Olushola Omogbehin
The United Kingdom has announced broad immigration reforms aimed at tightening control over migrant entry, strengthening English language standards, and reducing the post-study stay period for Nigerians and other international students from two years to 18 months.
The UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, disclosed this on October 14, saying that the new policy is part of a broader effort to tighten immigration controls while still attracting top global talent.
According to the new law laid before Parliament on Monday, October 20, migrants entering through certain legal routes will now be required to meet tougher English language standards equivalent to an A-level qualification in speaking, listening, reading and writing.
In the statement published on the UK government’s website on Wednesday, the revised post-study work period is designed to ensure that international graduates contribute effectively to the UK economy.
Defending the new measures, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said they reflect government’s commitment to creating a fair and controlled immigration system.
“This country has always welcomed those who come to this country and contribute. But it is unacceptable for migrants to come here without learning our language and unable to contribute to our national life. If you come to this country, you must learn our language and play your part,” she said.
The policy is part of the government’s Plan for Change and flagship immigration white paper, designed to ensure Britain attracts top global talent while prioritising opportunities for its citizens.
“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 immigration skills charge, which is paid by employers sponsoring skilled foreign workers and reinvested in training the domestic workforce, is being raised by 32 percent.
“The Immigration Skills Charge ISC increase is the first since 2017 and will be used to boost investment in British workers and reduce reliance on overseas recruitment. The Parliamentary process to increase the charge will begin later this week. To ensure graduates contribute effectively to the economy, the maximum post-study stay will be reduced to 18 months from the current two years for most from 1 January 2027. It comes after data clearly showed that many holders had not transitioned into graduate-level employment as intended.”
Also, the finance requirement for student visas will also rise for the 2025–2026 academic year, meaning foreign students must prove they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their studies. Undergraduate tuition fees are set to rise by 3.1 percent in the 2025/26 academic year, increasing from £9,250 to £9,535.
As well, since January 2024, most international students have been denied bringing dependants, apart from those admitted for postgraduate research programmes or holding government-funded scholarships
UK Government also announced a 32% increase in the ISC, the first adjustment since 2017 and the government says it will be reinvested in training the domestic workforce to reduce reliance on overseas recruitment.
