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international students

Italy’s New Fingerprinting Rule Adds Hurdles for Study Visa Applicants

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Starting January 10, 2025, Italy will implement a new requirement for Type D visa applicants, mandating individual fingerprinting appointments at Italian consulates. This policy aims to enhance security but introduces additional costs and complexities for international students, especially those pursuing long-term study programs. Understanding Type D Visas Type D visas cater to individuals planning to stay in Italy for over 90 days, including students enrolled in undergraduate, postgraduate, or research programs. The new fingerprinting rule replaces the more flexible group or batch processing system, compelling applicants to schedule personal visits to consulates. Impact on Indian Students The rule change could significantly affect Indian students, a rapidly growing demographic in Italy. In 2024, 6,017 Indian students held study visas, up from 5,196 in 2023. However, the new procedure may deter applicants due to increased costs and travel requirements, particularly for those living far from consulates. Although the stay-back option allowing graduates a 12-month period for professional experience remains unchanged, the updated visa process adds logistical challenges. Stakeholder Concerns Education experts have raised concerns about the policy’s implications. Melissa Torres, CEO of the Forum on Education Abroad, highlighted the financial burden on students, including travel expenses and potential delays caused by the individual appointment system. Organisations like NAFSA have criticised the elimination of batch processing and urged Italian authorities to explore alternatives, such as conducting fingerprinting at local police stations or honorary consulates. Looking Ahead: ETIAS in 2025 Further changes to European travel protocols are anticipated mid-2025 with the introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Nationals from 60 countries, including India, will require ETIAS authorisation before entering visa-free European nations, adding another layer of preparation for prospective travellers. Italy’s new rules reflect heightened security priorities but may unintentionally deter international students drawn to its academic institutions. Source: India Today Photo Credit: India Today

Canada Tightens Permits for International Students and Foreign Workers Amid Immigration Reform

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In a bid to reduce the number of temporary residents in Canada, the government announced further cuts to study permits for international students and stricter eligibility criteria for work permits. This move comes as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government faces growing public dissatisfaction and a challenging political climate ahead of the 2025 federal election. The government aims to bring down the number of temporary residents to 5% of the total population, down from 6.8% in April 2023. Immigration Minister Marc Miller stated, “Not everyone who wants to come to Canada will be able to—just like not everyone who wants to stay in Canada will be able to.” The changes will reduce the number of study permits issued to international students, capping them at 437,000 by 2025, compared to the 509,390 granted in 2023. The reforms will also limit work permit eligibility for spouses of certain students and temporary foreign workers. Canada’s decision follows a rise in public concern over immigration’s impact on issues like affordable housing and the cost of living, despite post-pandemic inflation returning to the Bank of Canada’s 2% target in August. Critics argue that blaming migrants for economic challenges oversimplifies the situation, while anti-immigration sentiment grows. In addition to cutting study permits, the government is reviewing visa integrity measures and tightening the process for detecting non-genuine visitors. Earlier this month, Canada scaled back 2022 expansions to the temporary foreign worker program, including reducing the share of low-wage workers employers can hire. As the federal government pulls back on temporary immigration, debates about Canada’s migration policies are expected to intensify, with immigration reform becoming a key political issue in the lead-up to the next election. Source: NDTV  

Six International Students Join Hands to Educate Underprivileged Children in India

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Six international students from Taiwan, Morocco, Japan, Romania, and Kenya have teamed up with the Karma Foundation to provide education to underprivileged children as part of a cross-cultural exchange program. The initiative, named ‘Prayas,’ aims to bridge educational gaps by involving these students in teaching basic subjects and conducting various activities with the children. The diverse group of students includes Mako Miura, Yura Maetsubo, and Akane Sumi from Japan; Su Ming Ming from Taiwan; Mirel Vasile from Romania; and Souhauib Benyassi from Morocco. Each brings unique expertise and cultural perspectives, enriching the learning experience for the children. Priyanshi Patel, the founder and managing trustee of the Karma Foundation, highlighted the significance of this collaboration. “The participation of these international students reflects our mission to bridge educational disparities,” she said. She emphasized that their involvement goes beyond just imparting knowledge, as they also inspire the children to think globally and embrace new cultural experiences. The ‘Prayas’ initiative focuses on teaching core subjects, enhancing communication skills, and nurturing creativity through interactive learning methods. The international students will also engage the children in extracurricular activities, including art, music, and sports, aimed at fostering holistic development. This partnership marks a significant step in the NGO’s ongoing efforts to make quality education accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic background. By integrating cross-cultural learning, the Karma Foundation hopes to create a dynamic and inclusive environment that empowers underprivileged children and prepares them for a brighter future. Through such initiatives, the Foundation continues to strive toward reducing educational inequalities and creating opportunities for children to learn from diverse global perspectives. Source: Times of India