The United Kingdom has announced a reduction in the post-study work visa period for international students — including Nigerians — from two years to 18 months, effective January 1, 2027.
The new policy, unveiled by the UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, forms part of the government’s broader immigration reform agenda aimed at tightening migration controls while still attracting highly skilled global talent.
According to a statement published on the UK Government’s official website on Wednesday, the adjustment is one of several changes under the “Plan for Change”, a white paper initiative designed to align the country’s immigration system with its economic and workforce needs.
Key Policy Changes
The statement explained that international graduates will now have a maximum of 18 months to secure a graduate-level job after completing their studies, instead of the existing two-year window under the Graduate Route visa.
“The time for international students to find a graduate-level job after completing their studies will also be cut to 18 months from the current two years,” the statement read.
“The Immigration Skills Charge (ISC), paid by employers who sponsor skilled foreign workers, will be increased by 32%, marking the first review since 2017. The additional revenue will be reinvested in training British workers and reducing dependence on overseas recruitment.”
The government noted that the decision followed data showing that many foreign graduates were not transitioning into skilled employment as intended under the original visa scheme.
English Language and Fee Reforms
The Home Secretary also emphasized that from 2027, all foreign students and skilled workers will be required to meet an A-level standard in English language proficiency before being granted entry or settlement rights in the UK.
In addition, international students will face higher tuition and immigration-related fees. The 2025/26 academic year will see a 3.1% increase in tuition, raising the average annual fee for undergraduate courses from £9,250 to £9,535.
These measures, the government said, are part of efforts to ensure that international students “contribute effectively to the UK economy” while maintaining high academic and professional standards.
Impact on International Students
The policy shift follows earlier restrictions implemented in January 2024, which barred foreign students from bringing dependants unless they were enrolled in postgraduate research programmes or recipients of government-funded scholarships.
Observers note that the combination of tighter visa rules, rising tuition fees, and stricter language requirements could make the UK a less attractive study destination for many prospective students, particularly from developing countries like Nigeria and India.
Recent data already indicates a decline in international student applications to UK universities in 2024, amid growing competition from countries such as Canada and Australia that offer more flexible post-study work opportunities.
Government’s Rationale
Defending the reforms, Mahmood stated that the UK remains committed to hosting international students but must also address concerns over migration levels and ensure that education routes are not exploited for settlement purposes.
“Our goal is to maintain a fair and balanced immigration system, one that welcomes the brightest talents while protecting opportunities for British workers and ensuring our higher education sector remains globally competitive,” she said.
The policy changes will be laid before Parliament later this week for debate and are expected to come into full effect from January 2027.
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