The UKVI has just released a new immigration whitepaper outlining proposed UK immigration policy changes in 2025. While these measures are not yet law, they bring major implications for international students planning to study, work, or settle in the UK.
These policy shifts could affect every stage of your journey, from securing a UK study visa to post-study work and even permanent settlement in the UK. Understanding these updates is essential to avoid pitfalls and plan your future effectively.
Reduction of Post-Study Stay Duration
The post-study work opportunity, currently known as the Graduate Route, which allows international students to stay up to 2 years (or 3 years for PhDs) post-study, may be reduced to 18 months.
Implication for Students: With a shorter window to find work or switch visas, start planning your post-study pathway early. Consider options like the Skilled Worker visa, PhD progression, or other sponsored routes.
Higher English Language Requirements
New and stricter English language benchmarks may be introduced for both main applicants and dependants. Students will have to meet higher English language requirements, for example, higher IELTS or PTE scores.
Implications for Students:
Schools may take a stricter approach to English Certificate verifications. Current C6 WAEC English acceptance may require a higher pass mark to be accepted or they may need to sit for for IELTS and have a higher band score .
Previously, pre-CAS interviews were overlooked by some institutions. Moving forward, pre-CAS interviews may become extremely necessary with a cap for the number of student intakes, as seen by the revoking of Harvard University’s License to admit international students in the United States.
Settlement Timeline Extension
The qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) may be doubled from 5 years to 10 years. This however, does not include years spent studying (if you are on a study Visa) or working.
Staying in the UK on a Visa that does not qualify for ILR does not count as a requirement for your ILR.
Settlement and citizenship may be based on a new contribution-focused points system.
Implication for Students: If your goal is permanent residency, plan for a longer stay under various visa categories and actively contribute (via skilled work, tax, etc.) to accumulate settlement points.
Stricter Regulations for Educational Institutions
The UK is looking to tighten regulations for institutions sponsoring international students.
Implication for Students: Before applying, verify the compliance status of your chosen university or college. Partnering with trusted agents like Negxy Concept Limited ensures you avoid blacklisted or restricted schools. Higher institutions will become stricter in their application requirements for the English Language.
| Area | Change | What to Do |
| Graduate Route | Reduced to 18 months | Plan post-study visa transition early |
| School Sponsorship | Stricter rules & caps | Choose verified institutions with clean track records |
| English Requirements | Raised for students & dependants | Prepare thoroughly for English tests |
| Settlement | ILR now after 10 years | Plan long-term journey carefully |
If you are still in the process of making a decision as to whether the UK is a good study destination or not, speak with our licensed counselors who can walk you through all the details, such as course selection, admission processing, visa application, post post-study work options.
As the study abroad agency in Nigeria that has processed over 5000 successful admissions and we assist prospective study abroad students with their Visa processing to study in prestigious universities overseas, therefore, we are in the best position to direct you on your admission process.