The UK government is preparing to introduce strict new visa measures targeting foreign students who enter the country for higher education and later seek asylum, as reported by The Times. Institutions will also be penalised if more than 5% of their student visa applications are rejected. Those failing to meet the standards may have their ability to recruit international students suspended or revoked.The Home Office has identified a trend where international students apply for asylum just before their visas expire. In 2024, 16,000 asylum applications were linked to student visa holders, some of whom then claimed taxpayer-funded accommodation and allowances.According to data published in The Times, international students made up 25% of the UK student population in 2023–24, contributing £12.1 billion in revenue. For each person returned, the UK has committed to accepting an equivalent number of asylum seekers through safe and legal routes.
