Posted by : Tubai Paul
Author Designation : Marketing & PR (Kolkata)
New update for UK Graduate Visa 2024
With the number of Indian students pursuing higher education in UK expected to rise to 170,000 by 2025, any policy amendment will have direct impact on the number of Indian students choosing the UK as their study abroad destination.
On May 14, 2024, the United Kingdom’s (UK) Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) published its rapid review of the Graduate Route Visa (GRV). The MAC has suggested that GRV should be continued in its current form. However, if the policy is amended to align with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s call to restrict visas to only “the best and the brightest” and curb the influx of international students to the country, Indians, who make up the largest market for UK study visas, will be greatly impacted.
The UK has long been a preferred destination for international students seeking high-quality education and vibrant cultural experiences for a UK visa. The UK Graduate Visa, also known as the Post-Study Work (PSW) visa, has undergone significant changes in 2024, impacting the way international students navigate their post-graduation plans. This blog will explore the recent changes in visa rules for international students in the UK, the reasons behind these updates, and why the UK remains an attractive destination for students worldwide. Additionally, we’ll delve into the historic movement of students from South Asia to the UK and its implications.
Introduced by the UK government in 2021, GRV gives students permission to stay in the UK for at least two years after successfully completing a course in the UK - a UK bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree or other eligible course for a minimum period of time with the Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa.
Changes in UK Graduate Visa Rules for International Students in 2024
In 2024, the UK government introduced several key updates to the UK visa rules, particularly concerning the Graduate Visa (PSW). These changes are designed to streamline the process, enhance security, and align with the country’s broader immigration goals. Here are the main updates:
- Extension of Stay: The Graduate Visa now allows international students to stay in the UK for up to three years after completing their studies at a recognized UK institution. Previously, this period was two years for undergraduate and master’s students.
- Increased Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for the Graduate Visa, students must have completed their degree at a UK institution with a proven track record of compliance with immigration regulations. This aims to ensure that only students from reputable institutions benefit from the visa.
- Employment Flexibility: The updated visa rules provide greater employment flexibility, allowing graduates to switch jobs or roles without needing to update their visa status. This change is intended to help graduates adapt to the dynamic UK job market more easily.
- Inclusion of Short Courses: The new rules also include provisions for students who have completed short courses (minimum duration of 9 months) at eligible institutions. This widens the scope for more students to take advantage of the UK visa opportunities.
- Dependents’ Rights: Only postgraduate research students are now allowed to bring their dependents to the UK as of the 1st of January, 2024.
- English Language Requirement: There is now a mandatory English language proficiency requirement for UK Visa applicants. This ensures that graduates have the necessary language skills to thrive in the UK on a UK visa.
- Biometric Data Collection: The updated visa rules mandate the collection of biometric data as part of the application process. This enhances the security and integrity of the immigration system.
- Digital Visa System: The UK government has introduced a digital visa system to simplify the application process, reduce paperwork, and expedite decision-making.
Reasons behind the implementation of new PSW Rules
The changes to the UK visa rules in 2024 were implemented for several reasons:
- Enhancing National Security: By tightening eligibility criteria and introducing biometric data collection, the UK aims to enhance national security and prevent immigration fraud in the procurement of a UK visa.
- Encouraging High-Quality Education: The focus on reputable institutions ensures that the UK continues to attract and retain top-tier talent, thereby maintaining its status as a global education leader.
- Adapting to Labor Market Needs: The increased flexibility in employment and inclusion of short courses reflect the need to adapt to a rapidly changing labor market, ensuring that graduates can contribute effectively to the economy.
- Supporting Family Integration: By providing better rights for dependents, the UK government aims to create a more inclusive environment for international students and their families, promoting social stability.
- Streamlining Processes: The introduction of a digital visa system and other procedural updates are designed to make the application process more efficient and user-friendly, reducing administrative burdens.
In conclusion, while the 2024 changes to the UK Post-Study Work (PSW) visa rules introduce new requirements and procedures, the UK remains an attractive destination for international students. Its world-class education, cultural diversity, and strong employment prospects continue to draw students from around the globe. The historic movement of students from South Asia to the UK underscores the enduring appeal of UK education and the deep-rooted connections between these regions. As the UK adapts its immigration policies, it is poised to maintain its position as a leading global education hub, welcoming students from all corners of the world.
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