Indians eye Australia, Canada for study

Hyderabad: The United States has always been the number one destination for international students looking for high quality education and the opportunity to work abroad. But now, with the new US administration’s focus on protecting the jobs of American citizens, and the anticipated changes to the H-1B visa, Indian students are uncertain about their future in that country.

Immigration consultants in Hyderabad have observed a 30-40 per cent decline in students opting for the US. Instead, higher education in Canada and Australia is becoming a highly preferred alternative.

Both countries offer students the option of staying on after they complete their studies.They can work on a work permit or apply for a permanent resident visa which allows them to settle in Australia or Canada and apply for citizenship later on. Other options are New Zealand and Germany.

Karthik Mantha from Hyderabad went to Australia to study in February this year. “I chose Australia because first there’s a lot of scope for accountants here. Secondly, I get a post work visa of two years during which I can find a good job and pay back my debts, and thirdly, if everything goes well, I can apply for a permanent residency too.’’

A Subhakar, director, Global Tree Immigration Consultants, said, “Most US universities have reported a drop of 30-40 per cent in the number of applications received in the first quarter. Our office as well as other consultancies in Hyderabad and south India have also observed a decline of 40-50 per cent in applications, while applications for Canada and Australia have doubled.’’