OET test: what healthcare workers need to know about this global English exam
The Occupational English Test, widely known as OET, has become one of the most recognised English-language examinations for healthcare professionals aiming to work, study or qualify in English-speaking countries. Designed specifically for the medical and health sectors, the test evaluates candidates on the type of language skills they will need in real clinical environments rather than in general communication. Managed by the Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment Trust, a collaboration betwee
OET test: what healthcare workers need to know about this global English exam
The Occupational English Test, widely known as OET, has become one of the most recognised English-language examinations for healthcare professionals aiming to work, study or qualify in English-speaking countries. Designed specifically for the medical and health sectors, the test evaluates candidates on the type of language skills they will need in real clinical environments rather than in general communication. Managed by the Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment Trust, a collaboration betwee
New Delhi and Chennai show significant improvement in US visa appointment timelines
Indian applicants planning travel to the United States for study, employment or tourism are experiencing notable changes in visa wait times, with several US consulates across the country reporting shorter delays. According to the latest data from the US State Department’s Global Visa Wait Times portal, appointment backlogs for student, work and visitor visas now vary widely by location but show meaningful improvement compared with previous months. Applicants are being encouraged to monitor
New Delhi and Chennai show significant improvement in US visa appointment timelines
Indian applicants planning travel to the United States for study, employment or tourism are experiencing notable changes in visa wait times, with several US consulates across the country reporting shorter delays. According to the latest data from the US State Department’s Global Visa Wait Times portal, appointment backlogs for student, work and visitor visas now vary widely by location but show meaningful improvement compared with previous months. Applicants are being encouraged to monitor
US H-1B debate intensifies as Krishnamoorthi pushes expansion plan
The debate over the H-1B visa programme in the United States has sharpened significantly, exposing a deep political divide over the future of skilled immigration. The issue has grown increasingly contentious in recent months, with former president Donald Trump and several Republican leaders intensifying allegations of fraud and misuse within the system. Their claims have focused heavily on Indian applicants, with some prominent voices asserting that a vast majority of submissions from India a
US H-1B debate intensifies as Krishnamoorthi pushes expansion plan
The debate over the H-1B visa programme in the United States has sharpened significantly, exposing a deep political divide over the future of skilled immigration. The issue has grown increasingly contentious in recent months, with former president Donald Trump and several Republican leaders intensifying allegations of fraud and misuse within the system. Their claims have focused heavily on Indian applicants, with some prominent voices asserting that a vast majority of submissions from India a
Texas prepares for new education, health and public safety laws
State lawmakers in Texas are preparing for a significant policy shift as dozens of new laws take effect across December and January, adding to the more than 800 measures already implemented earlier this year. The latest round of legislation, passed during the regular session and the second special session, is set to influence major areas including education, public health, redistricting, immigration enforcement and criminal justice. Each law reflects ongoing political debates in the state and
Texas prepares for new education, health and public safety laws
State lawmakers in Texas are preparing for a significant policy shift as dozens of new laws take effect across December and January, adding to the more than 800 measures already implemented earlier this year. The latest round of legislation, passed during the regular session and the second special session, is set to influence major areas including education, public health, redistricting, immigration enforcement and criminal justice. Each law reflects ongoing political debates in the state and
Fraud claims resurface: could anti-India congresswoman Ilhan Omar face US deportation?
Fresh attention has turned to longstanding allegations against Ilhan Omar, the Minnesota congresswoman and Somalia-born US representative, after online commentators revived claims that she engaged in marriage and immigration fraud more than a decade ago. The accusations, which first surfaced in 2016, centre on her 2009 marriage to Ahmed Nur Said Elmi, whom critics allege is her brother. Although no conclusive evidence has ever emerged, the claims regained momentum following recent remarks by
Fraud claims resurface: could anti-India congresswoman Ilhan Omar face US deportation?
Fresh attention has turned to longstanding allegations against Ilhan Omar, the Minnesota congresswoman and Somalia-born US representative, after online commentators revived claims that she engaged in marriage and immigration fraud more than a decade ago. The accusations, which first surfaced in 2016, centre on her 2009 marriage to Ahmed Nur Said Elmi, whom critics allege is her brother. Although no conclusive evidence has ever emerged, the claims regained momentum following recent remarks by
NISAU UK–ICEF partnership aims to ensure ethical recruitment for Indian students
The National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK has entered a strategic partnership with the International Consultants for Education and Fairs, a long-established organisation known for its global expertise in international education services. The collaboration is intended to address growing concerns around transparency, accountability, and ethical standards in the student recruitment process, particularly for Indian students who form one of the world’s largest cohorts of outbound learners
NISAU UK–ICEF partnership aims to ensure ethical recruitment for Indian students
The National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK has entered a strategic partnership with the International Consultants for Education and Fairs, a long-established organisation known for its global expertise in international education services. The collaboration is intended to address growing concerns around transparency, accountability, and ethical standards in the student recruitment process, particularly for Indian students who form one of the world’s largest cohorts of outbound learners
US May Permanently Pause Migration From Third World Countries: Trump’s Thanksgiving Statement
In a strong and widely discussed Thanksgiving announcement, Donald Trump stated that the United States may “permanently pause migration from all Third World countries” under his proposed immigration plan. The statement immediately sparked national and global conversations, amplifying the ongoing debate around the future of U.S. immigration policies. A Strong Position on Migration During his Thanksgiving message, Trum
US May Permanently Pause Migration From Third World Countries: Trump’s Thanksgiving Statement
In a strong and widely discussed Thanksgiving announcement, Donald Trump stated that the United States may “permanently pause migration from all Third World countries” under his proposed immigration plan. The statement immediately sparked national and global conversations, amplifying the ongoing debate around the future of U.S. immigration policies. A Strong Position on Migration During his Thanksgiving message, Trum
US orders sweeping review of Green Cards from 19 nations after Washington attack
Green card interviews in San Diego lead to detentions of foreign-born spouses
Several foreign-born spouses of United States citizens have been detained during routine green card interviews at the San Diego immigration office, according to recent reports. The detentions, which began on November 12, have affected dozens of couples who arrived for scheduled appointments intended to advance the process of obtaining lawful permanent residency. Instead, the interviews ended with federal agents escorting the foreign spouse away, often in handcuffs, on allegations of violating
Green card interviews in San Diego lead to detentions of foreign-born spouses
Several foreign-born spouses of United States citizens have been detained during routine green card interviews at the San Diego immigration office, according to recent reports. The detentions, which began on November 12, have affected dozens of couples who arrived for scheduled appointments intended to advance the process of obtaining lawful permanent residency. Instead, the interviews ended with federal agents escorting the foreign spouse away, often in handcuffs, on allegations of violating
Canada Changes Citizenship Rules: Big Relief For India-Born Families Under New Bill C-3
Canada has taken a major step toward modernising its citizenship laws, offering long-awaited relief to thousands of Indian-origin families living abroad. The newly approved Bill C-3, which amends the Citizenship Act, has received royal assent and is expected to help people who were previously excluded from passing on Canadian citizenship to their foreign-born children. The legislation marks a major shift toward inclusivity and fairness, especially for families who live or work outside the cou
Canada Changes Citizenship Rules: Big Relief For India-Born Families Under New Bill C-3
Canada has taken a major step toward modernising its citizenship laws, offering long-awaited relief to thousands of Indian-origin families living abroad. The newly approved Bill C-3, which amends the Citizenship Act, has received royal assent and is expected to help people who were previously excluded from passing on Canadian citizenship to their foreign-born children. The legislation marks a major shift toward inclusivity and fairness, especially for families who live or work outside the cou
Hyderabad Woman Doctor Dies By Suicide After US Visa Rejection Sparks Deep Depression
A 38-year-old woman doctor from Hyderabad died by suicide inside her flat after experiencing emotional distress over the rejection of her US visa application. The tragic incident came to light on Saturday morning when her domestic help alerted the family after repeated knocks at the door went unanswered. The family broke into the flat only to find her lifeless. A suicide note recovered from the scene reportedly mentioned that she had been battling deep disappointment and depression ever since
Hyderabad Woman Doctor Dies By Suicide After US Visa Rejection Sparks Deep Depression
A 38-year-old woman doctor from Hyderabad died by suicide inside her flat after experiencing emotional distress over the rejection of her US visa application. The tragic incident came to light on Saturday morning when her domestic help alerted the family after repeated knocks at the door went unanswered. The family broke into the flat only to find her lifeless. A suicide note recovered from the scene reportedly mentioned that she had been battling deep disappointment and depression ever since
Marjorie Taylor Greene to resign after clash with Trump over H-1B visa policy
Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has announced that she will resign from the U.S. House of Representatives in January, bringing an abrupt end to her third term. The decision follows a heated public fallout with President Donald Trump, who recently withdrew his endorsement of the Georgia lawmaker after months of rising tensions. Greene, long known as a vocal Trump ally and one of the most prominent figures associated with the MAGA movement, confirmed her departure late Friday, m
Marjorie Taylor Greene to resign after clash with Trump over H-1B visa policy
Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has announced that she will resign from the U.S. House of Representatives in January, bringing an abrupt end to her third term. The decision follows a heated public fallout with President Donald Trump, who recently withdrew his endorsement of the Georgia lawmaker after months of rising tensions. Greene, long known as a vocal Trump ally and one of the most prominent figures associated with the MAGA movement, confirmed her departure late Friday, m
Trump birthright citizenship order faces key decision from Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is preparing for a closed-door conference on Friday to consider whether it will take up a major dispute over President Donald Trump’s birthright citizenship order. The order, issued on the first day of his second term, declares that children born in the United States to parents who are in the country illegally or temporarily are not entitled to American citizenship. Federal courts across the country have uniformly blocked the order, preventing it from taking effect in any
Trump birthright citizenship order faces key decision from Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is preparing for a closed-door conference on Friday to consider whether it will take up a major dispute over President Donald Trump’s birthright citizenship order. The order, issued on the first day of his second term, declares that children born in the United States to parents who are in the country illegally or temporarily are not entitled to American citizenship. Federal courts across the country have uniformly blocked the order, preventing it from taking effect in any
Asha Jadeja Motwani claims role in Trump’s H-1B shift as debate intensifies
Indian-origin venture capitalist Asha Jadeja Motwani has asserted that she played a role in shaping former President Donald Trump’s recent shift in tone on the H-1B visa program, a move that has triggered debate among his political supporters. The program, which enables United States companies to hire skilled foreign workers, has long been a focal point in policy discussions involving the technology sector. Motwani said she spoke directly with both Trump and Vice President JD Vance about th
Asha Jadeja Motwani claims role in Trump’s H-1B shift as debate intensifies
Indian-origin venture capitalist Asha Jadeja Motwani has asserted that she played a role in shaping former President Donald Trump’s recent shift in tone on the H-1B visa program, a move that has triggered debate among his political supporters. The program, which enables United States companies to hire skilled foreign workers, has long been a focal point in policy discussions involving the technology sector. Motwani said she spoke directly with both Trump and Vice President JD Vance about th
India Rolls Out Next-Gen E-Passports With RFID Chips And Enhanced Security Features
India has begun rolling out its next generation of e-passports equipped with advanced digital and physical security layers designed to strengthen identity verification and eliminate fraud. The upgraded system is part of Passport Seva Programme 2.0, which introduces new standards in passport security, digital integration, and citizen services. All new passports issued henceforth will be e-passports, while existing non-electronic passports will continue to remain valid until their expiry, with
India Rolls Out Next-Gen E-Passports With RFID Chips And Enhanced Security Features
India has begun rolling out its next generation of e-passports equipped with advanced digital and physical security layers designed to strengthen identity verification and eliminate fraud. The upgraded system is part of Passport Seva Programme 2.0, which introduces new standards in passport security, digital integration, and citizen services. All new passports issued henceforth will be e-passports, while existing non-electronic passports will continue to remain valid until their expiry, with
Trump Announces FIFA Visas For 2026 World Cup Fans Amid Security Concerns
President Donald Trump has introduced a new fast-track visa system called the “FIFA Pass” for international fans attending the 2026 World Cup in the United States. Announced at the Oval Office alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino, the scheme offers ticket holders a prioritized visa appointment to ensure smoother travel ahead of the massive tournament. The US expects between five and ten million visitors, making streamlined entry a major focus for the administration. Despite
Trump Announces FIFA Visas For 2026 World Cup Fans Amid Security Concerns
President Donald Trump has introduced a new fast-track visa system called the “FIFA Pass” for international fans attending the 2026 World Cup in the United States. Announced at the Oval Office alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino, the scheme offers ticket holders a prioritized visa appointment to ensure smoother travel ahead of the massive tournament. The US expects between five and ten million visitors, making streamlined entry a major focus for the administration. Despite
Iran Ends Visa-Free Entry For Indians As New Delhi Issues Warning On Job Fraud And Kidnappings
Iran has officially ended its one-way visa-free entry for Indian citizens, a policy shift that will take effect from November 22. The new rule requires Indians to hold a valid visa not only for visiting Iran but also for transiting through its airports. The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi issued a fresh advisory urging Indian travellers to exercise caution, citing a surge in incidents where Indians were deceived with fraudulent job offers and onward travel promises and then kidnappe
Iran Ends Visa-Free Entry For Indians As New Delhi Issues Warning On Job Fraud And Kidnappings
Iran has officially ended its one-way visa-free entry for Indian citizens, a policy shift that will take effect from November 22. The new rule requires Indians to hold a valid visa not only for visiting Iran but also for transiting through its airports. The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi issued a fresh advisory urging Indian travellers to exercise caution, citing a surge in incidents where Indians were deceived with fraudulent job offers and onward travel promises and then kidnappe
Trump’s H-1B overhaul aims to boost US skills through temporary foreign expertise
Trump backs H1-B visa, says US needs global talent amid worker shortage
In a notable shift from his previous hardline stance on immigration, United States President Donald Trump appeared to defend the H1-B visa program, acknowledging that the country must rely on skilled talent from abroad to fill crucial workforce gaps. The remarks came during a televised interview on Fox News, where Trump discussed the challenges of maintaining a balance between protecting American jobs and sustaining industries that depend on specialized foreign labor. When asked whe
Trump backs H1-B visa, says US needs global talent amid worker shortage
In a notable shift from his previous hardline stance on immigration, United States President Donald Trump appeared to defend the H1-B visa program, acknowledging that the country must rely on skilled talent from abroad to fill crucial workforce gaps. The remarks came during a televised interview on Fox News, where Trump discussed the challenges of maintaining a balance between protecting American jobs and sustaining industries that depend on specialized foreign labor. When asked whe
Canada updates IRCC rules on cancelling temporary visas and permits
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a major update to its operational framework, outlining clear legal grounds for when temporary resident documents—such as visitor visas, study permits, work permits, and electronic travel authorizations (eTAs)—may be cancelled. The revised policy, which came into effect on November 4, 2025, aims to standardize how immigration officers handle document revocations and close long-standing gaps in the Immigration and Refugee Pro
Canada updates IRCC rules on cancelling temporary visas and permits
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a major update to its operational framework, outlining clear legal grounds for when temporary resident documents—such as visitor visas, study permits, work permits, and electronic travel authorizations (eTAs)—may be cancelled. The revised policy, which came into effect on November 4, 2025, aims to standardize how immigration officers handle document revocations and close long-standing gaps in the Immigration and Refugee Pro









