3900 candidates invited in the latest Express Entry draw

Highlights: Checklist for immigrants returning to the US on a Green Card, H-1B, or F-1 visa

• The US Department of Homeland Security updated details for immigrants returning to the US.
• A checklist of documents has been released for Green Card, H-1B, and F-1 Visa holders willing to return to the US.
• Green Card Holders must avoid staying away from the US for more than 2 years.
• The US Government wants the USA to be the permanent residence of Green Card and H-1B visa holders.

 

*Want to apply for the US H-1B Visa? Y-Axis is here to provide complete assistance!

 

Immigration Policies for US Green Card, H-1B & F-1Visa holders

The USCIS along with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has updated the immigration policies for Green Card, H-1B and F-1 visa holders. The department has increased scrutiny on the residence requirements of these visa holders who need to travel in and out of the US frequently.

Immigration experts have suggested that Green Card and H-1B, F-1 visa holders maintaining strong ties to the US and refraining from criminal activities have no reason to panic.  However, immigrants having a US Green Card, F-1, or H-1B must refrain from staying away from the US for longer periods of time.

 

*Want to apply for US Visas? Y-Axis is here to provide personalized assistance!

 

Documents required for Green Card holders while re-entering the US

The following are the documents required while re-entering the US on a Green Card:

• Form I-551, along with a valid and unexpired Green Card
• Passport from your native country
• Re-entry permit (Only for those who have been staying abroad for more than a year but less than 2 years)
• Last 3 months’ pay cheques from present employment
• Employment Verification Letter
• Previous year’s W-2 form
• Copy of the previous year’s federal income tax return
• Details of US bank account
• Driver’s license in the US

 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with US immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No.1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!

 

For recent immigration updates on the US, check out Y-Axis US Immigration News!

 

 

Highlights: UK visa fee to increase from April 09, 2025

• The Government of UK has announced a visa fee hike from April 09, 2025.
• Visa fees will be increased for categories like study, visit, transit and sponsorship.
• Students and dependents applying for a UK visa will also have a 10% hike in visa fees.
• The fee hike extends to skilled workers visas, naturalisation applications and Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs).

 

*Want to apply for UK Visas? Y-Axis is here to provide complete assistance!

 

UK Visa Fee Hike 2025

The UK Government has recently announced a fee hike for certain UK visas including student visa, transit visa, and dependent visa and visit visas. Sponsorship visas and naturalisation application will also charge a higher fee from April 09, 2025.

The visa fee increase in the UK also extends to skilled worker visas and electronic travel authorizations (ETA). However, the visa has been kept the same for premium sponsorships and fast-track visas.

 

*Want to work in the UK? Y-Axis is here to provide personalized assistance!

Updated visa fees for UK Visas

The table below provides a detailed overview of the UK visa fee for applications made outside the UK:

 

Fees category	Current fee	Fee from 9 April 2025
Visit visa – short up to 6 months	£115	£127
Visit visa – long up to 2 years	£432	£475
Visit visa – long up to 5 years	£771	£848
Visit visa – long up to 10 years	£963	£1059
Visiting academic – more than 6 months but no more than 12 months	£200	£220
Private medical treatment visa – more than 6 months but not more than 11 months	£200	£220
Transit visa (direct airside transit)	£35	£39
Transit visit visa (landside transit)	£64	£70
Visa for the purpose of joining a ship or aircraft as a member of the crew of that ship or aircraft	£64	£70
Single-entry visa to replace a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)	£154	Same as before
Route to Settlement	£1,846	£1,938
Route to Settlement – other dependant relative	£3,250	£3,413
Route to Settlement – refugee dependant relative	£2,885	£424
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)	£10	£3,029
Electronic travel authorisation (ETA)	£2,885	£16
Innovator Founder – main applicant and dependants	£1,191	£1,274
Endorsement fee under Innovator Founder route	£1,000	£1,000
Start-up – main applicant and dependants	£435	£465
Approval letter from a competent body in respect of an initial application for Global Talent	£524	£561
Global Talent – main applicant – where Approval Letter is required	£192	£205
Global Talent – main applicant – where Approval Letter is not required	£716	£766
Global Talent – dependants only	£716	£766
Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) – dependants only	£716	£766
Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) – dependants only	£1,191	£1,274
Tier 1 (Investor) – main applicant and dependants	£1,884	£2,000
Skilled worker, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for 3 years or less  – main applicant and dependants	£719	£769
Skilled Worker, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for over 3 years  – main applicant and dependants	£1,420	£1,519
Skilled Worker - a job on the Immigration Salary List where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for 3 years or less  - main applicant and dependants	£551	£590
Skilled Worker - a job on the Immigration Salary List where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for over 3 years - main applicant and dependants	£1,084	£1,160
Skilled Worker – Health and Care Visa – where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued	£284	£304
Skilled Worker - a job on the Immigration Salary List	£284	£304
T2 Minister of Religion – main applicant and dependants	£719	£769
International Sportsperson, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for 12 months or less - main applicant and dependants	£298	£319
International Sportsperson, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for over 12 months  - main applicant and dependants	£719	£769
Temporary Work – Seasonal Worker, Religious Worker, Charity Worker, Creative Worker, International Agreement, Government Authorised Exchange and Youth Mobility Scheme – main applicant and dependants	£298	£319
Representative of an overseas business – main applicant and dependants	£719	£769
Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker – up to 3 years – main applicant and dependants	£719	£769
Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker – more than 3 years – main applicant and dependants	£1,420	£1,519
Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee – main applicant and dependants	£298	£319
Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier – main applicant and dependants	£298	£319
Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker – main applicant and dependants	£298	£319
Global Business Mobility – Secondment Worker – main applicant and dependants	£298	£319
Scale-up – main applicant and dependants	£822	£880
High Potential Individual – main applicant and dependants	£822	£880
Student – main applicant and dependants	£490	£524
Child Student	£490	£524
Short term student studying English language for more than 6 months but not more than 11 months	£200	£214

 

The table below provides a detailed overview of the UK visa fee for applications made inside the UK:

 

Fees category	Current fee	Fee from 9 April 2025
Innovator Founder – main applicant and dependants	£1,486	£1,590
Endorsement fee under Innovator Founder route (payable to endorsing body) excluding VAT	£1,000	£1,000
Contact point meeting with endorsing body under Innovator Founder route (payable to endorsing body) excluding VAT	£500	£500
Start-up – main applicant and dependants	£584	£625
Approval letter from a competent body in respect of an initial application for Global Talent	£524	£561
Global Talent – main applicant – where Approval Letter is required	£192	£205
Global Talent – main applicant – where Approval Letter is not required	£716	£766
Global Talent – dependants only	£716	£766
Graduate Route – main applicant and dependants	£822	£880
Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) – dependants only	£716	£766
Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) – main applicant and dependants	£1,486	£1,590
Tier 1 (Investor) – main applicant and dependants	£1,884	£2,000
Skilled Worker, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for 3 years or less - main applicant and dependants	£827	£885
Skilled Worker, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for over 3 years  - main applicant and dependants	£1,636	£1,751
Skilled Worker - a job on the Immigration Salary List where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for 3 years or less - main applicant and dependants	£551	£590
Skilled Worker - a job on the Immigration Salary List where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for over 3 years  - main applicant and dependants	£1,084	£1,160
Skilled Worker – Health and Care Visa – where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for 3 years or less– main applicant and dependants	£284	£304
Skilled Worker – Health and Care Visa – where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for over 3 years  – main applicant and dependants	£551	£590
Skilled Worker - a job on the Immigration Salary List- Health and Care Visa - where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for 3 years or less  - main applicant and dependants	£284	£304
Skilled Worker - a job on the Immigration Salary List - Health and Care Visa - where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for over 3 years - main applicant and dependants	£551	£590
T2 Minister of Religion – main applicant and dependants	£827	£885
International Sportsperson, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor under Sponsor a Worker has been given for 12 months or less - main applicant and dependants	£298	£319
International Sportsperson, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued or approval to sponsor founder Sponsor a Worker has been given for over 12 months - main applicant and dependants	£827	£885
Temporary Worker – Seasonal Worker, Religious Worker, Charity Worker, Creative Worker, International Agreement Worker, Government Authorised Exchange Worker and Youth Mobility Scheme – main applicant and dependants	£298	£319
Representative of an overseas business – main applicant and dependants	£827	£885
Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker – up to 3 years – main applicant and dependants	£827	£885
Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker – more than 3 years – main applicant and dependants	£1,636	£1,751
Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee – main applicant and dependants	£298	£319
Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier – main applicant and dependants	£298	£319
Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker – main applicant and dependants	£298	£319
Global Business Mobility – Secondment Worker – main applicant and dependants	£298	£319
Scale-up – main applicant and dependants	£822	£880
High Potential Individual – main applicant and dependants	£822	£880
Student – main applicant and dependants	£490	£524
Child student	£490	£524
Visitor Extension – main applicant and dependants	£1,000	£1,100
Leave to enter for persons in the UK who are liable to immigration detention	£1,258	£1,321
Leave to remain– Other	£1,258	£1,321
Hong Kong British National (In-country) for 30 months – main applicant and dependants	£180	£193
Hong Kong British National (In-country) for 5 years – main applicant and dependants	£250	£268
Processing an application which is subsequently rejected as invalid	£25	£28
Indefinite leave to remain – main applicants and dependants	£2,885	£3,029
Replacement Biometric Residence Card (issued under the EU Settlement Scheme) which has been lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed	£19	£19
Replacement Biometric Residence Permit which has been lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed	£19	£19
Travel Document – Certificate of travel – adult (effective from 10 April 2025)	£280	£300
Travel Document – Certificate of travel – child (effective from 10 April 2025)	£141	£151
Travel Document – Convention travel document – adult (effective from 10 April 2025)	£82	£94.50
Travel Document – Convention travel document – child (effective from 10 April 2025)	£53	£61.50
Administrative Review	£80	£80
Life in the UK test	£50	£50

 

 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with UK Immigration?  Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!

 For recent immigration updates on the UK, check out Y-Axis UK Immigration News Page! 

 

 

Highlights: Schengen visa demand goes up. Apply early to avoid summer delays!

• Latest reports by Atlys have shown that demand for Schengen Visa has increased among Indians.
• Many travellers from India are trying to reach the Schengen states this summer.
• European destinations remain one of the top choices among Indian visa applicants.
• Candidates are choosing to travel to countries that offer faster processing times.

*Want to apply for Schengen visas? Y-Axis is here to provide complete assistance!
 

High Demand for Schengen Visas among Indians

According to recent reports by a visa processing platform named Atlys, Indians have reported an increasing demand for Schengen visas. Huge numbers of visa applicants from India are willing to visit the Schengen countries before summer.
 

Schengen countries receive the highest number of tourists and immigrants during the summer months. Visa applications are more for countries that offer faster processing times. Schengen member states are likely to receive the maximum number of visa applications from India.
 

Top 10 Schengen countries with fastest processing times

The following are the countries which offer the fastest visa processing time for Schengen visit visas:

Country	Processing Time
Iceland	15-30 days
Switzerland	5-15 days
Latvia	15-45 days
Italy	15-20 days
Luxembourg	15-20 days
Lithuania	15-30 days
Slovakia	15-45 days
Germany	15-45 days
Austria	15-60 days
Greece	15-45 days

 

How to apply for the Schengen Visa?

The steps to apply for the Schengen visa are as follows:

Step 1: Choose the type of visa you want

Step 2: Determine the time to apply

Step 3: Arrange the documents required

Step 4: Schedule an appointment with the visa embassy

Step 5: Complete the fee payment

Step 6: Wait for the visa to be approved

Step 7: Fly to your destination country

*Looking for step-by-step assistance for Overseas Immigration? Talk to Y-Axis, the No.1 overseas immigration company. 

For more updates on Schengen news, follow the Y-Axis Schengen news page!

Highlights: Canada to process PR cards in 16 days and travel visas in 83 days for Indians

• IRCC has released updates regarding processing times for PR cards and tourist visas.
• Application for Canadian citizenship is likely to be processed within 9 months.
• Canada Tourist Visa processing time has been brought down to 83 days for Indian applicants.
• The new processing time for PR cards is going to be 16 days under the new update.
   

*Want to apply for Canada PR? Y-Axis is here to provide complete assistance!
 

Canada updates processing times for visas

According to the latest updates by IRCC on March 18, 2025, the processing times for certain visas and grants have been updated. The new change is expected to set realistic expectations for candidates applying for these visas.

The table below provides the updated processing time for certain Canada visas:

Type of Visa	Updated Processing Time
Citizenship Grant	9 months
Citizenship certificate	4 months
Permanent resident (PR) Card	16 days
PR card Renewal	14 days
Tourist Visa (for Indians applying from outside Canada)	83 days
Tourist Visa (for candidates applying from inside Canada)	15 days
Tourist Visa (from the US)	20 days
Tourist Visa (from Nigeria)	132 days
Tourist Visa (from Pakistan)	17 days
Tourist Visa (from the Philippines)	14 days
Tourist Visa Extension	119 days
Super Visa (for Indians)	133 days
Super Visa (from the US)	241 days
Super Visa (from Nigeria)	40 days
Super Visa (from Pakistan)	118 days
Super Visa (from Philippines)	119 days
Student Visa (for Indians)	15 weeks
Student Visa (from the US)	5 weeks
Student Visa (from Nigeria)	7 weeks
Student Visa (from Pakistan)	8 weeks
Student Visa (from the Philippines)	5 weeks
Student Visa Extension	114 days
Work Permits (For Indians applying from outside Canada)	20 weeks
Work Permits (from the US)	81 weeks
Work Permits (from Nigeria)	15 weeks
Work Permits (from Pakistan)	8 weeks
Work Permits (from the Philippines)	5 weeks
Work Permits (from inside Canada)	111 days
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Programme	12 days
International Experience Canada (IEC)	2 weeks
Electronic Travel Authorisation	5 minutes

 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canada Immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end support!
 

For recent immigration updates on Canada, check out Y-Axis Canada Immigration News!

Also read…
 

Canada offers Study Permit exemption for apprentices in 20+ Occupations. Check if you qualify!

 

Highlights: BC PNP and PEI PNP inviting candidates to apply for provincial nomination

• British Columbia and Prince Edward Island have issued Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for their respective PNPs.
• Prince Edward Island focuses on foreign workers already working in priority occupations in the province.
• The province of British Columbia targets foreign entrepreneurs under the Entrepreneur Immigration Streams.
• PEI is also focusing on inviting professionals in the healthcare, trades, and manufacturing sectors.
   

*Want to apply for Canada PNP? Y-Axis is here to help you with the steps!
 

Recent British Columbia PNP Draws

The Canadian province of British Columbia recently held PNP draws on March 18, 2025, and invited eight entrepreneurs to apply for Canada PR. Candidates were invited under the Base stream and regional stream of the Entrepreneur Immigration category.

The table below lists the details of the recent draw:

Draw Category	Number of invitations issued	Cut-off score
Base stream	8	115
Regional stream	<5	123

 

*Want to apply for BC PNP? Y-Axis is here to provide complete assistance!
 

Recent PEI PNP draws

On March 20, 2025, the Canadian province of Prince Edward Island held a PNP draw and invited candidates via the Express Entry and Labour Impact and Express Entry pathway. The draw targeted to invite candidates who have been living and working in the province for a minimum of one year.

The latest PEI PNP draw issued 124 invitations to professionals associated with the healthcare, trades, and manufacturing sectors. The draw targeted to invite professionals in this sector as the PEI Office of Immigration is currently prioritizing these high-demand sectors.
 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canada immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy.
 

For recent immigration updates on Canada, check out Y-Axis Canada Immigration News!

 

Highlights: Indian teach companies leading in H-1B visa approvals

• Tesla, Amazon, and major tech companies are leading in H-1B visa approvals.
• Amazon tops the list of all Indian IT firms with around 9265 H-1B visa approvals.
• Infosys approved 8140 H-1B visas, followed by TCS with 5274 visa approvals.
• The IT firms heavily rely on H-1B visas to hire foreign talent from India.
   

*Want to apply for the H-1B visa? Y-Axis is here to help you with the moves!
 

IT companies approving H-1B visas

According to recent updates, the top IT companies approving H-1B visas include Amazon, Tesla, Infosys, and TCS. Amazon leads the list of Indian tech companies with around 9265 H-1B visa approvals.

The USCIS has listed Cognizant, Google, Meta, and Microsoft as the top five IT companies that have sponsored the maximum number of H-1B visas. Other IT companies that heavily depend on the H-1B visa to recruit Indian talent in the US include HCL America, IBM, Deloitte, and Apple.
 

*Willing to work in the US? Y-Axis is here to provide complete assistance!
 

Top 20 IT Companies sponsoring H-1B visas

The table below lists the number of H-1B visa approvals by top 20 IT companies:

 

Name of the company	No. of H-1B Visa approvals
Amazon	9265
Cognizant	6321
Google	5364
Meta Platforms	4844
Microsoft	4275
Apple	3873
HCL America	2953
IBM	2906
Walmart	2904
Capgemini	2795
Intel	2520
Deloitte	2494
Accenture	2157
Amazon web services	2216
Oracle	2070
EY US	2335
JPMC	1719
Salesforce	1525
Tesla	1767

 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with US immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No.1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!

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Highlights: Australia announces the new NT DAMA III effective from March 2025

• The Australian Government announced the new NT Designated Area Migration III on March 19, 2025.
• The new NT DAMA III will be effective from March 2025 to June 30, 2030.
• Through the third DAMA, Australian employers with workforce shortages can sponsor up to 1,500 overseas workers annually.
• Around 325 occupations were announced in the new Northern Territory list.

*Want to check you eligibility to Australia? Try the FREE Y-Axis Australia skilled Immigration points calculator to get an instant score.

 

Australia’s New NT Designated Area Migration Agreement

On March 19, 2025, the Australian Government announced the new Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) for the Northern Territory. This is the third DAMA to be released for the Northern Territory. The latest NT DAMA III will be effective from March 19, 2 025 to June 30, 2030, with an annual quota of 1,500. As per the new update, Australian employers with workforce shortages can sponsor an additional 1,500 overseas workers to work in different occupations. A DAMA or Designated Area Migration Agreement is an official agreement between a designated area representative (DAR) and the Commonwealth of Australia.

 

*Want to work in Australia? Let Y-Axis assist you with the process.  

 

Highlights of the new NT DAMA III

The NT DAMA III will be valid from March 19, 2025, to June 30, 2030.

• It has an annual nominations quota of 1,500
• The occupations list is expanded to 325 occupations compared to the previous list of 135 occupations
• The processing of labour agreement requests will be more streamlined.
• There will be more concessions for skills, experience, and language proficiency
• The policies under the NT DAMA III are more in line with the state and territory migration plans

 

*Are you looking for step-by-step with Australia Immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end support!

For more updates on Australia, check out Y-Axis Australia Immigration Updates!

 

Highlights: Canada’s new immigration minister Rachael Bendayan might introduce new means for PR & work permits

• The new Prime Minister of Canada has selected Rachel Bendayan as the new immigration minister of Canada.
• Rachel Bendayan will now be heading the immigration department of Canada after Marc Miller.
• Prime Minister Mark Carney will be prioritizing providing PR status to temporary residents in Canada.  
• The new cabinet reshuffle might impact immigration rules for PR, work permit, and study permit applications.

 

*Want to apply for Canada visas? Y-Axis is here to provide complete assistance!

 

Canada Gets New Immigration Minister

Following the 2025 federal elections in Canada, the newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney has nominated Rachel Bendayan as the new immigration minister. The new immigration minister will head the immigration department of Canada, taking over from the former immigration minister Marc Miller.

The new shift in the Canadian cabinet is likely to impact immigration policies of the country, including policy changes for Canada PR, work permit, and study permit applications. As a part of the Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2025-2027, the new Prime Minister and the new immigration minister will prioritize providing Canada PR to the temporary residents already living in Canada.

 

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Changes to expect under Prime Minister Mark Carney

Canada’s immigration policy is now to be decided by the new Prime Minister, Mark Carney, and the new Immigration Minister, Rachel Bendayan. Among other policies, Carney had previously advocated for:

• Introducing caps to a sustainable limit
• Prioritising offering permanent residency to temporary residents
• Keeping a check on the number of temporary foreign workers

Under Mark Carney and Rachel Bendayan's ministerial rule, major policy shifts and cap counts are to be expected, which might impact foreign nationals willing to migrate, study, or work in Canada.

 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canada Immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No.1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end support!

 

For more updates on Canada Immigration news, follow the Y-Axis Canada Immigration News!

 

Highlights: Luxembourg Raises the EU Blue Card salary requirement to €63,408

• Luxembourg has increased the minimum salary requirements for EU Blue Card applicants.
• The salary requirement for an EU Blue Card has been increased from €58,968 to €63,408.
• The new salary changes apply to applications submitted from March 18, 2025.
• In 2024, Luxembourg had issued 825 EU Blue Cards to foreign nationals.

 *Want to apply for an EU Blue Card? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.

 

Luxembourg Announces a 7.53% hike in the EU Blue Card Salaries

Luxembourg is another EU country that recently announced a salary hike to the EU Blue Card. As per the recent changes, EU Blue Card applicants must now meet the minimum salary requirement of €63,408 instead of the previous €58,968. The salary changes to Luxembourg’s EU Blue Card represented a 7.53% hike, with an increase of €4,440. The new EU Blue Card salary requirement was effective from March 18, 2025. Candidates applying for a Luxembourg EU Blue Card must now meet the minimum salary level of €63,408 to qualify. Around 825 EU Blue Cards were issued by Luxembourg last year, in 2024.

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Eligibility criteria for Luxembourg’s EU Blue Card

To be eligible for a Luxembourg EU Blue Card, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be a non-EU citizen
• Have a valid passport
• A valid visa (if required, based on your nationality)
• Evidence of higher educational qualifications
• Proof of at least 5 years of professional experience
• An employment contract valid for at least 6 months
• Fulfill the salary requirement of €63,408

 

*Looking for step-by-step assistance for Overseas Immigration? Talk to Y-Axis, the No.1 overseas immigration company. 

For more updates on Schengen news, follow the Y-Axis Schengen news page!

 

Your US Study Visa or Green Card status no longer guarantees smooth travel in and out of America. Currently, immigration attorneys report unprecedented levels of scrutiny, with many visa holders facing extended questioning and even overnight detention at US airports.

However, these challenges affect different visa categories differently. If you hold an H-1B, F-1, or Green Card, you should know that the US State Department has reduced visa interview waiver eligibility from 48 months to just 12 months. Additionally, if you stay outside the US for more than six months, you might face intensive screening upon return. This guide explains the essential steps to protect your immigration status and navigate the new travel landscape safely.

US Immigration Officials Implement Stricter Travel Scrutiny

Multiple US agencies have dramatically intensified border screening under the Trump administration, creating unprecedented challenges for international travelers. This security crackdown extends across all immigration categories, with tighter scrutiny at ports of entry and lengthy processing delays at US consulates worldwide.

How New Policies Affect Different Visa Categories

The most significant policy change affects the interview waiver program. Previously, visa holders could avoid in-person interviews if their visa expired within 48 months. Currently, this window has narrowed to just 12 months. Consequently, F-1 students transitioning to H-1B status must now attend a consular interview, as must H-1B workers whose visas expired more than a year ago.

Furthermore, immigration officials are subjecting applications to extended "administrative processing" with no clear explanation. As Snehal Batra, managing attorney at NPZ Law Group, notes: "We know of individuals stuck in administrative processing for no apparent reason other than additional scrutiny and security clearances".

H-1B and F-1 visa holders should prepare for:

• Detailed questioning by Customs officers
• Secondary inspections lasting over two hours
• Thorough examination of social media accounts and digital devices
• Potential re-adjudication of previously approved applications

Even after USCIS approves an H-1B visa, consular officers can refuse it and send the application back for re-evaluation, stranding applicants abroad for 4-6 months minimum.

Why Green Card Holders Face Unexpected Challenges

Green Card holders, particularly elderly travelers, face mounting pressure at ports of entry. Reports indicate Customs and Border Protection officers are increasingly urging permanent residents to voluntarily surrender their status by signing Form I-407.

Since Vice President JD Vance's statement that "a green card does not give an individual an indefinite right to stay in the United States," heightened concerns have spread among permanent residents. Legal experts warn that extended absences can trigger questions about abandonment of residency.

Customs officers are actively monitoring social media, email accounts, and electronic devices during immigration inspections. Any digital evidence suggesting employment or residence abroad could jeopardize permanent resident status.

For Green Card holders, stays exceeding six months outside the US typically trigger intensive questioning. Rather than offering voluntary withdrawal of admission applications, officers may issue a Notice to Appear in immigration court, putting permanent resident status at risk.

Immigration attorneys now strongly recommend that Green Card holders avoid non-essential international travel or consider applying for US citizenship before their next trip abroad.

What Documents Must US Study Visa Holders Prepare Before Travel

Preparing thorough documentation is essential for F-1 visa holders planning international travel, especially given the heightened scrutiny at US ports of entry. Careful preparation reduces the risk of denial when attempting to reenter the United States.

Essential Papers for F-1 Visa Holders

Every F-1 student must carry several critical documents when traveling abroad. First, ensure your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the US. Your Form I-20 must contain a valid travel signature from your designated school official, typically valid for one year for enrolled students. Moreover, bring your valid F-1 visa stamp, I-901 SEVIS fee receipt (printable from fmjfee.com), and recent transcripts showing continuous enrollment. Financial documentation demonstrating sufficient funds is likewise necessary—bring bank statements or stipend letters matching or exceeding the amount listed on your I-20.

Additional Documentation for OPT Participants

F-1 students on Optional Practical Training face stricter requirements and shorter validity periods. While standard documents remain necessary, OPT participants must also carry their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card and proof of employment directly related to their field of study. Unlike enrolled students, travel signatures on I-20 forms for OPT participants are valid for only six months. Additionally, employment verification documents should clearly show the employer name matching exactly what appears on page 2 of your I-20 form.

Digital Copies and Emergency Contacts

Above all, create digital backups of all travel documents. Store electronic copies in cloud storage and email them to yourself for easy access. In case of document loss or emergency, save crucial contact information—specifically the US Department of State's emergency numbers (1-888-407-4747 from the US/Canada or +1-202-501-4444 from overseas) and the nearest US embassy or consulate details. Upon return to the US, immediately download your new I-94 record to verify correct admission status (Class of Admission: F-1, Admit Until Date: D/S).

How Visa Stamping Delays Create Return Uncertainties

Recent policy changes at US consulates worldwide have significantly complicated return journeys for visa holders. Previously routine renewals now face extended delays, leaving many travelers stranded overseas for unpredictable periods.

Interview Waiver Changes Extend Processing Times

The US Department of State has drastically reduced the interview waiver eligibility window—commonly called "dropbox" applications—from 48 months to just 12 months. This policy shift forces significantly more applicants to schedule in-person interviews, creating extensive backlogs at consulates globally.

Most notably, this change affects:

• Students transitioning from F-1 to H-1B status (now require interviews)
• H-1B workers whose previous visa expired over 12 months ago
• Anyone changing visa categories, regardless of previous approval history

Legal experts from NPZ Law Group caution that even individuals with multiple previous visa approvals now face prolonged administrative processing without clear explanation. Applications flagged for "221(G) administrative processing" frequently stall for months with no guaranteed completion timeline.

Furthermore, consular officers now hold authority to refuse visas and return petitions to USCIS for re-adjudication—potentially leaving travelers stranded abroad for 4-6 months or longer.

Which Consulates Report Longest Processing Backlogs

According to State Department data, processing times vary dramatically between consular offices. Currently, three consulates—Abu Dhabi, Dhaka, and Accra—would take over two years to clear existing backlogs at current processing rates. Eight additional consulates report backlogs exceeding one year.

Unfortunately, consulates in African nations continue experiencing disproportionate delays compared to other regions. For instance, Nairobi reports 293 business days of backlog while Warsaw shows just 2 business days.

Due to these uncertainties, immigration attorneys strongly advise:

1. Scheduling visa appointments 4-6 months before planned travel
2. Checking alternative consulates with shorter wait times when possible
3. Developing contingency plans for potential delays
4. Avoiding unnecessary international travel, especially for visa holders nearing status transitions

The State Department acknowledges these challenges, noting that "although our processing capacity has rebounded faster than projected, demand remains at historically high levels in some countries."

When Should Green Card Holders Consider Citizenship Applications

Green Card holders increasingly consider fast-tracking citizenship applications as protection against tightening immigration enforcement. Currently, the naturalization process averages 5.5 months from submission to oath ceremony, making it a practical solution for those concerned about their residency status.

Elderly Travelers Face Heightened Surrender Pressure

Immigration attorneys report an alarming trend of elderly Green Card holders facing intensified scrutiny at US airports. Customs and Border Protection officers are increasingly pressuring permanent residents, particularly elderly Indians who spend winter months in their home country, to sign Form I-407 and voluntarily surrender their status. These individuals face secondary inspection, overnight detention, and even threats of removal if they resist.

Florida-based immigration attorney Ashwin Sharma notes: "CBP has targeted elderly Indian green card holders, particularly grandparents who spent longer outside the US, pressuring them to 'voluntarily' surrender their lawful permanent resident status". Legal experts emphasize that only an immigration judge can officially revoke Green Card status.

What Constitutes Abandonment of Permanent Residency

Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, Green Card holders absent from the US for over 180 days are considered seeking "re-admission" and may face grounds of inadmissibility. Nonetheless, simply staying outside the US for extended periods doesn't automatically constitute abandonment.

Several factors determine whether you've abandoned residency:

• Length of absence (particularly over one year without a re-entry permit)
• Intent when leaving
• Maintenance of US property or business ties
• Payment of US taxes
• Family connections in America
• Evidence of foreign employment or voting

To protect your status, maintain documentation showing US ties: property ownership, tax returns, employment records. Never surrender your Green Card under pressure—you retain the right to a hearing before an immigration judge.

For permanent residents planning frequent international travel, citizenship offers definitive protection. To qualify, you must: be at least 18 years old, maintain continuous residence for five years, demonstrate physical presence for at least 30 months during that period, and show good moral character.

Recent changes in US immigration policies demand careful planning for any international travel. Strict border screenings now affect all visa categories, particularly impacting H-1B workers, F-1 students, and Green Card holders. The reduced interview waiver window from 48 to 12 months has created significant processing delays at US consulates worldwide.

Permanent residents face additional challenges, especially elderly travelers who might experience pressure to surrender their status during extended stays abroad. These circumstances make thorough preparation essential before any overseas journey. Your documentation must prove strong US ties and justify any lengthy absences.

Smart travelers should evaluate their visa status carefully and consider long-term solutions. Green Card holders might benefit from pursuing citizenship, while visa holders need detailed travel documentation and backup plans for possible delays. Understanding these requirements helps protect your immigration status and ensures smoother border crossings during these uncertain times.