- 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 recognised provider of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), equips candidates with the support and resources needed to gain internationally recognised 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.
Popular Filipino migration destinations, such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, are updating their visa and international student regulations in response to recent changes in the global economy, creating chances in new countries. In 2025, the British Council, a widely reputable and acknowledged supplier of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), offers Filipinos individualized assistance to help them obtain globally recognized credentials and investigate new opportunities for employment, education, and living overseas.
Filipino emigrants, who have historically been lured to the “big four” countries—the US, UK, Canada, and Australia—now face a changing landscape. Australia is taking steps to limit the number of overseas students it accepts, while the United States has suspended residence applications due to immigration restrictions. In the meantime, the UK is tightening regulations on student visa rules, and Canada is reducing its programs for temporary foreign worker programs.
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 organisations 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 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.’”
Even though migration patterns are constantly changing, the British Council IELTS is dedicated to giving Filipino professionals and students the tools and assistance they need to follow their aspirations of working, studying, and living overseas so they can create a bright future wherever they go.
Reserve your spot for the IELTS exam here: https://bit.ly/4jJrHud. Visit the IELTS British Council website or Facebook page to learn more about the British Council.
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