In January 1, 2024, the UK government enacted strict rules limiting international students from bringing family members, except for postgraduate research courses and government-funded scholarships. This move was aimed at reducing migration and curbing immigration system abuse. The changes are expected to lower migration numbers by tens of thousands, addressing the surge in visas issued to student dependents.
The new regulations were part of a broader effort to manage high migration levels and ensure the sustainability of public services. By restricting family members from joining international students, the government hopes to ease pressure on housing, infrastructure, and social systems. This approach is expected to significantly reduce the number of dependents entering the UK, aligning with the overall strategy to cut net migration by 300,000 people.
What outcomes has this change resulted in so far
The immigration policy change announced earlier this year had notable impacts on study visa applications. Data from January to September 2024 shows a 16% drop in ‘Sponsored study’ visa applications compared to the same period in 2023, totaling 350,700. Typically, applications peak between July and September, but 2024 saw 49,000 fewer applications during these months than in the previous year.
There were 17,800 applications from dependants of students between January and September 2024, marking an 85% decrease from the same period in 2023. This significant drop followed the rule change in January 2024, which restricted students from bringing dependants, except for those in postgraduate research courses or those with government-funded scholarships.
Impact on Student Enrollment: ABC Agency’s Insights
When we spoke to ABC Agency from XYZ, A Pioneer in study abroad enrollments in XYZ region, about the recent UK immigration policy changes, they noted a significant shift in enrollment trends. The number of married individuals choosing the UK has noticeably declined due to new rules preventing most international students from bringing family members, except for those in postgraduate research courses or on government-funded scholarships.
ABC Agency highlighted that many married students now prefer Canada and Australia, which allow dependants and offer a more family-friendly environment.In contrast, unmarried students still favor the UK. The academic excellence and career opportunities in the UK continue to attract single students, who are less affected by the new family restrictions.
What’s Ahead in 2025 ?
Earlier this year the UK government announced its plans to raise the minimum income threshold to £38,700 by Spring 2025 for British or settled residents sponsoring family members. The Migration Advisory Committee will review the Graduate route to prevent misuse and maintain the high standards of UK higher education. Alongside measures on student dependents, this idea aims to reduce net migration by around 300,000 people, marking the largest reduction to date. This initiative seeks to achieve sustainable migration levels while allowing individuals ample time to adapt, with the new regulations being phased in gradually throughout early 2024.
The UK will implement new financial requirements for international students starting January 2, 2025. This policy change, the first since 2020, demands increased financial savings for student visa eligibility. For students in London, the monthly savings requirement will rise to £1,483, while for those outside London, it will increase to £1,136. The UK government cites rising living costs as the reason, aiming to align with domestic student loans and better prepare students financially.
These changes could introduce financial strain, particularly for students from lower-income countries, potentially reducing the diversity of international students in the UK. The new requirements may also make the UK less attractive compared to more affordable options like the USA, Canada, and Australia. The UK government hopes these changes will ensure international students are financially prepared for their stay, leading to a more stable educational environment.
