The UK has seen a significant increase in the misuse of student visas for employment, according to official data. The number of non-EU students and their dependents switching from study-related to work-related visas has increased fivefold, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
The integrity of the student visa system and its effects on migration have come under scrutiny as a result of this development.
Transitioning from Studies to Work
After three years in the UK, half of non-EU students and their dependents changed to work or other visas in 2024. When compared to just 10% three years ago, this is a substantial gain.
Nearly 194,300 people (47%) who came in 2023 switched to work-related visas, according to data. To find work and potentially obtain permanent status, many are taking advantage of the system.
Many of these people go on to work in the social care industry. There are an estimated 150,000 openings in this industry, and approximately half of those who switch to work visas ultimately find employment in it. This represents roughly 10% of the potential labour in the industry.
Migration Figures and Policy Impact
One of the leading causes of the record-high net migration numbers is the abuse of student visas. The net migration for the year ended June 2023 was 906,000. This number is four times greater than what it was before Brexit, when the UK was trying to “reclaim control of its borders.”
More stringent immigration laws have since been implemented. Rishi Sunak, the former Prime Minister, implemented policies to limit the number of dependents who can travel with students. Additionally, he increased the pay threshold for skilled workers from £26,200 to £38,700.
Net migration has decreased by over 20% to 728,000 as a result of these regulations. In the year ending in September 2024, there were 19% fewer overseas students. The percentage of students switching to work visas is still high despite this.
Concerns Over Exploitation of the System
Experts have expressed concerns over the abuse of student visas. According to Ben Brindle of the University of Oxford’s Migration Observatory, many students now use two-year graduate visas as a springboard to work-related visas. Some go straight to work, which raises concerns about potential abuses of the system.
Neil O’Brien, the former health minister, emphasized the need to prevent student visas from being used as a means of securing low-paying employment. He referred to the shifting migration trends as “striking” and emphasized the importance of preserving the integrity of the student visa program.
According to the Home Office, although international students help the UK, regulations must be strictly enforced. Plans are in place to match the nation’s workforce requirements with the immigration system to stop further misuse.
FAQS
Why is it that more students are choosing work-related visas?
The rise is attributed to the availability of avenues such as skilled worker and graduate visas, as well as labour shortages in industries like social care. These choices provide students with the opportunity to stay and work in the UK.
How has the UK government handled this matter?
Stricter regulations have been implemented by the government, including a higher wage threshold for qualified workers and a cap on the number of relatives that can travel with international students. These steps are intended to lessen both net migration and visa abuse.
