The United Kingdom has announced plans to reduce the post-study work visa duration for international students, including Nigerians, from two years to 18 months, effective January 2027.
UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood made the announcement on October 14, explaining that the decision is part of the government’s broader immigration reforms aimed at tightening entry requirements while maintaining the country’s appeal to top global talent.
Mahmood also disclosed that immigrants will now be required to meet A-level English language standards, stressing the importance of language proficiency for successful integration and contribution to British society.
According to a statement published on the UK Government’s official website on Wednesday, the new rule will shorten the period allowed for foreign graduates to secure a skilled job after completing their studies.
“Laid in changes before Parliament this week, the measures form part of the government’s flagship immigration white paper and Plan for Change to deliver on the priorities of working people for tighter control of who comes to this country, while continuing to attract top global talent,” the statement read.
It added that the immigration skills charge (ISC) — a levy paid by employers who sponsor skilled foreign workers — will be increased by 32%, marking its first review since 2017.
The government said the move would “boost investment in British workers and reduce reliance on overseas recruitment.”
“To ensure graduates contribute effectively to the economy, the maximum post-study stay will be reduced to 18 months from the current two years for most, from 1 January 2027.
Data has shown that many visa holders had not transitioned into graduate-level employment as intended,” the statement said.
The development follows a series of immigration policy adjustments introduced by the UK government to curb rising migration figures.
Earlier this year, the government barred international students, except those enrolled in postgraduate research programmes or government-funded courses, from bringing dependants to the UK.Tuition fees for the 2025/2026 academic year have also increased by 3.1%, from £9,250 to £9,535, while officials confirmed that an additional fee would soon apply to overseas students, making studying in the UK more expensive.
Meanwhile, stricter English language requirements are being introduced for study, work, and settlement routes, a move that comes amid data showing a decline in foreign student enrolments in 2024.
