A policy review proposed measures such as mandatory registration for recruitment agents, enhanced data collection procedures, and verification of course outcomes for international students
Indian students in the United Kingdom are appealing to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to maintain the “Graduate Route” visa policy, following a report from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) that found no misuse of the policy and recommended its continuation, Business Today reported.
The National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK (NISAU UK), a leading organization representing Indian students and alumni, has formally urged Prime Minister Sunak to preserve the integrity of the “Graduate Route” visa. This visa permits international graduates to stay in the UK for up to two years after completing their degrees, or three years for PhD graduates, to gain work experience.
Sanam Arora, Chair of NISAU UK, emphasized the significance of the Graduate Route in a letter to Prime Minister Sunak. Arora highlighted that the policy not only attracts international students but also contributes to the UK’s economy, addresses skill shortages, enriches the educational experience for domestic students, enhances Britain’s global influence and soft power, stimulates research and innovation, and underscores the strategic importance of universities.
NISAU UK’s appeal highlights the widespread public support for the Graduate Route and the economic benefits brought by international students, urging the government to continue this policy without changes that could undermine the UK’s attractiveness to international talent
The MAC’s report underlined the substantial contribution of Indian students, who have utilized this visa category extensively, accounting for 42% of the total visas granted between 2021 and 2023, which amounts to 89,200 visas. The report further noted that the Graduate Route has been crucial in supporting UK universities financially, offsetting losses from teaching British students and funding research projects.
In March, Home Secretary James Cleverly called for a review of the “Graduate Route” visa policy, leading to the MAC’s comprehensive report submitted on May 14. Brian Bell, Chair of the MAC, confirmed, “Our investigation did not uncover widespread abuse of the Graduate Route, defined as intentional non-compliance with immigration regulations, and we have concluded that the policy does not compromise the integrity and quality of the UK higher education system.”
The MAC has also suggested that UK universities verify course outcomes, including degree classifications and completion, as part of their recommendations to the government. Additionally, the review proposed measures such as mandatory registration for recruitment agents, enhanced data collection procedures, and verification of course outcomes for international students.
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