UK’s Graduate Route Scheme Secured for Now, Subject to Ongoing Review Amid Visa Crackdown Plans

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 24th May. The United Kingdom’s Graduate Route scheme, cherished by Indian students seeking post-study work opportunities, has been assured of its continuity for the time being, as the government announced its commitment to keep it “under review”. This decision comes alongside proposals aimed at tightening student visa regulations to prevent their misuse as a pathway to immigration.

The move follows a 10 percent decline in net migration, lauded by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on the first day of his campaign for a general election scheduled for July 4. Sunak, emphasizing the success of migration control measures since assuming office, reiterated his commitment to the strategy.

The Home Office revealed plans to regulate international student recruitment more rigorously, targeting “rogue recruitment agents” and imposing stringent compliance standards on universities. Institutions failing to meet these standards risk losing their sponsor licenses.

Acknowledging concerns raised by the independent Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) regarding the potential exploitation of the Graduate Route by unscrupulous recruitment agents, the Home Office underscored the necessity for immediate action. Despite this, the Graduate Route remains under scrutiny, particularly regarding its effectiveness in attracting high-earning contributors to the economy.

The decision to maintain the Graduate Route until after the upcoming election has been met with relief by advocacy groups like the National Indian Students and Alumni Union (NISAU) UK, who have campaigned vigorously in support of the post-study visa.

Additionally, the government outlined plans to raise financial maintenance requirements for international students and standardize English language assessments to ensure students are adequately prepared for their courses. Restrictions on remote course delivery aim to prioritize face-to-face learning experiences for overseas students.

These measures are part of the broader strategy led by the Sunak government to reduce legal migration, a policy that is projected to prevent around 300,000 arrivals under the proposed stricter rules.