Filipinos look beyond trad’l destinations amid changing global migration policies
AS MIGRATION policies tighten in popular destinations like the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Canada and Australia, Filipino students and professionals are exploring new opportunities in emerging global hubs.
With governments worldwide adjusting their visa and work programs, the British Council, a provider of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), is helping Filipinos secure internationally recognized credentials for work, study and residency abroad.
For decades, the British Council said the US, the UK, Canada and Australia have been the top destinations for Filipino migrants. However, recent changes in immigration policies are prompting many to reconsider their options.
New policies
It noted that the US has put many residency applications on hold due to stricter immigration rules. Australia, on the other hand, is capping international student enrollments, limiting education-based migration.
Canada is scaling back its temporary foreign worker programs while the UK has introduced stricter student visa regulations, reducing work opportunities for international graduates.
In response to these challenges, the British Council said it is helping Filipinos navigate this shifting landscape by providing internationally recognized qualifications that open doors to alternative destinations across Europe, Asia and beyond.
With new policies encouraging skilled migration, it noted that the following countries are emerging as top destinations for Filipino professionals and students.
New destinations
According to the British Council, New Zealand is actively reforming its Accredited Employer Work Visa to attract skilled foreign workers. Key changes include eased restrictions on middle-income jobs, reduced work experience requirements from three to two years and new seasonal worker visas for temporary employment opportunities.
As a leader in engineering, healthcare and technology, Germany has introduced the Skilled Labor Immigration Act, allowing easier entry for skilled workers. Filipinos benefit from the new points-based immigration system that evaluates applicants on salary, education and language proficiency. International students have work opportunities available, even without a job offer, and there is a one-year post-graduation visa to allow foreign students to gain work experience.
Spain, on the other hand, is actively streamlining its migration policies to attract international students and skilled workers. New regulations include automatic work authorization for students pursuing higher education; a 24-month post-graduation stay to find employment or start a business. Removal of the three-year residency requirement for student-to-work visa transitions.
Singapore remains a top choice for Filipino professionals due to its business-friendly policies. Key programs include the Overseas Networks and Expertise Pass, allowing five-year residency without employer restrictions; and simplified permanent residency pathways for international students, ensuring smoother workforce integration.
Despite changing migration trends, English proficiency remains a key factor in securing international work and study opportunities.
The British Council’s IELTS program, accepted by over 12,500 institutions in 140 countries, equips Filipinos with the skills and qualifications needed to adapt to new destinations and pursue their global ambitions.
“Many Filipinos may feel uncertain about migration opportunities due to evolving policies,” said Zoe Zhang, regional director for Exams at the British Council. “But with the right preparation, resources and IELTS credentials, Filipinos can continue to thrive in the global workforce — beyond the traditional ‘Big Four’ destinations.”
The British Council is the UK’s international organization for cultural relations and educational opportunities. / KOC