The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), which reviews post-study work visas, is expected to release its report on May 14. There are concerns that the PSW visa, which allows international students in the UK to work for two years after graduation, may be discontinued. This visa has been a major incentive for Indian students pursuing higher education in the UK. According to data, Indian students received 1.20 lakh student visas in 2023, a significant increase from 2019. The introduction of the PSW visa in 2021 is believed to have contributed to this surge. James Cleverly, the Minister of State for Universities, has raised concerns about the salaries earned by international graduates on the PSW visa, citing that a majority earn less than the median wage of graduates. The government’s crackdown on immigration includes phasing out dependent visas for students and restricting migrant care workers from bringing their families to the UK. The new visa restrictions also prevent international students from switching from the student route into work before completing their studies. As part of the ‘Rwanda Asylum Plan’, illegal immigrants will be deported to Rwanda for processing and resettlement. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced that commercial planes have been booked to initiate the deportation process within the next 10 to 12 weeks.
MAC Report May Axe Post-Study Work Visas, Sparking Concern for Indian Students
