The United Kingdom is poised to implement a notable modification to its post-study work visa policy, decreasing the duration for international students from two years to 18 months, effective January 1, 2027.
The post-study work visa policy was announced by UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood on October 14, 2023, and is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at tightening immigration controls while simultaneously attracting top global talent.
Mahmood underscored the importance of immigrants meeting A-level standards in English to facilitate their integration into the workforce.
According to a statement from the UK government, the revised post-study work period is designed to ensure that international graduates can make meaningful contributions to the UK economy. This policy shift follows findings indicating that a significant proportion of graduates have not transitioned into graduate-level employment within the existing two-year timeline, thereby necessitating such a reduction.
The modification is part of a broader set of immigration reforms introduced to Parliament, as detailed in the government’s flagship immigration white paper entitled "Plan for Change." Among these reforms is a 32% increase in the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC), which employers are required to pay to sponsor skilled foreign workers. This increase, the first adjustment since 2017, is intended to be reinvested in developing the domestic workforce and reducing reliance on overseas recruitment.
The government’s statement characterized these measures as vital for facilitating the effective entry of international students into the workforce, specifying that “the timeframe for international students to secure a graduate-level position following the completion of their studies will be shortened to 18 months from the current two years.” Furthermore, it addressed the heightened Immigration Skills Charge, which aims to enhance investments in British workers and lessen dependence on foreign recruitment.
Additionally, international students will now encounter more stringent English language requirements for studying, working, and settling in the United Kingdom. The costs associated with studying in the UK are anticipated to rise, with undergraduate tuition fees projected to increase by 3.1% for the 2025/26 academic year, from £9,250 to £9,535. Moreover, recent modifications to immigration rules since January 2024 have restricted the ability of most international students to bring dependents, with exceptions granted only for those enrolled in postgraduate research programs or who hold government-funded scholarships. Data from 2024 reflects a decline in the number of international students selecting the UK as their study destination.