Singapore and Canada are the most popular study destinations for Nigerian and other international students.
Canada, New Zealand, and Australia have implemented new
policies that effectively put an end to the practice of “flagpoling” for
Nigerian and other international students.
International students from Nigeria face challenges in
pursuing higher education in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand due to recent
policy changes. These countries have implemented regulations that restrict
international students’ ability to secure employment after graduation and limit
offshore visa applications.
As reported by Financial Express, the recent implementation
of border application restrictions in Canada may result in potential delays in
the issuance of work permits. This development could have an impact on
students’ plans to commence their employment immediately upon graduation.
The post-graduation work permit (PGWP) enables students who
have successfully completed their studies at a recognized Canadian
post-secondary institution to acquire valuable Canadian work experience. This
experience serves as a stepping stone towards obtaining permanent residency in
Canada.
However, the new legislation has imposed a limitation on
this regulation, consequently eliminating the privilege for international
student graduates to acquire valuable Canadian work experience.
In the year 2023, there was a significant increase in the
number of international students choosing Canada as their study destination.
This surge was largely attributed to the nation's favorable immigration
policies, which provided accessible pathways for obtaining work permits and
permanent residency. However, a recent policy change has the potential to
impact this growth positively by introducing a degree of uncertainty and
potential delays during the post-graduation phase.
The authorities emphasized the significance of facilitating
a smooth transition from education to employment for international students.
They cautioned that any delays in this process could result in financial strain
and the loss of potential job opportunities.
“The conclusion of the flagpoling practice may result in
extended processing times for work permits, potentially disrupting the plans of
individuals seeking immediate employment upon graduation. This development
could diminish Canada’s appeal as a preferred study destination, impacting its
competitive position within the global education market.
The government, however, advised that students should plan
ahead for the post-graduation phase. By taking proactive measures early in
their academic careers, students can ensure a smooth transition to the
workforce, even if there are delays in obtaining work permits.
“Participating in career counseling services, attending job
fairs, and networking with potential employers throughout their academic
journey can offer substantial benefits.
“Furthermore, it is crucial to maintain up-to-date
documentation and closely monitor any policy changes from Immigration,
Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to avoid unexpected complications, as
advised by the authorities.
In a similar vein, New Zealand has implemented additional
limitations on work visa regulations, specifically targeting certain categories
of Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders.
As per the recent announcement published on the Immigration
New Zealand website, the updated regulations stipulate that individuals holding
Accredited Employer Work Visas (AEWVs) in occupations classified at levels 4
and 5 by the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations
(ANZSCO), and who lack a pathway to residency, are no longer eligible to
sponsor work, visitor, or student visa applications for their partners and
dependent children.
“This modification is part of a more extensive series of
revisions to the AEWV scheme introduced earlier this year, reverting the
settings to those similar to the previous Essential Skills Work Visa.
It Is important for foreign nationals seeking to pursue
their education in this country to be aware that the government permits
partners and dependent children of AEWV holders to independently apply for New
Zealand visas, including AEWV or international student visas, subject to
meeting the requisite criteria.
“The recently implemented regulatory modifications,
effective as of June 26, will not impact the following categories of
individuals:
- Those already in possession of visas as partners or
dependent children.
- Holders of the Australian Employer-Sponsored Visa (AEWV)
in Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO)
level 4 and 5 roles with a pathway to residency, including those under the
Green List or sector agreements with residence pathways.
- Individuals earning at least 1.5 times the average salary
threshold for the Skilled Migrant Category.
In Australia, the government has implemented a policy that
restricts certain visa holders from applying for student visas while they are
physically present in the country. This includes visitor visa holders,
temporary graduate visa holders, and other specified visa categories.
Nevertheless, the Australian government has clarified that
student visa applications submitted domestically prior to July 1, 2024, will
remain unaffected by this adjustment and will proceed as usual.
“The government clarified that holders of working holiday
maker and work and holiday visas will not be affected by the new policy.
Following the recent developments, the Australian government
has clarified that temporary graduates must leave the country upon visa
expiration or explore job opportunities that could lead to employer-sponsored
visas or permanent residency if they wish to stay in Australia.
These modifications, as stated by the government, complement
a series of other modifications that will be implemented for temporary graduate
visa holders on July 1, 2024.
“These include significantly reduced post-study work rights,
lowered age limits from 50 to 35 years of age, and increased English language
requirements that were implemented in March.
“Individuals seeking a student visa may apply offshore and
travel to Australia to await the visa decision. However, they must possess or
obtain a valid visa that permits entry and temporary residence in Australia
during this period.
Additionally, offshore student visa applicants are unable to
obtain a bridging visa to remain in Australia during the processing of their
application. Under the new regulations, visitor visa holders may continue their
studies for a maximum of three months while their visa is valid. Individuals
intending to study for periods exceeding three months will be required to apply
for a Student visa outside of Australia.