The United Kingdom has introduced a new law that restricts Nigerian students and other international students studying in the UK from bringing their families as dependents, except in specific situations.
News About Nigeria reports that the goal behind this law is to reduce immigration to the UK, which currently stands at around one million individuals.
Under the new rule, international students will no longer be permitted to switch from a student visa to a work visa before completing their studies.
This measure aims to prevent the exploitation of the visa system.
Additionally, there will be a thorough review of the financial requirements for students and their dependents.
The UK government also plans to crack down on unscrupulous education agents who engage in inappropriate applications focused on immigration rather than genuine educational purposes.
These changes are scheduled to take effect in January 2024, allowing students who are commencing their courses in the UK sufficient time to adjust to the new regulations.
In a written statement released on Tuesday, Home Secretary Suella Braverman noted that recent immigration statistics have shown an unexpected increase in the number of dependents accompanying international students entering the UK.
The introduction of this new law has raised concerns among Nigerian students and their families.
Many students choose to study in the UK to pursue their educational aspirations while also seeking opportunities to reunite with their families.
The restriction on bringing dependents may disrupt these plans and impact the overall experience of international students.
The UK government’s rationale for implementing this law revolves around the aim to control and manage immigration more effectively.
With the current immigration numbers being significantly high, authorities believe it is necessary to regulate the entry of dependents accompanying international students.
By limiting the ability to switch from a student visa to a work visa, the government hopes to ensure that individuals who enter the country for educational purposes remain focused on their studies and contribute to the UK’s academic environment.
Additionally, the review of financial requirements for students and dependents aims to address concerns about potential abuse of the system.
By scrutinizing these requirements, the government aims to ensure that individuals seeking entry to the UK for educational purposes possess the necessary financial means to support themselves and any dependents.
The crackdown on unscrupulous education agents is another important aspect of the new legislation.
These agents, driven by profit rather than genuine educational interests, may exploit vulnerable individuals by encouraging inappropriate applications solely for immigration purposes.
The government’s intent to target such agents demonstrates a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the UK’s education system and preventing any misuse of the immigration process.
