Global:
- France seeks to ease labor shortages with immigration overhaul: France is proposing a new immigration system that would streamline the process for highly skilled workers to obtain visas and work permits. This comes as the country faces a labor shortage in several key sectors. (Source: The Economic Times)
- India-UK Young Professionals Scheme launched: India and the UK have launched a new scheme that will offer 3,000 visas to young professionals aged 18-30, allowing them to live and work in each other’s countries for up to two years. (Source: The Economic Times)
- Green Card approval rate for Indians drops: The approval rate for Green Card applications from India has dropped to record lows, with some applicants facing wait times of over a century. This is due to a backlog of cases and changes in processing procedures. (Source: The Economic Times)
United States:
- USCIS breaks records and reduces backlogs: In fiscal year 2023, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) cleared its case backlog, sped up citizenship processing, facilitated work visas, and aided refugees. This marks progress towards a smoother immigration system. (Source: Boundless Immigration)
- USCIS announces changes to H-1B program: The USCIS has announced changes to the H-1B visa program for 2024, including increased fees, online filing, and amendments to the registration process. (Source: Boundless Immigration)
- US Visa Bulletin for March 2024 shows progress for Indian Green Card applicants: The latest Visa Bulletin suggests some positive movement for Green Card applicants from India, with movement in certain employment-based categories. (Source: The Economic Times)
Other:
- Canada’s welcome for immigrants tested by housing crunch: Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s commitment to welcoming immigrants is facing challenges due to a housing shortage in major cities. (Source: The Economic Times)
- Nicaragua emerges as a new destination for Indian immigrants: An increasing number of Indians are choosing Nicaragua as a destination for immigration due to its relatively easy visa process and lower cost of living. (Source: The Indian Express)
