Switzerland proposes easier labor market access for Protection Status S holders and Swiss-educated third-country nationals

What changed

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has initiated a proposed rulemaking to introduce substantial new fees for Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 nonimmigrant students. This measure, announced on 8 October 2026, aims to enhance the integrity of the immigration system by deterring fraud and protecting the interests of U.S. workers. Under the proposal, an initial OPT application would incur a fee of $70,000, while any subsequent OPT would cost $30,000. Stakeholders have until 9 November 2026 to submit comments on these proposed changes.

What changed

The Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) has updated its practice note on how it applies the 'rule of presumption' in processing applications for residence and work permits under certain business schemes. This revised note, published on 5 October 2026, outlines SIRI's current practice and includes an expanded review of presumption elements, based on recent decisions from both SIRI and the Immigration Appeals Board. It replaces the previous version from 2021, providing clearer guidance on the assessment criteria for these applications.

What changed

Switzerland and India have signed two important agreements: a Migration and Mobility Partnership and another agreement for training exchanges for young professionals. The Migration and Mobility Partnership makes official the existing cooperation on migration, creating legal ways for people to move and addressing issues like irregular migration, human trafficking, and forged documents. The agreement for young professionals will provide training placements to help people improve their professional and language skills.

What changed

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and the Home Office have updated the guide for licensing authorities on 'right to work checks' for taxi and private hire licence applicants. These changes, which started on 1 October 2026, are designed to make it harder for people to work illegally in this sector. They do this by giving clearer instructions to licensing authorities on how to check immigration status. A new, easy-to-use version of the guide was also published on 2 October 2026.