The UK Home Office has begun sending direct warnings via text and email to tens of thousands of international students, urging them to leave the country as soon as their visas expire. This unprecedented measure comes amid concerns over a spike in asylum applications from students finishing their programs.
“If you have no legal right to remain in the UK, you must leave. If you don’t, we will remove you.” This stern message forms the core of the campaign. Officials are distinguishing between genuine asylum seekers and those misusing the system after studying.
What Sparked the Crackdown?
Home Office data indicates that approximately 15% of asylum claims last year, about 16,000, came from individuals who originally held student visas. The government sees this as an urgent issue requiring immediate action.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasised that while the UK supports legitimate refugees, those whose home countries remain safe should not remain through unfounded asylum claims.
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In Numbers: The Scope of the Warning Campaign
- 10,000 students whose visas are nearing expiry have already received direct warnings.
- 130,000 more students and their dependents are expected to be contacted in the coming months, coinciding with the autumn academic intake.
This crackdown comes as the UK moves to reduce post-study work rights from two years to 18 months and tighten sponsorship eligibility for institutions failing to meet course completion and visa standards.
What It Means for Nigerian Students
Nigerian students in the UK—one of the largest international student groups should take immediate note:
• Strict compliance with visa expiry dates is essential.
• Avoid non-meritorious asylum claims, which could result in deportation and jeopardise future opportunities.
• Stay informed of evolving UK immigration rules that could affect future applications or the Graduate Route.
The UK is ramping up enforcement against visa overstayers in the student population. Direct warnings, reduced work rights, and strict monitoring are all part of a broader push to protect the integrity of its immigration system. For international students, especially Nigerians, this serves as a sharp reminder: when your visa expires, it’s time to leave promptly.
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