UKVI Reportedly Stops International Students at Airports for Extra Checks
2 Min Read
International students travelling to the United Kingdom are reportedly being stopped by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) officials at airports before boarding flights. According to reports seen by The PIE News, students from key source countries including Nigeria, India, Bangladesh, and Nepal have faced additional questioning and documentation checks.
Education providers have issued warnings to recruitment agents, advising that students may be asked pre-CAS style questions, proof of funds, or income evidence to verify their eligibility. In some cases, Nigerian students were reportedly told they needed a “fit-to-fly” certificate, resulting in several missing their flights.
It remains unclear how widespread the checks are or whether students from other nations have been similarly affected. The Home Office has yet to clarify the reports.
The development comes amid a broader UK government crackdown on immigration, driven by growing political pressure and public concern about rising migration numbers. The Labour government has pledged to take a firm stance on immigration, despite international students contributing billions annually to the UK economy and higher education sector.
Agents have been urged to ensure students are fully prepared before departure, with reminders that UKVI has the authority to prevent boarding if officials are unsatisfied with responses or documentation.
Earlier this month, the Home Office contacted thousands of international students whose visas are nearing expiry, warning against making “meritless” asylum claims to remain in the country. The move followed the release of the immigration white paper in May, which highlighted concerns about a rise in such applications. The document also set out tougher compliance metrics for universities, including penalties if more than 5% of student visas are rejected.
While international students remain vital to the UK’s global standing in education, the latest reports underline the tightening environment around immigration and the added uncertainty for those hoping to study in the United Kingdom.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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