The UK government has implemented new restrictions on student visa routes to significantly reduce net migration. These measures limit the ability of international students to bring family members, except on post-graduate research routes, and prohibit individuals from using student visas as a means to work in the UK. This move is part of the government’s commitment to lower overall migration and ensure that migration to the UK is highly skilled and beneficial.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), net migration exceeded 500,000 between June 2021 and June 2022. Although temporary factors such as the Ukraine and Hong Kong schemes contributed to this increase, nearly half a million student visas were issued last year. Additionally, the number of dependants of overseas students has surged by 750% since 2019, reaching 136,000 individuals.
While the government acknowledges the economic contribution of international students through the International Education Strategy, it emphasizes the need to strike a balance between supporting the economy and reducing net migration. The proposed changes to the student visa route enable the government to fulfill its International Education Strategy commitments while effectively decreasing net migration to sustainable levels. Notably, the graduate route remains unchanged.
The reforms will be implemented for students commencing their studies in January of the following year. However, the government will collaborate with the higher education sector to explore alternative options that allow exceptional students to bring their dependants when attending renowned UK universities.
To prevent visa system abuse, overseas students will be prohibited from switching to work routes until they have completed their studies. Additionally, the government will review the financial requirements for students to demonstrate their ability to support themselves and their dependents in the UK. There will also be a crackdown on unscrupulous international student agents who facilitate inappropriate visa applications.
Coupled with the easing of temporary factors, these changes are expected to lead to a significant decrease in net migration in the medium term. Consequently, the student visa reforms strike a suitable balance by supporting the UK economy, including its world-leading education institutions, while honoring the government’s commitment to reducing overall net migration.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman stated,
“The UK is a top destination for the brightest students to learn at some of the world’s best universities. But we have seen an unprecedented rise in the number of student dependents being brought into the country with visas.
It is time for us to tighten up this route to ensure we can cut migration numbers and meet the government’s pledge to the British people to cut net migration. This is the fair thing to do to allow us to better protect our public services, while supporting the economy by allowing the students who contribute the most to keep coming here.”
Following the UK’s departure from the EU, the government introduced a points-based immigration system to have full control over the country’s borders. This system is designed to adapt to the needs of the economy and labor market, ensuring the availability of the necessary skills and talent for UK businesses and the NHS. The government regularly reviews its immigration policies to ensure they align with their commitments to the public regarding net migration.