Study in UK 2024: New Three-Year Study Visa for International Students

EU nationals between the ages of 18 and 30 may soon be able to spend up to three years in the UK studying, working, and volunteering thanks to a new visa policy. To fortify relations with the EU after Brexit, the UK and the EU may reach a reciprocal agreement. You must know this.

New 3-Year Study Visa for EU Nationals

In light of a potential change in visa regulations that would let EU nationals work, study, and volunteer in the UK for a maximum of three years, the UK labor government is reevaluating its position on the Youth Mobility Initiative. This action is a component of a larger initiative to improve UK-EU ties.

Impact on UK-EU Relations and Youth Mobility

After tense relations following Brexit, the proposed Visa policy seeks to mend and enhance relationships with the EU. In line with the accords the UK has with nations like Canada and Australia, it would provide young Europeans with new prospects in the UK.

Connection to the UK Graduate Route Visa and ARRISMA Scheme

The UK Graduate Route Visa, which permits international students to remain and work in the UK for two years following their studies, is a topic of continuous dispute that is related to this new effort. Talks about the ARRISMA Scheme, which facilitated student exchanges between the UK and EU before coming to an end in January 2020, may also be revived.

Government Stance on Free Movement of People

Government sources have highlighted that, despite the possible advantages of the new Visa policy, unrestricted movement between the UK and the EU will not return, designating this as a red line in negotiations. In addition to improving UK-EU relations going forward, this suggested visa regime may be extremely important in reviving foreign enrollment at UK universities.

UK Government Increases UK Student Visa Duration for International Students

Significant modifications to the UK’s visa regulations for foreign students have been announced lately, extending their stay in the nation after they graduate. The UK government’s dedication to assisting international students and appreciating their contributions to the country is demonstrated by this action.

Extended Stay for PhD Graduates

International PhD students will now be permitted to remain in the UK for three years upon graduation, instead of the previous two, according to a recent decision made by UK Secretary of State for Education Bridget Phillipson. This move is a component of the UK’s continuous attempts to draw in and keep outstanding talent from around the globe.

UK Government’s Commitment to International Students

Speaking at the Embassy Education Conference in London, Philipson stressed how much the UK appreciates the contributions that overseas students make to universities, communities, and the nation at large. She said that the new government places a high priority on these efforts. International students will still be able to work in the UK for two years following their studies through the Graduate Visa route; for PhD graduates, this period will be extended to three years.

Impact of New Visa Rules

Study Visa applications are declining, according to recent figures. During the first quarter of this year, there were 34,000 applications, compared to 46,900 during the same period in 2022. New government regulations that prohibit Masters students from bringing dependents are partially to blame for this reduction. Applications for Dependent Visas consequently decreased dramatically.

Additionally, overseas students’ ability to convert from a student visa to a work visa before graduation has been restricted by the UK government. Notwithstanding these limitations, international students will still be able to complete their studies and obtain useful work experience in the UK under the Graduate Route Work Visa program.

The UK’s determination to create a welcoming atmosphere for international students is demonstrated by its decision to extend the Post-Study Work Visa for PhD graduates. The United Kingdom seeks to preserve its status as a worldwide hub for education and retain talented talent by extending stay limits and preserving the Graduate Visa Route.