UK university calls for reversal of visa restrictions for international students 

The restrictions, which were implemented in 2024, were informed to be part of the UK government’s broader immigration control measures.

The government had introduced new policies to limit immigration, including a restriction on international students bringing family members with them.

According to BBC News, the institution has voiced concerns over the impact of these changes, particularly on the number of international students enrolling, as they were relying on international student fee income to compensate for the freeze on home tuition fees.

The University of Lincoln has reported a significant decrease in international student applications, with numbers falling by 51%. In 2023-24, the university received 2,995 international student applications, but for 2024-25, that number has dropped to 1,460.

The university argues that the removal of the dependents visa has made the UK a less attractive destination for international students, particularly for those pursuing master’s degrees.

The financial burden on international students has also been highlighted as a key concern. An IT student from Nigeria, Godswill James, mentioned that while the visa changes have an impact, the upfront course fees and overall living costs are also challenging.

The total cost for James is between £25,000 and £30,000. While another student from Afghanistan noted that the financial burden is particularly heavy for students from countries with weaker currencies, where costs can become overwhelming when converted.

“Students from Asian and African countries, their currency difference is too high, so if we convert that currency, it will be in millions.”

Reports cite that beyond the academic sector, international students are also seen as vital contributors to the local economy.

“They have massive economic benefit plus massive social benefit. They improve everything.” 

“I think immigration is what makes our country fantastic. 

It is estimated that one in seven people at the University of Lincoln are international students, underscoring their importance not only to the university’s financial health but also to the local economy.

While the government has yet to respond directly to the concerns raised by universities, it has previously stated that international students will always be welcomed in the UK.

However, government representatives have also expressed concerns about the rising net migration levels, calling them “completely unacceptable” and committing to reducing these numbers substantially.

The University of Lincoln, alongside other institutions, is calling for a more evidence-based approach to immigration policy, one that balances the need for migration control with the benefits international students bring to the UK’s economy and cultural landscape.

The University of Lincoln, alongside other institutions, is calling for a more evidence-based approach to immigration policy, one that balances the need for migration control with the benefits international students bring to the UK’s economy and cultural landscape.