The United Kingdom has introduced sweeping changes to its immigration policy, including a significant reduction in the duration of the graduate visa, a move expected to affect thousands of Nigerian students and professionals planning to work in the country after completing their studies.
Announced on Wednesday, the reforms reduce the post-study work visa period from two years to 18 months, limiting the time international graduates, including Nigerians, can stay in the UK after their academic programs. The changes were outlined in a White Paper released by the UK Home Office as part of broader efforts to tighten legal migration and reform the visa system.
In addition to shortening the graduate visa route, the UK government has doubled the standard residency requirement for foreign nationals seeking indefinite leave to remain—from five years to ten. This extension will make the path to permanent residency significantly longer for many immigrants.
The Home Office stated that the graduate visa had diverged from its intended purpose and had increasingly become a route for unsponsored employment. To address this, new compliance standards will be imposed on educational institutions that recruit international students. Universities with low rates of student progression into employment or those found to engage in questionable recruitment practices could face penalties, including suspension of their ability to sponsor foreign students.
The reforms also touch on the employment sector. The immigration skills charge, which is paid by employers sponsoring migrant workers, will rise by 32 percent. Additionally, skilled worker visa eligibility will now require a university degree, and access for roles that fall below this level will be strictly limited and based on labor shortages.
The UK government emphasized that these reforms are intended to shift focus back to developing domestic talent while only attracting top-tier global professionals who can contribute to strategic growth sectors. “We will continue to provide fast-track routes for exceptionally skilled individuals who can help boost the UK economy,” the White Paper noted.
In response to the announcement, the British High Commission in Nigeria acknowledged the strong bilateral ties between both countries and promised to engage with the Nigerian government once the implementation timeline is clearer.
“The UK continues to be a top destination for Nigerians seeking education, work, and settlement opportunities. We value the vital contribution Nigerians make to the UK,” a spokesperson said.
The Commission added that while the reforms aim to restore control and balance to the immigration system, they would be rolled out gradually, allowing time for consultations and adjustments.
