Immigration Updates on Foreign Nationals Services

In recent months, immigration policies affecting foreign nationals have seen several key updates, particularly in the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe. These changes reflect a broader shift in how countries are handling skilled migration, asylum claims, and visa processing in the post-pandemic era. Whether you’re a professional planning to relocate, an employer hiring foreign talent, or an international student, staying informed is crucial.

United States: Focus on Skilled Workers and Backlog Reduction

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced measures to reduce the historic visa processing backlog. As of mid-2025, premium processing has been expanded for more employment-based green card categories, allowing faster decisions for applicants. USCIS has also increased staff and invested in technology to speed up adjudications.

Moreover, the Biden administration is supporting STEM professionals through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program and has added new degrees to the STEM Designated Degree Program List. This move is intended to retain international students and encourage innovation.

Meanwhile, H-1B reforms are under review. These include a proposed shift to a wage-based selection process in the annual H-1B lottery, designed to prioritize higher-skilled, higher-paid workers. If implemented, this would significantly change how tech and consulting firms plan their workforce needs.

Canada: Boosting Pathways for Permanent Residency

Canada continues to expand its Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), aiming to attract skilled immigrants in healthcare, construction, and IT. The government has increased the number of invitations to apply for permanent residence, with a focus on French-speaking immigrants and workers in high-demand occupations.

The new category-based draws under Express Entry now allow Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to target candidates with specific skills. This is part of Canada’s goal to address regional labor shortages while maintaining strong immigration levels.

International students in Canada also saw a change in the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP), which now allows longer work permits for graduates in certain programs. This gives students more time to gain Canadian work experience and transition to permanent residency.

Europe: Stricter Rules, but Opportunities Remain

Several European nations have introduced tighter border controls and revised residency rules. Germany, however, is simplifying immigration for skilled professionals through its Skilled Immigration Act. It now accepts more foreign qualifications and eases entry for vocational workers.

In the UK, the government has raised the salary threshold for work visas, but also introduced a new points-based system that rewards qualifications, English proficiency, and job offers in shortage occupations. This makes the system more transparent but also more selective.

Conclusion

Immigration remains a moving target, shaped by economic needs, political pressure, and global events. For foreign nationals, the path to working, studying, or settling abroad is evolving fast. The good news: countries are still opening doors for those who bring talent, skills, and long-term value. But navigating the process requires up-to-date information and strategic planning. Whether you’re applying now or preparing for the future, staying informed is the smartest move you can make.