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This year many countries have made changes in their visa policies. Let us find out what these changes are and what impact they may have on Indian students.
Visa rules have become stricter in UK and US this year. (symbolic image/file)
Every year millions of Indian students dream of pursuing higher education abroad. However, many people had to put their plans on hold due to sudden changes in visa rules and regulations. Countries like the US, UK, Canada and Australia have long been top destinations for Indian students. Recently these countries have made changes in their visa policies. Let us find out what these changes are and what impact they may have on Indian students.
united kingdom
The United Kingdom has decided to make some changes to the graduate route visa offered to international students. The new changes will allow them to stay in the country for a limited period of time so they can find full-time jobs in local companies.
In 2025, the UK government announced a reduction in the validity of the Graduate Route visa, reducing it from two years (25 months) to 18 months (1.5 years). However, this change will be applicable only to applications submitted on or after January 1, 2027.
Additionally, visa fees have been increased and rules for bringing dependents into the country have become stricter.
United States of America
Several changes to the US study visa are under consideration and could be implemented next year. The government plans to change the long-standing ‘duration of status’ model, whereby visa validity will be directly linked to the duration of the academic programme. The proposed rules also include stricter background checks and limits on visa durations.
The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program may face major changes or even closure, requiring students, especially PhDs and research scholars, to apply for extensions through USCIS, leading to increased paperwork and potential delays.
Additionally, individual social media checks and overall visa checks are expected to increase under the current administration.
Canada
Canada has not made any major changes in student visas this year. The 2026-2028 immigration levels plan aims to welcome about 155,000 new students, about 49 percent less than last year’s number. In October 2025, Canada expanded off-campus work time for global students to 24 hours per week during regular school terms or semesters, without a work permit.
Australia
With the increase in the number of international students and immigrants, the Australian government aims to reduce pressure on universities, accommodation and local resources by tightening the visa process. Institutions that manage student numbers carefully with rigorous assessment and greater transparency for genuine applicants will be given preference.
new zealand
Under the International Education Going for Growth plan, New Zealand has updated its immigration policies to attract more international students. Eligible tertiary and secondary students can now work from 20 to 25 hours per week while studying. Full-time work is permitted during scheduled breaks, and students on approved exchange or study abroad programs, including one-semester courses, also receive extended study work rights.
denmark
The Danish government is planning to tighten student visa rules to prevent abuse as a way to enter the labor market. Universities may strengthen entry requirements for master’s programs, including entrance or language tests. Fraud will face tougher penalties, family sponsorship will be limited, and post-graduation job search periods will be shortened.
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