Canada’s IRCC will issue 215 work permits to foreign workers under the Yukon Nominee Program (YNP), allowing them to work while their PR applications are processed. Eligible workers must be employed in Yukon and already have a YNP application submitted.

Canada updates work permit rules: From Nov 1, 2024, PGWP applicants must meet language requirements (CLB 7/5), and from 2025, spouses of skilled workers in shortage sectors can get Open Work Permits.

The US Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery FY 2026 is now open. Up to 55,000 green cards are available. Foreign nationals must apply online by Nov 5, 2024 (noon EST). Results will be announced in May 2025, with successful applicants eligible to start applying for green cards from Oct 2, 2025.

The US added 250,000 visa slots for Indians in 2024, boosting visit and student visas, and shortened processing times.

By 2024, the Italian Embassy in New Delhi aims to process 100,000 Indian Schengen visa applications. A new visa application center has opened in the city to handle growing demand, which rose 28% in early 2024.

Canada’s Study Permit Pilot (from Oct 1, 2024) fast-tracks denied permit reviews to under 5 months.

Alberta’s AAIP now uses a points-based Worker EOI to fast-track skilled workers. Points are for education, language, work experience, age, family in Alberta, and job offers. Higher scores increase PR draw chances.

Canada will host 485,000 international students in 2024 and 437,000 in 2025. Updates to PGWP and SOWP will align with labor market needs, and the Temporary Foreign Worker Program will see stricter employer checks and improved officer training.

Top Golden Visa countries: Hungary, Greece, Italy. Popular with US investors. Investments: Hungary – real estate, Greece – €800K or €250K start-ups, Italy – €2M bonds/€500K shares/€250K start-ups.