Restrictions to student visa routes came into effect yesterday, as the government continues to slash migration and curb abuse of the immigration system.

International students starting courses this month will no longer be able to bring family members on all but postgraduate research courses and courses with government-funded scholarships. The new restrictions on student visa dependants apply to courses that start on or after 1 January 2024.

Exemptions apply only where the student is a government-sponsored student starting a course that lasts longer than 6 months, or where the student is studying full-time on a postgraduate level course – either a PhD or other doctorate (RQF level 8), or a research-based higher degree.

The new rules not apply to those already in the UK with valid leave as the dependent of a student visa holder. This means that it is possible to apply to extend a dependent visa provided the main student visa holder began their course of study before 1 January 2024 and provided their visa remains valid.

The option to switch into a different visa category may also be worth considering. For example, student dependants may wish to switch to a work visa such as the Health & Care Worker or Skilled Worker visa. This will only be possible, however, if the individual is eligible for the route and meets the relevant eligibility requirements.

Also, there is a specific restriction in place preventing parents of student visa holders from being able to apply to switch from a dependant visa to a Skilled Worker visa.

Advice should be sought from a Immigration Advisor as to the best route if you are seeking entry to the UK as a Student after the 1st January 2024.