In a move to cut migration, the government has changed immigration rules in 2023. Affecting dependents on the Tier 4 plan, we explain the UK student visa rules change.
Ever since the UK left the EU, they have had control over their borders. After reporting that lots of net migration were from dependents because of international students, new rules are coming into place from January 2024.
What Are The New UK Student Visa Rules Changes?
The new rules mean that international students will be less able to bring their families to the UK on the Tier 4 plan.
Coming into effect for students coming to the UK in January 2024, the change in the rules is part of the government’s plans to “make a tangible contribution to reducing net migration to sustainable levels.”
Other changes also include switching visas. Currently, international students can apply for a work visa before their studies are finished. This is changing so that you must finish university before switching routes to stay in the country.
Lastly, the government also plans to review funding for Tier 4 international students. Already, students must prove they have enough money to look after themselves and their dependents. Though an update on these rules hasn’t been released, changes are expected to come.
“It is time for us to tighten up this route to ensure we can cut migration numbers and meet the government’s pledge to the British people to cut net migration. This is the fair thing to do to allow us to better protect our public services, ” said Suella Braverman, the Home Security.
Policies regarding immigration are constantly under review. Last year, the number of dependents increased by 750 per cent, meaning 136,000 people. The above UK student visa rules change set to lessen that drastically.
Government Must Have Certain Number Of International Students
The UK government, though committed to reducing net migration, must fulfil a quota for international students each year.
The International Educational Strategy commits to having 600,000 international students in higher education in Uk universities. For the last two years, this target has been met, but the country must continue to do so until 2030.
Education Secretary, Gillian Keegan spoke of the importance of the scheme.
“Attracting the top students from around the world isn’t just good for our universities – it’s essential for our economy and building vital global relationships.”
The key now is to maintain the number of international students. However, the government also want to reduce the impact of migration on UK resources.
Students bring lots of economic value by studying in the UK, so allowing them to study here won’t be something the government stop soon.
Unfortunately, the new UK student visa rule changes may mean it’s harder for students to come to the UK. Without their family and the support they bring, the move may become less tempting. Hopefully, these decisions won’t have a knock-on effect for meeting the International Educational Strategy quota.