This Week in Study Abroad (TWISA) is a weekly read on what current and prospective international students should be paying attention to, powered by Radius.

July 29– August 4, 2026

TL;DR

TOP STORIES FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE

• UK raises Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold to £41,700.
• USA makes visa bond programme permanent with bonds of up to $20,000.
• Australia opens nominations for the new National Innovation Visa.
• Canada introduces stricter financial verification for study permit applicants.
• Sweden increases the minimum salary requirement for work permits.

UNITED KINGDOM

The UK government has increased the minimum salary requirement for Skilled Worker visas from £38,700 to £41,700, effective 22 July 2025, as part of wider immigration reforms aimed at reducing net migration.

The salary threshold for new entrants has also been increased. Additionally, the government has restricted most new sponsored work visa applications to graduate-level occupations, tightening eligibility for employers seeking to hire international workers.

Organisations recruiting overseas talent are expected to review salary structures, sponsorship practices, and workforce planning to ensure compliance with the updated Immigration Rules before submitting visa applications.

Source: Eversheds

UNITED STATES

The United States has announced that its visa bond programme will become a permanent immigration policy beginning August 3, 2026.

Under the new rule, nationals from 50 designated countries applying for B-1 (Business) or B-2 (Tourist) visas may be required to pay a refundable bond ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 before receiving a visa.

The policy is intended to reduce visa overstays and improve compliance with U.S. immigration laws. While U.S. officials describe the measure as a border security enhancement, critics argue it could discourage genuine travellers and place a heavier financial burden on applicants from developing countries.

Source: Reuters 

AUSTRALIA

South Australia has officially opened nominations for Australia's new National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858), replacing the former Global Talent Visa.

The permanent visa targets individuals with internationally recognised achievements in research, technology, business, investment, creative industries, and other strategic sectors.

Applicants must demonstrate exceptional accomplishments and the ability to make significant contributions to Australia's innovation ecosystem and economic growth. The programme reflects Australia's continued focus on attracting highly skilled global talent.

Source: smithstonewalters 

CANADA

Canada has strengthened its study permit assessment process by introducing more rigorous financial verification requirements for international student applicants.

Immigration officers are now expected to examine the source of funds in every application and may request additional documentation, including up to six months of bank statements, employment records, and proof of family income.

The revised guidance removes earlier provisions that limited enhanced financial scrutiny to only "high-risk environments," meaning stricter financial checks will now apply more broadly. The changes are designed to improve the integrity of Canada's International Student Program and reduce fraudulent applications.

Source: Cicnews 

SWEDEN

Sweden has increased the minimum salary requirement for foreign nationals applying for work permits following an adjustment to the country's median wage.

Employers must now offer salaries that meet the revised threshold before work permit applications can be approved.

The policy aims to protect labour market standards, prevent worker exploitation, and ensure foreign employees receive competitive wages. Businesses planning to recruit internationally are advised to review their salary packages and employment contracts to ensure compliance with the updated immigration rules.

Source: smithstonewalters 

What to do this week

Based on this week's developments, here is exactly what a prospective international student should be doing right now:

1. Planning to work in the UK after graduation? Familiarise yourself with the new Skilled Worker salary thresholds and ensure your target roles meet the updated requirements.

2. Travelling to the U.S. on a visitor visa? Check whether your country is among those affected by the new visa bond programme and, if applicable, prepare financially.

3. Have exceptional achievements in research, technology, business, or innovation? Explore Australia's National Innovation Visa to determine if you qualify for permanent residency.

4. Applying for a Canadian study permit? Prepare comprehensive financial documentation, including verifiable proof of funds, employment records, and bank statements, to avoid delays or refusal.

5. Considering Sweden for work after your studies? Review the updated salary requirements and prioritise employers offering salaries that meet the new work permit threshold.

IN SUMMARY

Global immigration policies continue to evolve, with countries placing greater emphasis on skilled migration, stronger financial verification, and compliance with immigration rules. Whether your goal is to study, work, or settle abroad, staying informed about these policy changes will help you make better decisions, prepare stronger applications, and avoid costly mistakes.

We'll be back next Tuesday. Until then, your only job is to act on what you've just read.

Regards,

The Radius Team