Changes to UK Student Visas for Certain Nationalities

The UK Government has introduced an emergency pause affecting certain visa routes. As part of this measure, new Student visa applications from nationals of the following countries will be paused from 26 March 2026:

• Afghanistan
• Cameroon
• Myanmar
• Sudan

During this period, UK universities will not be permitted to sponsor new Student visas for applicants from these countries when the application is made from outside the UK. As a result, we are currently unable to accept applications from students who would require a Student visa and hold nationality from one of the countries listed above.

We understand this news may be disappointing and appreciate the uncertainty it may cause. Our team remains available to support you and answer any questions you may have.

If you have questions about your individual situation or would like guidance on possible next steps, please contact our International Admissions team

Important information for current students in the UK

If you are currently in the UK, you are not affected

The visa pause applies only to new Student visa applications made from outside the UK. If you already hold a valid UK visa and are currently in the UK:

• your visa remains valid
• the conditions of your stay do not change
• you may continue studying as normal under your existing Student visa.

Applications made from inside the UK are still permitted

If you plan to apply for a visa from within the UK, you can still do so. This includes applications such as:

• extending your Student visa
• switching to another immigration route
• applying for the Graduate Route visa after completing your studies.

The current pause does not apply to visa applications made from inside the UK.

Dependants can still apply

The visa pause applies only to main applicants applying from outside the UK.

Dependants may still apply to join you in the UK, provided they meet the usual immigration requirements.

Other visa routes

The current measure applies to new overseas applications for the Student visa route and Skilled Worker visa route for nationals of the four countries listed above.

All other visa routes and nationalities remain unaffected.