The UK government is contemplating stricter visa regulations for students from countries like Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka, citing concerns over a higher propensity for asylum claims among nationals from these nations. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reduce net migration, which reached 728,000 in the year leading up to June 2024.
According to recent statistics, almost 16,000 of the 108,000 asylum petitions submitted in the UK last year came from people who had originally arrived on student visas. While specific nationalities weren’t disclosed, officials have identified Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka as countries whose citizens are more likely to transition from student or visitor visas to asylum claims.
The proposed measures, expected to be detailed in an upcoming Immigration White Paper, aim to identify and restrict visa applicants deemed high-risk for overstaying or seeking asylum. This includes enhanced scrutiny of applicants’ financial backgrounds and travel histories.
The Labour government’s move follows electoral setbacks attributed to public dissatisfaction with immigration policies. Some party members advocate for a more assertive approach to migration control to regain voter confidence.
Critics argue that such policies may lead to discriminatory practices and potential legal challenges, emphasizing the need for fair and individualized assessments of visa applicants.
