UK to cut post-study work visa from two years to 18 months starting 2027

From January 1, 2027, foreign students in the United Kingdom will have only 18 months to find employment after graduation, down from the current two years.

The changes are part of sweeping reforms to the UK’s immigration policy proposed in a white paper released in May. Parliament heard the set timeline last week.

According to the Home Office, the changes were necessary to ensure graduates contribute effectively to the economy.

“It comes after data clearly showed that many holders had not transitioned into graduate-level employment as intended,” the Home Office said in a statement on October 14.

As part of the changes, finance requirements for student visas will also be increased for the 2025 to 2026 academic year.

This will require foreign students to demonstrate that they have “sufficient funds” to support themselves. The statement did not specify what amount qualifies as sufficient.

Currently, foreign students studying in London need to show they have access to £1,483 per month for up to nine months. Students outside London are required to have £1,136 per month for up to nine months.

The Home Office added that it also increased the immigration skills charge (ISC) by 32 percent. The ISC is paid by employers sponsoring skilled foreign workers

According to the ministerial department, the increase will be used to boost investment in British workers and reduce reliance on overseas recruitment.

“The Parliamentary process to increase the charge will begin later this week,” the statement added.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS, MORE SKILLED WORKERS

Shabana Mahmood, the home secretary, said it was unacceptable for migrants to settle in the UK without learning English.

“If you come to this country, you must learn our language and play your part,” Mahmood said.

Under the new rules, migrants must meet an A level equivalent standard in speaking, listening, reading and writing.

The English language test will be conducted with a Home Office-approved provider, with the results subsequently verified as part of the visa application process.

The Home Office said it would also double the number of highly skilled migrants coming to the UK on said visa routes to include “the best researchers, designers, and creatives working in film and TV to ensure continued competitiveness in growth sectors”.

Further changes, including to the global talent route, will be made in 2026, it noted.