UK immigration drops due to tighter student visa rules

Immigration trends in the United Kingdom have taken a notable turn, with a decline in overall numbers revealed by the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). One major reason for the decline is the drop in student visas, which previously allowed easier settlement in the UK. Changes to post-study work opportunities have shaken trust in the post-graduation pathways.

Over the year leading up to June 2024, 1.2 million individuals migrated to the UK. A significant majority -- 86% -- were non-EU nationals, while 10% came from EU nations, and 5% were British



returnees.

Indian nationals stood out, receiving 1,42,848 student visas by June 2023 -- a 54% jump from the previous year -- making them the largest group for sponsored study visas. However, policy changes in January 2024 under then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak altered the landscape.

The introduction of restrictions on bringing dependents and tighter rules for switching to work visas mid-study resulted in a sharp decline.

Student visa issuance dropped 19% year-on-year to 392,969 between October 2023 and September 2024, while dependent visas plummeted by 69% to 46,961.