🔑 Key Points at a Glance
- Graduate Route (PSW) reduced to 18 months for most students.
- No dependents for non-PhD international students.
- Higher financial requirements for UK Student visa applicants.
- Stricter Skilled Worker visa thresholds post-study.
- Settlement (ILR) criteria under review for 2025/2026.
New UK Immigration Rules for International Students (2025)
The UK has rolled out significant changes in its student immigration policy, outlined in the 2025 Immigration White Paper. These updates reflect the government’s aim to balance economic priorities with immigration control.
1. 🔒 No Dependents for Taught Master’s Students
From January 2024:
- Only PhD and research-based postgraduate students may bring dependents.
- Taught Master’s and undergraduate students are no longer eligible to sponsor family members.
This aims to reduce non-essential migration and focus on high-skill contributions.
2. 💷 Increased Financial Requirements
To apply for a UK Student Visa in 2025, you must show:
- £1,334/month for London-based study
- £1,023/month for study outside London
This amount must be held for at least 28 days before the application, alongside the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
3. 🎓 Graduate Route (PSW) Shortened to 18 Months
According to the 2025 White Paper, the Post-Study Work (Graduate Route) is now:
- 18 months for undergraduate and master’s graduates
- Remains 3 years for PhD graduates
This change takes effect from September 2025, and is aimed at encouraging quicker transitions into skilled employment or further studies.
UK Settlement Plan for International Graduates (2025–2026)
The UK’s updated settlement and skilled migration strategy is designed to ensure that long-term residency is granted to high-value migrants who meet economic and community criteria.
1. 🧑💼 Tighter Skilled Worker Visa Criteria
To switch from PSW to a Skilled Worker Visa, graduates now need:
- A job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
- A salary meeting new thresholds (typically £38,700+ unless on Shortage List)
- A job role aligned with the UK Shortage Occupation List
The Skilled Worker route remains a 5-year path to settlement (ILR).
2. 📊 Updated Points-Based System
The Points-Based System now rewards:
- Higher education qualifications in STEM, healthcare, or green industries
- Higher earnings and long-term job contracts
- Jobs in high-priority sectors defined by the UK government
Courses in these areas offer better long-term immigration prospects.
3. 🏠 New Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Conditions
Expected from late 2025, ILR eligibility may soon require:
- Proof of community integration
- Minimum earnings or tax contribution
- Continuous, skilled employment history
This will affect students planning long-term settlement and should inform career and study decisions now.
✅ What Should Students Do?
If you’re planning to study or settle in the UK:
- Select courses linked to priority sectors (STEM, healthcare, etc.).
- Plan financially to meet new visa thresholds.
- Consider long-term routes via Skilled Worker sponsorship.
- Track Graduate Route updates to avoid falling outside of new rules.
💼 How Sohi Links Can Help
At Sohi Links, we specialise in helping international students and professionals succeed in the UK immigration system. We offer:
- Student Visa application support
- Graduate Route transition planning
- Skilled Worker visa guidance
- Settlement (ILR) application preparation
📞 Book a free consultation now at sohilinks.co.uk and get expert help tailored to your goals.
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