Effective January 1, 2024, the UK government has implemented a significant policy change affecting international students. Under this new directive, international students will no longer be permitted to bring their family members to the UK. This decision is part of a broader strategy to curb migration and address potential abuses within the immigration system. VisaGuide.World has reported that this policy primarily impacts the majority of international students, except for those engaged in postgraduate research or those receiving government-funded scholarships.

Stricter Visa Rules: A Closer Look

This policy initiative, first proposed in May, is a critical component of the government's overarching plan to reduce migrant influxes into the UK. Projections estimate a decrease of approximately 140,000 individuals entering the country as a consequence of these changes. 

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) recorded a net migration figure of 672,000 from June 2022 to June 2023. Notably, there was a substantial increase in visas granted to students’ dependents up to September 2023, which surged by over 930% from the previous year, totaling 152,980.

Also Read: Key updates in the UK visa policy 2024

Home Secretary James Cleverly affirmed the government's commitment to fulfilling its promise to the British public of reducing migration. The government has articulated a stringent plan aimed at swiftly decreasing migrant numbers, fortifying border control, and deterring exploitation of the immigration system. These measures are set to be progressively implemented throughout the year.

Government's Strategy to Curb Migration

In addition to the aforementioned restrictions, the government anticipates a significant drop in migration figures, in the tens of thousands, resulting from the recent adjustments to student visa regulations. These adjustments specifically target the practice of international students bringing their family members into the country. Tom Pursglove, MP, Minister for Legal Migration and the Border, emphasized the government's unwavering dedication to substantially reducing migration. 

Also Read: Decoding the family-related visa approvals given by the UK in 2023

He highlighted that the newly enforced restrictions on dependents accompanying students on visa routes are crucial for safeguarding public services and bolstering the economy. The government, he explained, aims to ensure that only those students who offer the greatest contributions can continue to enter the UK.

The government's approach extends beyond the realm of student visas, aiming to bring legal migration down to more sustainable levels. These efforts include terminating the misuse of health and care visas, raising salary thresholds for skilled workers, and regulating care firms that sponsor visas. Specifically, the salary threshold for skilled worker routes will see a near 50% increase to €44,816. Additionally, the government plans to abolish the 20% salary discount currently applied to shortage occupations.

Also Read: UK will now allow these activities under its visitor visa program from 2024

Upcoming Changes

Moreover, by spring 2025, the minimum income requirement for British or settled individuals sponsoring family members will be raised to €44,816. The Migration Advisory Committee has also been tasked with reviewing the graduate route to ensure its effectiveness and uphold the high standards of the UK's higher education system.

FAQs

Can international students bring their family members to the UK under the new rules?

Generally, international students are no longer allowed to bring their family members, except for those engaged in postgraduate research or holding government-funded scholarships.

What is the government's goal with these new restrictions?

The government aims to substantially reduce migration, fortify border control, and ensure that only students making significant contributions can enter the UK.

Are there broader changes beyond student visas?

Yes, the government is implementing changes across various visa categories, including raising salary thresholds for skilled workers and reviewing the graduate route.