Australia’s visa processing delays are worsening for international students as officials are reassigned to handle a surge in asylum applications. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) prioritises refugee cases, affecting student visa timelines.

Immigration expert Abul Rizvi notes a rise in asylum claims from former students, with many Vietnamese students facing delays of up to five months. The Australian government will cap international student numbers at 270,000 for 2025, reducing spots at public and vocational institutions. This cap is significantly lower than pre-pandemic levels, aiming to manage the growing backlog.

Germany has signed a deal with Kenya to admit 250,000 skilled and semi-skilled workers. This agreement addresses Germany's skilled labour shortage while offering opportunities for Kenyans facing employment challenges.

The deal includes provisions for temporary and long-term visas, with options for vocational training and employment. Kenyan IT specialists and other professionals will be welcomed, even without formal qualifications.

The deal also addresses labour exploitation and includes readmission guidelines. However, there are concerns about a potential brain drain from Kenya. The initiative is part of Germany's broader efforts to manage immigration and labour shortages.

New Zealand Immigration advises students to apply for visas at least three months in advance to avoid delays during the peak season from October to February. While student visa processing is prioritized, the surge in applications causes delays.

University visa processing can take up to five weeks, with other educational institutions varying between four to seven weeks. Some visas may take longer than the estimated times.

Authorities recommend early application to ensure timely decisions, especially for students starting in 2025. Meanwhile, the Parent Resident Visa has the longest processing time, taking up to nine months.