UK Visa Updates: What Does the Immigration White Paper Mean for You

The UK government has proposed changes to the student and graduate visas, including increased English language proficiency requirements for adult dependants, in a white paper published on Monday, 12 May.

You might have heard that the government has proposed shortening the Graduate Route visa to 18 months, but this only affects undergraduate and Masters students, it does not affect PhD students!

This blog explains everything that is happening and what it means for you. We don’t have an actual timeline on exactly when these changes will come into force, but we’ll keep you updated through our blogs and newsletters (sign up if you haven’t already).

What has changed

Increased English-language proficiency for dependants

There are no changes to the requirements for students. Adult dependants, however, will need to meet a higher language proficiency level than before. Students on research programmes can bring dependants on a student visa. So, if you’re planning on bringing your family along, you need to be aware that they’ll have to meet higher requirements than before.

Adult dependants will need to have a CEFR level A1 (basic user) in English to start and will need to progress to a level A2 for any visa extensions.

There are several English-language tests out there, but the IELTS is one of the most popular widely accepted for UK visas. Check the Home Office’s list of accepted language tests for different visas to be sure.

What hasn’t changed

No changes to the Graduate Route visa for PhD students

There is no change to the Graduate Route visa for PhD students. You can continue to live and work in the UK for three years after graduating without needing sponsorship. You can only apply for this visa once and must move onto another visa, like the Skilled Workers visa, if you wish to stay in the UK longer.

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