A group of business leaders has written an open letter to the prime minister, expressing their concern over potential changes to the graduate visa route that could limit overseas students’ ability to study in the UK. The letter acknowledges the government’s industrial strategy, which aims to make the UK more competitive in research and innovation. However, the signatories, including CEOs and directors from prominent companies, argue that altering the graduate visa route could jeopardize the strength of the UK’s university sector. They emphasize the positive impact of international students on the country’s skills base, workforce, and international influence. The business leaders urge the prime minister to conduct a thorough review before making any changes to the graduate visa route. They warn that financial pressures resulting from such changes could undermine the UK’s strategic strengths and have far-reaching consequences for businesses, the economy, and society as a whole. A recent report from the Migration Advisory Committee supports these concerns, stating that restrictions on dependents and increased salary thresholds may lead to a decline in international student numbers and fewer graduates transitioning to long-term work visas. The head of policy and engagement at a prominent education institution stresses that the uncertainty caused by the potential review has disrupted international student recruitment and calls on the government to confirm that no changes will be made. She highlights the benefits that international students bring to domestic students’ learning experience, workforce support, and funding for research and collaboration activities with businesses.
Warning against altering foreign student visa regulations, Sunak advises against changes
