●As traditional pathways for migration are evolving, more Filipinos are seeking work and study opportunities beyond the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
● To help them navigate the migration shift, the British Council, a globally recognized provider of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), equips candidates with the support
and resources needed to gain internationally recognized qualifications for work, study, and living
abroad.
● With the British Council IELTS, Filipino students and professionals can expand their horizons in emerging destinations like Germany, New Zealand, Singapore, and Spain.
Recent shifts in the global economy are leading popular Filipino migration destinations—US, UK, Canada, and Australia—to update their visa and international student policies, opening opportunities in emerging destinations. The British Council, a globally
trusted and recognized provider of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), provides personalized support to help Filipinos gain internationally recognized qualifications and explore fresh avenues for work, study, and living abroad in 2025.
Historically drawn to the “big four” destinations—the US, UK, Canada, and Australia—Filipino immigrants now face a shifting terrain. In the US, immigration restrictions have put residency
papers on hold, while Australia moves to cap international student enrolments. Meanwhile, Canada is scaling back temporary foreign worker programs, and the UK is tightening student visa rules.
To help Filipinos navigate the changing migration landscape, the British Council, the organization that co-jointly runs the IELTS, provides internationally recognised credentials that open doors to a wide range of opportunities worldwide.
Accepted by over 12,500 organizations
across 140 countries, the British Council provides essential resources and personalised
support needed to help Filipinos succeed in the IELTS exam, preparing them for success not only in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, but also in emerging destinations across Europe,
Asia, and beyond.
Where Filipinos are headed in 2025
Several countries are now eager to attract global talent, creating new opportunities for Filipino
students and professionals. Here are some of the rising destinations for 2025:
New Zealand
New Zealand, known for its thriving agriculture, healthcare, construction, and engineering sectors, is also becoming an increasingly attractive destination for Filipino workers. The country
recently overhauled its Accredited Employer Work Visa regulations to make it easier for skilled foreign workers to migrate. These changes include removing restrictions on middle-income jobs, reducing experience requirements from three to two years, and introducing new seasonal worker visas.
Germany
Germany, well-renowned for its expertise in engineering, healthcare, and technology, has become a top destination for Filipino students and professionals. To strengthen its workforce, the country introduced major immigration reforms through the Skilled Labor Immigration Act, a new points-based system which evaluates applicants based on salary, educational level, and
German language proficiency, making it easier to enter the country even without a job offer. The country also supports foreign students with a one year opportunity visa, allowing them to gain
work experience and improve their chances of securing long-term employment.
“Moving here was a big step, but its world-class education, strong job market, and vibrant culture made it all worth it,” recounts Jay Paul Ely Tena, the 2023 IELTS Prize Winner, who
recently pursued his graduate studies in the University of Erfurt. “Adjusting to the language and lifestyle had its challenges, but my IELTS preparation with the British Council gave me the confidence to communicate effectively, both in my studies and daily life,” he adds.
Spain
Spain, a global hub for education and business, is strengthening its immigration policies to boost its workforce. Foreign students pursuing higher education can receive automatic work authorization and can remain in Spain for up to 24 months post-graduation to seek employment
or start a business. The country has also removed the three-year residency requirement for d
switching from a student to a work visa, making it easier for graduates to enter the workforce.
Additionally, Spain plans to legalize 300,000 undocumented immigrants annually, granting them
work and residence permits.
“Living in Spain has been an incredible experience—the welcoming culture, the balance between work and personal life, and the accessibility of everything made it feel like home,”
shares Jessica Badua, the 2022 IELTS Prize winner, who earned her master’s degree at the
Universidad de Cádiz. “The British Council IELTS was instrumental in my journey, not only
helping me gain admission to my master’s program but also opening doors for scholarships and
opportunities that made my transition as an international student smoother and much more
rewarding.”
Singapore
Singapore remains a top choice for Filipino professionals. The country’s Overseas Networks
and Expertise (ONE) Pass, part of the city-state’s broader strategy to attract top global talent,
allows skilled professionals and entrepreneurs to live and work there for five years without
employer restrictions. The country has also simplified pathways for international students to
obtain permanent residency, allowing graduates to transition smoothly into the workforce.
“Many Filipinos may feel uncertain about their options due to the changing migration
landscape,” says Zoe Zhang, Regional Director for Exams at the British Council. “But the British
Council ensures that our candidates have the tools and qualifications they need to prepare for
the IELTS and help them succeed on the global stage, even outside the ‘Big 4.’”
While migration trends continue to evolve, the British Council IELTS remains committed to
equipping Filipino students and professionals with the right resources and support to pursue their work, study, and living abroad dreams—empowering them to build a bright future
anywhere in the world.
To book your IELTS exam, secure your slot here: https://bit.ly/4jJrHud. For more information
about the British Council visit the IELTS British Council Facebook page or website.
READ MORE INSIGHTS.
