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Migration via investment route catching on among rich Indians
The recently introduced Indian ODI (outward direct investment) regulations - which permit direct investments in international entities, subject to certain conditions - have acted as a catalyst for many wealthy Indian families to explore international investment opportunities, says Sunita Singh-Dalal, partner, private wealth & family offices at Hourani & Partners in the UAE.
Applicants for Canada PR via Express Entry plummet in 2022; Indians continue to dominate
Technology-related occupations continued to be the most common among those invited. In 2023, there have already been 29 draws resulting in 79,448 invitations, but it is uncertain whether Canada will meet its target of 465,000 permanent residents due to strained relations with India and housing shortages.
No respite for highly skilled and talented Indians on the Green Card queue
The backlog for Indians in this category has not eased as expected, with priority dates only moving forward to 2017 instead of progressing from 2012. This has caused substantial delays for many in the green card queue. However, there is some positive movement in the EB-2 and EB-3 categories, offering hope for those facing delays in their green card journeys.
US government shutdown just days away, what will happen to your visa application?
In previous shutdowns, USCIS recognized delays caused solely by the government shutdown as excusable. For example, USCIS considered untimely H-1B extension applications without necessitating employees' travel out of the USA for a visa.
1.6 lakh Indians who gave up citizenship between 2018 and 2023 opted for Canada; second to the US
Australia and the United Kingdom secured the third and fourth positions, respectively. Despite a dip in numbers in 2020 due to the pandemic, the trend shows a consistent increase in Indians renouncing their citizenship, with a significant 58.4% choosing the United States and Canada.
Why HNIs from India are exploring residence-through-investment programmes overseas
When it comes to migrating, Indians lead the pack with a 32 million-strong diaspora. Industry experts say that enhanced global mobility, smoother business and tax planning are the key drivers propelling the move overseas.
One in seven Americans now foreign born; immigrant share rise highest from India YoY
According to the 2022 census findings, the number of Indians is 28.4 lakh, up from 27.09 lakh a year ago. This is an increase of 4.8%. In terms of percentage of growth, India tops the list.
The US needs immigration reforms, including a new visa category for startup founders
The US needs immigration reforms, including a new visa category for startup founders. This is surprising given that 44.8% of Fortune 500 companies were founded by immigrants or their children. According to a recent American Immigration Council study, these immigrant founded companies generated $8.1 trillion in revenues in 2002 and employed over 14.8 million people.
Will recent events take the charm off the great Canadian Dream?
Tensions between India and Canada have heightened over the murder of a Khalistani activist, leading to concerns among Indian parents and families residing in Canada. The Indian government has suspended the issuance of visas in Canada, while Canadian PM Justin Trudeau has called for cooperation in the investigation into the murder. However, immigration lawyers believe that there will be no long-term impact on Canadian immigration.
USCIS inches forward towards H-1B reforms, including tackling misuse
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has submitted a proposed regulation to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review, marking the first step in the process of modernizing the H-1B visa program. The proposed rule aims to amend various aspects of the program, including the definition of employer-employee relationship, site visit requirements, and anti-fraud measures.
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Can Indians still travel to Canada? All your visa-related queries answered
India has suspended visa services for Canada indefinitely due to operational reasons, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. Indian nationals, including students, have been advised to exercise caution and avoid regions with growing anti-India activities in Canada. The suspension applies to all new visas for Canadians, but there are no restrictions on Indian travelers to Canada or on those with valid Indian visas. The visa services will remain suspended until further notice.
Canada among top choices for Indians but economic bond remains weak
In remittances from abroad, Canada figures among the top 10 source countries. However, when it comes to trade, Canada’s share in India’s exports remains at around 1% and is even less in imports. A look at bilateral economic interactions as diplomatic relations nosedive.
Canada's visa backlog is shrinking despite higher applications
A recent report from the Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) revealed a backlog of 802,600 applications out of a total 2,274,600 as of July 31. However, compared to the previous update in May, the backlog has actually decreased. The backlog includes applications for citizenship, permanent residence, and temporary residence visas.
Canada will now give immigration preference to pilots, aircraft handlers & others in transport sector
The first round of invitations will focus on transport occupations, such as commercial truck drivers and aircraft assembly workers. The goal is to attract skilled individuals to fill labor gaps in the transport sector and contribute to Canada's economic growth.
Be careful! Your US visa application may expire even after you've paid
The United States is ending allowances made during the pandemic, including extensions of visa application validity. The US Embassy in India has warned applicants to check their receipts and schedule an interview on time, or risk having to pay the fee again.
Canada may be considering immigration target revisions as housing crisis persisits
Fraser emphased on aligning immigration policies with the absorptive capacity of communities, including factors like housing, healthcare, and infrastructure, reflects a practical approach to addressing the issues at hand. This approach recognizes that immigration should be managed in a way that doesn't overwhelm existing resources and services.
