New Rules for International Students in the UK 2024

Some significant changes to UK student and graduate visas have recently come into effect. These changes were initially announced on the 17th July 2023, and came into effect on the 1st January 2024.  

In this blog, we’ll go over everything you need to know about these changes if you’re an international student currently studying in the UK or thinking about studying in the UK in the future.

We’ll include: 

• What these changes are, and what they mean for international students.
• The answers to some frequently asked questions about these changes.

UK immigration news for international students 

Changes to UK immigration rules for:

Dependents of international students 

Previously, international students could bring family members, such as children and spouses, to the UK while they were studying. For courses starting in or after January 2024, this will be restricted.  

Now, only international students completing postgraduate research programs, PhDs or doctorates can bring dependents. If you’re an international student studying for a Bachelor’s or taught Master’s degree, you won’t be able to bring any dependents with you. 

Switching from a Student to a Skilled Worker visa 

In the past, international students could transition from a UK Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa while in the UK. From January 2024, international students must finish their course before switching to a Skilled Worker visa, and PhD students must study for at least 24 months before switching to a skilled worker visa.  

It will also be harder to make the switch – international students will have a limited window of time to apply for sponsored work routes, and they’ll need to ensure that their job start date aligns with the completion of their course. Importantly, your job start date cannot be earlier than your course completion date.  

Frequently asked questions about the new rules for international students in the UK 2023 

1. When will these new changes come into effect? 

The new immigration rules on student dependents came into effect on the 1st January 2024 and apply to all new courses starting on or after this date. The new rules about switching from a student visa to a skilled worker visa came into effect on the 17th July 2023.  

2. Can student dependent visas be extended after January 2024? 

Provided the Student visa holder started their course before the 1st January 2024, dependents can extend their visas as long as they’re valid. The new changes only apply to courses starting after the 1st January 2024. 

3. Can family members apply for a dependent visa after I switch to a Graduate visa?

Provided your family members were living with you in the UK on a dependent visa during your studies, they can apply for a dependent visa to remain in the UK with you for the duration of your Graduate visa. The rules around the graduate route have stayed the same.  

Find all-inclusive student accommodation for international students 

If you’re thinking about studying in the UK, one thing you’re guaranteed to need is accommodation. UniHomes offers hassle-free, bills-inclusive student accommodation in 60+ student cities across the UK – so whether you're after private halls or a shared house, we can help you find your perfect UK student home. Click here to find student accommodation in your new uni city today.

UniHomes are not immigration experts, and this should not be taken as immigration advice. Please do your own research, consult gov.uk for up-to-date immigration information or speak to an immigration solicitor.