Study Visa Updates
Stay informed with the latest articles on study visa news for various countries around the world.
UK Visa & Immigration Update – June 2025
The UK government has announced major updates to its student visa and post-study work policies in June 2025, aimed at reducing net migration, strengthening domestic workforce development, and reforming the Graduate Route visa system (Gov.uk – Immigration Updates). These changes significantly affect international students in the UK, skilled workers, and the universities that sponsor them. For comprehensive guidance, visit the UK destination page on Global Study News.
Student Visa Changes: What You Need to Know
The UK has reduced the duration of the post-study work visa from 2 years to 18 months for both undergraduate and Master’s graduates (Economic Times – UK Post-Study Visa Cut). This new policy aims to align visa extensions more closely with actual employability statistics and labor demand.
The Graduate Route Visa, previously offering 24 months of open work rights, now gives international graduates a shorter period to find a job in the UK that leads to Skilled Worker visa sponsorship (UKCISA – Graduate Route). Visit the UK visa guidance page on Global Study News for visa eligibility and timelines.
Universities are now subject to enhanced compliance frameworks and visa regulation audits, as announced by the UK Home Office (The PIE News – Compliance Framework). These changes aim to hold educational institutions accountable for the post-enrollment success of international students. Read more on GlobalStudyNews.com.
Graduate Route 2025: Reduced Work Visa Duration
Previously, international graduates could stay and work in the UK for up to 2 years without sponsorship (Prospects – Graduate Route Overview). Now, as of June 2025, the duration is reduced to 18 months, tightening the timeline for securing a Tier 2 Skilled Worker job.
Doctoral graduates, however, are still eligible for a 3-year post-study visa (UK Home Office Graduate Route), offering more flexibility and better long-term settlement options.
Given rising Skilled Worker visa salary thresholds (UK Work Visa Salary Guide), the shorter timeframe puts pressure on graduates to quickly enter the job market. Learn how to navigate these changes on Global Study News – Graduate Route Blog.
Institutional Oversight & Financial Levies
The UK government is imposing stricter compliance measures on universities sponsoring student visas. Institutions failing to maintain minimum performance and compliance metrics may face penalties (Times Higher Education – International Student Scrutiny).
One major proposal is a 6% levy on tuition income from international students, which would be reinvested into local workforce training programs (Financial Times – International Student Levy). This has sparked debate over the financial sustainability of UK higher education. Get detailed insight on GlobalStudyNews.com.
Additional Measures Affecting International Students
Higher English Language Requirements
The UK has raised its English language standards for both international students and their dependants (British Council – IELTS UKVI). Applicants will need to score higher on tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. Ensure you're prepared with our test preparation resources.
Agent Quality Framework Introduced
To improve recruitment practices, the UK now mandates that institutions only work with agents who meet the UK Agent Quality Framework (UK Government – Education Agent Guidance). This is designed to eliminate malpractice and improve student satisfaction and retention. See Global Study News Agent Network for trusted support.
Summary: Key Changes at a Glance
Graduate Route duration reduced from 2 years to 18 months for UG and PG students.
Doctoral students retain a 3-year post-study visa.
UK universities face increased scrutiny and potential 6% levies on tuition income from foreign students.
English language proficiency standards are now higher for students and dependants.
Only government-compliant recruitment agents may assist with student placements in UK universities.
For expert advice on adapting to these visa changes, applying for UK universities, or finding job-ready courses, contact our professional advisors at GlobalStudyNews.com.
Article by:
AJ Asif
Regional Operations Manager, StudyCo
📧 asif.javed@studyco.com
📞 +971 50 881 81 56
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