LONDON (Web Desk) – The UK government has launched a major crackdown on international students overstaying their visas, with Pakistani students ranking at the top of the list, according to British media reports.
The Home Office has officially warned students that those who remain in the UK after the expiry of their study visas will face immediate deportation. Officials say the move comes in response to a sharp rise in asylum applications filed by foreign students once their visas expire.
Number of Asylum Applications
In just one year, the UK government received 14,800 asylum applications from individuals who initially entered on study visas.
- Out of these, 5,700 applications came from Pakistani students, making them the largest group.
- Students from India, Bangladesh, and Nigeria followed in significant numbers.
The Home Office has sent thousands of warning emails and text messages to international students, urging them to leave the UK before their visa expiry or face removal.
UK Home Secretary’s Statement
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said many asylum claims were filed by students from countries where no significant changes in security or political conditions had occurred, raising concerns of abuse of the asylum system.
She also announced that the government has temporarily suspended new family reunion applications for asylum seekers, signaling a tougher stance on immigration.
What It Means for Pakistani Students
With Pakistan topping the list of overstaying students, experts believe this crackdown could significantly impact future visa approvals, academic opportunities, and the perception of Pakistani students in the UK.
Education analysts warn that stricter monitoring may lead to longer visa scrutiny, increased rejection rates, and potential restrictions on dependents of international students.
