UK PM Keir Starmer to Visit India Amid Drastic Changes to UK Visa and Settlement Rules
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On October 8-9, 2025, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is going to travel to India to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss regional, global, and bilateral issues. This visit follows the recent signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between the two nations, aimed at strengthening trade ties.
Aligning with Starmer’s visit, his government in the UK has announced several significant changes to immigration rules, many of which impact international students from India, the second largest group at British universities after China. In 2025, around 100,000 Indian students have already been issued UK student visas.
What are the New Measures for International Students?
- The UK has proposed a levy on the income universities make from international student fees, with the full details to come in the Autumn Budget.
- Universities will face tougher requirements to retain their ability to sponsor student visas due to stricter compliance regulations.
- The post-study Graduate visa period, a major draw for overseas students, may be reduced from two years to 18 months.
- There are plans to shorten the list of occupations eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, which affects international graduates seeking jobs in the UK
Also Read: Canada’s New Initiatives to Attract Global Talents
Tougher Rules on Language Requirements
- Under new proposals, the usual qualifying period for permanent residency will increase from 5 years to 10 years.
- The rules for dependent partners are also set to become more rigorous, with basic English language requirements to be enforced.
These changes stem from the White Paper, restoring control over the immigration system, published in May 2025. The announced measures are part of the government’s commitment to curb overall immigration and to make it more difficult to settle permanently, while balancing the UK’s educational ties and trade interests with countries like India.
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