The United Kingdom has announced a major change to its immigration policy, cutting the post-study work period for international students including Nigerians from two years to 18 months, effective January 2027.
The announcement was made by the UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, on October 14, while unveiling new measures to reform immigration policies and raise English language standards for foreign nationals.
According to a statement published on the UK government’s official website on Wednesday, the policy adjustment forms part of the government’s broader immigration white paper and Plan for Change, which aim to tighten border controls while continuing to attract top global talent.
“The time for international students to find a graduate-level job after completing their studies will also be cut to 18 months from the current two years,” the statement read.
It also announced that the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC), a fee paid by employers sponsoring foreign skilled workers — will rise by 32 per cent for the first time since 2017.
The UK Home Office explained that the change is intended to boost investment in British workers and reduce dependence 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 graduates from January 1, 2027,” the statement added.
The government noted that data revealed a large proportion of international graduates were not transitioning into graduate-level employment as originally intended, prompting the adjustment.
The policy comes amid rising costs for foreign students. Tuition fees for undergraduate programmes in the 2025/2026 academic year have already increased by 3.1 per cent, from £9,250 to £9,535, while other fees for overseas students are also expected to rise.
In addition, stricter English language requirements will apply to all foreign nationals seeking to study, work, or settle in the UK.
Earlier in January 2024, immigration rules were modified to stop most international students from bringing dependants, except those studying postgraduate research programmes or on government-funded scholarships.
Recent data also indicate a decline in the number of foreign students choosing the UK as a preferred study destination, as financial and immigration reforms continue to reshape the country’s international education outlook.
