Overview

• ApplyBoard’s Fall 2025 survey of nearly 400 recruiters ranks the UK most attractive, with 82% calling it highly appealing.
• Canada climbs to second place, with 84% of respondents viewing it as safe and welcoming and overall perception up versus spring.
• Only 50% of recruiters now see the U.S. as open and welcoming, marking a sharp decline from earlier in 2025.
• Affordability is the top concern for over 90% of recruiters, steering interest toward options like Germany, Ireland and Canada and elevating alternatives such as New Zealand, France, Spain, Singapore and the UAE.
• IRCC data show Indian study permits for Canada fell to 47,695 in Jan–Jun 2025 from about 105,575 a year earlier, while living costs are reported around CAD 20,000–22,000 annually as housing pressures persist.