1. If your purpose is a short-term stay...
(A stay of up to 90 days for tourism, business, visiting friends or relatives, etc. that does not include paid activities)Click on the nationality of the visa applicant who will travel to Japan.
All schools should have alumni careers service
Every school in the UK should have an alumni careers service, Future First is petitioning the government after evidence released in its national survey this week.
Future First is a social business that works to improve careers advice in UK schools by bringing former students back to their old schools and colleges to inspire, advise and guide current pupils.
According to the organisation's survey, the vast majority (91%) of young people at state schools would like their careers advice to be delivered via an alumni model.
Furthermore, over 10 million British adults say they would like to go back into their former school to speak about their career to young people.
The Future First report into social mobility, careers advice and alumni networks also found that 45% of young people receiving free school meals do not know anyone in a job that they would like to do. Future First has made it its challenge is to reduce this inequality to insignificance within a generation.
The report comes as the result of a survey of 510 16- to 19-year-olds on their views on their current careers advice, as well as 1,033 UK adults between on their views about the careers advice they had received while at school and how that advice had helped them develop their subsequent career.
Source: edexec.co.uk
Photo credit: Free Digital Photos
Settlement plans: Life in New Zealand
Fantastic - of course we're biased - but don't take our word for it, click here to read what recent migrants think. Or, check out our recent ranking as the third best country in the world to live in!
With a temperate climate, and stunning variations in our geography - all surrounded by the Pacific and Tasman Oceans – people in New Zealand happily lead an outdoor life. Knowing that you'll spend far less time commuting in New Zealand than in most world cities, you'll also enjoy far more time with your friends and family. No matter where you live in New Zealand, for instance, you are probably less than an hour from the ocean, and less than 4 hours from a ski field. Which means on the same day you can mountain bike, snowboard and surf!
At the same time, cafe society and cultural activities rival those anywhere. New Zealand has produced some of the world's top opera singers, musicians, writers, painters - all of whom are easily accessible for your enjoyment. New Zealand cuisine and regional wineries are well-regarded internationally - so you'll have plenty to tempt your taste buds.
With just over 4 million people living in New Zealand, it's easy to find - or get away from - the crowd. So if your preference is access to big-city shopping, check out Auckland (the largest city with over 1.5 million residents), Christchurch, Wellington (the capital) or Dunedin. But one of the joys of New Zealand is that you can also choose to live a more rural lifestyle, and still live within an hour's drive of the centre of any of these cities. Or you can choose to settle in the country - there's plenty of room for expansion here!
New to New Zealand? Settlement Support New Zealand (SSNZ) gives you a clear point of contact in your new community, helping you find the resources and information you and your family need to settle in comfortably.
SSNZ is supported by both local and central government, so assistance is free. To find out more, including the Settlement Support location nearest you, visit the Settlement Support website. www.ssnz.govt.nz
With a temperate climate, and stunning variations in our geography - all surrounded by the Pacific and Tasman Oceans – people in New Zealand happily lead an outdoor life. Knowing that you'll spend far less time commuting in New Zealand than in most world cities, you'll also enjoy far more time with your friends and family. No matter where you live in New Zealand, for instance, you are probably less than an hour from the ocean, and less than 4 hours from a ski field. Which means on the same day you can mountain bike, snowboard and surf!
At the same time, cafe society and cultural activities rival those anywhere. New Zealand has produced some of the world's top opera singers, musicians, writers, painters - all of whom are easily accessible for your enjoyment. New Zealand cuisine and regional wineries are well-regarded internationally - so you'll have plenty to tempt your taste buds.
With just over 4 million people living in New Zealand, it's easy to find - or get away from - the crowd. So if your preference is access to big-city shopping, check out Auckland (the largest city with over 1.5 million residents), Christchurch, Wellington (the capital) or Dunedin. But one of the joys of New Zealand is that you can also choose to live a more rural lifestyle, and still live within an hour's drive of the centre of any of these cities. Or you can choose to settle in the country - there's plenty of room for expansion here!
New to New Zealand? Settlement Support New Zealand (SSNZ) gives you a clear point of contact in your new community, helping you find the resources and information you and your family need to settle in comfortably.
SSNZ is supported by both local and central government, so assistance is free. To find out more, including the Settlement Support location nearest you, visit the Settlement Support website. www.ssnz.govt.nz
Can I make a career change?
Most people like their routines and change is not easy. But change is inevitable in one's career. Maybe it's a new boss that you weren't expecting. Or, a new job or career or a new employer. Maybe your industry is going away or your company is closing. Maybe your skills are not needed anymore. Whatever the change, you have a decision to make. Either bury your head in the sand or tackle it head on.
You may follow the 4 steps given below.
1. Don't wait until it's too late
2. Understand that you have the power to make your change - this is like knowing you better.
3. Research your change - study well, thats very important.
4. Make your change to happen
There are times in life when you have to take a leap of faith. Don't wait and thus waste time. Once you have accepted that change is inevitable and you have done the research, it's time to go for it and implement your change. Bielive that you can make the change.
Photo credit: Free Digital Photos
Entry to New Zealand: Visa-waiver countries
People from some countries don't need a visitor visa to enter New Zealand. However, they are still required to provide:
Short visits
If you are visiting for three months or less and are from a country in the list below, you will not need a visitor visa (where the purpose of the visit is not for medical consultation or treatment).
* Visa waiver does not apply to people travelling on alien's (non-citizen's) passports issued by these countries.
** Residents of Hong Kong travelling on Hong Kong Special Administrative Region or British National (Overseas) passports.
*** Portuguese passport holders must also have the right to live permanently in Portugal.
**** Including nationals of the USA.
***** Greek passport holders whose passports were issued on and after 1 January 2006. (Greek passports issued before 1 January 2006 are not acceptable for travel after 1 January 2007.)
****** Permananent residents of Taiwan travelling on a Taiwanese passport.
United Kingdom and Australia
British citizens and other British passport holders who produce evidence of the right to reside permanently in the UK can visit for up to six months without a visitor visa.
Australian citizens and people who hold a current Australian permanent residence visa or a current Australian resident return visa do not need a New Zealand visitor visa to enter New Zealand.
See section E2.1 of our Operational Manual for full details about visa-waiver countries.
- travel tickets or evidence of onward travel arrangements, and
- evidence of funds for maintenance (for more details go to Operational Manual E4.50.35)
Short visits
If you are visiting for three months or less and are from a country in the list below, you will not need a visitor visa (where the purpose of the visit is not for medical consultation or treatment).
| AndorraBahrain BruneiChile DenmarkFrance Hong Kong**Ireland JapanLatvia* LuxembourgMexico NorwayPortugal*** San MarinoSlovak Republic SpainTaiwan****** Uruguay | ArgentinaBelgium Bulgaria Cyprus Estonia*Germany HungaryIsrael Korea (South)Liechtenstein MalaysiaMonaco OmanQatar Saudi ArabiaSlovenia SwedenUnited Arab Emirates Vatican City | AustriaBrazil CanadaCzech Republic FinlandGreece***** IcelandItaly KuwaitLithuania* MaltaNetherlands Poland Romania Singapore South Africa Switzerland United States of America**** |
** Residents of Hong Kong travelling on Hong Kong Special Administrative Region or British National (Overseas) passports.
*** Portuguese passport holders must also have the right to live permanently in Portugal.
**** Including nationals of the USA.
***** Greek passport holders whose passports were issued on and after 1 January 2006. (Greek passports issued before 1 January 2006 are not acceptable for travel after 1 January 2007.)
****** Permananent residents of Taiwan travelling on a Taiwanese passport.
United Kingdom and Australia
British citizens and other British passport holders who produce evidence of the right to reside permanently in the UK can visit for up to six months without a visitor visa.
Australian citizens and people who hold a current Australian permanent residence visa or a current Australian resident return visa do not need a New Zealand visitor visa to enter New Zealand.
See section E2.1 of our Operational Manual for full details about visa-waiver countries.
Companies criticize U.S. travel visa process
The Center for Exhibition Industry Research, which studies events and attendance, says its data show that the U.S. economy lost $290 million in domestic travel spending from the 10 largest trade shows and conferences in the last 12 months because registrants couldn't get visas.
Agricultural equipment makers and customers worldwide gathered in Orlando in January to meet, greet, sell and buy at the trade show AG Connect Expo. About 1,460 international attendees registered for the show, organized by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Nearly 500 of them never made it. The reason for the absentees: They couldn't obtain a U.S. entry visa in time to attend, most of them told the association afterward. There's no telling how many will attend next year.
U.S. embassies got more stringent in approving visa applicants after the Sept. 11 terror attacks, and the policy hasn't improved since, they say. The State Department doesn't deny that visa issuance can trip up prospective visitors, but its internal data show that the problem isn't as bad as industries claim, says David Donahue, the department's deputy assistant secretary for visas. Consular officers must carefully weigh security and forgery concerns and the possibility of applicants overstaying their visits and becoming immigrants, he says.
The U.S. doesn't require visas from citizens of 36 countries, including Western Europe. But travelers from other countries must apply for a non-immigrant visa and undergo a personal interview.
Getting an interview is often the most difficult hurdle in the process. Approval or rejection is issued within a few days of the interview. Donahue says U.S. embassies aim to schedule interviews within 20 days of the application submission, though they fall short in some busy countries.
The U.S. Travel Association says problems could be eased by expanding the nations from which visitors can come without a visa and interviewing applicants via video instead of in person.
Agricultural equipment makers and customers worldwide gathered in Orlando in January to meet, greet, sell and buy at the trade show AG Connect Expo. About 1,460 international attendees registered for the show, organized by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Nearly 500 of them never made it. The reason for the absentees: They couldn't obtain a U.S. entry visa in time to attend, most of them told the association afterward. There's no telling how many will attend next year.
U.S. embassies got more stringent in approving visa applicants after the Sept. 11 terror attacks, and the policy hasn't improved since, they say. The State Department doesn't deny that visa issuance can trip up prospective visitors, but its internal data show that the problem isn't as bad as industries claim, says David Donahue, the department's deputy assistant secretary for visas. Consular officers must carefully weigh security and forgery concerns and the possibility of applicants overstaying their visits and becoming immigrants, he says.
The U.S. doesn't require visas from citizens of 36 countries, including Western Europe. But travelers from other countries must apply for a non-immigrant visa and undergo a personal interview.
Getting an interview is often the most difficult hurdle in the process. Approval or rejection is issued within a few days of the interview. Donahue says U.S. embassies aim to schedule interviews within 20 days of the application submission, though they fall short in some busy countries.
The U.S. Travel Association says problems could be eased by expanding the nations from which visitors can come without a visa and interviewing applicants via video instead of in person.
Temporary Visitors to the U.S.
Most Canadian citizens and many citizens from Visa Waiver Program countries can come to the United States (U.S.) without a visa if they meet certain requirements. All Visa Waiver Program travelers must present a machine-readable passport at the U.S. port of entry to enter the U.S. without a visa; otherwise a U.S. visa is required. See important information about additional digital photograph and e-passport requirements for VWP travelers. Other foreign citizens will need a nonimmigrant visa.
Nonimmigrant visas are for international travelers (citizens of other countries), coming to the U.S. temporarily. The visa, placed in your passport when issued, allows you to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (airport, for example) and request permission of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Customs and Border Protection immigration officer to enter the U.S. A visa does not guarantee entry into the U.S.
For an overview of the types of nonimmigrant visas available under immigration law, please see our Visa Types for Temporary Visitors webpage. The Consular Officer at the U.S. embassy or consulate will decide what kind of visa you need, when you apply.
Advance planning can smooth the visa application process for you. Apply for your visa well in advance of your travel!
Important steps to remember:
Nonimmigrant visas are for international travelers (citizens of other countries), coming to the U.S. temporarily. The visa, placed in your passport when issued, allows you to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (airport, for example) and request permission of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Customs and Border Protection immigration officer to enter the U.S. A visa does not guarantee entry into the U.S.
For an overview of the types of nonimmigrant visas available under immigration law, please see our Visa Types for Temporary Visitors webpage. The Consular Officer at the U.S. embassy or consulate will decide what kind of visa you need, when you apply.
Advance planning can smooth the visa application process for you. Apply for your visa well in advance of your travel!
Important steps to remember:
- Review your visa status, and find out if you need a U.S. visa or a renewal.
- Review the Visa Wait Times information for interview appointments and visa processing at each embassy and consular section worldwide available on our website. Visit the embassy or consular section website where you will apply for your visa to find out how to schedule an interview appointment, pay fees and any other instructions.
- Plan on an interview, as well as quick inkless fingerprint scans at the U.S. embassy or consulate, which is required for most visa applicants. Some visa applications require additional administrative processing, which requires some additional time. Applicants are advised when they apply.
Of 193 nations, UK has visa-free access to 166
In latest visa restriction index rankings, out of 193 countries surveyed in 2010, United Kingdom topped the list with Britons having visa-free access for up to three days to the largest number of countries — 166.
Henley & Partners, a firm that specialises in international immigration, consular and citizenship law, analyses visa regulations of a large number of countries in the world every two years to bring out the visa restriction index. The index ranks a country according to the international travel freedom of its citizens or the number of countries their citizens have visa-free access to.
According to the index, the British have the fewest visa restrictions as they can stay in 166 destinations for at least three days for business or pleasure without a visa. US citizens have similar visa-free access to just 159 countries. Scandinavian countries too have done pretty well on the index along with several other European countries such as France and Germany. Indians have visa-free access to 50 countries.
According to the index, the British have the fewest visa restrictions as they can stay in 166 destinations for at least three days for business or pleasure without a visa. US citizens have similar visa-free access to just 159 countries. Scandinavian countries too have done pretty well on the index along with several other European countries such as France and Germany. Indians have visa-free access to 50 countries.
New Zealand: Answers to some of the most common immigration-related questions
- How long will it take Immigration New Zealand to process my visa application?
- How do I check the progress of my visa application?
- How do I apply for a visa to work in New Zealand?
- How do I apply for a visa to study in New Zealand?
- Where do I access immigration application forms?
- How do I apply to come to New Zealand as a skilled migrant?
- How do I apply to come to New Zealand as a partner or parent of a New Zealand resident or citizen?
- How do I apply to extend my temporary permit to remain in New Zealand longer?
- What fees do I have to pay to make an immigration application?
- How do I apply for a permanent residence class visa to New Zealand?
How long will it take Immigration New Zealand to process my visa application?
The time it will take for us to process your application can vary depending on:- the requirements of the immigration instructions you are applying under
- the completeness of your application
- how easily we can check the information you provide
- how well and how quickly you respond to any concerns we raise with you.
The amount of verification your application requires can affect the amount of time it takes to process your application. Applications that require the most verification; for example work visa or residence applications, typically take the longest to process.
We may find that you need to provide us with further information before we can make a decision on your application, which will also add to the processing time.
Tips to help you with the application process
How do I check the progress of my application?
Once we have accepted your application, you will be given the contact details of the person processing it.If you applied online, you can check the status of your application by logging into your Online Services account and visiting ‘What’s Happening?’
If you applied using a paper form, but want to be able to check your status online, you can provide details on your form that will give you an online enquiry option. This will allow you to set up an account on the site and receive updates.
If you contact us through our Online Help system, we will be able to tell you the status of your application.
We are unable to provide information about decisions through email. You may be able to get more detailed information by phone, but decisions will not be discussed until you have been notified in writing.
If you are using an immigration advisor you should also get in touch with them to find out whether they are aware of any problems or delays.
How do I apply for a visa to work in New Zealand?
Which type of visa and you apply for depends on why you want to come here, the skills you have to offer, and how long you want to stay.Work and live permanently in New Zealand
Skilled Migrant Category
The Skilled Migrant Category is for people who have the skills, qualifications, and experience we need, and who want to live and work permanently in New Zealand.
Work to Residence Category
The Work to Residence Category allows you to get a temporary work visa and as a step towards gaining permanent residence. Applicants may be qualified in occupations that are in demand in New Zealand, or may have exceptional talent in sports or the arts.
Residence from Work Category
The Residence from Work Category is for people who are already in New Zealand on a work to residence visa, and want to apply for residence.
Employee of a Relocating Company Category
If you are a key employee of a business that is relocating its operations to New Zealand, you can apply for a work visa, and later a residence visa,under our Employee of a Relocating Company Category.
Work temporarily in New Zealand
Temporary work
We grant temporary work visas to people who have a job offer from a New Zealand employer, people skilled in occupations that are in demand here, people coming here for a particular purpose or event, and people who want to gain work experience or work after studying in New Zealand. Find out about the options for temporary work in New Zealand.
Working holiday
If you’re aged between 18 and 30 years you may be eligible to experience life in New Zealand on a working holiday.
Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Work Category
Our Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Work category is for temporary workers from overseas to work in the horticulture and viticulture industries.
How do I apply for a visa to study in New Zealand?
Everyone who comes to study in New Zealand from overseas must meet certain rules and requirements. If you are coming to New Zealand to study for more than three months, you will need a student visa.To find out whether you need a visa, whether you'll qualify, and what a student visa will allow you to do, visit Can I study in New Zealand?
Where do I access immigration application forms?
All immigration forms and guides can be accessed (in PDF format) by visiting forms and guides.Filling in the application forms as requested, and ensuring all relevant information required is included, will help to speed up the processing of your application. Incomplete applications will be returned to the applicant unprocessed.
How do I apply to come to New Zealand as a skilled migrant?
If you’ve got the skills we need and want to make New Zealand your long-term destination, our Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) offers you the opportunity to move to New Zealand to work and live permanently.How do I apply to come to New Zealand as a partner or parent of a New Zealand resident or citizen?
See our Partner of NZ resident or Parents of NZ residents pages.How do I apply to extend my temporary visa to remain in New Zealand longer?
As you must be on a valid visa at all times while in New Zealand, you must either obtain a further temporary entry visa to remain in New Zealand, or you may depart New Zealand and wait for your residence decision offshore (please advise your immigration officer of your contact details in this case).To obtain a further visa, you must meet the current requirements as specified in the immigration instructions for the visa type you wish to apply for. Please refer to visit, study, and work, for further information and application forms.
What fees do I have to pay to make an immigration application?
Our will help you determine your specific application fee. Application fees differ depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your current location.How do I apply for a permanent resident’s visa for New Zealand?
Please assess yourself against our permanent residence visa instructions before applying for this visa.Video resume
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| Image: renjith krishnan / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
But most recruiters feel that a video alone does not give an employer enough information about a candidate to make a proper evaluation of the applicant’s potential and more importantly skills.
With the rise in video-hosting sites like YouTube and broadband Internet usage, video résumés are becoming more popular. Several sites have been created for video resume hosting. Support for video resumes is growing as more complete solutions evolve. Video overlay is a new trend in video resumes. With this technology, applicants can present themselves in a brief introduction video that is layered in front of their resume.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Video_resume
Read an article appreared in TIME magazine
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1592860,00.html
YouTube Resume related Videos
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=resume&search=Search
US to accept H1B visa applications from April 1 for the FY 2012
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| Image: koratmember / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
As mandated by the US Congress, the fiscal year cap on H-1B petitions for 2012, beginning October 1, is 65,000.
The first 20,000 H-1B petitions filed on behalf of individuals with US master’s degrees or higher are exempt from this cap, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said in a statement on Tuesday.
US businesses use the H-1B program to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise.
Such workers include scientists, engineers and computer programmers among others.
Software professionals from India are said to be the biggest beneficiary of this visa.
USCIS will monitor the number of petitions received and will notify the public of the date on which the numerical limit of the H-1B cap has been met, the statement said. If USCIS receives more petitions than it can accept, it may on the final receipt date randomly select the number of petitions that will be considered for final inclusion within the cap, it said.
The UK government announce changes to the student visa system
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| Image: photostock / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
The main changes are as follows:
- From April 2012, any institution wanting to sponsor students will need to be classed as a Highly Trusted sponsor, and will need to become accredited by a statutory education inspection body by the end of 2012. The current system does not require this, and has allowed too many poor-quality colleges to become sponsors.
- Students coming to study at degree level will need to speak English at an 'upper intermediate' (B2) level, rather than the current 'lower intermediate' (B1) requirement.
- UK Border Agency staff will be able to refuse entry to students who cannot speak English without an interpreter, and who therefore clearly do not meet the minimum standard.
- Students at universities and publicly funded further education colleges will retain their current work rights, but all other students will have no right to work. We will place restrictions on work placements in courses outside universities.
- Only postgraduate students at universities and government-sponsored students will be able to bring their dependants. At the moment, all students on longer courses can bring their dependants.
- We will limit the overall time that can be spent on a student visa to 3 years at lower levels (as it is now) and 5 years at higher levels. At present, there is no time limit for study at or above degree level.
- We will close the Tier 1 (Post-study work) route, which allows students 2 years to seek employment after their course ends. Only graduates who have an offer of a skilled job from a sponsoring employer under Tier 2 of the points-based system will be able to stay to work.
Do you have dream of making a career change?
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| Image: photostock / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
They now run a successful bed and breakfast business at their lovely home, Wemyss House, at Tain, overlooking the Cromarty Firth. Stuart has also carved out a successful new career – quite literally – restoring antique furniture and making bespoke pieces for clients including Glenmorangie at Cadboll House.
Before moving north, he was a quality manager with a Midlands bus company while Christine, a classically trained singer, taught music at the University of Nottingham and a private girls’ school.
Recently, The Independent named it among the top 50 UK B&Bs, and earlier this year it received a Red House classification in the Michelin Guide 2011, one of only seven businesses in the Highlands to receive the honour.
It also features in the Guardian B&B Directory and Alastair Sawday’s Special Places to Stay guide, and was the only establishment in Scotland to be nominated for a Readers’ Green Award by Sawday fans.
Visit www.wemysshouse.com or call 01862 851212. For details of Stuart’s furniture and restoration business visit www.ashcliff.com
Call of the heart often push career changes in mid-life
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| Image: Salvatore Vuono / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
Rajeshwari chronicles the lives 10 dare-devils who gave up lucrative professions to listen to their heart. 'It requires enormous courage and self-belief to walk away from all of these and say I want to do something else,' the writer, a graduate of IIM-Ahmedabad, said.
Says former diplomat-writer and member of parliament Shashi Tharoor, who switched vocations several times in life as a UN official, writer, consultant, minister and a member of the Lok Sabha: 'It is important for us to be aware the kind of choices people make in their career can change dramatically in mid-point of their lives.' follow via Twitter @ShashiTharoor
New Zealand imigration - Looking for a wide variety of occupations
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| Image: Michal Marcol / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
If you are thinking of migrating to a foreign country, consider New Zealand. With a temperate climate, and stunning variations in geography - all surrounded by the Pacific and Tasman Oceans – people in New Zealand happily lead an outdoor life.
A list of job skill sets are needed in New Zealand. To find a list of those that represent the most critical shortages click here.
Proposed fee increases to immigration and nationality applications from 6 April 2011
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| Image: Richard Hedrick / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
The new proposed fees will be laid in Parliament in two separate regulations. These fees will not come into force untill they have been debated and approved in Parliament, but are due to take effect from 6 April 2011.
UK welcomes wealthy people with easier visa
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| Image: Arvind Balaraman / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
The David Cameron government is in the process of enacting tough visa rules to curb immigration, but on Wednesday announced new rules that makes it easy for the world's wealthy to migrate to Britain and settle here from April 6.
The new visa rules will reward entrepreneurs and investors who come to the UK and contribute to society, immigration minister Damian Green announced.
Under the new rules, those who invest large sums of money or create new jobs will be given the right to settle permanently in the UK faster.
Green said: "Today I have sent out a clear message – the UK remains open for business and we want those who have the most to offer to come and settle here. Entrepreneurs and investors can play a major part in our economic recovery and I want to do everything I can to ensure that Britain remains an attractive destination for them".
Those who invest 5 million pounds will be allowed to settle here after three years and those that invest 10 million pounds or more will be allowed to settle after two.
This compares with the minimum five year requirement for settlement that is currently in place for skilled migrants.
Entrepreneurs will also be able to settle in the UK more quickly if they create ten jobs or turn over 5 million pounds in a three year period.
It was also announced today that a new visit visa will be created for prospective entrepreneurs.
This will allow them to enter the UK in order to secure their funding and make arrangements for starting their business before they transfer onto a full entrepreneur visa in country.
While the standard investment threshold for an entrepreneur to qualify for a visa will remain at 200,000 pounds, the government will also make provision for high potential businesses to come to the UK with 50,000 pounds in funding from a reputable approved organisation – for example venture capitalists, including angel investors, or through seed competitions.
The Home Office said that major investors will also enjoy more flexibility as they will be allowed to have spent up to 180 days a year, rather than 90, outside of the UK before they lose their right to settlement. This addresses a major concern that investors often cite as they need to be constantly mobile.
Those investors who are already in the UK now and have invested large sums will also qualify for accelerated settlement.
Explaining how the new "exceptional talent" route under tier one of the points based system will operate from April this year, the Home Office said that the route will be limited to 1,000 visas under the annual limit, but will facilitate those who have already been recognised or have the potential to be recognised as a leader in the fields of science, arts and humanities.
Migrants seeking entry under the tier one exceptional talent category will not need to be sponsored by an employer but will need to be endorsed by an accredited competent body.
Green added: "Our new exceptional talent route will ensure that we continue to allow the brightest and the best who can make a valued contribution into the UK. This comes at a time of major reform to the immigration system to bring net migration back down to the tens of thousands."
Related sites
- http://www.vfs-uk-in.com/
Careers In Nanotechnology
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| Image: jscreationzs / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
Nanotechnology is the engineering of functional systems at the molecular scale. When K. Eric Drexler popularized the word 'nanotechnology' in the 1980's, he was talking about building machines on the scale of molecules.
I want to build a billion tiny factories, models of each other, which are manufacturing simultaneously. . . The principles of physics, as far as I can see, do not speak against the possibility of maneuvering things atom by atom. It is not an attempt to violate any laws; it is something, in principle, that can be done; but in practice, it has not been done because we are too big. — Richard Feynman, Nobel Prize winner in physics.
Careers In Nanotechnology
Being a new area, immense potential exist for a bright career in nanotechnology.
The following resources have information on jobs postings, internships and general career information.
- Nanotechnology - PhD Studentships, Postdoctoral positions
- Working In Nanotechnology
This site is designed to meet the increasing demand for career, education and training information in the emerging field of nanotechnology. - National Nanotechnology Initiative
The worldwide need for nanotechnology workers is expected to reach 2 million by 2015. Already there are numerous resources for students with interests in the field.
Academic programs in Nanotechnology
Numerous avenues exist for pursuing a career in molecular nanotechnology, dependent of course on the fields of study selected.
- Nanotechnology education is being offered by more and more universities around the world. Here is a list of universities offering nanotechnology education, and the degrees offered in nanotechnology, Bachelor of Science in Nanotechnology, Master of Science in Nanotechnology, and PhD in Nanotechnology.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nanotechnology_education
Additional resources
- Wikipedia article on Nanotechnology
- Foresight Institute’s web site (http://www.foresight.org) contains information about the development of the various aspects of molecular nanotechnology.
- Introductory and Technical Nanotechnology Information
http://www.zyvex.com/nano - Nanotechnology Research Conference
http://www.thesciencejobs.com/conference/nanotechnology
- Engines of Creation (Full Text) - Accessible, describes impact on a wide variety of fields. (http://www.foresight.org/EOC/index.html)
- Unbounding the Future (Full Text) - Popularly written, environmental and medical focus. (http://www.foresight.org/UTF/Unbound_LBW/index.html)
- Nanosystems - Highly technical and interdisciplinary textbook.
- Nanomedicine (Full Text) - Extensive technical treatment of nanotechnology and medicine.
(http://www.nanomedicine.com)
Working at Google Bangalore
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| Image: photostock / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
The focus on technical innovation, the emphasis on aiming big, and the benefit of building on the world's best cloud computing infrastructure makes engineering at Google one of the most fun jobs one could have. - Peeyush Ranjan, Managing Director, Google India R&D.
Get an investor and obtain a US visa
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| Image: winnond / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
Three American Senators (John Kerry, Richard Lugar and Mark Udall) recently introduced a legislation in the Congress which if passed would instantly provide a 2 year US visa to any active entrepreneur. This is in the hardships of obtaining an H-1B visa, the rules of which have been made more tough.
"Every job-creating American business started as an idea in the mind of an entrepreneur. We need to keep and bring more of those ideas to our shores where they can put Americans to work. Global competition for talent and investment grows more intense daily and the United States must step up or be left behind," said Kerry.The StartUp Visa Act of 2011 will allow an immigrant entrepreneur to receive a two-year visa if he or she can show that a qualified US investor is willing to invest in the immigrant's start-up venture. This would amend immigration law to give immigrant entrepreneurs three new options for entry or retention of residency.
Under option one, immigrant entrepreneurs living outside the US would be eligible to apply for a StartUp Visa if a qualified US investor agrees to financially sponsor their entrepreneurial venture with a minimum investment of USD 100,000.
After two years, their business must have created five new jobs and raised not less than USD 500,000 in additional capital investment or generate not less than USD 500,000 in revenue.
Under option two, immigrant entrepreneurs currently in the US on an unexpired H-1B visa; or immigrant entrepreneurs currently in the US who have completed a graduate level degree in science, technology, engineering, math, computer science, or other relevant academic discipline from an accredited United States college, university, or other institution of higher education would be eligible for a StartUp Visa.
For this, they must demonstrate annual income of not less than roughly USD 30,000 or the possession of assets of not less than roughly USD 60,000; and have proven that a qualified US investor agrees to financially back their entrepreneurial venture with a minimum investment of USD 20,000.
After two years, their business must have created three new jobs and raised not less than USD 100,000 in additional capital investment or generate not less than USD 100,000 in revenue.
Under option three, immigrant entrepreneurs living outside the US would be eligible to apply for a StartUp Visa if they have controlling interest of a company in a foreign country that has generated, during the most recent 12-month period, not less than USD 100,000 in revenue from sales in the US.
After two years, their business must have created three new jobs and raised not less than USD 100,000 in additional capital investment or generate not less than USD 100,000 in revenue.
Chathra Hendahewa - International Science & Technology Student from Sri Lanka, 2009-10
Chathra Hendahewa, International Fulbright Science & Technology Award Student from Sri Lanka, discusses her grant to study computer science at Rutgers University.
Fulbright Video
Watch the promotional video to get an overview of the Fulbright S&T Program. It includes interviews with S&T Fellows, and staff members from the State Department and the Institute of International Education.
Fulbright International Science and Technology Award - HD from Fulbright Program on Vimeo.
Fulbright Grant Opportunities - Fulbright Fields of Study
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| Image: Salvatore Vuono / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
The Fulbright Program assist candidates with the opportunity to study, teach, or conduct research in each others' countries and exchange ideas.
- Fulbright grants are offered in most of the academic disciplines except clinical medical research involving patient contact.
- The Program operates in more than 155 countries worldwide.
- It has provided approximately 300,000 participants.
- Approximately 8,000 competitive, merit-based grants are awarded annually.
Please visit the individual country pages for further information.
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Overwhelming feeling of uncertainty would push for career change
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| Image: jscreationzs / FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
It is hard to find a person who worked for one company on his/her lifetime. Various factors contribute to career change, but the common thread between those seeking to make this transition is an overwhelming feeling of uncertainty about how to do so successfully.
Do adequate homework first before shifting into desired career. Here are some tips for helping an easy change in career.
1. Research online: Learning more about the career field you are interested in is vital.
2. Identify your skills properly: You may have hidden abilities which you never use for your current job. Try to understand your skills you already possess that can be leveraged in a new career.
3. Need for additional training: If your new job requires any additional skill, it is vital that you obtain such skils before you start migrating to teh new job. Having the ability to complete your training program while balancing your current job and family commitments can help ease the stress during your transition toward a new career.
4. Think outside the box: Not everything can be found online. Hence attending a trade show or networking event in the career field that interests you will be useful.
5. Know the importance of family and friends: Share your intentions and abilities with your family and friends, it may springboard a connection to someone else they know in your related field.
Postdoctoral Fellowships - U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE - Fulbright Program
The Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government. It is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries.
- Fulbright Postdoctoral Fellowships for U.S. Citizens - The programs offer U.S. faculty, administrators and professionals grants to lecture, conduct research in a wide variety of academic and professional fields, or to participate in seminars.
- Fulbright Postdoctoral Fellowships for Non-U.S. Citizens - The programs support the research and teaching of scholars visiting colleges and universities in the United States. These programs offer joint collaborative opportunities with U.S. Scholars.
Image: Salvatore Vuono / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
30 Minutes: Chasing your dream career - Video
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| 30 Minutes: Chasing your dream career |
This week on 30 Minutes, IBN Live meet people who have learned to say 'No' to regular careers to go for lucrative career.
Teens Prep For Career In Fashion Industry - Video
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| Teens Prep For Career In Fashion Industry - Video |
It starts with learning the basic skills of sewing.
Watch video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxIahH8eq6k
Job openings and Labor Turnover – January 2011
There were 2.8 million job openings on the last business day of January 2011, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. The job openings rate (2.1 percent), hires rate (2.8 percent), and total separations rate (2.7 percent) were little changed over the month. This release includes estimates of the number and rate of job openings, hires, and separations for the total nonfarm sector by industry and by geographic region. This release also includes annual estimates for hires and separations. The annual totals for hires and quits increased in 2010 while the annual total for layoffs and discharges decreased.
Read more at http://www.bls.gov/news.release/jolts.nr0.htm
Read more at http://www.bls.gov/news.release/jolts.nr0.htm
Career changes becoming more common
According to a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report released in September, Americans born from 1957 to 1964 held an average of 11 jobs from ages 18 to 44.
Started in 1979 -- when the youngest participants were 15 -- the study followed 9,964 men and women for 30 years. It serves as the only long-term analysis of such information, according to the federal agency.
Federal labor force data shows career changes are not unusual, and local economic development experts say such transitions are becoming even more common.
While the study numbers refer to job changes, the agency does not track the number of career switches, primarily because of an uncertainty about what constitutes a career, according to the bureau.
Started in 1979 -- when the youngest participants were 15 -- the study followed 9,964 men and women for 30 years. It serves as the only long-term analysis of such information, according to the federal agency.
Federal labor force data shows career changes are not unusual, and local economic development experts say such transitions are becoming even more common.
While the study numbers refer to job changes, the agency does not track the number of career switches, primarily because of an uncertainty about what constitutes a career, according to the bureau.
US experimenting visa interviews on Skype
Washington (PTI): As part of efforts to streamline the process of issuing visas to business travelers, the US is taking a number of steps including through experiments like conducting visa interviews over Skype and eliminating paper applications. "We have tried some experiments to look for ways to do interviews over Skype. It doesn't meet our security needs," Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said yesterday in her remarks at the President's Export Council wherein leaders from the industry expressed their concern over delay and restrictions in issuing of visas. "We train our consular officers to look at a visa applicant from a lot of different perspectives, and it's unfortunate that that's the world we find ourselves in. So, we're trying to do everything possible to keep our consular offices open longer, to try to provide more support," Clinton said. "We are streamlining operations by eliminating paper applications, working to expedite visa appointments for business travelers," she said.
Last year, the United States issued almost seven million visas to qualified applicants around the world, she said, adding that in the last two years the US has certified nine additional countries for its Visa Waiver programme. "When it comes to visa waivers, there are very strict standards that have to be met by the Department of Homeland Security. "China, India and Brazil do not meet them, and that's where a huge increase in visa applications are coming from," she said.
Last year, the United States issued almost seven million visas to qualified applicants around the world, she said, adding that in the last two years the US has certified nine additional countries for its Visa Waiver programme. "When it comes to visa waivers, there are very strict standards that have to be met by the Department of Homeland Security. "China, India and Brazil do not meet them, and that's where a huge increase in visa applications are coming from," she said.
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