April 2026 has introduced several visa and immigration changes across popular destinations, including the US, UK, Canada, Europe, New Zealand, and Saudi Arabia.
For travellers planning to study, work, or settle abroad, these visa updates could mean higher fees, more paperwork, and stricter checks. Here is a simple breakdown of what has changed and how it may affect your plans.
United States Tightens H-1B and Green Card Checks
From April 1, employers filing H-1B visa petitions must use the updated Form I-129.
The new form asks for more details about the job, including salary level, education requirements, and work experience. Wage levels now play a bigger role in deciding approvals, especially for highly skilled roles.
Green card applications may also face stricter review, including:
- More background checks
- Closer review of employer details
- Additional Requests for Evidence (RFEs)
- More checks on financial and relationship documents
For Indian professionals, especially in tech, this means a stronger focus on salary levels and job quality.
UK Visa Fees Increase From April 8
The United Kingdom has increased visa fees across several categories, raising the overall cost of moving or studying there.
New visa fees include:
- Visitor visa (6 months): £135, up from £127
- Student visa: £558, up from £524
- Innovator Founder visa: £1,693, up from £1,590
- Skilled Worker visa (up to 3 years): £769, up from £719
Applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £1,035 per year for most adults. For students and professionals, the total cost of moving to the UK continues to rise.
Canada Limits Settlement Support and Raises PR Fees
Canada has introduced two important changes for permanent residents. From April 1, newcomers applying through economic immigration programmes will receive government-funded settlement support for a maximum of six years after receiving permanent residence.
Previously, many applicants had access to support services without a strict time limit.
Permanent residence fees will also increase from April 30:
- Right of permanent residence fee: C$600, up from C$575
- Principal applicant fee: C$990, up from C$950
- Spouse or partner processing fees will also increase
These changes mean slightly higher costs and less time to access settlement services.
New Zealand Updates Work Visa Conditions
From April 20, New Zealand will introduce new conditions for open work visa holders. Applicants will receive one of two work conditions:
- Full open work rights, including self-employment
- Restricted work rights requiring a formal job contract
The new rules aim to provide clarity but may reduce flexibility for some workers who rely on open visas to change jobs freely.
Europe Introduces Digital Border System From April 10
The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) will be fully operational across all Schengen countries from April 10, 2026.
The Entry/Exit System (EES) will replace passport stamps with digital records. Travellers will need to provide biometric details such as fingerprints and facial images when entering or exiting participating countries.
Countries using the system include:
- Germany
- France
- Spain
- Italy
- Netherlands
Travellers may experience longer processing times at airports during the early phase of implementation.
Saudi Arabia Offers Relief for Expired Visa Holders
Saudi Arabia has introduced a temporary relief scheme for travellers with certain expired visas. Eligible visa holders can regularise their status or leave the country without paying overstay fines.
The scheme applies to:
- Visit visas
- Umrah visas
- Transit visas
- Final exit permits expired before February 25, 2026
Applications must be completed by April 18, 2026, through official online platforms.
The decision comes amid travel disruptions linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
What This Means for Travellers
Overall, April 2026 brings higher costs and stricter rules across several major destinations.
Travellers planning to study, work, or move abroad should:
- Check updated visa fees
- Prepare detailed documents
- Allow extra time for approvals
- Budget for higher overall costs
Planning ahead will help avoid last-minute surprises and make the process smoother.
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