Copenhagen, Sept. 30 -- Denmark has joined the ranks of countries moving toward tougher immigration rules. The Ministry of Immigration and Integration has announced a series of measures aimed at preventing the misuse of student stays as a pathway into the local labour market, media reports said.

The Danish government said the steps were prompted by a surge in foreign student numbers, particularly from Bangladesh, and suspicions that study permits are being used to secure work opportunities.

Authorities also said universities would be allowed to impose stricter entry requirements for master's programmes, such as entrance exams or targeted language tests.

Cheating controls will be tightened, with harsher penalties for violations.

The Na...