Tag: VISA

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-Top News UK News

Record increase in Indian students pursuing UK study visas

This trend is expected to continue in 2023 and is poised for further growth in the next academic year…reports Asian Lite News

The UK Home Office has reported a substantial 54 percent increase in the number of sponsored study visas granted to Indian students compared to 2022. This development marks a significant shift in favor of the UK as a preferred destination for Indian students seeking higher education. The findings have been meticulously analysed and presented by Gradding, a study abroad platform.

The statistics revealed a remarkable surge, indicating that Indians now hold nearly seven times the number of study visas compared to the year 2019. Specifically, the UK issued close to 500,000 sponsored study visas, with the exciting revelation that nearly one-third of these were granted to Indian students.

As a result, it is anticipated that the number of Indian students enrolling in UK universities will exceed an impressive 3 lakhs in the upcoming academic session.

The data shows that a total of 142,848 sponsored study visas were granted to Indian students, representing an astounding increase of 49,883 visas, or 54 percent, compared to the previous year ending in June 2022. Notably, the Graduate Route, which enables students to extend their stay in the UK after completing their studies, saw 42 percent of extensions granted to Indian students.

Furthermore, 20 percent of students whose visas expired in 2022 chose to transition to the Graduate Route after completing their studies. This trend is expected to continue in 2023 and is poised for further growth in the next academic year.

Mamta Shekhawat, the founder of Gradding, emphasises that students are increasingly drawn to the UK due to its exceptional “value for money.” She asserts that the UK offers a cost-effective education with average expenses lower than countries like the USA and Australia.

Additionally, she highlights the high employability of UK graduates, with 8 in 10 international students experiencing career progression, promotions, and increased earnings as a direct result of their education in the UK.

The landscape of international enrollments in UK universities has undergone a transformation in recent years. While in 2020, the majority of international students hailed from Greece and Ireland, constituting 21 percent of all enrolments, the situation has seen a significant shift in 2021.

However, in 2022 and 2023, China and India have emerged as the top two sending markets, contributing to 41 percent of all international enrollments. This shift can be attributed, in part, to recent tensions between India and Canada, which have steered many students toward the UK as their preferred destination for higher education.

Scholarships have played a pivotal role in making the dream of studying in the UK more accessible. Scholarships have seen a notable 10 percent increase in demand compared to the previous year, with the University of Essex in the UK offering valuable scholarships worth ã10,000 for Indian students enrolling in one-year master’s programmes.

The UK government has also taken proactive steps to simplify the visa process for Indian students, with the reintroduction of the Graduation Immigration Route, allowing Indian students to work in the UK for up to two years post-graduation without requiring a tier-2 visa.

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Education Europe India News

Planning for a Successful Study Abroad Experience?

German student visa norms for Indians get tough

Most leading banks and financial institutions offer educational loans against certain interest rates, guarantees, and payment terms…reports Asian Lite News

Studying abroad is a transformative decision, catapulting a student’s education and career graph many notches higher. It’s no surprise that many youngsters today consider overseas education for higher studies. According to the Union Ministry of Education, 7.5 Lakh Indian students traveled overseas for higher education in 2022. Associated data sets show that Indian students formed the biggest group of immigrant students in Canada, and the second biggest group in Germany and the United Kingdom last year.

The benefits of global education range from exposure to new-age courses, participating in the latest research and innovation; and enhanced job prospects. While all this makes sense, many crucial steps need to be taken in advance to make this experience worthwhile. Study abroad counselors from MSM Unify – a leading global higher education platform offering 50,000+ courses from 1,400 institutes over 20 countries – shared the top five aspects that every student must consider when planning international education. Here they are:

Step 1 – Research about the course, country, and culture

These three C’s define the success of your study abroad experience. The checklist should begin with:
– Understanding your academic inclination
– Finding an appropriate course in your chosen field
– Selecting an appropriate top-rate institute
– Choosing the Country for Higher Study
– Understanding the host country’s geo-political situation and culture at large

Each of these steps has multiple checklists. While a student’s career may not be limited to his area of study, choosing a course in alignment with academic interest offers the necessary kickstart for jobs. When choosing the courses, consider the present job prospects and a future outlook too. For example, jobs related to automation, data, and analytics will continue to be in demand even after five years, as per industry estimates.

When selecting an institute, it’s important to directly speak to institute representatives and clear all doubts in advance. For example, at MSM Unify students can directly interact with institute representatives. It’s important to have all the details about effective fee structures, scholarship options (if applicable), yearly academic roster, department lecturers, placement support, and academy-industry connections. All such queries determine how worthwhile the study abroad experience can be.

When choosing a host country, it’s important to consider its geopolitical standing. Additionally, take the time to learn about the popular customs, traditions, and cultural norms of the country to ensure a smooth transition.

Step 2 – Understand visa and immigration requirements

Make sure you understand the visa and immigration requirements for studying in your chosen country. Familiarize yourself with the application process, required documents, and any restrictions or limitations that may apply. Seek guidance from our experts. Applying for a visa can be challenging, but well-established consultants such as MSM Unify use their wide network within partner countries to simplify the process for you! Following are the generic documents required for a student visa, more documents can be required as per host country specifications:
– Passport with at least two blank pages and an expiry date beyond 180 days
– A formal admission letter from the university
– A printout of your online application
– Evidence of language certification (if needed)
– Evidence of financial means
– Passport size photographs
– Previous education record
– Vaccination results (if required, it varies by the country)


Step 3 – Plan Your finances in advance – Education loans, scholarships, and more to explore

Studying abroad is an expensive affair, hence resistance from many students. When considering to study abroad, start with making a budget. Consider all expenses such as tuition fees, accommodation charges, living expenses, travel costs, medical insurance, insurance for your devices (laptop/mobile phone, photography equipment), and any additional expenses that may arise.

Most leading banks and financial institutions offer educational loans against certain interest rates, guarantees, and payment terms. Again, well-established study abroad consultants such as MSM Unify provide multiple options to explore financial options. The firm offers multiple financing options from leading providers such as ICICI iSMART education loans, MPower Financing, and other international partners to make it easy for students to choose from the most competitive offerings.
If you plan on applying for an educational loan, you should begin the student visa application process 6 months before the start of your first semester. So, you would have enough time to manage your finances and education loans.

Step 4 – Find accommodation options

Research the various accommodation options available in your host country. Consider factors such as cost of accommodation, proximity to your educational institution, safety, and amenities provided. The usual options include university dormitories, shared apartments, homestays, or private flats, depending on your preferences and budget. If you decide to live in an apartment, you will also need to pay for tenant’s insurance as well as additional utility costs like power, internet, and water use. Confused about finding accommodation? MSM Unify’s partners such as University Living, Housemates Unilodgers, Casita, Gobritanya, and others offer a variety of options to choose from.

Step 5 – Transit services

Make sure to reserve your airline tickets in advance. To track price changes and buy at the cheapest prices, consider looking at the alternatives with plenty of time to spare. Also, familiarize yourself with the transit services available in the host country. Research public transportation options such as buses, trains, and subways, their popular routes, schedules, and fares. Additionally, look into student discounts or passes that may be available to help you save money on transportation costs.

Remember, studying abroad offers multi-dimensional experiences. The only way to make this worthwhile is by being prepared in advance. Speak to other students who also plan to study abroad or others who have had this experience helps in adding more perspectives.

ALSO READ-Global Destinations for Indian Students Pursuing Education Abroad

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-Top News China India News

Visa Denial Row: Chinese Envoy Calls For Strong India Ties

India, China military-level talks end on positive trajectory.

The three players from Arunachal Pradesh – Nyeman Wangsu, Onilu Tega and Mepung Lamgu were supposed to participate in individual matches which will run from September 24 to 28 at the Guali Cultural and Sports Centre in Xiaoshan district…reports Asian Lite News

Amid China’s refusal to grant visas to three Wushu athletes from Arunachal Pradesh for the 19th Asian Games, Consul General of China in Kolkata, Zha Liyou said that Beijing is willing to work with India to implement the consensus reached by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping to strengthen dialogue and promote the development of bilateral ties on a “healthy and stable track.”

While addressing a programme to celebrate the 74th anniversary of the founding of China, Zha stressed that a “stable and healthy” relationship between India and China is in the fundamental interest of both nations.

Zha Liyou said, “A stable and healthy China-India relationship is in the fundamental interest of both countries and their peoples. The common development and revitalization of the two countries is related to the future of us, of Asia and of the world.”

Speaking at the programme, he said, “Our relationship is generally stable. Our leaders maintain dialogue and communication. President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi had two face-to-face interactions in the past year and reached an important consensus on stabilizing our relations, providing guidance for the development of our bilateral relations.

“China is willing to work with India to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of our two countries, strengthen dialogue and communication, overcome interference difficulties and promote the development of bilateral relations on a healthy and stable track,” he added.

He said that China is willing to work with all parties, including India, to serve as the builder of world peace. Speaking about the commonalities between the two nations, he said that India and China have a very long history and the two have been adjacent to each other since the time began.

“China is willing to work with all parties, including India, to serve as the builder of world peace, a contributor to global development and defender of the international order with a broader vision, a more open mind and a more positive attitude and write a new chapter in the programs of human political friends,” he said.

“China and India we share this commonality of very, very long history…civilization that has been you know we have been adjacent to each other for the time since the time began. We are the only two major countries with a population of more than 1 billion. There are no other twins and pairs and partners like this. We are important. We are important emerging economies with a broader development prospect. The friendly exchanges between the peoples of China and India have a long history and will have long centuries to go,” he added.

On the success of the Chandrayaan-3 moon mission, he said, “So sitting in my office and seeing the wonderful landing, it’s really exciting. I tweeted that is an achievement for all human beings. I’m very happy. I’m proud of India for that achievement.”

Asked about China’s denial of visas to three athletes for the Asian Games, he said, “The Asian game is the game for all of us. We are family. And for the specific issues, I’m sure the Chinese MFA and your MEA have already said that. And I have friends. This is a bilateral issue. I would invite you to reach out to the Chinese Embassy.”

On Sunday, Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur criticised China’s refusal to grant visas to three Wushu athletes from Arunachal Pradesh for the 19th Asian Games. Thakur labelled this action as “discriminatory” and emphasized that it goes against the Olympic Charter, a stance deemed “unacceptable” by India.

The three players from Arunachal Pradesh – Nyeman Wangsu, Onilu Tega and Mepung Lamgu were supposed to participate in individual matches which will run from September 24 to 28 at the Guali Cultural and Sports Centre in Xiaoshan district.

In response, the Union Sports Minister cancelled his visit to China as a mark of protest.

“They did not allow our Athletes from Arunachal Pradesh to participate in Asian Games. As you can see I am not in China, I am in Coimbatore, standing with my players. And this discriminatory approach of a country that is against the Olympic Charter and is not acceptable at all,” Anurag Thakur said while speaking to reporters.

Union Minister asserted that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India. “It is not acceptable to India and I have cancelled my trip to China on these grounds as they have denied the opportunity to the players from Arunachal Pradesh to be a part of the Asian Games. Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India,” Thakur added. (ANI)

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Arab News Lite Blogs Woman

Visa’s Initiative to Shape Future Women Leaders in Oman

From workshops to outward-bound experiential learning and networking opportunities, the program equips young women with the skills and knowledge needed to face their future with confidence…reports Asian Lite News

Visa (NYSE: V), the world’s leader in digital payment,  partnered with Lahunna Oman to shape young women leaders and strengthen financial literacy through a local initiative with Sidrah, a Youth Leadership Program for Omani women.

The Sidrah Leadership Program supports young women through mentorship and leadership training for personal  and professional development. It is a holistic learning experience that focuses on nurturing leadership qualities, personal and professional development and encourages young women to envision themselves as future leaders and change makers. From workshops to outward-bound experiential learning and networking opportunities, the program equips young women with the skills and knowledge needed to face their future with confidence.

Taking the initiative to a broader audience, another initiative was introduced called Rialy; which included workshops and a gamified online competition for more than 1,000 students across various educational institutions across the Sultanate of Oman. Students were exposed to essential financial concepts while enjoying a fun and engaging learning experience which fostered motivation among learners as top performers were also rewarded with prizes.

“The positive impact of the Sidrah program is evident in the growth and achievements of our participants. Visa’s support has made it possible to reach a wide audience, ensuring that Sidrah has a far-reaching impact. By partnering with Lahunna Oman, Visa continues to focus on upskilling women and nurturing growth in the workforce,” said Carl Manlan, Visa’s Head of Inclusive Impact & Sustainability for Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa region. “We are confident that the skills acquired will inspire them to embrace opportunities, break barriers, and make a significant difference in their lives and their communities.”

As a testament to the success of the Sidrah Leadership Program, the young women cited several opportunities that resulted from taking part in the program, including internships, job opportunities, scholarships, public speaking opportunities and presenting projects to Oman Vision 2040.

Shatha Al Maskiry, Founder of Lahunna Oman said, “Visa is a strong ally and by leveraging their extensive knowledge base, we were able to conduct an array of workshops and interactive sessions to equip youth with fundamental financial literacy acumen to allow them to confidently navigate their financial future.”

Amal Al Mazroei, an engineering graduate that participated in the Sidrah program said,” I am proud to participate in one of the greatest programs, SIDRAH 2.0, which guarantees positive change and growth for Omani Women! I am more confident than ever that I have so much to give back to myself, my community and my beloved Oman.”

By inspiring young women to pursue leadership roles, Visa continues to drive positive change by supporting women leaders for the next generation.

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Arab News Business Lite Blogs

aiBANK Partners With Visa to Promote Financial Inclusivity in Egypt

This collaboration broadens our e-payment offering, aligning with aiBANK’s goals to promote financial inclusion and digital innovation in the Egyptian banking sector…reports Asian Lite News

aiBANK, a leading provider of integrated retail, corporate, and Islamic banking solutions in Egypt, announced that it has entered into a long-term partnership agreement with Visa, a world leader in digital payments, to provide customers with a new integrated package of e-payment solutions. This strategic partnership aims to provide customers with a comprehensive range of innovative products and services tailored to modern digital payment preferences.

The collaboration signifies aiBANK’s dedication to promoting financial inclusivity and accelerating the adoption of digital transactions in line with the directives of the Central Bank of Egypt and the Financial Regulatory Authority. By offering cutting-edge solutions aligned with the latest digital payment trends, this partnership aims to encourage customers to embrace electronic payment methods across all segments.

Key representatives from both aiBANK and Visa gathered for the protocol’s signing ceremony, which included Iman Badr, Senior Group Head Consumer & Business Banking at aiBANK; Malak Al-Baba, Visa Egypt’s Country Manager; Tamer Seif El-Din, CEO and Managing Director of aiBANK; Amr Gamali, Deputy CEO Business at aiBANK; Hisham Abdel-Aal, Deputy CEO Control & Support at aiBANK; Sherif Nada, Chief of Retail & Branches Network at aiBANK; and Mohamed Abdel Monsef, Head of Retail Products Development at aiBANK; and Ahmed ElKaffass, Director, Business Development from Visa.

Iman Badr, Senior Director, Consumer & Business Banking at aiBANK, said: “Our aim is to create a seamless banking experience by offering the latest digital payment solutions. In collaboration with Visa, one of the largest and most renowned payment brands worldwide, the bank will be able to provide the best service to customers in Egypt and during their time abroad, benefiting from Visa’s massive global network.”

“This collaboration broadens our e-payment offering, aligning with aiBANK’s goals to promote financial inclusion and digital innovation in the Egyptian banking sector. Our intention is to expand our market presence in Egypt by introducing innovative banking products catering to various customer segments,” added Sherif Nada, Chief of Retail, Branches Network at aiBANK.

Mohamed Abdel Monsef, Head of Retail Banking Product Development at aiBANK, commented on the partnership, saying: “The foundation of our initiatives is centered on nurturing strategic and impactful partnerships, fueling our robust research and development efforts to provide innovative, safer, and more exclusive products to empower customers and provide them with comfort.

Malak Al-Baba, Visa Egypt’s Country Manager, expressed enthusiasm for the cooperation, stating: “We are pleased to collaborate with aiBANK in providing advanced digital payment services to the Egyptian market. Our strategic partnership will introduce new solutions and enhance customer experiences, aligning with our shared vision to improve digital payment options and cultivate a convenient and secure environment for electronic transactions. Visa is committed to supporting aiBANK through providing innovative and reliable solutions and exceptional benefits that facilitate a seamless transition for customers, making digital payments an intuitive and preferred choice.”

This collaboration follows aiBANK’s earlier partnership with InstaPay earlier this year, which empowered customers to instantly transfer money between bank accounts, cards, and digital wallets using their mobile phones, underscoring the bank’s commitment to fostering digital payment solutions and promoting a cashless society.

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-Top News India News

MEA introduces changes in delivery of passports, visas

She said that since the first impression of any individual travelling to India, the MEA must focus on offering superior, efficient, and cost-effective services…reports Asian Lite News

The Ministry of External Affairs, in a move to mitigate predatory pricing, has tightened the rules for the selection of partner visas and consular service to the Indian diaspora and foreign visitors.

The MEA is committed to serving Indians migrating and foreigners visiting India with an overarching vision to strengthen India’s Image and reputation, to make the service more robust, seamless and reliable.

Notably, the Indian Missions of the MEA are the first touch points for any international traveller coming into India – the Indian Citizen or Person of Indian Origin (PIO) and Foreigners (travelling to India) residing overseas.

Jyoti Mayal, President, of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) stated, “The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has embarked on a transformational program to reform and strengthen its tendering and evaluation process in a holistic manner to select the right outsourced service providers. While the focus lies on L1 pricing, there is a strong emphasis on the four pillars of Quality Services, Sustainable and Viable Price, Data Protection and Security, and Ethical Practices and Integrity.”

She said that since the first impression of any individual travelling to India, the MEA must focus on offering superior, efficient, and cost-effective services.

Commenting on the endeavour she also added, “It is important that the first impression of any individual travelling to India or having to work with any Indian Mission anywhere in the world needs to be impeccable, as the government is determined to work towards delivering the promise of New India. Therefore, the MEA and its Missions as true representatives of the Indian government to the world must focus on offering superior, efficient, and cost-effective services as perhaps the first step in that direction.”

The president concluded by stating that India is positioning itself as a global leader in several sectors such as trade, cross-border services, citizen services, etc.

“As India marches towards a high momentum growth period, it will be critical to plan for factors that can impede progress and mitigate reputational and image risks for the Indian Government. Hence it became imperative for the government to focus on the quality, reliability, and credibility of the service providers it engages with, to ensure services are delivered effectively, efficiently, and in line with established standards, else failure in service levels can erode confidence and trust in the government’s capabilities, leading to public dissatisfaction. The focus on quality also indicates that public resources are utilised wisely and that citizens receive the best possible value for money,” she added. (ANI)

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-Top News Europe India News

German Embassy Faces High Demand for Student Visas from India

Cap reached for H-2B visas for second half of FY 2023

A large number of national work visas were also granted to Bosnians, Kosovars, Russians, Albanians, and North Macedonians…reports Asian Lite News

 Indians grabbed the lion’s share of the 152,336 national work visas granted to foreign nationals by the German authorities in 2022, according to the Federal Foreign Office of Germany.

Indians were granted a total of 17,379 work visas last year, with the majority of them — 8,613 — being granted by the German Consulate General in Bengaluru, marking a significant increase compared to 2021, SchengenVisaInfo.com reported.

The second-highest number of work visas for Indians was granted by the German Consulate General in Mumbai — 3,013, — followed by the Consulate General in Chennai (2,483), the German Embassy in New Delhi (2,434), and the German Consulate in Kolkata (836).

While visiting India earlier this year, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz had said that his government wants to ease the path for information technology experts from India to obtain work visas in the European country.

A survey by Munich-based Ifo Institute released earlier this month found the country facing an acute labour crisis with more than 43 per cent of nearly 9,000 firms polled suffering from a lack of qualified workers in July — up from just over 42 per cent in April this year.

After India, Turkey with 12,542 and Serbia with a total of 11,792 German work visas were the biggest beneficiaries in 2022.

A large number of national work visas were also granted to Bosnians, Kosovars, Russians, Albanians, and North Macedonians.

Last year, Germany issued a total of 393,083 national visas. After work visas, the second and third highest number of visas issued were study and spouse reunification visas.

Germany issued 71,129 national visas for spouse reunification and 71,018 national study visas in 2022.

A total of 8,930 Indian nationals were granted spouse reunification visas, with the majority processed by the German Consulate General in Bengaluru.

As of April 2023, the German Embassy in India had some 25,000 student visa applications for the next two semesters, Philipp Ackerman, the country’s Ambassador to India, had said.

A March 2023 report by Wissenschaft weltoffen, a project of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), revealed that the European country was hosting a total of 33,753 Indian students — making up 9.7 per cent of the 349,438 total international cohort in 2021-22.

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-Top News USA

‘US set to issue record number of visas this year’

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti.

Garcetti said that he is excited to elevate India-US relations during his tenure as he completed 100 incredible days as the US ambassador to India…reports Asian Lite News

U.S. Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti stated that the United States is set to issue a record number of visas in 2023.

Speaking at an event hosted by “Indiaspora,” an organization focused on enhancing India-U.S. relations, Garcetti reflected on his conversation with President Joe Biden.

Garcetti recollected his interaction with President Joe Biden and said the lattertold him that India is the most important country in the world to him.

“He (President Biden) told me, when he asked me to come here to serve, he said, this is the most important country in the world to me, I think something that no American president has ever uttered in the history of our two countries…Indian Americans constitute six per cent of taxpayers in the US…” Garcetti said.

The US Ambassador said: “From technology to trade, from the environment to women’s empowerment, from small businesses to space, we used to say the sky is the limit, but now that we’re working together in space, not even the sky is the limit. From the seabed to the heavens, the US and India are a force for good and a powerful force to move this world forward.”

Garcetti said he wanted to come to India for his junior year to live in Bodhgaya and do a Buddhist studies program. “But politics got in the way. I got elected to the student council, and I said I promised I’d serve. So my India dream kind of died, or so I thought. But the universe has a curious way of connecting people and dreams, and now suddenly, I’m living that dream here,” he added.

Earlier, on Friday, Garcetti said that he is excited to elevate India-US relations during his tenure as he completed 100 incredible days as the US ambassador to India.

While taking to his official social media account ‘X’, he stated, “Celebrating 100 incredible days as the US Ambassador to India! During my #First100Days, I have explored 12 Indian states & UTs, savoured 200+ delicious Indian dishes, and connected with amazing people. Thank you for the deep friendship and the warm welcome. I am excited to elevate #USIndia relations during my tenure!”

Not just the flavours are incredible, but the people have been so warm and welcoming, he added.

Garcetti also posted a video on ‘X’ (formerly known as Twitter) where he shared a glimpse of his tour to Indian states and meeting people. He also thanked the country in the video and said, “Thank you, India for embracing me here as Ambassador and making my time here so welcoming and productive.”

ALSO READ-US-India partnership holds immense potential: Envoy Garcetti

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-Top News Diaspora Europe

New Zealand immigration investigating employers for visa scheme breaches

Immigration Minister Andrew Little said that the country’s Public Service Commission will review the AEWV scheme’s processes following complaints…reports Asian Lite News

Following complaints of worker exploitation and breaches of the work visa scheme, the immigration authorities in New Zealand are probing more than 160 accredited employers, according to a media report.

As of August 9, five employers have had their accreditation suspended and six revoked for breaching employment standards, false declarations, liquidation and having migrants working for them without valid working rights or in breach of visa conditions, The New Zealand Herald reported.

A 27-year-old migrant worker from Punjab told The Herald on condition of anonymity that he was assaulted and left at the airport in the early hours of the morning this month after failing to pay “extortion” money to his employer.

A painter by profession, the worker paid a fee of about $20,000 for his initial visa and arrived in New Zealand last month where he stayed with his employer’s family and three other colleagues in a two-bedroom house in Auckland.

He was not paid any wages for the three weeks that he worked but was instead asked by his employer to pay another $20,000, and was also threatened with deportation.

“I begged them to have mercy, but they said if I had no more money to give then they will deport me and ban me from coming back to NZ,” the painter told The Herald.

Following this, the employer and two of his colleagues assaulted the painter in the early hours on August 9 and drove him to Auckland Airport.

According to radio service RNZ, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) general manager Richard Owen said they were aware of migrants being charged between NZ$14,000 to over $30,000 by agents, and some being dismissed before even starting work.

The painter is now being helped by a social worker and the Takanini Gurdwara Sahib Sikh temple with accommodation and food.

Dalijit Singh, president of The Supreme Sikh Society of NZ, said the Indian painter was one of about 10 exploited migrant workers that are being referred to the temple every week.

Apart from India, there are workers from countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and South America, according to an RNZ report.

“This is becoming a real problem since the start of this accredited employer programme,” Daljit told The Herald.

Steve Watson, Head of Immigration Compliance and Investigation, told The Herald that the agency has received a range of allegations and complaints, including worker exploitation, overstaying or people working or employing workers illegally.

However, he added that not all complaints are specific to the AEWV category.

“As of August 6, 2023, we are currently investigating 164 accredited employers. These investigations are in a variety of stages and we can’t comment on open investigations,” Watson said.

Meanwhile, Immigration Minister Andrew Little said that the country’s Public Service Commission will review the AEWV scheme’s processes following complaints.

Launched in 2022, the AEWV (Accredited Employer Work Visa) program, encourages businesses in the country to hire, train, and upskill workers.

Additionally, it offers qualified employees earning at least the New Zealand median hourly salary of NZD $29.66, a road to residency.

To obtain this visa, one needs employer accreditation, an employment check, and a visa application.

As per the report, more than 77,000 Accredited Employer Work Visas have been approved since the new visa opened in July 2022, and there are approximately 27,400 accredited employers.

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-Top News India News UK News

Visa concessions, cheaper cars, scotch in India-UK trade pact

A spokesperson for the UK trade department said its made “good progress” in closing chapters and both countries are now “laser-focused” on goods, services and investment…reports Asian Lite News

India and the UK have softened positions on most of their points of contention as both nations try to wrap up trade talks ahead of expected national polls next year, according to people with the knowledge of the matter.

While New Delhi has agreed to slash tariffs on British cars and scotch whisky, the UK is willing to relax some visa rules for Indian professionals, Indian officials said, asking not be identified as the discussions are private. Nevertheless, with immigration a politically sensitive subject in the UK, a British official indicated any visa relaxations are likely to be limited.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak are pushing to double bilateral trade by 2030 through a pact that slashes tariffs and increases market access. The two governments hope to wind up the trade talks before year-end, Indian and British officials said.

Britain is willing to accept New Delhi’s standards on environment protections and labor – a key Indian demand given the differences in economic development and sensitivities involved for its micro-, small- and medium-sized firms, the officials added.

Striking a trade accord is critical for India’s ambition to become a manufacturing powerhouse, while the UK is seeking to clinch new deals to highlight the benefits of Brexit. Rishi Sunak and PM Modi will have an opportunity to discuss the matter face-to-face at a Group of 20 summit in New Delhi next month.

A spokesperson for the UK trade department said its made “good progress” in closing chapters and both countries are now “laser-focused” on goods, services and investment.

“While we cannot comment on ongoing negotiations, we are clear that we will only sign when we have a deal that is fair, balanced, and ultimately in the best interests of the British people and the economy,” they said.

The negotiations on visas are likely to be particularly sensitive. India has long demanded increased access for its citizens, but the UK’s vote for Brexit in 2016 was fueled in part by calls for greater control over the numbers of people coming into the country, and immigration remains a hot-button topic ahead of the next general election.

Underscoring the difficulties Sunak’s government faces, net migration to the UK reached a record 606,000 people last year, while separate visa data has shown one in three residence visas were granted to Indian workers. A UK official said talks are centering on time-limited business visas for highly skilled workers.

The deal, if it materializes, will be India’s biggest and most ambitious free trade agreement to date. This comes at a time when many western economies are pinning their hopes on the South Asian nation to become a bulwark against China’s growing economic and military clout.

Even as the two nations have been reluctant to set a date for completing the talks after missing a deadline last year, negotiations have been progressing well, the people said. Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s decision to visit Britain last month put political momentum behind talks, one UK official said.

The Sunak administration is also considering signing an agreement that will help Indians claw back half a billion pounds in payments made by them toward Britain’s social security system, the Indian officials said.

India is looking to bring down the import duty on cars to 75% from the current 100%. However, this will exclude small capacity cars and there would be a cap on the number of vehicles sold under these lower tariffs, the people said.

Similarly, on scotch whisky, New Delhi may slash duties to 100% from the existing 150% charged above a minimum import price. The premium category may see a steeper tariff cut. Easier market access in both these sectors has been one of the main demands of the UK.

Most of the debate is now centered on determining the criteria for the import duty cuts on goods under the trade deal and India’s proposal for an investment protection treaty, the officials from New Delhi said.

The UK and India are yet to concur on the contours of the treaty promoting and protecting investments on a reciprocal basis, the officials said. New Delhi’s proposal to exhaust local judicial remedies before initiating international arbitration in case of disputes has still not found favor with the UK, they added.

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