A policy shift by the UK government will change visa requirements for those aspiring to pursue education or employment in the country starting on January 2, 2025. The policy changes are part of the government’s plans to address recent concerns related to immigration’s impact on the housing sector and the country’s economy.

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Changes in UK visa policy: Key details

Applying for a visa? Watch our video to understand processing times and visit our website to find out the processing times for your visa. Visit: https://t.co/W7Yho7FwMI or https://t.co/9AevIUntOr pic.twitter.com/Gx6KYv4yEa

— UK Visas & Immigration Official (@UKVIgovuk) December 11, 2024

According to the new policy, international visa applicants for a UK study or work visa must demonstrate at least 11 percent more financial reserves than the current guidelines. Students must provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover living expenses, as per the guidelines outlined below:

• GBP is 1,483/(HKD 14,435) month for courses in London, and GBP is 1,136/(HKD 11,058) month for courses outside London.
• For a one-year master’s programme, students must show proof of covering nine months of expenses by showing GBP 13,347 (HKD 12,9,922) for London and GBP 10,224 (HKD 99,522) for other regions.
• All funds must be held in the student’s account for at least 28 consecutive days before the visa application is submitted.

It is important to note that exemptions to the above rules apply only to students from certain countries and those already residing in the UK.

The updated rules for skilled workers applying for a UK visa are as follows:

• First-time applicants must show an income of GBP 38,700 (HKD 3,76,712) to cover accommodation and other daily expenses.
• A sponsorship from a UK employer, approved by the Home Office, is required.
• If the applicant cannot procure sponsorship, the required funds must be held in the account for at least 28 days before applying for the visa.

Authorities in the UK are also hiking visa fees across multiple categories, including tourist, family, spouse, child, and student visas. However, exceptions will continue for applicants with disabilities, carers, and those in the healthcare sector, armed forces, or specific talent-based roles.

(Feature image credit: Stefano Campolo/Flickr)

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Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.

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