International students in the UK are facing a significant change to their post-study career plans. The UK government has proposed and implemented a series of reforms that will make it tougher for graduates to secure long-term work. A key change is the potential reduction of the Graduate visa from its current two-year duration to just 18 months.
This move is concerning for several reasons:
- Less Time to Find a Job: The shortened visa period gives graduates less time to find a sponsored job, increasing pressure in an already competitive job market.
- Tougher English Language Rules: Higher English language proficiency standards for both skilled workers and their dependents are also being proposed, adding another hurdle for international talent.
- Stricter University Compliance: The government is increasing scrutiny on universities, requiring them to meet stricter enrollment and course completion rates to retain their license to sponsor student visas.
These changes highlight a significant shift in the UK’s immigration strategy, moving towards a more selective and controlled system. For students, it means a more strategic approach to their post-study plans is essential.
