Papua New Guinea's prime minister has told Julia Gillard that easier visa access for his citizens will go a long way in improving his country's relationship with Australia. Peter O'Neill made the comments at a state dinner for the Australian Prime Minister, who is in Port Moresby on her first official visit to the nation. Read More

THE UK has debuted same-day visa application services at its high commissions in India, with plans to make the facility available in a handful of other countries in the near future. Now in operation at the UK embassies in New Delhi, Mumbai and soon, Chennai, the same-day visa costs 600 pounds (US$912) more than that of a regular visa. Applicants who complete an online application by 09.30 and receive approval can collect their visas by 17.30 the same day in New Delhi and 18.30 in Mumbai. ....Read More

The Australian government will continue to set 190,000 places for the migration program in 2013-14, the same level as the previous year, according to an announcement by Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Brendan O'Connor on 14 May 2013. Read More

Expatriates studying in Australia can now stay for longer after finishing their studies under new rules applied to the visa process. Despite the country clamping down on the length of stay for other foreigners, authorities are keen to keep top talent in the country. Read More

BUSINESS groups and the federal opposition say they will consider backing Gillard government measures to ensure the 457 visa program is properly run, but they will not support unfair attacks on skilled migrants. ....Read More