The UK Home Secretary, James Cleverly, points out that the Migration Advisory Committee are on the task of conducting a review of the Graduate Visa program. Despite the graduate route not being abolished, stakeholders continue to express concerns about the government’s potential action.
This review is part of a broader set of measures, including the prohibition of dependents of postgraduate students from relocating to the UK. These steps follow scrutiny of immigration health surcharges and skilled worker salary thresholds. Additionally, the government maintains that robust action is required in order to prevent potential abuses of the system.
In response to Cleverly’s announcement, UUK Chief Executive Vivienne Stern mentions the goal of preventing system abuse. He further highlights the importance of dispelling rumours about the visa’s elimination to reassure prospective international students of the UK’s appeal as a study destination.
The introduction of the Graduate Route in 2019 coincides with approval from various sectors. This showcase at enhancing the attractiveness of the UK for study purposes. Moreover, stakeholders argue that eliminating this route could be a disadvantage. As the UK might lose its attractiveness against its global competitors.
There is a strong commitment among stakeholders in the education sector to maintain the graduate route. They advocate for its benefits to international student. Such as cost mitigation, access to work experience, and networking opportunities in the UK job market. Additionally, the route provides employers with access to smart graduates. They contribute approximately £42 billion to the UK economy annually through international student expenditure.
