Proposals to reform the student visa system

Education providers with a Sponsor Licence who offer courses to foreign national students will be aware of the proposals of the Government to reform the student visa system. This is in order to reduce net migration and ensure students leave the United Kingdom at the end of their studies.

Students already face tough entry clearance requirements in order to be able to come and study in the UK. The Government, however, is planning (after public consultation) to reduce the number of people coming to study below degree level; introduce a tougher English language requirement; ask the students to show academic progression when applying to extend their visas; limit students’ entitlement to work and their ability to bring dependants with them to the UK; and improve the accreditation process for education providers alongside more rigorous inspections.

If these proposals go through, it means that education providers, especially those that offer courses below degree level, will have to be fully aware of the immigration rules and how best to organise their business in order to ensure they are still able to run their business profitably. They will also have to ensure that their house is in order in terms of complying with their duties as a Sponsor as there is likely to be more unannounced compliance visits by the UKBA to the premises of education providers.

Education providers are therefore advised to get advice as soon as possible on how any proposed changes will affect their business. One way that education providers who offer below degree level courses and English language courses can continue to effectively offer these courses is to become a Highly Trusted Sponsor.

For more information on compliance or on becoming a Highly Trusted Sponsor please contact Ashlee Campbell on 01206 217357.