The UK government’s 2026 visa policy changes restrict dependent visas for international students, impacting Indian study abroad plans and university admissions. Experts analyze implications and future prospects.
London, February 28, 2026 — The United Kingdom has announced sweeping changes to its student visa policies, restricting dependent visas for international students effective March 2026. This move, primarily affecting Indian aspirants, has sparked widespread debate across education and immigration sectors.
The UK Home Office confirmed the new policy on February 27, 2026, citing the need to control net migration and ensure the integrity of the student visa system. Under the revised rules, only postgraduate research students can bring dependents, ending this privilege for most master's and undergraduate students.
According to the Home Office, international students accounted for over 486,000 study visas in 2025, with Indians comprising the largest group at 142,000 visas. The surge in dependents—over 100,000 accompanying students in 2025—prompted concerns about housing, public services, and job market pressures.
Background: The UK’s Popularity Among Indian Students
The UK has long been a favored destination for Indian students seeking quality higher education. Data from the British Council shows a 54% rise in Indian student enrollments between 2021 and 2025, driven by attractive post-study work options and globally ranked universities.
The Graduate Route, introduced in 2021, allowed international students to stay and work in the UK for up to two years after graduation. This policy, along with the ability to bring dependents, contributed to the UK’s surge in popularity, especially among married students and young families.
Key Details of the New Visa Policy
Effective March 15, 2026, international students enrolling in taught master’s and undergraduate programs will no longer be eligible to sponsor dependent visas. Only students in doctoral and research-based postgraduate programs retain this right, as per the Home Office statement.
The policy also introduces stricter financial requirements for applicants, raising the minimum funds needed to demonstrate self-sufficiency. Additionally, universities must now verify that students have genuine academic intent and sufficient English proficiency before issuing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
Immediate Reactions from Indian Students and Universities
Indian student associations in the UK have expressed disappointment, arguing that the policy disproportionately affects families and may deter talented applicants. The National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK (NISAU UK) called the move "short-sighted" and urged the government to reconsider.
UK universities, many of which rely heavily on international tuition fees, voiced concerns about potential declines in enrollment. According to Universities UK International, Indian students contributed over £4.3 billion to the UK economy in 2025 through tuition, living expenses, and related spending.
Expert Analysis: Balancing Migration Control and Talent Attraction
Policy analysts note that the UK’s decision reflects growing political pressure to reduce net migration, which reached 745,000 in 2025, according to the Office for National Statistics. However, experts warn that restricting dependents could undermine the UK’s competitiveness in the global education market.
Dr. Rajesh Jha, an education consultant in Mumbai, told The Economic Times that many Indian students choose the UK precisely because they can bring spouses or children. "This change may push students to consider alternatives like Canada or Australia, which still allow dependents," he said.
Impact on Indian Study Abroad Aspirations
Indian education agents report a surge in inquiries about other destinations since the announcement. According to Yocket, a leading study abroad platform, searches for Canadian and Australian universities rose by 37% in the past week, reflecting shifting preferences among prospective students.
Some Indian families are now reconsidering plans to study in the UK. Priya Sharma, an MBA aspirant from Delhi, told Reuters, "I wanted to take my husband with me, but now I may look at Canada instead. It’s a big decision for us."
University Strategies and Sector Response
UK universities are ramping up outreach and scholarship offers to retain Indian applicants. The University of Manchester announced a new £2 million scholarship fund for South Asian students, hoping to offset the impact of the visa changes.
The Russell Group, representing 24 leading UK universities, has urged the government to monitor the policy’s effects closely and consider adjustments if international student numbers decline sharply.
What’s Next: Monitoring, Adaptation, and Policy Review
The Home Office has stated it will review the impact of the new rules after 12 months. Universities and student groups are expected to provide feedback on enrollment trends and the broader effects on campus diversity and economic contributions.
Education experts recommend that Indian students carefully review eligibility and consider alternative pathways, including research programs or destinations with more flexible dependent policies. The UK government has signaled openness to further dialogue with the education sector.
Sources
Information sourced from the UK Home Office, The Economic Times, Reuters, British Council, Universities UK International, and Yocket.Sources: Information sourced from the UK Home Office, The Economic Times, Reuters, British Council, Universities UK International, and Yocket.