Arabic version: المملكة المتحدة توقف تأشيرات الدراسة لأربع دول بسبب إساءة استخدام التأشيرات

The UK government will cease issuing study visas to nationals from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar, and Sudan starting this month, according to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. This decision is attributed to what the Home Office describes as widespread visa abuse among individuals from these countries.

According to BBC News, the Home Office noted that asylum claims from individuals who initially traveled to the UK on study visas have more than tripled between 2021 and 2025. Currently, 13% of all asylum claims in the UK originate from individuals who entered the country on study visas.

Mahmood emphasized the importance of maintaining the UK’s tradition of supporting those in genuine need while taking a firm stance against visa exploitation. The government highlighted that a significant number of asylum claims from these four countries cite destitution as a reason, with around 16,000 individuals currently receiving support.

The Home Office also announced an end to skilled work visas for Afghans, citing the high rates of asylum claims following the expiration of such visas. This move aligns with the government’s broader strategy to address immigration concerns, particularly in light of increasing political pressure to reduce immigration figures.

New legislation will be introduced on March 5 to formalize these changes to the Immigration Rules, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing border control and immigration management.