The changes to student visa regulations took effect earlier this year (2024). The purpose was to decrease the immigration number by preventing students from bringing their dependents.
One of the prime announcements last year was to not let foreign students bring along their family members or other dependents for their study duration. However, there were exceptions. The government executed this law in January, leading to a massive decrease in the number of students applying for visas.
Also, as per a source reviewed by UK Nations, a dependent is a person or child whose age is below 18. An unmarried or married partner also lies in the same category. Nevertheless, the scholars with postgraduate research programme visas do not have to follow this policy.
Moreover, foreign students have to complete their actual course of studies in order to get a Graduate visa. As per the government, the changes to this visa are possible as well.
UK Government Recognizing Role of Foreign Students
According to an article, the UK government confirms opportunities for international students in education. The new authority is considering measures to recognize the role of students in improving the economy of the United Kingdom.
For instance, the visa processes have been simplified. The example includes the eVisa system. The relevant document is an online record and is valuable in substituting previous facilities, such as biometric residence cards.
Besides, the students facing affordability issues can opt for government backing, in the form of programs, like Chevening Scholarships.
There is a concerning question as well, whose answer leads to the, somehow, boost in their recognition: are international students UK residents? To call a scholar a tax resident, it is crucial for him or her to stay for more than 183 days. We recommend consulting various sources for confirmation.
Upon delving into the UK international student welcome message, we found out the sender was new British Universities Minister Bridget Phillipson MP. This links to the reassurance for such individuals who are aiming to study in the United Kingdom.
UK International Student Visa Types
Prior to considering enrolment in UK educational institutions and surfing the internet to avail answers for: are international students UK residents, students can learn about various visa types. For instance, there is a student visa, which requires the age 16 or above. Also, you must have the offer to study at a licensed student sponsor. The ability to financially support yourself is imperative as well.
Then there is a child student visa, for which the age should lie between 4 and 17. To live in this island country, you must have adequate financial support, alongside consent from your guardian to study.
Another is a short-term study visa, which prevents you from planning to work. Also, you have to study an English language course, with a duration up to 11 months, commencing from 6 months (must be more than 6). All these visa types entail other requirements as well.
Endnote
As the UK government confirms opportunities for international students in education, there are plenty of sources online for guidance and fields to study in this destination. Nevertheless, keeping the policies in mind can make visa processing and other related tasks much smoother.
