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Oman’s new Cultural Visa, introduced in 2025, is a dedicated residency pathway designed for foreign artists, researchers and cultural professionals. It allows eligible individuals to live and work in Oman for cultural, artistic or academic purposes. The visa can be issued for one, five or ten years, offering long-term stability for creative talent. It supports Oman’s broader strategy to promote cultural exchange, innovation and global collaboration. The initiative aims to position Oman as a cultural hub while encouraging professionals to contribute to the country’s growing creative and research sectors.

The Cultural Visa is open to foreign nationals involved in cultural, artistic, academic or research-driven activities. This includes artists, performers, writers, academics and scholars who intend to carry out cultural work in Oman under the sponsorship of an approved Omani cultural body. Eligibility extends to individuals invited by recognised institutions to contribute to cultural growth or knowledge exchange. Immediate family members, such as spouses and first-degree relatives, are also eligible to join the main visa holder under a separate family residence category, ensuring long-term stability and support.

Oman’s Cultural Visa offers flexible residency durations of one, five or ten years. These long-term options are intended to support meaningful cultural engagement and allow visiting artists and researchers to establish deeper connections with Oman’s creative landscape. The same validity structure applies to family-joining residence permits, enabling dependents to stay for extended periods. This flexibility highlights Oman’s commitment to attracting and retaining cultural talent and creating an environment where professionals can thrive, contribute, and participate in long-term cultural and academic initiatives.

The Cultural Visa comes with a relatively affordable fee structure. The main visa or residency permit is charged at 50 Omani Rials per year, making it accessible for long-term cultural professionals. For family members joining the main applicant—such as spouses or first-degree relatives—the fee is significantly lower at just 10 Omani Rials per year. This cost-friendly approach reinforces Oman’s commitment to supporting cultural talent and their families, making relocation easier and encouraging professionals to build lasting contributions within the Sultanate.

Yes, Oman’s Cultural Visa framework allows immediate family members to accompany the main applicant. Spouses and first-degree relatives can apply for a cultural joining visa and receive a residence permit linked to the main visa holder. This ensures families can stay together during the applicant’s cultural, artistic or academic activities in Oman. The reduced fees for dependents further encourage family inclusion. By offering a clear family-joining pathway, Oman recognises that long-term cultural engagement is best supported when professionals are able to relocate with their families.

The Cultural Visa is designed for individuals engaged in creative, cultural or academic work. Eligible applicants include artists, musicians, writers, performers, researchers, scholars, curators and other professionals contributing to cultural development or knowledge exchange. Activities such as cultural performances, exhibitions, research collaborations, artistic production and academic projects fall within the scope of the visa. The key requirement is that the applicant’s work supports Oman’s cultural ecosystem and is endorsed by a recognised Omani cultural authority or institution responsible for sponsoring their stay.

Applicants must be sponsored by a recognised cultural institution, organisation or authority within Oman. This sponsoring body is responsible for requesting the visa on behalf of the applicant and ensuring the individual’s cultural or academic activities align with national guidelines. The sponsor plays a key role in validating the purpose of the visit and supporting the applicant throughout their stay. This structured sponsorship system ensures that each Cultural Visa holder contributes meaningfully to Oman’s cultural and creative development.

Oman’s Cultural Visa programme came into effect in November 2025 under a formal regulatory amendment issued by the authorities responsible for foreign residency. This regulation introduced new visa categories for cultural professionals and established clear guidelines on validity periods, fees and family-joining provisions. The updated framework forms part of a wider effort to modernise Oman’s residency system and support the country’s long-term cultural strategy. Its introduction marks an important step in enhancing Oman’s global engagement in arts, research and creative exchange.

The Cultural Visa supports Oman’s long-term national vision to diversify its economy and promote cultural development. By inviting global artists, researchers and creative professionals, Oman aims to strengthen its cultural sector, inspire innovation and enhance international collaboration. The initiative aligns with national goals focused on boosting cultural tourism, supporting creative industries and enriching intellectual exchange. By offering long-term residency options, Oman seeks to build a vibrant cultural ecosystem that contributes to economic growth, education, heritage preservation and global cultural connectivity.

Applicants typically need to enter Oman within a set period—generally around three months—from the date their visa is issued. This timeline ensures the visa is activated promptly and prevents delays in residency processing. If the applicant does not enter within the required period, the visa may expire or require re-issuance based on the regulations. This entry deadline helps maintain proper residency records and ensures that cultural professionals arrive in time to begin their approved artistic, cultural or academic activities in Oman.

Australia has introduced a new ministerial directive aimed at managing how international student visa applications are prioritised. Instead of placing a strict cap on student numbers, the government will now slow down visa processing for institutions that reach around 80 percent of their indicative international student intake. The goal is to distribute student numbers more evenly across regions and reduce the concentration seen in major cities. This approach encourages balanced enrolments, protects education quality and ensures that institutions do not grow too quickly in ways that strain housing or local infrastructure.

Australia has seen very high growth in international student numbers, especially in large metropolitan universities. This sudden increase has contributed to pressure on housing, infrastructure and migration systems. The government’s new directive aims to bring stability and ensure that growth remains sustainable. By managing enrolments more strategically, Australia hopes to protect its education standards, support regional institutions and maintain a balanced migration approach. The intention is not to discourage international students but to make sure the system can support them properly while meeting national goals for quality, integrity and long-term planning.

The directive affects how quickly visa applications for each institution are processed. Once a university or private provider reaches about 80 percent of its indicative international student allocation, offshore student visa applications linked to that institution may experience slower processing. This could affect institutions heavily reliant on international enrolments, especially in major cities. Smaller and regional institutions, on the other hand, may benefit from faster processing if they still have room within their indicative numbers. The directive encourages a more even distribution of international students across the country instead of clustering in a few popular campuses.

There is no strict numerical cap, but the prioritisation system can indirectly affect new student visa applications. If an institution reaches its allocation threshold, new offshore applications tied to that provider may take longer to process. This means prospective students might face delays, especially if they apply late or target highly crowded universities. Approval criteria remain the same, but the speed of processing changes based on how full the institution is. Students applying to regional or smaller providers may experience faster outcomes because those institutions typically have more capacity left under the new directive.

Each education provider receives an indicative allocation that outlines how many offshore international student commencements they can manage for the year. These allocations are not strict limits but guide how visa applications will be prioritised. Once an institution approaches around 80 percent of its allocation, offshore visa applications associated with it may shift to standard, slower processing. Institutions monitor their numbers through national reporting systems to understand when they are nearing the threshold. This system helps the government balance student numbers nationwide while giving universities clearer expectations about their intake capacity.

The directive mainly targets new offshore applicants and does not affect those already studying in Australia. Current international students can continue their programs as usual, provided they meet all visa conditions. The changes do not restrict onshore applications or renewals and do not impact students transferring between courses within Australia. The focus is on managing incoming student numbers, not disrupting those who are already enrolled. This approach ensures that existing students can complete their education without facing new obstacles or changes to their current visa status.

Popular courses—especially in large metropolitan universities—may be indirectly affected because these institutions tend to reach their allocation thresholds faster. When that happens, visa processing for new offshore students applying to those programs may slow down. This could make it harder for students to access certain courses if they apply late. On the other hand, institutions with more remaining capacity, including regional universities, may offer quicker processing and more accessible entry points. Students might consider exploring alternative locations or related programs if they want faster or smoother visa timelines.

The directive does not change approval criteria but does influence processing speed. Students applying to institutions that still have space in their indicative allocation will receive faster, prioritised processing. Once an institution crosses the 80 percent mark, future offshore visa applications linked to it may experience slower timelines. Approval rates themselves remain governed by the usual visa requirements, such as financial capacity, intent, and documentation quality. Students may need to plan earlier or consider a broader range of institutions to avoid delays, especially during peak periods when popular universities fill up quickly.

Yes, several categories are exempt from the prioritisation thresholds. Research students, government-sponsored students, and those enrolling in certain specialised programs typically continue to receive high-priority processing regardless of institutional allocation. Onshore applicants already in Australia are also generally unaffected by the offshore prioritisation system. These exemptions ensure that Australia continues to support high-value academic pathways and honours government-to-government education commitments. Students in these categories should still follow standard visa requirements, but they are not impacted by the slower processing linked to institutional intake limits.

Australia aims to maintain strong education standards while avoiding overcrowding in major cities. By guiding student numbers more evenly across institutions and regions, the government hopes to reduce pressure on housing, improve student experience and support sustainable migration planning. The directive encourages institutions to grow responsibly while maintaining academic quality and integrity. At the same time, regional institutions may benefit from increased interest and faster visa processing. This balanced approach helps Australia manage long-term population and workforce needs while still welcoming international students as an important part of its education and migration strategy.

International students in Canada can work off campus while studying if they meet specific eligibility criteria under their study permit. Currently, they can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer or winter holidays. A temporary measure introduced in 2022 allowed eligible students to work more than 20 hours per week, but this policy is set to expire soon. Students must ensure that their study permit explicitly authorizes off-campus employment and that they remain enrolled full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI).

As per Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), international students are generally allowed to work up to 20 hours per week off campus during regular academic sessions. They may work full-time during scheduled breaks. However, from November 2022, Canada introduced a temporary policy allowing eligible students to work more than 20 hours weekly to address labor shortages. This temporary exemption is expected to end on April 30, 2026. After this date, the standard 20-hour limit per week will likely be reinstated unless new regulations are announced.

The temporary public policy allowing international students to work more than 20 hours per week off campus is scheduled to end on April 30, 2026. This policy was introduced to help address Canada’s labor shortages and provide students with greater financial support opportunities. After its expiry, students are expected to follow the original rule of working a maximum of 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time only during scheduled breaks. IRCC has stated that any future changes will be communicated officially before the policy ends.

To work off campus in Canada, an international student must hold a valid study permit that includes a condition allowing off-campus employment. They must be enrolled full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI) in an eligible program that leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate. The program must be at least six months long. Students must also have started their studies before working and maintain satisfactory academic standing. Those on an authorized leave of absence or studying part-time in their final semester may still be eligible under certain conditions set by IRCC.

New international students who begin their studies after the temporary work hours policy expires will only be allowed to work up to 20 hours per week off campus during regular academic sessions. Students who had applied for a study permit or extension before December 7, 2023, may still benefit from the temporary measure allowing more than 20 hours per week until April 30, 2026. It is important for new students to check the conditions on their study permit and the latest updates from IRCC before accepting off-campus employment.

Students currently studying in Canada who meet the eligibility criteria and applied for a study permit or extension before December 7, 2023, can continue to work more than 20 hours per week off campus until April 30, 2026. This flexibility helps current students gain more work experience and manage living expenses. However, after the temporary measure ends, all students will need to comply with the standard 20-hour weekly limit during academic sessions. It’s essential for students to monitor IRCC updates to stay compliant with work authorization conditions.

Working beyond the permitted hours without authorization is considered a violation of study permit conditions in Canada. Such a breach can lead to serious consequences, including loss of student status, future visa ineligibility, or even removal from the country. Students must ensure they understand and follow the conditions outlined on their study permit and any updates from IRCC. Employers also have an obligation to verify that their student employees are authorized to work. Maintaining compliance helps students protect their immigration status and future opportunities in Canada.

Yes, international students in Canada can work full-time during regularly scheduled breaks such as summer, winter, or spring holidays, provided they are enrolled full-time before and after the break. This rule remains unchanged under both the standard and temporary work policies. Students must ensure that the break is part of their academic calendar and not a personal decision to pause studies. Working full-time during authorized breaks allows students to gain valuable experience and supplement their income without violating immigration regulations.

The off-campus work rules apply only to the primary international student, not their dependents. However, spouses or common-law partners of international students may be eligible to apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work full-time while the student pursues studies in Canada. This helps families maintain financial stability and integrate better into Canadian society. Dependents must ensure their work permits are valid and comply with all IRCC regulations. The student’s eligibility for work does not automatically extend to dependents without proper authorization.

Before applying for part-time jobs, international students should confirm that their study permit allows off-campus work and that they meet all IRCC eligibility requirements. They should apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work legally in Canada and ensure their job does not interfere with academic performance. It’s also important to know the permitted work-hour limits and comply strictly with them. Students should look for jobs that provide flexibility during exam periods and focus on opportunities that enhance their professional skills and Canadian work experience.

Portugal saw a 60% surge in residency permits in 2025 due to a rise in foreign professionals, investors, and remote workers relocating to the country. The government’s digital nomad and D7 visa programs, coupled with simplified residence procedures, attracted applicants from across the globe. Affordable living costs, a strong economy, and access to the Schengen Area further boosted Portugal’s appeal. The country’s reputation for safety, lifestyle quality, and openness to immigrants positioned it as one of Europe’s top destinations for foreign residents in 2025.

In 2025, Portugal issued over 208,000 new residency permits, marking a significant 60% increase from approximately 130,000 permits in 2024. This growth reflects the success of Portugal’s pro-immigration stance and its expanding visa programs, including options for digital nomads and entrepreneurs. The government’s efforts to modernize application systems and attract global talent also contributed to the sharp rise. This record number highlights Portugal’s growing international profile as a preferred destination for living, working, and investing within the European Union.

Brazilians continued to lead among nationalities receiving Portuguese residency permits in 2025, followed by citizens of India, the United Kingdom, Italy, and France. The strong linguistic and cultural ties with Brazil remain a key factor, while Indian nationals increasingly seek Portugal’s tech, business, and education opportunities. The rise in applications from British and European nationals shows Portugal’s growing appeal post-Brexit. Overall, the data demonstrates a diverse influx of global residents choosing Portugal for its safety, lifestyle, and work-life balance.

Foreigners are moving to Portugal for its high quality of life, mild climate, and affordable living compared to other Western European countries. The country’s strong economy, thriving digital ecosystem, and welcoming immigration policies make it attractive to professionals and retirees alike. Many are drawn to flexible visa routes such as the D7 and digital nomad visas, which enable remote work and passive income residency. Portugal’s excellent healthcare, safety, and education standards, along with access to the wider EU region, make it one of Europe’s most desirable relocation destinations in 2025.

The Golden Visa program remains a major contributor to Portugal’s rising residency numbers, even after recent reforms. While real estate investment routes have been phased out, the program now emphasizes innovation, business creation, and cultural contributions. These changes have attracted a new class of investors interested in sustainable ventures and entrepreneurship. The Golden Visa’s pathway to permanent residence and citizenship continues to draw global investors. In 2025, its diversified investment options helped Portugal sustain strong growth in foreign applications and maintain its competitive edge in Europe.

Yes, Indian nationals are among the fastest-growing groups applying for Portuguese residency in 2025. Many professionals from India are relocating to Portugal for its expanding technology sector, startup ecosystem, and welcoming immigration policies. Programs such as the D7 and digital nomad visas are particularly popular among Indian remote workers and entrepreneurs. The country’s lower cost of living, safety, and access to the Schengen Zone add to its appeal. As a result, Portugal is becoming one of the most sought-after European destinations for Indians seeking residency or long-term settlement.

The most common residency permits in Portugal include the D7 visa for passive income earners, the digital nomad visa for remote professionals, and work-based permits for skilled employees. The Golden Visa program also continues to attract investors through business or innovation-related routes. Additionally, family reunification and student residence permits account for a significant share of approvals. These diverse visa options allow Portugal to welcome professionals, retirees, investors, and students from around the world, strengthening its economy and enhancing its multicultural profile.

The increase in residency permits has brought notable economic benefits to Portugal, including higher consumer spending, tax revenue, and foreign investment. However, it has also contributed to rising demand in the housing market, particularly in Lisbon and Porto, where property prices and rents continue to climb. The government is working to balance growth by encouraging housing development outside major cities. Overall, the influx of skilled workers, investors, and families supports economic diversification and job creation, helping Portugal remain one of Europe’s most dynamic economies in 2025.

Eligibility for a Portugal residence permit depends on the visa category. Applicants must typically provide proof of income, accommodation, valid health insurance, and a clean criminal record. For work-based or investor visas, evidence of employment or qualifying investment is required. Programs like the D7 and digital nomad visa require proof of stable remote income or savings. Applicants must also meet Portugal’s minimum stay requirements to maintain their status. Compliance with immigration laws and tax obligations is essential for renewal and potential permanent residency or citizenship.

Foreigners can apply for a Portugal residence permit by first securing the appropriate entry visa—such as the D7, work, or digital nomad visa—from the Portuguese consulate in their home country. Applicants must submit supporting documents including proof of income, accommodation, and health coverage. Upon arrival in Portugal, they must register with the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) to obtain their residence card. For investors, the Golden Visa remains an option through eligible investments. Streamlined digital systems introduced in 2025 have made the process faster and more efficient.

From November 2025, international students in New Zealand can work up to 25 hours per week during academic term time, an increase from the previous 20-hour limit. The updated rule applies to eligible full-time students enrolled in Level 4 or higher courses, as well as approved exchange or Study Abroad programs. This change was introduced to make New Zealand more attractive to global students and help them better manage living expenses through part-time work while studying. It also aligns with the government’s strategy to strengthen the international education sector.

The revised work-hour rules for international students come into effect from November 3, 2025. Any student visa approved on or after this date will include the new 25-hour per week work condition. Students who currently hold visas with the previous 20-hour limit can apply for a variation of conditions or a new visa to access the updated allowance. The rule is part of New Zealand’s effort to attract and retain skilled international students by offering more flexibility and better financial opportunities during their study period.

Under the new policy, eligible international students in New Zealand can work up to 25 hours per week during term time. During scheduled breaks, such as holidays, they may work full-time if their visa allows it. This change gives students more flexibility to balance their academic and financial responsibilities. The 25-hour limit is designed to help students gain practical experience while ensuring that employment does not interfere with their studies. It also reflects New Zealand’s commitment to supporting students amid rising living costs.

The new 25-hour rule applies only to eligible full-time international students studying at Level 4 or higher on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework or those enrolled in approved exchange or Study Abroad programs. Some senior secondary students in Years 12 and 13 may also qualify with parental and school permission. However, students enrolled in part-time, short-term, or lower-level courses do not qualify for extended work rights. The updated rule ensures that students engaged in meaningful academic programs have better opportunities to gain work experience while studying in New Zealand.

To be eligible to work up to 25 hours per week, international students must hold a valid full-time student visa for a course at Level 4 or higher, or be enrolled in an approved exchange or Study Abroad program. The visa must include work rights, and students must comply with all visa conditions. Secondary school students in Years 12 or 13 need written consent from both their school and parents. Students already holding a 20-hour limit may apply for a variation of conditions to benefit from the new rule.

The new work-hour rules provide international students with more opportunities to earn income and gain local work experience while pursuing their studies. Increasing the limit from 20 to 25 hours per week helps students better manage rising living costs and build professional skills. The change also makes New Zealand a more appealing destination for global learners, aligning with the government’s goal of revitalizing the international education sector. It allows students to experience a more balanced lifestyle, combining quality education with meaningful work exposure.

The new policy primarily affects in-study work rights and does not directly alter post-study work visa regulations. However, the extended work allowance allows students to gain more New Zealand work experience during their studies, which can enhance their employability and strengthen future visa or residency applications. While the new rule does not automatically change post-study visa pathways, it supports students in building professional connections and gaining local experience that could be valuable when applying for post-study or skilled work visas.

Yes. International students must comply with the terms of their student visa, meaning they can only engage in lawful, paid employment and cannot be self-employed unless specifically authorized. They must not exceed the permitted 25 hours per week during term time. Full-time work is allowed only during scheduled academic breaks if stated in the visa conditions. Jobs that may interfere with studies or breach visa terms are prohibited. These restrictions ensure that academic performance remains the student’s primary focus while studying in New Zealand.

The new work-hour rule applies only to international students holding eligible student visas. It does not automatically extend additional work rights to dependents. Dependents’ work or study privileges continue to depend on their own visa category and the principal applicant’s course level. For example, partners of students enrolled in postgraduate or high-demand qualifications may still qualify for open work visas under existing rules. Families should check their visa conditions carefully or consult Immigration New Zealand for clarification on dependent entitlements.

Students planning to study in New Zealand after November 2025 should know that eligible student visas will automatically include the updated 25-hour per week work limit. This offers more flexibility to earn income and gain experience while studying. Current visa holders with a 20-hour limit can apply for a variation of conditions to benefit from the change. Students must ensure they meet all academic and visa requirements, as maintaining good academic standing remains crucial for compliance and future visa applications in New Zealand.