Wait time for study abroad visas shatters many dreams

visas : International students are facing a formidable challenge in their pursuit of higher education abroad, as securing visas becomes an increasingly arduous task.

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Recent reports suggest that long wait times for visa appointments are discouraging students from considering the United States and Canada as their preferred destinations. A closer look reveals that this trend is sending shockwaves through the global education landscape.

Consultancies specializing in college and visa applications have reported a significant decline in the number of students aspiring to study in the US and Canada.

According to Ajaya Kumar Vemulapati, a partner at IMFS, an overseas education consultancy, “Right now, there is no mad rush for the US. We have seen a considerable decline in the number of students looking to go there. Only serious candidates are exploring the option.”

Canada, in particular, faces challenges due to diplomatic issues and concerns over the job market. Akshitha V, who recently completed her engineering degree, secured a job during campus placements in Canada. However, she laments, “To date, there is no communication from the employer.”

In response to these challenges, many students are now considering alternative destinations such as Australia, Germany, and Ireland to pursue their master’s degrees. The situation is indicative of a broader trend, where students are diversifying their options and exploring countries with more accessible visa processes.

The situation may see some relief thanks to an executive order signed by US President Joe Biden, which emphasizes the need for companies to report potential risks associated with their AI systems and aims to make the visa interview process more efficient. This policy change could positively impact almost 450,000 international students and professionals, particularly those from India and China.

The update to the J-1 skills list will also allow more high-skilled J-1 visa holders to apply for other visa categories immediately, potentially easing the visa burden on students and professionals.

In light of these visa challenges, Indian travellers are actively seeking alternative destinations. Thailand, which exempts Indian travellers from visa requirements, is becoming an attractive choice.

Saudi Arabia has set an ambitious target of welcoming 2.4 million Indian visitors by 2024. Australia has streamlined its visa application process, while Turkey offers convenient direct flights. Sri Lanka stands out by offering free visas to Indian visitors, and Russia has introduced e-visas for Indian passport holders.

Despite these challenges, the US Embassy in India announced the opening of nonimmigrant visa appointments. However, applicants were dismayed to find that no slots were available for the current year, despite the embassy’s claim of having opened over a quarter million appointments.

The embassy made headlines this summer by issuing a record number of student visas for Indian students, totalling over 90,000 visas in June, July, and August.

Also Read:India-Canada struggle to mend ties despite visa easing