UK Visa Restrictions Target Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka: What You Need to Know

In May 2025, the United Kingdom government unveiled UK visa crackdown with a comprehensive immigration white paper aimed at significantly reducing net migration, which had reached 728,000 in the year to June 2024. A central feature of this anticipated UK immigration white paper is the imposition of stricter visa restrictions on nationals from countries deemed to have high rates of overstaying or asylum claims. Specifically, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka are among the nations targeted by these new measures.

Understanding the Rationale Behind the UK visa crackdown

The UK government justifies these restrictions by citing concerns over individuals who enter the country on work or study visas and subsequently overstay or claim asylum. 

Home Office figures show that over 108,000 people applied for asylum in the UK last year, the highest level since 1979. Overall, 10,542 Pakistani nationals sought asylum - the highest number of any nation. In the same period, 2,862 Sri Lankan citizens and 2,841 Nigerian citizens applied for asylum. 

Additionally, 732,285 international students are studying in the UK for 2023/24, most of whom are Indian (107,480) and Chinese (98,400).

In response, the government is collaborating with the National Crime Agency to develop profiling models that can identify potential asylum claimants before they enter the country. This proactive approach aims to prevent misuse of the visa system and ensure that immigration is managed effectively.

Key Changes in the Immigration White Paper

The immigration white paper introduces several significant changes:

• Graduate Route Visa Reduction: The duration of the Graduate Route visa has been shortened from two years to 18 months. This move is intended to limit the time international graduates can remain in the UK without securing a job that meets specific skill and salary thresholds.
• Increased Salary Thresholds: The minimum salary required for skilled worker visas has been raised, making it more challenging for applicants from countries with higher overstay rates to qualify.
• Extension of Settlement Period: The period required for foreign workers to qualify for settlement has been extended from five to ten years, further tightening long-term immigration prospects.
• Enhanced English Language Requirements: New English language requirements have been introduced for student dependents and skilled workers, aiming to promote better integration into British society.

Implications for International Students in UK

The tighter visa restrictions are expected to have a profound impact on international students, particularly those from Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka. Universities UK (UUK), which represents over 140 higher education institutions, has expressed concern that these measures could exacerbate the financial challenges facing UK universities. A recent UUK survey revealed that nearly 50% of universities have had to close courses, and 25% have made redundancies due to declining international student numbers.

Furthermore, the profiling models being developed to identify potential asylum claimants may inadvertently lead to discrimination. Critics argue that such profiling could unfairly target individuals based on nationality, potentially violating principles of fairness and equality.

Reactions from Affected Countries

The governments of Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka have expressed strong objections to the UK's new visa policies. They argue that these measures unfairly stigmatize their citizens and may strain diplomatic relations. In response, these countries are considering reciprocal actions, including reviewing visa arrangements for UK nationals and enhancing support for their citizens seeking education and employment opportunities in other countries.

The Broader Debate on UK Visa Crackdown

The UK's approach to immigration has sparked a broader debate about the balance between national security, economic needs, and humanitarian obligations. While the government emphasizes the need to control immigration to protect public services and promote integration, critics argue that such restrictive measures may undermine the UK's reputation as a welcoming destination for international talent. They caution that overly stringent policies could lead to a "brain drain," where skilled individuals choose to pursue opportunities in more open countries.

Conclusion

The UK's decision to implement stricter restrictions on student visa applications targeting nationals from Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka marks a significant shift in its immigration policy. While the government asserts that these measures are necessary to prevent abuse of the visa system, they have raised concerns about fairness, potential discrimination, and the impact on international student numbers. As the situation develops, it will be crucial to monitor how these policies affect diplomatic relations, university funding, and the broader public perception of the UK's immigration framework.