New UK immigration rules may affect Indian students’ family visas

The government implemented these restrictions on student visas to decrease the overall number of people immigrating to the UK, while still recognising the economic benefits that international students bring to the country.

This decision was made in response to a significant increase in the number of visas granted to dependents of sponsored students. The number rose from 16,000 in 2019 to 1,36,000 by the end of 2022.

Under the new rules, international students are no longer allowed to bring their dependents unless they are enrolled in postgraduate courses that are currently designated as research programs.

The UK government wants to reduce the number of dependents entering the country on student visas in order to fulfil its promise to the British people of cutting net migration. The government aims to protect public services while still supporting the economy by allowing the most contributing students to continue studying in the UK.

The new regulations also prevent international students from switching to work visas or leaving their studies before completing their courses. This is done to tighten the student visa route and further reduce net migration.

The government also plans to take action against education agents who facilitate inappropriate applications focused on immigration rather than education.

Regarding the graduate route, the terms remain unchanged, and the government is committed to attracting the most talented individuals to the UK. In the coming year, the government intends to work with universities to develop an alternative approach that allows the brightest students to bring their dependents to UK universities while still reducing net migration.