Government releases immigration white paper: implications for the UK ELT sector

The government released its immigration white paper on Monday 12 May, entitled 'Restoring control over the immigration system' and indicating the direction of travel for immigration policy over the course of this parliament.

The core aim of the approach to immigration outlined in the paper is to reduce net migration, align immigration with the UK's skills needs and to promote community integration. There are a number of proposals in the paper of relevance for UK ELT and the wider international education sector, including:

• Changes to the post-graduate work route, including a reduction in the visa period from 24 to 18 months
• All institutions recruiting students under a sponsored route (e.g. Student visa) will need to adhere to the Agent Quality Framework (AQF)
• New, higher-level English language requirements across all visa routes – e.g. those on the skilled worker route will need to demonstrate a B2 level
• The government aims to make it easier for those settling in the UK to access additional English language support

Implications for the Short-term study visa

The section devoted to the Short-term study visa (STSV) has the main implications for our sector. The report notes the high level of refusals under this route in 2024: 3,900 applications refused as against 4,200 accepted, a 48% refusal rate. The Home Office is concerned that too many applicants applying through this route are not genuine students. They state that they intend to put measures in place to rectify this, including 'stronger checks and processes' and a review of all accreditation bodies to ensure they are providing the right level of scrutiny.

Jodie Gray, chief executive of English UK, commented:

'The Short-term study visa has long been a cornerstone of our industry. We appreciate the value shown to the ELT sector in the immigration white paper but note concerns over the high refusal rate under this route in 2024. We look forward to working with the Home Office, with our members and with our accreditation partner, the British Council, to help ensure that only genuine English language students apply and study under this route.'

> Download the white paper: Restoring control over the immigration system