As the first activity in the framework of the Study in Europe 4 project period, ACA organised a webinar on 14 November 2024, addressing international student visas and related challenges on behalf of the European Commission.  

Moderated by Raul Ranne, Senior Advisor at ACA, the complex landscape of European student visas and residency permits was explored from multiple perspectives, featuring several speakers. Antoaneta Irikova from the European Commission and Johanna Hellwig from Campus France focused on the European perspectives. The student perspective was presented by Berk Alyeni from ICES Turkey, followed by case studies from national agencies, highlighting the Spanish context by Patricia Onieva González and the Latvian case study by Sintija Ŝmite-Tilika. The webinar delved into practical insights and laid the groundwork for continued collaboration among stakeholders throughout Europe. 

In a recent article by Nathan M. Greenfield, published in the University World News, similar topics are emphasised, highlighting the impact of policies and visa restrictions on international student enrolment. According to a survey across 66 countries, 41% of the responding higher education institutions reported a decline in the number of international postgraduate students compared to the previous year, while 31% reported a decline in international undergraduate enrolments. The most common reason cited for this development are challenges in obtaining government visas and restrictive government policies. Fanta Aw, executive director and CEO of the US-based Association of International Educators (NAFSA), stated, “The survey results affirm that government policies factor into student choices by either facilitating or hindering access and should not be underestimated”, emphasising the importance of this topic.  

Read more: International enrolment hit by policies, visa curbs – Study. University World News.