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When can Indian students travel to Australia & join their studies?

Jaspal Singh - 21 July 2021

Updated on May 27th, 2023

Indian students planning to travel to Australia have a question in mind that we all are trying to get an answer, but still wandering to fix it. Question is, when can Indian students travel to their dreamland to join their studies? Several international students, including thousands from India, enrolled in Australian universities remain offshore because of the strict border closure. Parents, students & education consultants are estimating the timeline for student return. Australia’s economy is on track, although affected by Covid-19 to some extent. Credits for this go to the country’s stable financial system. But whereas it completely affected the education sector.

Overseas students cannot travel to Australia to join their classes. Universities and other institutes are struggling hard for their survival. It scattered their economic structure so much that they cannot pay salaries to their staff, denying them regular jobs. Figures show that Universities shed at least 17,300 jobs in 2020.

Indian students are waiting for opening of borders

International education is the country’s fourth-biggest export, with A$40.3 billion in 2019. Closure of borders for International Students cost a loss of 9 billion. These figures are from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABC). The country’s borders have been effectively closed to international students for well over a year and there is still no clear-cut sign of when they will reopen. Over 110,000 international students currently enrolled in higher education courses in Australia are studying remotely because of the border closures, according to federal government figures.

According to data released by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment in May, the number of Indian students enrolled in Australian universities dropped by 13 percent between January and May this year as compared to a similar period last year. 

An initiative by South Australia

International Students waiting to travel

South Australia had previously announced its pilot plan to let international students travel to Australia and quarantine at Parafield Airport last few weeks giving few indications of the early opening of borders for international students. Under the plan, 160 students would be quarantined at Parafield Airport and be required to have daily COVID-19 tests. Parafield Airport is on the edge of the residential suburb of Parafield. It’s in South Australia, 18 km north of the Adelaide city center. It is Adelaide’s second airport and the third busiest airport in Australia by aircraft movements. After China, India is among the biggest source of international students for SA. Outside of China, India is the next biggest source of overseas students for South Australia.

Sydney lockdown & its effects

Similarly, NSW announced its plan to bring back international students in June, which was under review by the federal government. They did not include though India in this pilot plan. This plan of the NSW government was about to happen, but the outbreak of the virus in Sydney delayed it. They extended lockdowns many times. NSW has paused plans to fly in international students to help kick-start the struggling education sector. Premier Ms. Berejiklian said recently we had put the pilot program on hold. Adding the government would not compromise its ability to exit the lockdown as quickly as possible.

Federal Education Minister Alan Tudge further endorsed the statement saying ‘the NSW government had made the right call in pausing the pilot’. Sydney is currently battling a spike in the highly contagious Delta variant infections, which has prompted New South Wales (NSW) Premier Gladys Berejiklian to pause its student pilot plan while the state remains in lockdown. 

Over the past year, South Australia and Australian Capital Territory had also announced similar student return plans, but not implemented them. Other states also followed the same, but there’s no concrete answer. When international students can travel to Australia, which has kept students on edge since the country shut its borders in March 2020. 

Changing the mindset of students

There is increasing frustration in students planning to study in Australia. whereas other countries are relaxing restrictions and openly managing and facilitating the safe return of students, Australia seems more conscious of it. Students are changing their choice to other destinations like UK & USA. It is very clear the fate of the international education sector rests on Australia’s border policy. The most important factor in the sector’s recovery is the rate at which both new and returning international students can enter the country. Experts claim global competitors are gaining because of Australia’s tight border policy.

In concluding lines, we can still keep hoping for the early opening of borders for Indian students. We all are expecting it sooner. The country needs a national proactive strategy to bring back existing students on priority. Although Prime Minister announced the opening of borders from November 1 for a few categories but has not yet communicated a specific timeline for their student return.

…recent updates (Nov. 2021)

As per media reports, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on ( 12th Nov 2021) in Melbourne that international travelers and students from India could soon enter the country. He further clarified that the government had already expanded the definition of the immediate family. This will allow the parents of permanent residents and citizens to be allowed for entering Australia.

Media report on Australia Travel
Media report
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London retains a Top ranking attractive destination for Indian Students till 2023

Jaspal Singh - 10 July 2021

UK Study Visa

Updated on July 28th, 2023

UK education is always one of the best choices for international studies. It opens doors for you where ever you go. With its innovative teaching approach and leading minds, the UK has the best Universities that deliver world-recognized education. There is no doubt if we say one in four world leaders has studied in the UK. So if you are dreaming big things, you must choose the UK as your further education option. Here we will discuss different statics on changing trends among Indian Students choosing the UK & especially London as their study destination.

UK Education is once again in focus

Recent statistics from the Home Office show the changing trend in favor of UK education. Till earlier this month, there was a 6391 increase in the number of study visa grants to Indian students in the year ending March 2021, making a 13 percent hike over the previous year.

According to the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) data, British universities received 9,930 applications from Indians this year — a 30% increase from the 7,640 applications received last year. 

To attract more international students, immigration rules have been amended. Post Study Work is a major change that will be beneficial for students to stay more in the UK after completing their degree.

The Graduate Route & recent changes

The department has launched the Graduate Route, commonly known as PSW. Under this plan, international students who have completed an undergraduate or master’s degree will avail of two years of work experience. Students who complete their Ph.D. will stay for three years.

If you have been studying online in your home country because of Covid-19, you can still apply for the Graduate Route, provided you meet the other requirements of the route. Last year UK Home Secretary Priti Patel announced 21 June as the deadline to be in the UK to qualify for a graduate Route Visa. They have extended the deadline to 27th September 2021. This change will benefit Indian students who have been waiting to travel to the UK to qualify for PSW.

A new trend in choosing a location: London is in focus

Another changing trend shows that the UK capital city is the most preferred one when choosing a University location. Statistics on this show an astonishing growth for London as a preferred location. Indian students coming to study at UK universities are enrolling in London Universities. Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) statistics suggest that 13,435 Indian students have been enrolled at London Universities. This is an 87 percent hike from the previous year’s 7,185 students. There can be many reasons behind this trend including quality & world ranking of Universities.

Introducing a two-year post-study visa is one of the major reasons for students choosing UK education overall. Let’s hope students will get more opportunities in one of the best countries for higher education.

Key Ranking Factors:

The ranking methodology considers six equally weighted factors, each accounting for 16.67% of the overall score:

1. QS World University Rankings: Evaluates the collective performance of a city’s universities in the QS World University Rankings.

2. Student Mix: Assesses the diversity of the student population, including international students, on campus.

3. Desirability: Uses various datasets to gauge the overall appeal of a destination, considering factors like safety and pollution.

4. Employer Activity: Considers factors from the QS Graduate Employability Rankings to identify cities most sought-after by graduates for employment opportunities.

5. Affordability: Measures the cost-effectiveness of a city for prospective students and their families, encompassing tuition fees and cost of living.

6. Student Voice: Integrates feedback from the yearly QS International Student Survey, reflecting students’ experiences studying abroad.

If you need more professional advice, drop an email at Adv.Jaspal@gmail.com

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Williamstown Beach: where my heart takes me

Jaspal Singh - 4 July 2021

Updated on May 26th, 2023

I took the title of this article from someone’s blog on Melbourne Experiences. Once again, my memories got refreshed, and I shared my impressions here. I visited Williamstown Beach a few years back. Despite that, I feel it’s a tale of yesterday. During my stay in Melbourne, it was my favorite place to spend time, whenever I felt to relax my soul and mind. I have seen different moods of nature there, like color-changing horizons, different shapes of clouds, and thundering waves. Quoting someone, I will say, the sea does not reward those who are too anxious, too greedy, or too impatient. One should lie empty, open, choiceless as a beach – waiting for a gift from the sea’.

Williamstown Beach is located where the Yarra River enters Hobsons Bay and Port Phillip in the southwest of Melbourne. They originally developed this beach as an industrial port to serve the needs of those days. Now it is one of the most beautiful beaches around Melbourne with a lot of scenic beauty.

Williamstown Beach Station
Williamstown Beach station
Williamstown Beach Station
Another View of Williamstown Beach Station

Whether you live near or far from the ocean, river, or lake, hearing the name of the beach makes you full of enthusiasm, and many things come to your mind. I heard one popular saying, ‘If you’re lucky enough to be at the beach…then you’re lucky enough’ Life and nature are always together on the beach. No matter how upset and down you feel, visiting the beach can make you full of life once again. In every drop of water and every blow of breeze, there is a story of life. All this is true for Williamstown Beach as well.

Pleasant weather, clean water, and soft sand make this beach a nice place to spend time. In a few words, I will say that this beach is a fantastic place to be there and, if you like, for immersing yourself in the water with someone you really love. It will give you a wonderful life experience that you will never forget. A feeling of calmness invades your soul, and over time, it goes firmer and deeper in memories.

Sunset at Williamtown beach
Sunset time @ Williams Town Beach

As a nature lover, here you will get all to make your visit a really memorable moment. The beach is around 550 m long, surrounded by water from three sides. The eastern shoreline comprises foreshore reserves dotted with piers, gardens, and remnants of Williamstown’s maritime history.

If you are not interested in going out and swimming, there is a bar facing the beach, where you can sit and enjoy the sea view. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants as well, where you can enjoy coffee and other things. Ice cream and meal shops will make your trip really enjoyable. The Williamstown Swimming and Surf Life Saving Club, formed in 1922, is at the western end next to the Baths.

During summers, this place remains full of people of all ages enjoying swimming and relaxing in the sun on the sandy beach, whereas during winter days people come here for a walk and enjoy calm and peace to relax their minds. During summer days, you can see people there doing different fun activities. You can plan a picnic with your family and kids. You will find people making sandcastles, playing volleyball, collecting seashells, taking picture shots, relaxing on beach chairs, and making beach tents. Going for a picnic at Williamstown will make another day in paradise.

WilliamsTown Beach

Williamstown is a 30-minute train journey from Flinders Street Station, the last station on the Williamstown line. Railways station there has two platforms opening on opposite sides, and the beach is just a 5-minute walking distance away from the station.

I read somewhere that you can also reach Williamstown if you catch a ferry from Melbourne. I feel it would be a great journey passing through downtown Melbourne and the Yarra River, finally changing to a broad shipping yard. Ferries from Melbourne’s Southgate Arts & Leisure Precinct take approximately 1 hour.

I wish to have a ferry ride on my next trip to Melbourne. Be sure to make Williamstown Beach your first place to visit when you are in Melbourne and when you go out to explore Melbourne Beaches. I will end this article by saying that Williamstown Beach has everything to refresh your mind, body, and spirit. Keep visiting this outstanding place whenever you get time. I will write more on Melbourne Beaches.

Williamstown Beach, 18th April 2023
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Europe is opening Borders gradually for Travelers

Jaspal Singh - 19 June 2021

Updated on August 23rd, 2021

After complete closure because of the Covid-19 situation for several months, now Indians will be eligible to visit European countries even for tourism. Different visa application centres in India have resumed their work for different visa categories. Recently Switzerland, Belgium, Denmark, Croatia, Austria, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, Estonia few more, has announced that its visa application centres working in different cities of India, which temporarily suspended their services because of the Coronavirus, have resumed their work. Europe is opening borders in steps.

Students and visitors who are planning to travel to different European countries will travel in the coming days. For the last few days, if not months, Europe is gradually opening borders to more countries. Hopefully, India will be on the list soon. Many Indian students, travellers, are hoping to travel to different destinations. All are also cautious on fluctuating situations affected by Covid. Vaccination and other safety measures will contribute a lot to free travelling in the coming months.

Germany has permitted entry to third-country travellers. This permission is for non-essential purposes like tourism, visiting family and friends. They must be vaccinated before the last 14 days. Permission will be in effect from June 25, 2021. European countries announced such guidelines in the past few days.

Given all this, aspiring students and other travellers must start their planning by taking all precautions. As embassies in Delhi & other cities are open now, you must start your applications for admission and visa permits. Countries like Malta, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland are among popular destinations for higher studies. It would help if you started well in time to excel in your future dreams.

Indians now don’t require Airport Transit Visa in France

Another good news for Indians, they don’t need AirPort Transit Visa (ATV) for France. From 23rd July onward, every Indian passport holder may go through the International zone of any airport in France without ATV. Mr Alexander Ziegler, Ambassador of France in India, announced this through a tweet.

Austria Lifts Quarantine Requirement

Austria lifted the requirement of quarantine for travellers from the UK, India, Russia, Nepal, South Africa and Zambia. Authorities have taken this decision after the countries are out of the virus variant area list, which became effective on 15 August 2021.

“The following countries are no longer considered virus variant areas but “other countries”: Botswana, India, Nepal, Russia, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Zambia. Fully vaccinated travellers from these countries do not need to self-isolate anymore,” the statement of Austria’s Official Travel Portal reads.

We always keep on updating our articles, so keep visiting again.

Visit for more details at www.caanworld.net.

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US education & Study Visa will bounce back in 2022

Jaspal Singh - 13 June 2021

USA Study Visa

Updated on September 7th, 2024

In June this year, the US embassy announced the opening of bulk student appointment slots from June 14. So it was obviously hoped a noticeable rise in US study visa applications for this dream destination in the coming future. This was big news for all students planning to join US higher education and degrees in US colleges and universities. Don Heflin, who is in charge of visa operations at the embassy and the four consulates in India, said that time, ‘We will open tens of thousands of visa appointment slots on Monday, June 14, during the morning business hours.’

Department announces to open appointments in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. Students can book appointments at their nearest center and avoid travel. He further clarified that the embassy would interview as many students as in 2019, the last normal year.

US Universities are welcoming Indian students

The US always remained a most sought-after destination for higher studies. A wide range of scholarship options, the cost of education, and entirely an international space are among the important reasons. This makes the USA a diverse society to live in. Over 150 Universities in the USA are among the world’s top universities according to QS rankings 2020. That alone speaks for itself for US education.

Source: Keystone Report

After the election of Biden as President, students see the US as a more favorable destination for their studies. A survey report released by Keystone Academic Solutions, based upon 5851 website visitors, shows that 83% of students from different nations are likely to study in the US since the election of Biden. As per these reports, 48% were interested in master’s programs, 21% in bachelor’s, 13% in doctoral, and 12% in certificate or diploma programs. Similarly, an IDP survey of 800 prospective students earlier this year suggested that 76% of prospective students said the election of Biden improved their perception of the US as a study destination.

Difficulty in getting appointments

There is a deluge to get an F-1 visa, whereas the slot is minimal. The US government has kept most non-immigrant international travel from India suspended since April 30. And now, because of the rush, students are finding it difficult to get appointment slots for their visas. Institutes across the US are ready to allow international students entry into physical campus programs from the Fall session onwards.

Department spokesperson encouraged students to apply early for visas, adding that the department prioritizes interview appointments for students and expedites appointments on a case-by-case basis.

Bhawana
Bhawana Salaria

Bhawana Salaria, an education consultant based in Jalandhar, & Director of CAAN World Consultants, said that students prefer to apply for US study visas because it has so many reasons behind it, including best and ranking Universities & better career opportunities. When other countries like Australia, New Zealand are still planning to open borders for International Students. The USA has opened visas for Indian students, and this step will certainly be beneficial to Indian students.

Update in September 2021

Media reports say over 55000 Indian students and exchange visitors to the United States have been given students visa in 2021. This is the highest number ever, a US Mission statement said. In June 2021, as soon as conditions allowed, additional slots of appointments were opened. Ultimately, these efforts paid off. A good number of students received visas to study in the United States, the statement further read.

This announcement of over 55,000 students and exchange visitor’s visas came when on the other side, countries like Australia and New Zealand have not opened borders for international students. So many European countries have not been clear about vaccination requirements for Indian students.

On a very positive note, Ambassador Atul Keshap said, ‘Indian students also enrich US society, and achieve a high level of academic success. This also deepens the bonds of friendship between our countries.’

…expecting more visas in the coming days

In light of these observations, it seems very clear that in the coming years, or at least in 2022, US education will be in the limelight, attracting more international students worldwide and in India.

Besides the quality of education, the cost of study, career opportunities, working, and welcoming immigration will be among a few important reasons behind this growing trend. As a professional working in the international education industry, I hope this will be a great opportunity for aspiring students.

Planning to study in the USA, Call our expert team +91-9216 310 310
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The Company of Women: An Erotic Fantasy

Jaspal Singh - 29 May 2021

Updated on May 15th, 2023

The Company of Women is entertaining, has a grip on readers, and has erotic, emotional, and social angles. Need mature readers who can see other things beyond a simple narration of a few sex descriptions. If we go with the title and a few other erotic details, it seems a tale revolving around the life of a rich businessperson who had an unsuccessful married life. Recently separated from his ill-tempered wife of thirteen years. And now trying to have the adventure of companions to share his bed.

Convinced that ‘lust is the true foundation of love, he is focused on his physical needs. He keeps on searching for companionship to spend his leisure time. When his marriage breaks down, he places an advertisement for a concubine. What he needs is a short-stay, live-in relationship. No strings attached. All this keeps on rolling throughout the storyline.

Ladies, those who came into the life of Mohan

Few ladies come into his life, one after another, and share intimacy and sexual relationship. A few remarkable women that can be named are Ph.D. Professor Sarojini Bharadwai from small-town Rewari, sweet-natured and talkative Molly Gomes from Goa, classy charmer, and seductress Susanthika from Sri Lanka. We can’t ignore his association in the US, where he was a student, his first love, the American black lady, assertive Jessica Browne, to whom he lost his virginity, and the wife of Azad Kashmir minister, Pakistani Yasmeen Wanchoo, who brought him the passion of an older woman. After each affair ends and before the next begins, Mohan finds solace in the practiced charms of his obliging maid, Danno.

‘The Company of Women‘ also talks about social aspects

I have mixed impressions about this book. No doubt it has a lot of erotic and endlessly entertaining content, but it has much more. It also discussed the concept of arranged marriages in India. Based upon the social and economic status of families, ignoring the basic nature of individuals. And how such relations keep on crawling without love bonding. Urban life cultures of social clubs, like the Gymkhana Club and the India International Center, where Mohan spends his evenings, also reflect the behavior of people and the hollowness of relations. People keep on back-biting each other.

The main character of the story, Mohan Kumar, also has a strong bond with his father. He went to study in the US. After completing it, I preferred to return and settle in India despite getting an offer of a green card. On the other side, Mohan’s wife’s behavior toward Mohan’s father also shows bitterness in such relations. Besides being focused on fantasy, it is also a comment on the hypocrisy of Indian society.

Overall, the book is worth reading if you are looking for cheap thrills and erotica. But it may shock others who like scholarly and meaningful prose quality. Those who have read other scholarly works of Khushwant Singh, especially History of Sikhs, Train to Pakistan & his novel Delhi will find this book below. The author wrote such an erotic fantasy at eighty-three, and he has a grip on its subject.

You may contact the author here Adv.Jaspal@gmail.com

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A Mystical Journey in the hills & woods: Kedarnath

Jaspal Singh - 24 May 2021

Updated on September 7th, 2024

The gladdest moment in human life is a departure into unknown lands, and I believe travelling to different places like Kedarnath makes you more full of life, but these days we all face a controlled lifestyle imposed on us because of lockdowns. No doubt it is there for the safety of people, and we must follow it, but still staying indoors, within the boundaries of the house for months is not very easy to adopt a lifestyle. In such a situation, planning a trip, even in-country, needs careful research to avoid any hassle during your journey. Few states keep on imposing travel restrictions. Some others may have imposed night curfews.

I started my travel blog with this line to make you aware that complete information on your travel plans, stay & accommodations are essential these days. During lockdown last year in November, we planned a trip to the divine temple of Kedarnath, which is one of the most famous Shiva temples in India. Few family friends planned this trip. Initially, I did not have any plan to join, but when they asked, I agreed as I heard and read many descriptions on Shiv Sutra, especially narrated by OSHO.

Another excellent read on this is ‘The Shiv Sutra, in my understanding’ by V. Susan Ferguson. Shiva Sutras are scriptures that help a seeker on the spiritual path to embark on an inward journey towards the self. We believe these sutras connect the individual to his core and to the larger cosmos or the universal soul. We also say it is the ultimate God.

Shiva Sutras is a collection of seventy-seven aphorisms that form spiritual mysticism known as Kashmir Shaivism. The Shiva Sutras and the ensuing school of Kashmir Shaivism are a tantric tradition. Tantrics saw themselves as independent of the Vedic mainstream schools of thought and practice and beyond the rules put in place by them. This is somewhere science of mind. Today, experts of human psychology are testifying those principles laid centuries ago. I had an inner zeal to know and connect myself to the place I travel, and all this was the core reason for my going to this great place.

If we talk about the route to Kedarnath, go to Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and finally Gourikund. We started from my place in Jalandhar in a hired taxi and reached Rishikesh via Haridwar and planned our first night to stay there. It was late evening when we reached and booked our stay in a hotel. Although it was an excellent hotel, it was clear from occupancy, maintenance, and other things that the hotel industry is worst affected in the COVID era. Guests were mostly in transit, those who had to extend their stay because of the lockdown. Few Hotels in Rishikesh are really offering the best services to visitors.

Here I am talking about the situation of November 2020. I think it is still struggling for survival amid COVID lockdowns. Let’s pray for better days soon.

The second day we started our trip around 9 am, and we expected to reach our destination by the evening, but we took the wrong path and travelled towards Tehri, and it prolonged the journey for few hours. No doubt it delayed our journey, despite that we enjoyed it. Beautiful Kunds with small multiple falls look so picturesque, we stopped for a while and clicked few snaps. The river view by the side of the road was so beautiful that it hypnotizes your senses. The continuous water flows striking the surrounding rocks, making big water flow sounds, can easily mesmerize one. It is a beautiful route while going to Gangotri. I really feel that it’s worth going there again and again.

We reached Gourikund late at night but anyhow managed our stay in some guest house. Fully exhausted, we just had available food and slept to wake up the next morning. Gaurikund is a place known as the starting point of the walking journey towards Kedarnath. Kedarnath Temple is approx. 17 km by track from here. Budget and cheap hotels and guest houses are available in Gauri Kund. We also stayed in one guest house. It was a very basic stay but excellent in hospitality and homely food. In Gaurikund, one can take a bath in naturally hot water. According to the legends, Goddess Parvati meditated over here to marry Lord Shiva. There are so many springs that offer refreshing baths before starting the holy journey up to Kedarnath Temple.

One must keep in mind that up-down in one day is not possible by track (walk), so check your fitness first and plan your trip as you may also face low oxygen during the track towards Kedarnath, so people bring a substance ‘Kapoor’ along with them, it helps in breathing. The easiest and most convenient way to reach the temple is by helicopter. If you are looking to cut down travel time or travel with someone who cannot walk too much, this is the best way to go to the temple. It’s just a 5-7 minutes’ flight to reach the temple. Flights start from different points, even from Dehradun, from where it takes 40-45 minutes to reach. Although an expensive option you will have experienced the visit to one of the wonderful & spiritual place, also it will cut down your travel time. We preferred this option on our journey.

Although many things, including old tracks, bridges and private properties, got damaged during a massive natural disaster flood in 2013, and also it costed a death toll of over 5000. As life always finds reasons to continue, new tracks and other facilities like new bridges, resting sheds, they again constructed small shops for visitors.

Being in the travel industry, I have had opportunities to travel to many exciting places in India and abroad as well, both on the professional and personal front. However, this trip of mine was one of the best ones.

Kedarnath temple is at the height of over 3500 meters from sea level, so this is the highest Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The nearest river flowing near Kedarnath temple is Mandakini coming from the snow-covered mountains. As we preferred a helicopter for reaching the temple, it was also a glorious experience. Reaching the helipad on the premises of the temple, you can’s stop your wow feeling. It’s like you landed somewhere in dreamland or somewhere in heaven.

Taking about the mythological history of the Kedarnath temple, it traces back to Pandavas when they were supposed to please Lord Shiva to seek forgiveness for killing their kins during the war. When Lord Shiva knows this, he hides as a bull but finally got traced. There is a bull (Nandi) statue in front of the temple in today’s temple. People believed Lord Shiva is present as a bull in this temple. There are so many other temples related to Lord Shiva in the surrounding of the main temple.

There are plenty of mysteries surrounding the temple, with many believing it was built centuries ago. No one knows the true origins of the temple. There are many legends and stories about Jyotirlinga and other aspects of the Kedarnath Temple in Hindu mythology. According to one belief, Shankaracharya built the present temple in the 8th century. Pandavas initially built that temple. The walls of the temple’s sanctum are decorated with figures of various divinities and sections from mythology. According to one belief, Kedarnath Temple was under the snow for about 400 years. That period was between 1300 AD to 1900 AD. The structure of the Kedarnath Temple has several yellow lines that formed because of the slow movement of the glacier above the stones.

Travelling in hills and woods always attracts me, as mountains and forests give a close touch to nature and peace of mind that we miss amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life. Being in the mountains never gets boring for me. Rather, it makes my soul happy. Travelling is my passion & profession as well. On this trip, you will find so many tourist attractions to enjoy.

When you drive through the mountains, every turn on the road has something to say. I think, if you want to be in the lap of nature and need to experience every bit, mountains are the best places to be in. Natural beauty in the surrounding of Kedarnath is beyond explanation. The magnanimous Himalayas, the holiest of the rivers, the spiritual mystery, stunning landscapes, a mesmerizing floral make you feel outstanding. No words can ever be enough to describe this blessed land perfectly. There is a saying, ‘where ever you go, go with your heart’. Concerning Kedarnath, I will say, whenever you go there, go with your heart & soul. In continuity, you may also read The Thrilling Adventure of Rafting in Rishikesh.

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MALTA: A Beautiful destination for higher studies

Jaspal Singh - 22 May 2021

Updated on September 7th, 2024

I am in the profession of consultancy of students for international education for over two decades. During this span of time, I have been to different destinations, including various parts of Europe. In Europe, there are so many destinations that are popular among students choosing higher education abroad. Malta is one of those destinations that we will explore in this article. Malta is a small island about 80 km south of Italy and 280km east of Tunisia. It is home to a population of roughly 440,000 people. The capital city of Malta is Valletta. It has 11,500 students, including over 600 international students from 71 different countries. Studying in Malta is most suited for international students. It is an English-speaking country, and they base the education system in Malta on the British model offering rich and diverse programs for higher studies.

Private & Public Colleges in Malta

Even though small, Malta has different public and private institutions that offer programs at different levels to overseas students. Most of these institutes are in Valetta, the capital city. Institutes offer graduate programs in various disciplines and specialist courses in tourism, arts, technology, etc. It houses hundreds of international students, many of whom are there to improve their proficiency in the English language.

We also call Malta the ‘hidden gem of the Mediterranean’ because interesting geographical locations such as Sicily and Alexandria surrounded it. Malta is a relatively peaceful country surrounded by beauty. And there is a wide variety of career choices students may choose to focus on.

This country offers an excellent standard of education, an affordable living style and plenty of exciting career opportunities. I regularly attend conferences and education fairs in different parts of Europe, including Poland, Hungary, and Switzerland.

A great place to improve your English
Student Life in MALTA
Student Life in MALTA

Malta is a great place to learn the lingua franca of the global business economy — English. Around 75,000 international students enroll in English language courses every year. A large proportion of the students come from Italy. Also, it attracts many French and German learners. Most international students arrive in July, combining a summer vacation with a chance to improve their English. General English is the most popular course. It focuses on four key language skills–reading, writing, listening, and speaking–with additional vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Courses are between 15-30 hours a week, which includes a significant amount of one-to-one tutoring. Other course options include intensive English, English for work, business or academic English, and 50+ programs tailored to mature students.

Top courses in MALTA

MBA: A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a graduate degree. A master of business administration (MBA) is a graduate degree that provides theoretical and practical business or investment management training. An MBA helps graduates gain a better understanding of general business management functions. 

Master of Engineering Studies in Geotechnical Engineering: Completing the Master of Engineering Studies in Geotechnical Engineering will enhance your ability to practice in the geotechnical engineering field by extending your education in your area of specialization and upgrading your current skills and training.

Hotel Management: The Bachelor’s Degree in International Hotel Management prepares students to enter the world of hospitality as leaders and managers with a strategic approach to business. It combines management theory with hands-on hospitality courses, professional internships, and a business specialization.

Professional Cooking: This course involves inculcating advanced cookery skills and administrative management skills. It involves indulging in techniques such as specialization in patisserie and gastronomy. It would also involve planning and implementing a live dinner service (including menu development and management skills).

Tourism and Hospitality: Tourism and leisure refer to the management of products and services related to such activities as traveling for pleasure, personal recreation, and various social events.

Stay back Options in Malta

Some students decide to take up permanent residence in Malta once they complete their educational requirements. English environment and free health care, and other factors attract many to make Malta their permanent home. Malta has a lot to offer; whether you are a student or staying permanently, you will not soon forget. After graduating, you have all the support you need to start a career or even build your own business.

Life & Other Activities in Malta

Malta is a country where you can get a great education, and enjoy a high standard of living. There you meet lots of interesting people from all over the world. If ancient history is not your thing, you can spend your weekends at bars, coffee shops, and restaurants. Like many of its Mediterranean neighbors, Malta is famous for its rustic national cuisine, delicious seafood, and warm hospitality. Plus, if you avoid the tourist traps, you will find plenty of places to eat out on a student budget.

Malta Study Visa

Whilst offering great opportunities for overseas students, life in Malta still keeps its traditional flavor. The locals are friendly. The island is very safe, and it is one of the cheapest places to study in Europe. These reasons contribute to the rising popularity of Malta among international students.

Visa and other requirements in Malta:

EU citizens can study and work in Malta without a visa. But they need to gain a residence document post 90 days of stay. Those from outside the EU would need to get a student visa from the Maltese consulates in their home country. Every University in Malta has an international office that assists with the Visa and application requirements. Students may also need to take up an English language test, depending on which country they are applying to. My company represents various colleges & Universities. All have different criteria for admission, which our counselors can check. We can also check visa requirements from the official websites of different consulates.

If you are looking to study in Malta, work, Visit, migrate, or invest in Malta, talk to CAAN World Consultants, the BEST Immigration & Visa Company having offices in Jalandhar, India & Melbourne, Australia.

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more about different Australian Visas

Jaspal Singh - 3 May 2021

Australia Visa

Updated on September 7th, 2024

Australia is one of the popular destinations to migrate to, whether you are going as a student, visitor, worker, or finally settling there. As an education & migration consultant for over two decades, I see many people apply for Australian visas every year. Each year, Australia grants a good number of different visas. In 2015, the number of migrants who got permanent residency in Australia was about 1,90 000. The reason behind this migration can be any, but it also helps the country’s economy grow and fill its workforce requirements and overall development. Most of the people going to Australia, about 70%, are skilled migrants, and about 30% are joining their relatives.

There are different visas for Australia, and the primary purpose of this blog is to discuss a few of them. Normally, we deal with student visas, visitor visas, or permanent residency visas. But in this blog, we will discuss a few other visas. If you are planning to travel to Australia for any purpose or are not sure which visa you should apply for, then this article can be helpful to you. This article discusses the different titles of visas.

Student Guardian Visa subclass 590

This Visa is for a guardian to come to Australia to provide care and support for a student visa holder under 18 years of age. The duration of this visa depends upon the length of the visa of the student. The applicant for this visa must be a student’s parent, custodian, or relative with a minimum age of 21. Applicant should have sufficient financial to support himself and the student during their stay in Australia.

While granting this visa, the visa officer considers the welfare of any member of the family who is not coming with you to Australia. You are personally liable for all your healthcare costs while you are in Australia. Medical insurance helps limit your financial liability. You must maintain adequate health cover for the whole of your stay if they granted you this visa. Your insurance should cover you for medically necessary treatment, including transport.

Student Guardian Visa

Under this visa, the applicant will not get any working rights. Normally, this visa is given when students go on a schooling visa. The genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) clause is significant while granting the visa; the applicant’s personal circumstances in the home country and potential circumstances in Australia are considered. In this Visa applicant’s immigration history is also significant while granting this visa. So, while applying for this visa, you must take expert advice. Consult for schooling & Guardian Visa here.

Prospective Marriage Visa subclass 300

If you are planning to marry an Australian citizen or permanent resident, this visa can be for you. Within a period of 9 months of reaching Australia, the applicant has to marry another partner. During this period, you will have full working rights without restrictions from the visa perspective. After marrying your partner, you can then apply for an onshore partner visa 820/801. After getting married, you can also apply to enroll in Medicare.

The visa allows multiple entries throughout the visa validity period. If we check the eligibility criteria to apply for this visa, the applicant should be at least 18 years old. Another partner whom they are going to marry must sponsor them. They both must have met in person since they turned 18 years old. Considering the GTE clause, both applicants must have genuine intentions to marry each other and live together as spouses.

Relationship Statement in Partner Visa
Partner Visa Australia

While applying for this visa, the relationship statement is an essential document. How the relationship started, developed, and finally, they decided to marry and live together. It must clearly mention all with no mistakes. It’s important, to be honest when writing the statement to prove that your relationship is genuine and continuing.

Mentioning exact dates is also very important. It would help if you mentioned all things that drive both of you closer, like common interests, and values. We can also mention significant events and activities while preparing this statement.

In such cases, it is common that applicants live separately, and during that period, how you maintained a relationship is very important. Finally, you may conclude the statement by elaborating on your plans once you are in Australia together with your partner. These plans usually are family and financial plans. The statement of your partner should be consistent with your claims. You may support your claim with evidence such as photographs, joint financial statements, and travel tickets.

Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) visa subclass 188

This enables you to possess as well as manage a business across Australia, conduct a legible and approved business and investment activity across Australia, or undertake an authentic entrepreneurial activity anywhere in Australia. If you have a successful business in your home country, are you willing to move to Australia with your family and establish a business, either a new one or an already running one, then this visa is for you. For this visa, you need to be nominated by the state government. Each state may have preferences for different requirements for different businesses. The duration of this visa is 2 years, which can be extended to another two years. And within this period, you need to have a requirement to invest a minimum amount of AUD 1.5 million in one state or territory of Australia.

Business Inn

Under subclass 188, there are different categories; here, we will discuss Business Innovation Stream Visa and Investor Stream Visa in this article. Eligibility and other criteria for these both categories are as under.

Business Innovation Stream

You need to provide proof of business success. It will assess the turnover of your present business. You and your partner or only you should have the personal asset and a total net business of AUD 800,000 while applying for the Business Innovation visa. You must score at least 65 on the points test. The main applicant must be able to have a Functional English level.

Investor Stream:
You must be a holder of an asset or an investment whose net value should be at least AUD 2.25 Million. You must score a minimum of 65 on the point board to get the Visa Subclass 188. Applicant must have invested AUD 1.5 Million in the country’s territory. The requirement of English level is also there.

Other common requirements
You must be below 55 years when you are applying for it. An applicant who is above 55 years is eligible to apply for it if his business is of exceptional economic benefit.

You must qualify for the health and character requirements stated by the nation before applying for it. Your extended family members who are not traveling with you might also need to meet the requirements; in that case, the respective person needs to do so.

Someone can file all these visas directly, taking no professional advice. Still, it is not suggested because there are so many technicalities where you certainly need professional advice to save your time & money. There can be many minute reasons that can be the reason for the refusal of your visa application. You must consult a professional to avoid rejection of visa due to wrong documentation and other errors. If you need more details on any of the visas, Visit www.caanworld.net

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Australia Partner Visa, few insights you must know

Jaspal Singh - 16 January 2021

Updated on September 30th, 2021

If you plan to join your partner in Australia or have already applied for a Partner Visa, this blog can give you few insights into this visa category. I am not a registered migration agent but working in a related profession for over two decades, having offices in India and Australia. I regularly interact with different registered migration agents, talk to colleagues, and read other professional blogs, so I based the information shared here on my own experiences and research. This blog unpacks the partner visa clauses and few common mistakes you should avoid when applying for a partner visa.

Partner Visa, when lodged Onshore:

The Partners Visa subclass 820 & 801 is lodged, while you are inside Australia. This Visa allows the individual to live in Australia, the spouse or a de facto partner of an Australian citizen or Australian permanent resident. The temporary Partner Visa subclass 820 is granted initially. It lets you stay in Australia. Whereas the permanent Partner visa subclass 801, once granted, you can live in Australia as a permanent resident and further work to get your citizenship. There are other requirements on age, health, and character ground for this visa to be granted.

Partner Visa, when lodged Offshore:

Other clauses for Partner Visa are subclass 309 & 100. We can apply for these visas while the applicant is out of Australia. Partner Visa (Provisional) under subclass 100 is a temporary visa that allows the partner or spouse of an Australian citizen or permanent resident to stay in Australia. This Visa is the first step towards permanent Partner Visa subclass 100.

There is another Visa that later can lead to Partner Visa. This Visa is Prospective Marriage Visa subclass 300. This Visa is for those who want to enter before marriage. To apply for this visa, your fiancé must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident. This Visa has a duration of 9 months, within which visa holders need to marry. They can apply to convert their visa to Partner Visa once they get married.

How do Partner Visas work ?

As discussed above, the partner of an Australian citizen or permanent resident can apply for a partner visa either onshore or offshore. When applied onshore, the applicant gets the bridging visa to remain in Australia during the processing time. The applicant is not entitled to a bridging visa when it applied offshore. The applicant has to remain in their home country during the processing time or visit Australia as a tourist for a short time. On tourist visas, they get no working or study rights like other applicants who apply onshore. The Visa fee in both cases remains the same. Presently it is $7715. As per Migration law, those who lodge an offshore application must also be outside Australia when their visa is granted.

Few mistakes that people normally do

Now I will share few mistakes that people usually make while lodging this visa. I have seen so many small and big reasons behind refusals of Partner Visa applications. This Visa is the most expensive, so everyone wants to get it right the first time.

It is not mandatory to lodge this visa with the help of a migration agent. You can file it yourself, but I suggest taking the help of professionals. Otherwise, you need to invest a lot of time in researching various details of partner visas. Because of a lack of professional advice, they refuse many applications. Department refused 47% of Partner Visa applications without migration agents in the financial year 2015-16. It was 53% in 2016-2107. So keeping in mind such a big rate of refusals, I suggest we take professional advice for better outcomes of visa applications.

Importance of Information stated in form 888s

Form 888 is an essential part of Partner Visa or Prospective Marriage visa applications. Your family, friends, or colleagues made this statutory declaration witnessing your relationship. It would help if you took care that the information mentioned in this form should not contradict what you had stated in your application. This declaration considers the social aspect of relationships. If you do not write statements, sometimes the information given does not match with the application. So we need a proper check while lodging a visa application.

Lack of sufficient evidence is one reason

Lack of enough information and evidence can be another reason for the refusal of a partner visa. There is no parameter to say what evidence is acceptable. But you will need to provide evidence to prove your claims in your application. Proving the genuineness of your relationship is an essential part of a successful visa application. Visa Officer, while deciding the application, may look into various facets of your lifestyle. This includes but is not limited to financial interdependence, mixing of finances, financial planning, social conduct, sharing social life, shared properties, home duties, travels, how the relationship was maintained when the couple was separated, and how others view the relationship, etc. We need to provide evidence of all facts to help the case officer to access your application.

Dates are very important in any visa application

All dates related to your relationship mentioned in your visa application must be consistent with each other. Forgetting dates can give visa officers a chance to question the integrity of your relationship. While filling the forms, you must take proper care of all dates. I have seen so many applications where a minor mistake about dates was the reason for visa rejection. You and your partner must know the fact that proper timeline and dates of relationship history.

There is no last list of such mistakes. Here, I just tried to recall a few of them. I suggest proper research on your visa application to be aware of each detail. Otherwise, I recommended the professional services of experts. In case of the department contacts you, you must provide such information within a timeframe. Make sure that you keep checking your Immi account and emails regularly.

If planning to file Partner Visa or any other Visa, drop a call at +91-9216 310 310
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