New Visa Rules You Should Know for Study Abroad 2025
From June 2025, student visa applicants (F, M, J) must list all social media usernames from the past 5 years for background checks.
USA – Social Media Now Required
After a brief pause, U.S. student visa interviews restarted on June 18, 2025, with extra focus on national security and online activity verification.
USA – Visa Interviews Restart
Starting January 2025, UK student visa applicants must show more funds for living. Fewer dependents are allowed, and a job is needed within 6 months post-study.
UK – Higher Financial Proof
Canada has limited the number of study permits. You now need CAD 20,635 in savings. Fast-track SDS visas have also been removed.
Canada – Study Permit Cap
Australia reduced student intake to 270,000. You need stronger English, higher savings (AU$29,710), and must pay the AU$1,600 visa fee. Work limit: 48 hrs/fortnight.
Australia – Stricter Requirements
From June 2025, Indian degree holders don’t need IQA verification for student or skilled visas, making the process faster and easier.
New Zealand – Easier for Indians
Germany now offers a digital portal for student visa applications. Upload documents online, and book biometric appointments later. Launched on January 1, 2025.