What are the New UK Immigration Changes that Affect Indian Students?

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Image source: Indian Express
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If you’re an Indian student planning to study in the UK, recent immigration changes could directly impact your plans, financially and professionally. A new UK government policy aims to reduce net migration by 100,000, and international students are among the most affected. The changes affecting the students are mentioned below:

1. Extra 6% Fee Burden on Universities

The UK government will charge universities a 6% tax on tuition fees from international students. While you won’t pay this directly, universities may increase fees, lessen or remove scholarships, or reduce student services to manage the extra cost. This policy could bring in £600 million (~INR 6,300 crore) yearly, and may quietly raise the overall cost of studying in the UK.

2. Residency Requirement Changes – Settlement Plans Delayed

If you plan to settle in the UK after studies, the new residency requirement for permanent settlement will double from 5 to 10 years. This will affect Indian graduates who hoped to stay long-term and build a career or family life in the UK.

3. Graduate Route Changes – Shorter Job-Hunting Window

The popular Graduate Route visa, which lets students stay back and find work, will now last only 18 months instead of 2 years. If you don’t find a suitable job within that time, you’ll be expected to leave the UK.

4. Fewer Dependents Allowed

Now, fewer student visa categories will be allowed to be accompanied by their family members, making it a possible issue for those planning to move with their spouse or children.

5. Universities Under Strict Scrutiny

Only universities with at least 95% student enrolment and 90% completion rates will keep their visa sponsorship rights. This could limit your choices to only top-performing institutions.

6. New Regulation for Agents

To stop students from being misled, the UK will bring in a new set of rules for education agents. These rules will make sure agents give honest and accurate advice to students about studying in the UK.

Why Indian Students Should Care

With India among the top countries sending students to the UK, these policies could:

  • Increase your total cost of education
  • Make it harder to secure long-term residency
  • Add pressure to find a job quickly after graduation

Worried about these changes and want to ask questions? Get guidance from experts and alumni on GD Connect, India’s leading study abroad community.

Get your answers here👉https://discussions.gyandhan.com/

Source: Official UK Government Website

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The UK government has recently introduced significant immigration reforms that will notably impact Indian students aspiring to study and work in the UK. Here’s a detailed overview of the key changes:
:united_kingdom: Key Immigration Changes Affecting Indian Students

  1. Graduate Route Visa Duration Reduced

The post-study work visa, known as the Graduate Route, has been shortened from 24 months to 18 months for bachelor’s and master’s degree holders. PhD graduates retain a 3-year stay period. This adjustment may limit the time available for international graduates to secure employment in the UK.

  1. Extended Settlement Period

The duration required to qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (settlement) has been increased from 5 years to 10 years. This change affects international students and skilled workers aiming for long-term residency in the UK.

  1. Stricter English Language Requirements

Enhanced English proficiency standards now apply to all visa applicants, including dependents. Applicants must demonstrate higher language skills and maintain them throughout their stay.

  1. Increased Financial Burden

A proposed 6% levy on tuition fees from international students is under consideration. This could lead to higher educational costs for students from India and other countries.

  1. Restrictions on Dependents

Since January 2024, international postgraduate students are no longer permitted to bring dependents unless enrolled in research programs. This policy has led to a significant 85% drop in dependent visas issued.

  1. Higher Salary Threshold for Skilled Workers

The minimum salary requirement for Skilled Worker visas has increased from £26,200 to £38,700, a nearly 50% rise. This change may pose challenges for recent graduates seeking employment in the UK.