New UK Visa Rules: Work, Study, Family Access Made Tougher

The United Kingdom's newly formed government under Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced sweeping changes to its immigration policy, significantly affecting individuals from countries like India who are seeking education and employment opportunities in the UK. Describing the existing immigration framework as a “failed border experiment,” the government has indicated that immigration is a root cause of several national issues and has unveiled stringent new visa rules.

According to official estimates, approximately 116,000 work visas and 127,000 study visas are expected to be issued to Indian nationals by June 2024. Indian citizens represent the highest number of applicants for work and study visas from outside the European Union. Consequently, the new regulations are anticipated to have a substantial impact on this demographic.

The former Conservative government had already introduced restrictions which led to a decrease in net migration figures that had previously reached record levels. The Labour administration is now implementing further measures to reassert control over the nation’s borders.

Here are the five major changes that Indian nationals must take note of:

Stricter Work Visa Eligibility:

The qualification standards for skilled work visas have been raised. While earlier a Level 3 qualification (equivalent to A-level) under the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) sufficed, the new requirement mandates a degree-level qualification (RQF Level 6). This effectively makes a university degree compulsory for applicants. Certain sectors, however, will receive temporary exemptions from this rule.

Longer Path to Citizenship:

The eligibility period for applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)—comparable to the U.S. Green Card—has been doubled from 5 years to 10 years of residency in the UK. The government is also considering introducing an “earned settlement” route that could allow faster qualification under specific conditions.

Restrictions on Student Visas:

International students will now be permitted to stay in the UK for only 18 months after completing their studies, reduced from the previous allowance of two years. Additionally, a proposal is under review to impose a 6% tax on tuition fees collected by universities from international students.

Enhanced English Language Requirements:

All categories of work visa applicants will now need to meet stricter English language proficiency standards. Furthermore, adult dependents of visa holders must also demonstrate basic knowledge of English.

Tighter Family Visa Rules:

Bringing family members to the UK will become increasingly difficult. The government is considering legislative changes to restrict the use of the “right to family life” clause under the European Convention on Human Rights in immigration cases.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has affirmed that if necessary, additional measures will be undertaken to further curb immigration. Indian nationals planning to relocate to the UK are advised to thoroughly understand these updated regulations and prepare accordingly.