Decrease in UK Study Visa Issuance for Indians, Nigerians, and Bangladeshis in 2024
The UK has reported a 14% decline in sponsored study visas in 2024, particularly affecting students from India, Nigeria, and Bangladesh. In contrast, China has emerged as the largest source of international students, receiving most visas. Family-related visa applications increased, whereas work visa issuances decreased significantly.
The United Kingdom has witnessed a notable decline in the issuance of sponsored study visas, particularly impacting applicants from India, Nigeria, and Bangladesh. Data from the Home Office indicates a 14 percent decrease in 2024, with the total number of study visas dropping to 393,125 from 498,068 in the previous year. A key factor contributing to this decline is the restriction imposed in January 2024, which prohibits international students from bringing family members to the UK.
In contrast to the drop in applicants from other countries, Chinese students emerged as the largest group of international students in the UK for 2024, securing 102,940 sponsored study visas. Following China, Indians ranked second with 88,860 visas, followed by Pakistanis with 35,045, Nigerians with 18,900, and Americans with 15,275. The fifth position was held by Nepalese students with 12,235 visas, with Bangladeshis and Malaysians obtaining 6,400 and 5,420 respectively. Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia rounded out the top ten with 5,180 and 4,875 visas issued, respectively.
According to the Home Office data, overall visa issuance decreased in 2024 compared to 2023; however, the numbers remain higher than pre-pandemic levels. Family-related visa applications have increased for the fourth consecutive year, totaling 91,899 in 2024, marking a 16 percent rise from 2023. In contrast, work visas issued in 2024 fell to 210,098, representing a 37 percent decrease from the previous year due to reduced demand following the pandemic, especially in the healthcare sector.
The significant decrease in sponsored study visa issuance for nationals of India, Nigeria, and Bangladesh indicates a shift in the UK’s international student landscape, with strict measures affecting applicants. Conversely, the rise of Chinese students highlights a changing demographic in UK education. Additionally, while family visa applications continue to rise, the decline in work visas suggests changing economic conditions that have impacted demand for foreign workers in the UK.
Original Source: visaguide.world
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