UK Sees 13% Rise in Study Visa Applications Amid Policy Changes

By Siya February 22, 2025
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The United Kingdom has reported a 13% increase in study visa applications, signalling a strong rebound in international student enrolment at British universities. According to the latest data released by the UK Home Office, a total of 411,100 Sponsored Study Visa applications were recorded in the year ending January 2025.

However, the number of applications from dependants of students has dropped significantly—down by 84% compared to last year. Only 21,500 dependants filed applications, largely due to a new immigration policy introduced in January 2024. Under this regulation, international students can no longer bring dependants unless they are on government-funded scholarships or postgraduate research courses.

Stricter Immigration Rules Take Effect

The UK government has introduced several key immigration policy changes in 2024. From March 11, international social care workers are no longer allowed to bring dependants. Additionally, from April 4, the minimum salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa has increased from £26,200 to £38,700.

The government also renamed the Shortage Occupation List to the Immigration Salary List, reducing the number of jobs eligible for visa sponsorship at lower salary thresholds. Moreover, from April 11, the minimum income requirement for spouse/partner visas was raised to £29,000, up from £18,600.

UK Cracks Down on Illegal Immigration

The UK Home Office has also intensified its immigration enforcement efforts, resulting in the deportation of approximately 19,000 migrants across Asia, Africa, Europe, and South America. These included foreign criminals, asylum seekers, and other immigration offenders.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated, “To rebuild public confidence in the immigration system, we need to show the rules are respected and enforced. Our Plan for Change has put additional resources into immigration enforcement to ensure those who have no legal right to stay, particularly criminals, are swiftly removed.”

With these developments, the UK continues to balance its appeal as a leading study destination while tightening its immigration policies.

Source: SHIKSHA

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