Autumn 2024 statistics showed a 69% reduction in student visa applications, compared with the previous figures from Autumn 2023. What is behind this decline in the number of student visa applications and what does it mean for the country?

This decline in UK student visa applications is attributed to policy changes introduced by the previous UK government, in an overhaul aimed at reducing net migration.

What were the changes?

Changes to UK student visas came into force on 1 January 2024. Since then, a large section of potential international candidates has fallen away due to the removal of their entitlement to bring dependents under the student visa category. As a result, international students are not permitted to bring their partners, children, or elderly relatives who require long-term care to the UK, thereby removing a large number of applicants. This change is undoubtedly the main reason for the decline in UK student visas, with an 89% drop in dependent visa applications since the change came into force. This rule does not apply to international students whose dependents are already in the UK and need to extend their visa.

Whilst this rule applies to the majority of international student candidates, there is not a blanket ban on dependents. There are important distinctions between government-sponsored students (courses longer than six months) and students on postgraduate degrees such as a PhD, a doctorate, or a research-based higher degree, who fall out of the ambit of these changes.

Another recent change is the amendment relating to student visa holders switching to work visas. The existing eligibility criteria remains, however, students must now complete the course they were sponsored to study before switching categories. We do not foresee much impact, given that the majority of international students intend to complete the course they have applied for. 

With these changes having come into effect in early 2024, it is only now that we are seeing the impact on international student numbers, and the knock-on effects that has for the economy and wider society.

It is estimated that international students to UK institutions bring around £40 billion to the UK economy each year. With testing economic times ahead for UK institutions, we want to demystify the concerns concerning the new rules for international students and support UK institutions to assist potential candidates. The immigration framework relating to students is some of the most complex in the UK immigration system. With ever-changing rules, we can assist you with clarifying the recent changes and setting out the requirements in a clear and succinct manner.

Promising times ahead 

While the reports of a decline in UK student visas suggest a bleak outlook, the UK continues to be one of the most popular countries for hosting international students. Home to some of the most scenic landscapes, world-leading and recognised institutions, and amazing student life, the UK is an obvious choice to pursue a degree.

After recommendations from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), the Labour government has pledged to retain the two-year graduate route that is widely used by international students to stay and work in the UK after the end of their university education, demonstrating a continuing commitment to international students and their opportunities post-study. This is a priority for international students when they are deciding where to study abroad. This decision reflects the commitment the UK government has made under its International Education Strategy. The International Education Strategy is a promising avenue for international students, with 600,000 places pledged for international students by 2030. The UK government’s continuing commitment to this goal indicates positive policy changes to come.

At Burness Paull, we recognise the impact that policy changes have had on international students and educational establishments. Our market-leading immigration team is here to help. We have considerable experience advising a wide spectrum of public and private education institutions, charities, businesses, and individuals on attracting and retaining top talent from across the globe.

Get in touch for step-by-step support for prospective students.

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