The commencement of the New Year brought about significant changes for international students pursuing education in the United Kingdom. On January 1, new visa restrictions came into effect, aimed at curbing what the government deems the "unreasonable practice" of overseas students bringing their families into the country. This policy shift is poised to impact a substantial number of Indian nationals, who constitute the largest group of international students in the UK.
James Cleverly, the British Home Secretary, declared that the ban is a crucial step in reducing migration by tens of thousands. Emphasizing the government's commitment to fulfilling its promise to the British public, Cleverly stated, "We have outlined a robust plan to swiftly decrease immigration, maintain border control, and thwart manipulation of our immigration system. This plan, which will be implemented throughout the year, includes ending the practice of overseas students bringing their families to the UK, contributing significantly to our strategy to prevent 300,000 individuals from entering the country."
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took to X to announce the new regulation, revealing that as of now, the majority of foreign university students are prohibited from bringing their family members to the UK. Sunak proudly asserted, "In 2024, we're already delivering for the British people."
The UK Home Office, echoing the government's determination to substantially reduce migration, released a statement reinforcing their commitment to the cause.
The ban, initially introduced by former home secretary Suella Braverman in September 2022, was justified as a means to prevent dependents from "piggybacking" on student visas without contributing to the country's economic growth. However, there are exceptions to the rule, sparing foreign students enrolling in postgraduate research courses and those with government-funded scholarships.
A report from November 2023, quoting a spokesperson from the British High Commission, highlighted that Indian nationals make up the largest international student group in the UK, receiving the majority of study visas and 42% of all Graduate Route grants.
Recent figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that in December 2022, net migration in the UK reached a record figure of 745,000. A provisional number of 672,000 was reported in the year up to June 2023, according to a report from the South China Morning Post (SCMP).
(With Agency Inputs)
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