UK Reduces Post-Study Visa Period for Foreign Students to 18 Months Amid Tightening Immigration Rules

The United Kingdom has announced a major revision to its immigration policy, cutting the post-study work visa period for international graduates from two years to 18 months, effective January 2027.

The new measure, unveiled by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, forms part of the UK government’s broader Plan for Change  a legislative agenda aimed at tightening immigration control while maintaining the country’s appeal to top global talent.

According to a statement published on the UK government’s official website, the change seeks to ensure that international graduates “contribute effectively to the economy” by transitioning swiftly into skilled employment.

“Data clearly shows that many visa holders have not progressed into graduate-level jobs as intended,” the statement noted, justifying the reduction in post-study stay duration.

In addition to the new time limit, the government will raise the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC)  a mandatory levy on employers who sponsor skilled foreign workers by 32 percent, marking its first increase since 2017. The additional revenue will reportedly be reinvested into training the domestic workforce.

The reform comes on the heels of other restrictive measures targeting foreign students. Earlier this year, the UK barred most international students from bringing dependants unless enrolled in postgraduate research or government-sponsored programmes.

Furthermore, stricter English language requirements will now apply to individuals seeking study, work, or settlement visas. Mahmood stated that applicants will have to meet an A-level standard of English proficiency to qualify.

The changes have sparked concern among prospective international students, particularly from countries like Nigeria, India, and China, which represent a significant portion of the UK’s foreign student population.

Analysts predict that the new measures could further dampen interest in the UK as a study destination. Government data already shows a decline in international student applications throughout 2024, following earlier immigration restrictions.

Meanwhile, tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year have risen by 3.1 percent, bringing the cost for most undergraduate courses to £9,535 per year.

Education observers warn that these developments could make the UK less competitive compared to study destinations such as Canada, Australia, and Germany, where post-graduation work rights remain longer and visa pathways more flexible.

As the UK Parliament debates the white paper in the coming weeks, higher education stakeholders and foreign student groups are expected to press for policy reviews that balance immigration control with global academic competitiveness.