Navigating the Changes: A Guide to UK Student Visa Rules in 2024
The UK Government has recently introduced significant amendments to the UK Student Visa Immigration Rules, impacting international students studying in the UK. These changes, set to take effect from January 2024, bring notable adjustments to student visa requirements. Let’s unpack these alterations for a clearer understanding.
1. Dependency Restriction:
- International students will no longer be able to bring their dependant partner or children to the UK, except for those enrolled in a PhD or postgraduate research programme.
- This follows earlier changes made on July 17, 2023, requiring student visa holders switching to a UK work visa to complete their course and have a job start date post-course completion.
2. Extension of Student Dependant Visa:
- If the main student visa holder (e.g., partner or parent) started their course before January 1, 2024, dependents can still extend their visa as long as the main visa remains valid.
- The new rules on student visa dependents apply only to courses commencing after January 1, 2024.
3. Dependent Visa after Switching to PSW:
- Switching from a student visa to a post-study work visa (PSW or UK Graduate visa) allows partners and children to apply for a dependent visa, given they have been living as dependents during the study period.
- This transition enables dependents to stay in the UK as the main visa holder shifts to a PSW visa.
4. Switching from Dependent to Work Visa:
- Students on a student dependent visa can switch to a work visa, like the skilled worker visa, meeting specific criteria.
- Requirements include an eligible job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor license, meeting minimum salary criteria (currently £26,200 per year or the ‘going rate’), and satisfying English language proficiency requirements (CEFR level B1).
5. Exception for Parents:
- While student dependents like spouses and children can typically switch to a Skilled Worker visa after their studies, parents accompanying children on student visas are an exception. They are not considered student dependents in this context and therefore cannot switch to a Skilled Worker visa. This highlights the complexity of immigration policies and the importance of understanding specific categories and exceptions.
6. Key Considerations to change your visa status from student dependent to skilled worker, you need to:
- Possess a job offer that qualifies from an employer licensed by the UK
- fulfill the minimum wage standards (which, as of this writing in December 2023, are £10.75 per hour or the “going rate” for your occupation), as well as
- Fulfill the standards for proficiency in the English language, such as having a level B1 proficiency in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) assessment of reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension.
As we step into this new era of student visa regulations, it’s crucial for international students and their dependents to be well-informed about t international students and their dependents must be changes.
For personalized guidance and assistance, consult with our immigration solicitors at 0800 970 2727, they will provide you with clarity on individual situations and ensure a smooth transition through these evolving visa landscapes.
