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Plans to Limit International Student Dependent Visas – UK

Plans to Limit International Student Dependent Visas – UK

The CEO of Oxford International Education Group highlighted the impact of the move and stated that this move would make it impossible for many students to study in the UK. Moreover, the importance of providing secure care alternatives or travelling back and forth was emphasized. Also, the multiple options that prospective international students hold currently in terms of possible study-abroad destinations were highlighted. Such countries include Canada or other countries into which, while completing their studies, students can bring in their families.

Increase in International student numbers in the UK

The United Kingdom witnessed a rise in international student numbers during the pandemic. In fact, the UK had announced its objective that by 2030, it would attract over 600,000 students. However, the UK was able to achieve the numbers within the year itself with the change in immigration policies. Concerns about citizenship and the government of an uncontrolled border arose with this spike in numbers. Recently, it was determined that steps must be taken to reduce the total immigration numbers at the appointment of the new government.

A limitation imposed on dependent visas for international students

Moreover, it was reported that the dependent visas for international students will be limited by the UK government. Also, it was reported by the Financial Times that the Department of Education, the Home Office and the Treasury have been planning to prevent students of one-year masters courses from bringing family members to the UK as dependents.

In addition to this, it is predicted that the net migration figures of the UK are expected to be high. Therefore, possible pressure will be put on the government to tackle the issue. There had been a 30 per cent increase, as per records, in the number of students bringing their family members with them in 2022. Thus, the total number of student visas was 135,788. Among these numbers, nearly 100,000 student visas were issued to family members of Nigerian and Indian students.

Migrants exceeding planning assumptions

The Director of Universities UK International acknowledged the unprecedented growth in the number of dependents. They have been exceeding planning assumptions. Moreover, the government has also raised concerns about accommodation. He stated that the institution is committed to working with the government to understand and find solutions to such issues that have been arising.

Moreover, he stated that the institution will work towards finding solutions in order to keep attracting a diverse range of international students that has been substantially growing. In addition to this, it is also working to protect the quality of student education and the competitiveness of the country in international education.

The impact would curtail studies from studying in the UK

The CEO of Oxford International Education Group highlighted the impact of the move and stated that this move would make it impossible for many students to study in the UK. Moreover, the importance of providing secure care alternatives or travelling back and forth was emphasized. Also, the multiple options that prospective international students hold currently in terms of possible study-abroad destinations were highlighted. Such countries include Canada or other countries into which, while completing their studies, students can bring in their families.

She added that the policy would exclude a large pool of students who would wish to study at UK universities. Moreover, it will impact UK international students negatively. Another spokesperson commented that the government will ensure that the country has the necessary skills for the economy and public services even though the public expectation is to control the borders.

Policy not set out to be a blanket ban

Furthermore, the policy that has been proposed is not set out to be a blanket ban. This will be limited only to a selected group of students. For instance, only those students who are studying at top universities and enrolling in courses of high value will be allowed to bring their families with them to the country.

Students of high-value courses – Eligible to bring dependents

According to The Times newspaper, such courses which are considered to be of high value to the economy include Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Students enrolled in such courses will be eligible to bring their family members along with them to the country. Moreover, according to another set of suggestions, it was highlighted that university rankings must be made as another parameter that could help in deciding the categories of students who would be eligible to bring dependents with them to the UK.

Therefore, more clarity and certainty are sought regarding the visa policy. The government has been urged to commit to the targets that have been set out in the strategy of International Education. Moreover, it must also be keen on maintaining the graduate route.

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