What are the changes to the UK Student Visa Route?
Commencing in January 2024, the UK Student Visa Route will undergo the following three adjustments:
- Dependents: As of January 2024, international students, except those enrolled in research programs, will no longer have the privilege of bringing their dependents to the UK. Switching to work visas: Individuals currently holding a UK student visa will lose their eligibility to switch to work-related visas, such as the skilled worker visa, within the UK, unless they have completed their course. Financial requirements: A review will be conducted on the financial requirements for maintaining a student visa and providing support for dependents. Detailed information regarding the revised economic
- thresholds are yet to be disclosed.
How does this differ from the current Student Visa Route?
By
the existing immigration regulations, international students are granted the opportunity to accompany their dependents to the UK, as long as they possess sufficient funds to support them. The currentmaintenance fund requirements stipulate £845 per month, per dependent for students in London, and £680 per month, per dependent for students outside London, in addition to their own maintenance and course funds.
Currently, dependents of students holding a student visa are permitted to engage in work and study activities in the UK, with certain limitations in place. Furthermore, students enjoy the flexibility to transition from a UK student visa to the skilled worker category while still residing in the UK, even before completing their course.
At a Glance
Starting January 2024, the UK government will be restricting student visa rules to:
- limit the ability of international students to sponsor family members under all immigration routes, except post-graduate research routes;
- limit the ability of overseas students to switch from the student visa route to work routes until they complete their studies;
- amend the available funds students must prove to qualify for a student visa; and
- restrict international student agents who may be supporting applications illegally.