The UK government has announced that it will stop issuing new study visas to nationals from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar and Sudan starting this month of March.

The decision was confirmed by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood.

In addition, skilled worker visas for Afghan nationals will also be stopped.

Why Is The UK Stopping Study Visas?

The UK Home Office says the decision to stop issuing new study visas is based on what it describes as “widespread visa abuse.”

According to official data:

• People from these four countries are currently the most likely to apply for asylum after arriving in the UK on a study visa.
• Asylum claims from individuals who originally came legally (for example, to study) have more than tripled between 2021 and 2025.
• Around 13% of all asylum claims currently in the system come from people who first arrived on a student visa.
• About 95% of Afghan nationals who arrived on a study visa since 2021 later applied for asylum.
• Asylum applications from Myanmar students increased 16 times.
• Claims from students from Cameroon and Sudan have more than quadrupled.

The government also stated that around 16,000 people from these four countries are currently receiving state support, with many citing financial hardship as part of their asylum claims.

A government spokesperson said the UK is taking action to “maintain its ability and proud tradition of helping those genuinely in need.”

The Home Secretary described the move as an “unprecedented decision” aimed at restoring “order and control” to the UK’s borders.

What This Means for You

If you are from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar or Sudan:

• New study visa applications are expected to be refused.
• Afghan nationals will also not be eligible for new skilled worker visas.
• If you are already in the UK on a valid visa, this announcement does not automatically cancel your current status but future routes may be affected.

If you are planning to study in the UK:

• It is important to seek official guidance directly from the UK Home Office or your university before making payments or submitting applications.
• Policy changes can happen quickly, so always rely on verified information.

This decision reflects a wider tightening of UK immigration policy, especially where the government believes visa routes are being used to later claim asylum.

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For international students globally, this highlights the importance of:

• Understanding visa conditions clearly
• Maintaining compliance with immigration rules
• Having a realistic long-term immigration strategy

If you found this update helpful, follow Passports Beyond Borders for clear, practical breakdowns of global immigration and travel changes that affect you.

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