In a recent statement, UK Deputy Foreign Minister Lord Tariq Ahmad reassured Indian undergraduate students that the changes in the UK visa rules would not have any adverse effects on them.
Lord Ahmad, highlighting the significance of Indian students, clarified that the recent modifications in visa rules specifically target students in research and doctoral studies courses who fail to complete their programs.
Lord Ahmad, in an interview with NDTV, expressed his assurance, stating that students coming for undergraduate studies and research purposes would always be welcomed in the United Kingdom.
He emphasized the UK government’s desire to address illegal immigration concerns while actively seeking to attract more students from India.
New Visa Rule Changes Exclude Family Members for International Students
UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman recently announced in a written statement to the House of Commons that international students would no longer be allowed to bring their family members into the UK. However, these changes primarily apply to postgraduate students, with certain exceptions for those enrolled in research programs.
Family Allowances for Students in Research Programs Retained
Dependants, including children and elderly parents, still permitted to research-led masters’ courses and PhD programs
Students enrolled in research programs such as research-led masters’ courses and PhD programs will still be allowed to bring their family members, including children and elderly parents, as dependents. This provision aims to support the family units of students pursuing advanced research studies.
Measures to Control Net Migration and Prevent Visa Abuse
In addition to the visa rule changes, Home Secretary Suella Braverman pledged to crack down on unscrupulous education agents who facilitate inappropriate applications, focusing on immigration rather than promoting genuine educational opportunities. This measure aims to ensure that student visas are not misused for purposes other than education.
The recent modifications in visa rules are part of the Rishi Sunak government’s measures to reduce annual net migration and prevent individuals from exploiting student visas as a means to find employment in the UK. These changes aim to maintain the integrity of the visa system and ensure that visas are used appropriately.
UK Deputy Foreign Minister’s Visit to India Strengthens Bilateral Ties
During his four-day visit to India, UK Deputy Foreign Minister Lord Tariq Ahmad will meet with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and other senior officials of the External Affairs Ministry. The primary objective of the visit is to strengthen collaboration in the fields of science and technology between the two nations, further enhancing bilateral relations.
Lord Tariq Ahmad’s visit to India is viewed as a positive sign in the context of India-UK relations, particularly after the controversy surrounding pro-Khalistan protests outside the Indian Embassy in the UK earlier this year. The visit demonstrates the commitment to maintaining and enhancing the bilateral ties between the two countries.
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