The UK government has launched a new, strict campaign warning international students to leave the country once their visas expire, or risk deportation.
What’s Happening?
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Around 10,000 students whose visas are nearing expiry have already received direct warnings.
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A further 1.3 lakh (130,000) students and families will be contacted in the coming months.
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Messages are being sent via text and email, stating: “If you have no legal right to remain in the UK, you must leave. If you don’t, we will remove you.”
Why This Crackdown?
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The Home Office reported that nearly 16,000 asylum applications were made by former student visa holders last year.
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Officials say many are using asylum claims as a way to stay longer, even without changes in their home country.
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The rise is adding pressure on already stretched asylum accommodation and hotel services.
Key Policy Changes
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The post-study stay for overseas graduates has been reduced from 2 years to 18 months.
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Universities face tighter visa compliance rules.
If you are already studying in the UK or planning to, keep yourself updated on GD Connect. Here you will find current students, alumni, and experts to answer your questions and clear your doubts in an unbiased manner.
Source: The Street Journal