A recent decision by UK to limit the influx of international students reflects the government’s broader strategy to reduce overall migration figures.
By Ashraf Nehal
The United Kingdom’s impending revisions to its student visa rules, effective January 1, 2024, are poised to have a profound impact on international students, particularly those from India. These changes, building upon earlier adjustments made in July 2023, are set to reshape the educational landscape, altering the trajectory for Indian students aspiring to pursue opportunities in the UK.
Post-Brexit, the UK has undergone significant shifts in migration patterns following the termination of the free movement of people from the European Union. Despite this, net migration has surged, partly due to tailored visa schemes for individuals from countries like Ukraine, Hong Kong, and Afghanistan. Notably, students from India and Nigeria have significantly contributed to this upward trend.
Statistics reveal a staggering increase in visas issued to dependents of international students, escalating from 16,000 in 2019 to a remarkable 136,000 last year, indicating a substantial shift in migration trends.
The Brexit referendum of 2016, centered on immigration control, resulted in the UK’s departure from the EU. This pivotal event has profoundly influenced subsequent immigration policies, shaping the regulatory framework for international students, including those from India.
REDAD: US remains top choice for Indian students; UK sees massive jump (September 27, 2021)
India stands as a global migration epicenter, boasting the largest diaspora worldwide. However, recent policy reforms in the UK have altered the landscape for Indian students. An increasing number of Indian citizens have sought opportunities in countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada, and the UK, with 14,637 opting for the UK in 2021.
The UK, historically attractive to international students, has implemented policies restricting students from bringing their families during their academic pursuits. This move, ostensibly aimed at curbing net migration, has sparked political debate transcending borders.
The recent announcement by the Home Secretary to limit the influx of international students reflects the government’s broader strategy to reduce overall migration figures. Despite a 2 percent increase in student visas granted in the year ending June 2023 compared to the preceding year, and an 86 percent surge from pre-pandemic figures in September 2019, the government persists in its measures.
The alteration in policy preventing postgraduate students starting after January 1, 2024, from bringing their families significantly impacts their academic journey. This change affects master’s students, rendering them ineligible to be accompanied by their families in the UK.
READ: US remains top choice for Indian students for higher studies (November 16, 2020)
Moreover, partners and minor children excluded as dependents under the student route might face challenges joining via the post-study work “Graduate route.” This potential consequence might lead applicants to seek sponsorship through other UK-sponsored work routes after completing their studies.
The proposed review of financial prerequisites for self-sufficiency in the UK adds further uncertainty to the situation for international students.
Critics emphasize the substantial economic contributions of international students, which bolstered the UK economy by an impressive £40 billion in 2022. Concerns raised by universities highlight the adverse impact of these restrictions on Britain’s economy and global standing.
READ: Why do US, Canada & Western Europe attract Indian Students? (November 29, 2022)
Former minister Jo Johnson warned of losses arising from stringent regulations, particularly emphasizing the adverse impact on international students’ mental health, pointing to what has been termed “cognitive immobility.”
Amid these policy changes, the National Indian Students and Alumni Union (NISAU) UK has emerged as a vocal advocate, pressing for the welfare of Indian students. NISAU urges the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to prioritize preventing misrepresentation by agents and engaging with the higher education sector.
Sanam Arora, founder-chair of NISAU UK, expresses disappointment at the prevailing uncertainty in the UK compared to countries enhancing offers for international graduates. Arora emphasizes the adverse impact on Indian enrollments and its repercussions on UK universities.
While current Indian students in the UK remain concerned, assurances about no immediate changes to the graduate route provide some relief. However, there’s a shared sentiment, echoed by Vivienne Stern, CEO of Universities UK, urging the government to clarify its stance on preserving this crucial visa pathway.
READ: Why Indians prefer Portugal for study after UK and US? (January 28, 2022)
NISAU’s demands from the UK government encompass engaging with students and the higher education sector in MAC reviews, excluding international students from net migration figures, and curbing unscrupulous recruitment agents prioritizing immigration over education.
Universities striving for global eminence must attract the brightest minds worldwide. Any diminishment in the graduate route visa might jeopardize this endeavor, hindering the pursuit of excellence and collaboration between nations.
Reflecting on the legacies of luminaries like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, Indian students envision a future built on collaboration to tackle global challenges. NISAU’s fervent advocacy for restoring the graduate route visa underscores the urgency for inclusive policies fostering an environment conducive to higher education growth.
The narrative of Indian students in the UK embodies a broader tale—an imperative for policies fostering inclusivity, collaboration, and academic growth amidst evolving global dynamics.
(Ashraf Nehal is a South Asia geopolitical analyst based out of London.)