Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended a policy allowing certain work permit holders to study without a study permit. This applies to those who applied for a work permit or renewal before June 7, 2023.

The policy remains valid until June 27, 2026. Eligible individuals must hold a valid work permit or work authorization letter. They can present documents like valid work permits or IRCC acknowledgements to enrol in schools.

Studying in Canada offers benefits like better labour market performance, higher earnings, and improved eligibility for permanent residency through higher Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores or provincial immigration pathways.

Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) reported a 31.6% rise in arrests for harboring or hiring immigration offenders from January to September 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

This year, 166 individuals were arrested for providing lodging, and 138 for employing immigration offenders, most of whom overstayed their visas or worked illegally after their work passes expired.

ICA conducts about 60 operations monthly to tackle these offenses, aided by public tip-offs. Inspector Mark Chai warned of potential security risks from such offenders, including illegal activities. Offenders face up to 24 months in jail, fines, or both.

Indonesian authorities arrested 12 Vietnamese women in North Jakarta for alleged involvement in a prostitution ring. The women entered Indonesia on tourist visas, misusing their permits in violation of the 2011 Immigration Law.

Authorities raided the location in Muara Karang after a month-long investigation. The women were found offering sexual services, with the organizer charging Rp 5.6 million per client. They had been in Indonesia for a month before their arrest.

The women will be deported and banned from re-entering for two years. Officials are investigating the criminal network behind the operation, coordinating with Vietnam for further legal action.