New visa rules for international students 2026: UK

Here are the changes in detail that international students should know:

From July 2025, the UK has moved fully to digital e-Visas, replacing all physical visa stickers and BRPs (Biometric Residence Permits).

Applicants will need to create a UKVI online account, where their immigration status will be stored. When needed, students can generate a share code to prove their right to study, work, or rent accommodation.

From 15 July 2025, most new study and work visa applicants are expected to receive e-visas instead of passport vignettes.

Since 1 January 2024, dependent eligibility has changed: only PhD or research-level students can bring dependents under the Student Route.

The UK is also proposing a shift toward a longer 10-year pathway to settlement (ILR) for many visa categories under “earned settlement” plans, replacing the earlier 5-year standard for several routes.

From January 2026, many dependent and work visa categories, including the Skilled Worker and Scale-Up routes, will require higher English proficiency (B2 instead of B1).

Graduate Route (Post-Study Work)

The Graduate Route is undergoing one major change:

• For Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates, the post-study stay reduces from 2 years to 18 months for applications made on or after 1 January 2027.

• PhD graduates remain unchanged, continuing to receive a 3-year post-study stay.

The route cannot be extended, so graduates must switch to another eligible visa (e.g., Skilled Worker) if they want to remain in the UK for the long term.

Sponsor & Skilled Worker rules

Visa conditions have changed:

• The required skill level for many roles is rising to RQF level 6.

• Salary thresholds under this route have increased, meaning fewer mid-level jobs now qualify for sponsorship.

Universities and colleges will face stricter sponsor compliance: at least 95% enrolment, 90% course completion, and a refusal rate below 5%. Failure could lead to licence suspension or downgrade.

From 11 November 2025, student maintenance funds required for a visa increased to:

• £1,529 per month in London (up to ~£13,761 for 9 months)

• £1,171 per month outside London (up to ~£10,539 for 9 months)

• Maximum accommodation offset: The maximum amount that can be offset for advance accommodation payments has been increased to £1,529.

Students must also ensure their chosen course, institution, and visa category meet the updated eligibility criteria, especially if they intend to switch to the Graduate Route or Skilled Worker visa later.

From 25 February 2026, visa-free visitors from 85 countries must have a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the UK. All eligible non-European visitors already need an ETA from 8 January 2025, and from April 2025, it applies to all visa-free short-stay visitors without UK status.

The UK continues to be a top study destination, but with visa rules becoming more structured and selective, international students need to plan earlier and more carefully than ever. Changes to post-study work duration, higher financial requirements, stricter sponsor compliance, and limited dependant eligibility mean that every decision from course selection to visa type can have long-term implications.

This is where IDP can support you at every step. From helping you shortlist the right UK universities and courses aligned with the new visa rules, to guiding you through visa applications, financial requirements, and post-study work options, IDP ensures you make informed choices with confidence. Our experts stay updated on the latest policy changes, so you don’t have to navigate these complex rules alone. With the right guidance, you can focus on what truly matters — building your future in the UK.

Talk to an IDP expert today for free for more details and make your study-abroad journey smooth and stress-free.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is not intended as visa or immigration advice. Please verify any policies or updates on the relevant official government website or consult your visa or migration advisor or lawyer.