Congratulations to Mr. Pham on securing eligibility for the Job Ready Employment (JRE) application as a Chef (Occupation Code: 351311).
This achievement marks a significant milestone in his career journey, opening doors to exciting opportunities in the culinary field. Wishing him continued success and fulfillment in his endeavors! 
Are you dreaming of a life in Australia with high-quality living, excellent education, diverse job opportunities, a robust economy, and pristine environments? Australia beckons with its unique blend of biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and pollution-free air. Achieving permanent residency (PR) in Australia is a goal for many, and selecting the right regional area can significantly impact your experience.
Here, we explore the top 10 regional areas for PR in Australia, each offering its own charm and opportunities.
When considering PR in Australia, it’s essential to understand the unique offerings of each regional area. Whether you are drawn to the bustling city life, the serene coastal towns, or the cultural hubs, Australia has diverse options to suit your preferences. Research thoroughly, and consider seeking professional advice to navigate the PR process successfully. Your Australian dream awaits in one of these top regional areas.
Australia, with its thriving economy and high living standards, remains a sought-after destination for many. Gaining Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia is an aspiration for numerous candidates, and understanding the point-based test system is crucial for success.
This pathway caters to skilled workers sponsored by Australian employers. Subclasses include skilled independent visa (subclass 189), skilled nominated visa (subclass 190), and skilled regional or provisional visa (subclass 491).
Allows for permanent residency and the inclusion of partners or family members, with eligibility criteria to consider.
An opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors to establish a business in Australia, leading to permanent residency.
Before diving into the tips, understanding the three main pathways is crucial.
Scoring well in English language tests is vital for gaining PR points. Specific points are allocated based on IELTS scores, emphasizing the importance of language proficiency.
Accumulating relevant work experience, both domestically and internationally, contributes significantly to PR points. Points increase with the duration of work experience.
Selecting a course from the Australian Skilled Occupation List enhances PR chances. Post-study work visas provide an opportunity to accumulate additional points.
Obtaining accreditation in community languages through institutes like NAATI adds five points to your PR visa application.
Meeting age criteria is crucial for scoring PR points. Points peak between ages 25 and 32, emphasizing the advantage of age in the application process.
Acquiring nomination from a state or territory government ensures additional PR points, emphasizing the need for specific skills or work experience.
Choosing regional areas for work or study adds five points, but it requires completing qualifications in designated regions.
Partner involvement in the skilled visa application can earn an extra ten points, provided both partners meet specific criteria.
Educational background and level significantly impact PR points. Points increase with higher education levels, encouraging candidates to pursue advanced degrees.
Enrolling in a professional year program allows gaining practical experience, earning five extra points in an eligible skilled occupation.
Navigating the complex Australian immigration process demands expert guidance. The Migration, a registered company with MARA-certified agents, offers authentic and affordable consultation services. Their expertise covers document gathering, ensuring a smooth and streamlined journey toward Australian Permanent Residency.
Embarking on the journey to Australian Permanent Residency requires strategic planning and adherence to the PR points system. Following these tips, combined with professional guidance from The Migration, increases your chances of a successful application.
Canada’s recent overhaul of its student visa rules has sent shockwaves globally. This article delves into the intricacies of the new regulations, shedding light on the key changes and their potential impact on international students.
The Canadian government has temporarily halted the processing of new study permit applications for undergraduate, college, and long-term language students. This suspension is in place until a new “provincial attestation” process is established by provincial and territorial governments across the country.
Despite the freeze, study permit applications for K-12, master’s, and doctoral students remain unaffected, exempt from the cap. Additionally, short-term language students with study programs lasting six months or less can proceed with their plans.
Provinces and territories will be allocated a share of the total national volume of study permit applications for 2024. Discussions are ongoing to finalize the numbers and determine their distribution among Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in each region.
The new policy settings, announced on January 22, include significant changes. Students in public-private partnership programs will lose eligibility for post-graduate work permits starting September 1, 2024. Limits on work permits for spouses of international students are also on the horizon.
A pivotal change is the requirement for a “provincial attestation” letter to accompany study permit applications. Provinces and territories are expected to establish mechanisms for providing these letters by March 31, 2024.
All study permit applications received before January 22 will continue to be processed without the need for a provincial attestation letter, providing relief to applicants who filed before the new regulations.
Longer-term language students, with programs lasting six months or more, fall under the cap and require a provincial attestation letter. Shorter courses, however, remain exempt.
Once allocations are finalized, provinces and territories will determine how to distribute the caps among DLIs in each region. This process will impact the number of international students and is subject to various considerations, including local labor market demands.
IRCC aims to maintain zero growth in foreign enrollment over the next two years. The national cap is calculated based on expiring study permits in 2024, adjusted for expected extension applications and approval rates.
While the new regulations have created confusion, this article aims to provide clarity on the current situation. It’s crucial for students, institutions, and stakeholders to stay informed as more details unfold.
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A: Yes, exemptions include those applying for extensions, pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree, or attending primary or secondary school.
A: Applications received before this date will continue to be processed without the need for a provincial attestation letter.
A: Provinces will have control over how permits are allocated within their jurisdiction, considering factors such as approval rates and local demands.
A: No, it applies only to certain applications received after the Minister’s announcement on January 22, 2024.
Australia, renowned for its high-quality international education, is witnessing a shift in visa approval rates that could impact the influx of students in the upcoming academic years. In the first half of the fiscal year, nearly 1 in 5 study visa applications faced refusal, marking a significant increase compared to the past three years.
The Department of Home Affairs data reveals a 19% refusal rate for study visa applications, setting the stage for potential repercussions. If this trend persists, Australia might see a reduction of over 90,000 students entering the country for the 2023/24 academic year—a stark 15% decline from the previous year.
To provide context, the refusal rates have escalated over the years: 10% in 2018/19, 8.5% in 2021/22, and 14% in 2022/23, indicating a growing stringency in the approval process.
The Australian government’s immigration overhaul, implemented in the latter half of 2023, has targeted specific groups of applicants. The heightened scrutiny primarily affects students pursuing lower credential levels, such as diplomas. The emphasis now is on students contributing valuable skills to the Australian economy.
Applicants face increased scrutiny through higher English-language requirements and a compulsory “Genuine Student Test.” This test aims to discern applicants with a genuine intent to study, prioritizing those who can contribute meaningfully to the Australian economy.
Australia’s new internationalization approach aims to reduce net migration, aligning with the government’s intention to address issues like affordable housing. Recent data suggests that monthly net arrivals are decreasing, with declining international student numbers contributing significantly to this downward trend.
Australia joins Canada and the UK in reshaping immigration policies to control the flow of international students. While Canada enforces a cap on study permits, the UK restricts international students from bringing dependents. In contrast, Australia adopts a targeted approach with various adjustments to deter misuse of the system.
As Australia navigates these changes in student visa approvals, the balance between safeguarding integrity and reaping economic benefits remains delicate. The impact on net migration and the broader economy underscores the complexity of policy adjustments in the international education landscape.
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Q1: How will the increased scrutiny affect genuine students?
A: Genuine students may face a more rigorous approval process, emphasizing their intent to study and contribute to the Australian economy.
Q2: Are there specific credential levels targeted by the new policies?
A: Yes, lower credential levels, such as diplomas, face increased scrutiny as the government focuses on skills that benefit the Australian economy.
Q3: What measures are in place to tackle integrity concerns?
A: The government is applying additional scrutiny, cracking down on unscrupulous providers, and reinforcing the integrity unit to address rising concerns.
Q4: How do Australia’s policies compare to those of Canada and the UK?
A: While Canada enforces a cap on study permits, and the UK restricts dependents, Australia adopts a targeted approach with multiple adjustments.
Q5: Despite the decline in approvals, what is the economic outlook for the international education sector?
A: The sector continues to make significant economic contributions, surpassing other export categories and expected to break previous records.
In a recent announcement on February 2, 2024, the Western Australia State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) declared the closure of applications for the 2023-24 program year. The decision was made due to the overwhelming number of applications received, surpassing the available allocations for the current program cycle. This development holds significant implications for prospective migrants and underscores the importance of staying informed about migration policies.
As of 4:00 PM on February 2, 2024, WA Migration Services will no longer accept new SNMP applications. This closure is a response to the high volume of applications, indicating the program’s popularity among individuals seeking migration to Western Australia.
While applications submitted before the closure will continue to be assessed under existing eligibility criteria, some eligible applications may not be considered as part of the 2023-24 program year. Affected applicants will be contacted to provide clarification on the status of their applications. The closure highlights the competitive nature of migration programs and the importance of timely submission.
Despite the closure, existing applications meeting the eligibility criteria will still be processed, and eligible applicants will receive nominations. However, these nominations are subject to the availability of allocations. The closure emphasizes the necessity for applicants to remain vigilant and adhere to program timelines.
For those with visas expiring, the announcement recommends seeking professional advice from a Registered Migration Agent (RMA) to ensure lawful stay in Australia. This advice underscores the significance of understanding visa conditions and taking proactive steps to remain compliant.
The announcement emphasizes that the State Government continues to advocate for nomination allocation numbers that align with the needs of Western Australia. This highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure that migration programs address the state’s specific requirements and contribute positively to its economic and social development.
The closure of the WA State Nominated Migration Program applications for the 2023-24 program year serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of migration policies. Prospective migrants should stay informed, adhere to timelines, and seek professional advice to navigate the complexities of the migration process successfully. As the State Government continues to advocate for allocation numbers that meet the state’s needs, it reinforces the importance of migration in contributing to Western Australia’s growth and diversity.
Congratulations M. Usama A.R for the grant of your 485 visa extension!
Usama was granted his graduate visa 485 in May 2023. At the time, his visa was granted for 2 years only because he completed a Bachelor degree in Australia.
In July 2023, the government announced the change that the 485 visa stay period will be extended for another 2 years for the selected bachelor degrees. However, in December 2023, the government decided to axed this policy in mid 2024.
Seeing the sudden change in the migration policy, Usama immediately contacted EMK Migration for advice and we quickly assisted him and his spouse to extend his current 485 visa for another 2 years.
In less than 2 months, Usama and his wife have been granted the visa extension and they can now stay and work full time in Australia until May 2027.
We are very happy for the positive outcome of Usama’s visa application and we wish all of our clients to receive their visa grant soon.
Should you need any visa assistance and migration advice, do not hesitate to contact EMK Migration team.
Greetings and welcome to our all-inclusive guide to studying in Singapore, one of the trendiest and most vibrant cities for foreign students. Singapore is a popular destination for students from all over the world because of its multicultural environment and outstanding academic reputation, which have received international recognition in recent years. All of the information and tools you’ll need to organize your trip to study in Singapore are included in this handbook. We’ll cover everything, from prestigious colleges and courses to the price of schooling and employment prospects. So come along as we explore the amazing opportunities that await you as a student in Singapore, whether you’re an undergraduate or graduate student.
Students must have a Student’s Pass in order to study in Singapore. In addition to a student pass, certain students will require a visa in order to visit the nation. The university will apply for your student visa after you are admitted to your preferred school.
However, one to two months before the start of your study, you must apply for a Student Pass to the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) using the Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration System (SOLAR). After being accepted, you would log into SOLAR using the credentials your university sent you, and submit:
It would be necessary for you to go to the ICA after you arrive in Singapore in order to pick up your Student Pass, which costs $60.
The last stage in your journey to study in Singapore is obtaining a visa. The procedure is methodical for overseas students, and the Singaporean consulate makes sure that true students have an easy transfer.
Every passion and professional path is covered by the courses offered in Singapore. But because of their extensive curricula, top-notch instructors, and bright futures, some courses are especially well-liked by international students. Among these are:
Situated in the center of Asia, Singapore is home to prestigious colleges that combine Western methods and Eastern knowledge. Because of the combination of theory and practical application in their courses, graduates are in great demand. These are institutes that provide high Quality education.
| Intakes | Major Courses Beginnings | Application Period |
| January | Engineering, Business, IT | May – November (Previous Year) |
| August | Arts, Medicine, Science | November (Previous Year) – April |
Singapore is renowned for its excellent level of life in addition to its top-notch educational system. However, the tuition is reasonable in comparison to peers in the West, such as the United States or the United Kingdom.
| Level of study | Cost (Per Year) in SGD Approximately |
| Diploma | SGD (12,000-18,000) |
| Bachelor’s | SGD (25,000-40,000) |
| Master’s | SGD (30,000-50,000) |
| Ph.D | SGD (35,000-45,000) |
Singapore is a prime example of modernity and progress. Having finished your education in “Lion City” provides an amazing platform for entering the workforce. The city-state’s varied industries, advantageous location, and strong economy guarantee that international students will have several career options after completing their studies.
Opportunities are plentiful and diverse, ranging from science to IT to banking to tourism. International students find the city even more appealing due to its well-organized work visa laws, which facilitate their transition from study to work. It is also financially lucrative due to the competitive pay and low tax rates. Overall, Singapore offers post-study employment options that are satisfying and gratifying.
Singapore is a shining example in the rapidly expanding field of international education. Over the years, Singapore’s distinctive East-meets-West culture, prestigious universities, and dynamic economic environment have made it a byword for educational achievement. This city-state is more than simply a refuge for scholars; it’s a place where worldwide students gather to realize their aspirations and where the present meets the future. Traveling to study in Singapore is like traveling into a world where history and modernity collide, providing a genuinely unforgettable educational experience.
Embarking on a journey to study health science abroad can be a life-changing decision, and Australia stands out as a compelling destination. With a burgeoning life sciences sector experiencing a 43% growth between 2019 and 2023, Australia is not only a sought-after location for health science education but also boasts a second-place ranking among OECD countries for health.
Australian tertiary institutions have played a pivotal role in health science research, contributing significantly to fields such as oncology, neurology, regenerative medicine, and more. Notable inventions, including the world’s first cervical cancer vaccine and spray-on skin for burn treatment, have originated from Australian researchers. This innovative spirit extends to ongoing clinical trials for a malaria vaccine at Griffith University, showcasing the country’s commitment to global health advancements.
Australia offers a diverse range of health science courses, catering to various interests and career paths. Vocational and Education Training (VET) courses provide practical skills and qualifications, while higher education institutions, including universities, emphasize research and theoretical knowledge. From certificates and diplomas to bachelor’s and master’s degrees, students can choose a path that aligns with their aspirations.
Bachelor of Health Sciences at
Bachelor of Science at
Bachelor of Nursing at
Master of Clinical Psychology at
Master of Health Administration, Policy, and Leadership at
Master of Public Health at
One unique aspect of studying health science in Australia is the opportunity for work experience. Many courses include mandatory placements at healthcare facilities, providing invaluable hands-on experience. Internships can be paid or unpaid, offering students a chance to explore different work environments, build professional networks, and gain insights into their preferred career paths.
As an international student, you have workplace rights during internships, and concerns can be addressed with the support of work coordinators or the international student office. This work experience not only enhances practical skills but also helps students make informed decisions about their future careers.
Graduates from Australian health science programs benefit from worldwide recognition of their credentials, opening doors to international career opportunities. The quality of education and access to top-tier learning facilities further contribute to the professional growth of students in this rapidly expanding sector.
Studying health science in Australia offers a blend of innovation, diverse course options, practical experience, and global recognition. With the promise of a rewarding career and abundant job opportunities in the fast-growing healthcare sector, Australia stands as an attractive destination for those passionate about making a positive impact on their communities and advancing in the field of health science.
In a significant announcement, Immigration Minister Marc Miller revealed that Canada will implement a temporary, two-year cap on the issuance of new study permits to international students. This measure, effective for 2024 and 2025, aims to address concerns related to the quality of education and integrity within the student visa program.
Minister Miller, speaking in MontrĂ©al on 22 January, emphasized the need to guarantee a high-quality education for incoming international students. The government’s decision is driven by the desire to prevent under-resourced institutions from taking advantage of students and charging exorbitant tuition fees.
The temporary cap is expected to result in a 35% reduction in new study permits issued in 2024 compared to the previous year. Allocations will be based on provincial populations, with some provinces facing more substantial reductions than others.
The cap will not apply to graduate-level programs, including master’s and doctoral studies, ensuring that high-level education remains unaffected. Additionally, elementary and secondary school level study permit applications are exempt. However, questions arise about the actual reduction percentage considering these exemptions.
To strengthen the application process, applicants must provide a provincial attestation along with their study permit application, effective immediately. Provinces and territories are expected to establish this process by March 31, 2024, enhancing the overall transparency and accountability of the system.
Reassuringly, Minister Miller clarified that the cap will not affect applicants within Canada looking to extend their studies. Continuing students and current study permit holders in Canada will not be subject to the cap, ensuring fairness and program continuity.
Effective from September 1, 2024, post-graduate work permits will no longer be available for students in public-private partnership programs. Simultaneously, open work permits will only be allowed for spouses of international students in master’s, doctoral, and professional programs, such as medicine and law.
Acknowledging the limitations of the current criteria, the government plans to expand post-study work rights for graduate students. Graduates of master’s and other short graduate-level programs will soon be eligible to apply for a three-year work permit, facilitating a smoother transition to permanent residence.
Canada’s two-year cap on study permits reflects a commitment to ensuring the quality of education for international students. While uncertainties and concerns persist, the government’s proactive measures aim to strike a balance between controlling influx and providing opportunities for genuine academic pursuits.
Q: How will the cap impact existing international students in Canada?
A: The cap will not affect existing students or those looking to extend their studies within Canada.
Q: Are all provinces subject to the same percentage reduction under the cap?
A: No, allocations will be based on provincial populations, resulting in varying percentage reductions.
Q: Will the cap apply to graduate-level programs?
A: No, the cap exempts graduate-level programs, including master’s and doctoral studies.
Q: How will the government ensure transparency in the application process?
A: Applicants must now provide a provincial attestation along with their study permit application, enhancing transparency.
Q: What changes are expected in work permits for spouses of international students?
A: Open work permits will only be available to spouses of students in master’s, doctoral, and professional programs, limiting eligibility for other levels of study.
Australia, renowned for its world-class education system, has recently introduced a game-changing Ministerial Direction – No. 107, outlining the prioritization of student and student guardian visa applications. This directive, signed on December 14, 2023, is a strategic move by the Australian Government to enhance the integrity of its international education sector.
The foundation of Ministerial Direction No. 107 lies in the allocation of evidence levels to each Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS)-registered education providers. This innovative approach streamlines the processing of applications from aspiring international students, ensuring a more structured and efficient system.
To delve deeper into the specifics of evidence levels, applicants can refer to the Evidence Levels framework.
Ministerial Direction No. 107 places the highest priority on specific categories of student visa applications:
Any secondary applicant (spouse, de-facto partner, or dependent child) included in the primary visa application will be accorded the same priority as the primary applicant. This ensures a fair and comprehensive approach to family units applying for student visas.
For those unfamiliar, a subsequent entrant refers to a secondary applicant for a student visa who did not submit a combined application with the primary applicant or primary visa holder.
In instances where the primary applicant plans to undertake multiple courses of study (course packaging), the application’s priority aligns with the principal course of study. This prioritization is determined by the course with the highest Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level.
The new student visa processing priorities took effect on December 15, 2023. This includes all visa applications submitted on or after this date and those lodged before this date, yet to be finalized. It’s essential for applicants to stay informed about these changes to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
It’s important to note that student visa applications submitted within Australia will continue to follow the existing processing arrangements.
For a more detailed breakdown of the priority groupings, applicants are encouraged to refer to the Ministerial Direction.
Australia’s commitment to refining its student visa processes demonstrates a dedication to fostering a diverse and dynamic international student community. Aspiring students are encouraged to navigate these changes with the provided resources to make informed decisions and embark on their educational journeys in the Land Down Under.
When it comes to more affordable education, a diversified environment, better-quality instruction, and reaching career goals, the Netherlands is among the greatest destinations in Europe for international students. Through a programme called International Education in English, which attracts more than 4200 people annually, the country offers more than 400 different study programmes and courses. The intended audience for this programme is postgraduate students or individuals with some previous work experience. A certificate is awarded for the majority of these English-taught, practice-focused courses. The Netherlands is renowned for its programmes in astronomy, medicine, agriculture sciences, civil engineering, and management studies.
While enrolled at their preferred university, students may apply for one of two types of Netherlands student visas:
Similar to a short-term visa, an application for a residence permit or VVR must be submitted with the MVV in order for it to be valid for 90 days.
In the Netherlands, there exist several categories of post-secondary educational establishments that your pupils may like to explore. Because of the distinctions made by the Dutch higher education system between academic education (WO) and vocational education (HOGER BEROEPSONDERWiJS), some of these are highly different from one another.
Students studying in the Netherlands can generally anticipate taking one of three courses:
Depending on what they choose to study, students at research institutions can expect to graduate with any of the following degree qualifications:
For students from the Netherlands and the EU, the standard tuition cost at Dutch universities is around EUR 2314 (for 2023–2024).
On the other hand, non-EU passport holders’ international student fees are more costly and subject to change. Generally speaking, one should budget between 6000 and 15000 EUR a year for a bachelor’s degree, 14,000 EUR per year for a liberal arts degree at a university college, and up to 32,000 EUR per year for disciplines like medicine.
However, keep in mind that private institutions have the freedom to determine their own fees, thus costs might vary greatly.
Because of this, studying in the Netherlands can be more affordable depending on the subjects chosen, with the typical undergraduate degree taught in English costing less than those in the USA, Australia, or even Canada.
International students who want to study in the Netherlands have several scholarship options! Some are niche, which means they are exclusively available to specific groups of people (like women of color) or topics (like pharmacology). Some are also exclusive to a certain university.
Others are more universal, like the Study in Holland scholarship, which is available to all overseas students. In addition to using the internet to look into choices, students should always think about getting in touch with their university directly.
Depending on your country, you may require a work permit in order to work while studying in the Netherlands.
EU/EEA citizens (barring Croatia), Swiss nationals, and Japanese nationals are exempt from work permit requirements and hourly wage caps. Only the employer or employment agency may apply for the work permit on behalf of Croatian and other national citizens, who require one in order to work.
During the summer, international students are permitted to work a maximum of 10 hours a week or full-time.
Studying in the Netherlands is becoming more and more popular among international students, for both full-time study and study abroad programmes (consider semester or year-long exchanges, like through Erasmus): In 2022, 115,000 foreign students enrolled in full-time university programmes in the Netherlands. Studying in the Netherlands provides a wide range of academic opportunities in addition to a selection of locations in which students can live and work, much like some of its European neighbors.
Furthermore, with more affordable tuition, the Netherlands’ higher education options now compete with those of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada thanks to the expansion of English-taught courses.