Canada to Issue Visitor Visas for 3 Specific Purposes from May 2025

As of May 7, 2025, Canada has updated its visitor visa policy, affecting international travellers planning to visit the country for tourism, short-term studies, business, or transit purposes. Most international travellers will require a Visitor Visa, a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), to enter Canada.

The Visitor Visa is a document placed in your passport, indicating that you meet the country's entry requirements. Visa officers may issue either a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, typically valid for up to 10 years or until your passport or biometric data expires, whichever comes first.

The duration of stay in Canada varies. Most visitors can stay for up to 6 months per entry, but border services officers may grant longer or shorter stays, which will be noted in your passport or Visitor Record. If there is no stamp in your passport, you are generally authorised to stay for 6 months from your arrival date or until the earliest expiry date of either your passport or biometrics.

Some exceptions apply, such as Super Visa holders who entered after June 22, 2023, can stay up to 5 years per entry. Before applying, it is crucial to confirm whether you need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), depending on your nationality, type of travel document, issuing country, and mode of travel. 

While some travellers may only need an eTA when arriving by air, others may require a full visitor visa, even if they're just transiting through a Canadian airport.

UK Graduate Visa Update: Duration Reduced, New Levy on Foreign Student Fees Proposed

The UK government has announced significant changes to its immigration policies, particularly affecting international students. The graduate visa duration will be reduced from 2 or 3 years to 18 months, aiming to tighten immigration policies.

Additionally, a new levy on foreign student fees is being proposed, which could impact international students and universities.

These changes may affect the attractiveness of the UK as a study destination, and students may need to reassess their plans. The reduced visa duration and potential levy increase could have implications for students' career prospects and financial stability. 

The proposals are currently under review, and stakeholders are advised to stay informed about updates and potential implications for their academic and professional pursuits.

Denmark Tightens Work Permit Rules for Foreign Students

Effective May 2, 2025, Denmark has introduced new regulations that significantly alter the conditions for international students enrolled in higher education programs not approved by the state. These changes mean that students outside the EU/EEA who choose to study at institutions lacking state accreditation will no longer be eligible for limited work permits that previously allowed them to work part-time during their studies.

 Furthermore, the opportunity for these graduates to remain in Denmark for a six-month job search has also been eliminated. The new rules extend to family reunification, as students in non-approved programs will no longer have the right to bring their spouses, partners, or children to live with them in Denmark.

It is important to note that these new restrictions do not apply to international students who had already applied for or received their residence permits for non-state-approved programs before May 2, 2025. These individuals will retain their existing rights concerning work permits, job search stays, and family reunification, even when they apply to extend their permits. Similarly, family members who obtained their residence permits based on their connection to a student in a non-approved program before the specified date will also maintain their current rights upon extension.

The Danish government has articulated that the primary motivation behind these policy changes is to ensure that residence permits are granted to international students whose primary purpose is to pursue academic studies in Denmark. This decision comes amid reports indicating concerns about some foreign students, particularly those from countries such as Nepal, potentially using student visas as a means to work in low-skilled jobs rather than focusing on their education.

 By implementing these stricter regulations, authorities aim to prevent the misuse of the student visa system and safeguard fair conditions within the Danish job market by mitigating what they perceive as potential wage depression resulting from the employment of international students in lower-paying sectors.

Consequently, prospective international students considering studying in Denmark must now exercise greater diligence in selecting state-approved educational institutions to ensure they remain eligible for work permits, post-study job search options, and the ability to bring their family members to the country. 

Egypt Introduces New e-Visa on Arrival System for Foreign Nationals

Egypt is taking significant steps to enhance its appeal as a premier travel destination by introducing a streamlined and technology-driven approach to visa processing. Initially, a newly implemented emergency e-Visa on arrival system was implemented at Cairo Airport, promising a faster and more convenient entry process for tourists. 

This updated system caters to citizens of 78 eligible countries, encompassing major tourism markets such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and member states of the European Union. Travellers from these nations can now obtain their Egypt tourist visa upon arrival at Cairo Airport through user-friendly automated kiosks, an enhanced online portal, or a dedicated mobile application. 

This strategic move is designed to significantly reduce traditional waiting times and the burden of extensive paperwork often associated with visa applications.

In a parallel effort to further boost tourism, Egypt has also announced an extension of its popular 96-hour free transit visa program. This beneficial program, now extended until April 2026, allows passengers travelling with EgyptAir, Air Cairo, or Nile Air the opportunity to explore the wonders of Egypt for up to four days without the necessity of obtaining a pre-arranged visa.

This initiative encourages short stopovers and provides a taste of Egypt's rich cultural and historical offerings to transit passengers.

Easing Travel for Nigerians: Nations Offering 5-Year Multiple Entry Visas

Several countries offer Nigerian citizens the opportunity to obtain five-year multiple-entry visas, facilitating repeated travel for various purposes. The United States of America typically issues the B1/B2 visitor visa, which, while often valid for ten years, can sometimes be granted for five years. This visa allows multiple entries, with each stay generally limited to six months, as determined by immigration officials upon arrival. Applicants must demonstrate their intention to return to Nigeria, possess sufficient funds for their stay, and provide evidence of strong ties to their home country.

The United Kingdom provides a Standard Visitor Visa with options for varying durations, including a five-year validity. This visa permits multiple entries into the UK, with each visit allowing a stay of up to six months. Applicants need to prove the genuineness of their travel purpose, demonstrate adequate financial resources, and show an intention to leave the UK after their visit.

The Schengen Area, encompassing 29 countries, issues the short-stay C-type visa within Europe. While initial visas may be for shorter periods, individuals with a history of travel to the Schengen zone and a stable profile may be granted multiple-entry visas for up to five years. These visas allow travel to any of the Schengen countries for a cumulative stay of no more than 90 days within any 180 days.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a five-year multiple-entry tourist visa. This visa allows multiple entries with stays of up to 90 days per visit, and holders can apply for an additional 90 days within a year, provided the total stay does not exceed 180 days annually.

India also extends five-year multiple-entry visas for both tourism and business purposes. Stays on a tourist visa are typically limited to 90 days per entry, although this can vary, while business visa durations are usually specified based on the reason for travel.

Finally, South Africa may grant multiple-entry visas valid for up to five years under certain categories, such as business and official travel. Tourist visas for leisure are generally issued for shorter durations. It is important to note that South Africa has specific and often detailed requirements for visa applications.

For Nigerian applicants seeking these long-term, multiple-entry visas, it is crucial to consult the official websites of the respective embassies or consulates in Nigeria. Visa policies and requirements can change, and these official sources will provide the most current and accurate information. 

Starting the application process well in advance of planned travel is advisable, and applicants should ensure they provide truthful and accurate information, are prepared for potential interviews, and fully understand the conditions associated with the visa.

Norway Announces Updates to Work Visa Program from 2025

Norway's Seasonal Work Visa program is designed for individuals with a job offer in certain industries, including agriculture, forestry, fishing, and tourism. Eligible roles in these industries include harvesting crops, planting trees, animal care, logging operations, seafood processing, and seasonal positions in hospitality and leisure.

You must secure a full-time job offer from a registered Norwegian employer in an eligible industry to apply for the visa. You will also need to provide documented proof of adequate accommodation in Norway and demonstrate financial resources to cover your expenses during your stay. Comprehensive health insurance coverage for your stay in Norway is also mandatory.

Certain professions are not eligible for seasonal work visas, including construction trades like carpentry, plumbing, and painting, as well as general labour jobs unrelated to seasonal demands.

The application process involves several steps. First, you must find a job through job portals or recruitment agencies like Adecco Norway, Manpower Norway, or Job Norway. Once you have secured employment, you must gather the required documents, including a valid passport, a signed job contract, proof of accommodation, a health insurance certificate, and evidence of sufficient financial resources.

You can submit your application online through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website or at a Norwegian embassy/consulate. The visa application fee is approximately NOK 6,300. 

After submitting your application, you will need to schedule an appointment to provide fingerprints and photos.

The standard processing time for the visa application is 4-8 weeks, but delays may occur during peak periods or holidays, such as the Easter break (March 31 – April 7), Labour Day (May 1), Constitution Day (May 17), summer vacation period (late June – mid-August), and Christmas and New Year holidays (December 23 – January 1, 2026).

Philippines Unveils Digital Nomad Visa for Remote Professionals

The Philippines has launched a new Digital Nomad Visa to attract remote workers. The visa allows them to experience the country’s diverse cities, stunning beaches, and rich culture for up to a year.

 Supported by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the program requires applicants to be at least 18 years old, provide proof of remote employment and sufficient income earned outside the Philippines, have a clean criminal record, maintain health insurance, and hold a passport from a country that offers reciprocal digital nomad privileges.

Digital nomads, who blend their professional lives with travel and exploration, will find the Philippines appealing due to its affordable cost of living, natural beauty, widespread English proficiency, renowned hospitality, and strategic location in Southeast Asia. The country aims to become a premier destination for remote workers.

In addition to the Digital Nomad Visa, the Philippines introduced an electronic visa (e-Visa) system for Indian passport holders in December 2024. This initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), simplifies the visa application process by allowing online submissions, eliminating the need for in-person visits to embassies, and is expected to boost tourism from India significantly.

The Philippines also offers various other visa options, including the Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) for permanent residency, Student Visas, Work Visas (9G Visa) for those employed by Philippine companies, and Special Non-Immigrant Visas (47(a)(2)) for foreign investors and workers under special agreements.

These initiatives aim to re-establish the Philippines as a leading travel and remote work destination in 2025, offering a compelling option for those seeking adventure, affordability, and a vibrant remote work lifestyle.

ValueJet Launches Direct Flight Connecting Nigeria to The Gambia

ValueJet, a Nigerian startup airline, will launch a new direct flight service between Lagos, Nigeria, and Banjul, The Gambia, starting May 15, 2025. This strategic move expands ValueJet's footprint in West Africa and presents exciting opportunities for African travel agents.

Flight Schedule:

• Lagos to Banjul:
  • Departure: 9:00 PM on Thursdays and Sundays
  • Arrival: 11:30 PM
• Banjul to Lagos:
  • Departure: Specific times not available, check with ValueJet for updates

Route Details:

• Flight Duration: Approximately 3 hours and 27 minutes
• Distance: 2,311 km
• Aircraft: Modern Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft, offering a comfortable and reliable travel experience

The airline's initiative aims to boost economic ties, tourism, and cultural exchange. Passengers can travel seamlessly between Nigeria and The Gambia without layovers, saving time and increasing travel comfort.

This development is expected to benefit business travellers, tourists, and individuals visiting family and friends. ValueJet's expansion strengthens its presence in West Africa, offering more route options for passengers.

Norway Introduces New Language Requirements for Residence Permits

The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) has introduced new language requirements for residence permits in Norway. These changes aim to ensure that foreign nationals residing in Norway have the necessary language skills to integrate into Norwegian society.

The new language requirements will apply to applicants for residence permits in Norway. To be eligible for a residence permit, applicants will need to demonstrate proficiency in the Norwegian language. The required level of proficiency will vary depending on the type of residence permit and the individual's circumstances.

The new requirements will be based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Applicants will need to demonstrate proficiency at a minimum level of A2 or B1, depending on the specific requirements for their residence permit.

Applicants will need to provide documentation of their language proficiency. They can take a Norwegian language test, such as the Bergenstest or the Norskprøve, to demonstrate their language proficiency. Completion of a Norwegian language course may also be accepted as proof of language proficiency.

The new language requirements will apply to all new applications for residence permits in Norway. Applicants who do not meet the language requirements may not be eligible for a residence permit.

Applicants who have passed all four parts of the Norwegian test at level A2 or higher will be exempted from taking the language requirements update.

The new language requirements will be implemented gradually, and UDI will provide guidance and support to applicants and employers to ensure a smooth transition.