the growing demand for talent across its industrial and academic sectors. Indian students, numbering around 49,000 in 2024, continue to contribute to Germany’s international academic community. Nearly 80% of international researchers in Germany work at universities, with India leading in this group.
UK: Stricter Visa Rules but Retaining Graduate Route
The UK has seen a 23% decline in Indian student enrollments due to stricter visa policies, particularly regarding dependent family members accompanying student visa holders. However, the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) recommended retaining the Graduate Route visa, allowing international students to work in the UK for two years after completing their degrees. Despite these challenges, the UK remains a key destination, hosting 1.85 lakh Indian students in 2024.
Australia: Balancing Visa Caps and New Opportunities
Australia announced tighter controls on international student numbers with the introduction of Ministerial Direction 111 (MD111). This policy divides visa processing into high-priority and standard-priority categories, capping high-priority visas at 80% of the institutional target. The required proof of savings has also increased to AUD 29,710. However, the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES), effective in 2024, offers Indian graduates two years of work opportunities, reinforcing bilateral ties.
Philippines: Allowing Foreign Nationals to Practice Medicine
A significant policy change in the Philippines now allows foreign nationals to practice medicine. This development is particularly beneficial for Indian students, who often pursue medical degrees in the island nation.
Italy: New Visa Application Rules and Extended Stay
From January 2025, Indian students applying for long-term study visas in Italy must schedule individual appointments for fingerprinting. Additionally, graduates are allowed to stay in Italy for 12 months post-degree to seek employment, enhancing the country’s appeal as a study destination.
Canada: Stricter Rules Amid Diplomatic Challenges
Canada reduced the intake cap for international study permits and ended the Student Direct Stream (SDS), which expedited visa processing. New requirements, including language proficiency proof for post-study work visas, are now mandatory. Despite these stricter measures, Indian students can work up to 24 hours weekly during their studies, maintaining some flexibility.
USA: Indian Students Take the Lead
Indians now represent the largest cohort of international students in the US, with 3.31 lakh enrollments in 2023-24. While concerns over potential policy changes under a second Trump administration persist, many are optimistic about prospects like automatic green card access for graduates from prestigious institutions.
Emerging Trends and Destinations
With tightening visa norms in traditional destinations, Indian students are exploring emerging options like New Zealand and Ireland. Ireland has seen a 28% rise in Indian student enrollments, reflecting its growing popularity.
Expert Insights
Despite stricter visa norms in some countries, experts remain confident that high-caliber Indian students with clear academic goals will continue to benefit from abundant global opportunities. As destinations compete to attract talent, Indian students are strategically adapting to new immigration landscapes.
