This Week in Study Abroad (TWISA) is a weekly read on what current and prospective international students should watch, powered by Radius.
August 26–September 1, 2026
TL;DR
TOP STORIES FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE
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China introduces new exit-entry administration procedures effective September 15.
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US pauses immigrant visa appointments at embassies and consulates worldwide.
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Croatia implements major changes to its foreign nationals law, including expanded rights for students and workers.
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Sweden prepares stricter family immigration rules from October 1.
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The UK faces calls to reconsider proposed settlement changes for international care workers
CHINA
China will introduce new exit-entry administration procedures from September 15, 2026. The new regulation aims to standardise exit and entry procedures while strengthening oversight of travellers, organisations and intermediary agencies. Immigration authorities will have greater powers to request documents and electronic information, verify invitation letters and application materials, and refuse entry or exit where false information is provided. Foreign nationals found responsible for immigration violations or submitting false materials could also face a one-to-five-year entry ban. Students travelling to China should ensure their documents and declarations are accurate.
Source: China State Council
UNITED STATES
The US State Department has temporarily paused immigrant visa appointments at US embassies and consulates worldwide to allow embassy and consular employees to undergo new training. The pause applies only to immigrant visas and does not affect visas for tourism, study, business travel or temporary work. Existing immigrant visa appointments may be adjusted, and applicants will be contacted directly if changes are required. No date has been announced for the resumption of appointments. Students planning to study in the US should therefore continue their student visa process while monitoring official updates.
Source: Le Monde
CROATIA
Croatia has implemented major amendments to its Law on Foreign Nationals, introducing changes affecting international workers, students and other third-country nationals. The reforms include longer validity periods for student residence permits and expanded work rights for international students. Some foreign workers can also change employers after six months without restarting the permit process. EU Blue Card holders receive simplified job-change procedures, while academics benefit from greater mobility provisions. The changes could make Croatia an increasingly interesting option for international students considering European destinations with opportunities to work alongside their studies.
Source: Crown World Mobility
SWEDEN
Sweden is introducing stricter family immigration rules from October 1, 2026. People with temporary residence permits will generally face a two-year waiting period before family reunification, along with stronger financial maintenance requirements. However, exemptions will apply to several categories, including researchers, doctoral students, EU Blue Card holders, certain work permit holders and protected persons. For international students, the impact may depend on their future residence status. Students considering Sweden should understand how moving from study into research or skilled employment could affect their ability to bring family members.
Source: Government Offices of Sweden
UNITED KINGDOM
The UK is facing renewed calls to reconsider proposed immigration changes affecting international care workers. UNISON says international recruitment into care jobs fell sharply from 105,000 in 2023/24 to 30,000 in 2025/26, while the sector continues to face significant vacancies. The union is opposing plans that could increase the settlement waiting period for international health and care workers from five to 15 years. For students considering UK health and care programmes, the developments highlight the importance of looking beyond admission and studying current work visa and long-term settlement pathways.
Source: Nursing in Practice
WHAT TO DO THIS WEEK
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Planning to study in China? Review your documents carefully before the new exit-entry procedures take effect on September 15.
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Applying for a US student visa? Continue your application. The current immigrant visa appointment pause does not affect student visas.
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Considering Croatia? Check the latest residence permit and student work provisions when comparing your study-abroad options.
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Planning to study in Sweden? Understand how your residence status could affect family reunification under the new October rules.
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Considering a UK health or care programme? Research current work and settlement policies alongside your course and university options.
IN SUMMARY
This week's developments show how quickly immigration policies can change and why international students need to look beyond admission requirements when planning their journeys.
The takeaway: stay informed, prepare early and always check the latest requirements before making your next move.
We'll be back next Tuesday. Until then, stay informed and stay ahead.
Regards,
The Radius Team
