The UK government has reiterated its stance on asylum applications, warning that unmeritorious claims will be rejected quickly and decisively.
A Home Office statement emphasized that asylum support would only be granted based on strict destitution criteria, stressing that those without a legal right to stay in the UK must leave. “If you do not leave voluntarily, removal action will be taken,” the message read.
Surge in Student Visa Holders Seeking Asylum
The announcement follows what ministers described as a worrying increase in asylum requests from former international students. According to official figures, around 14,800 asylum applications representing 13% of the total in the year to June were lodged by people who originally entered the UK on student visas.
Pakistan accounted for the highest number of these applications (5,700), followed by India, Bangladesh, and Nigeria. Although this figure is lower than last year, it is still nearly six times higher than in 2020.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper told the BBC that some individuals were misusing the asylum process after their visas expired.
“Some international students are seeking asylum even when circumstances in their home countries remain unchanged,” she explained. “This places pressure on asylum accommodation, including hotels. While we remain committed to helping genuine refugees, students should not use asylum as an extension of their stay once studies are completed.”
Stricter Rules on Study Visas
The Home Office has increasingly linked the issue to visa misuse and has introduced new restrictions. In May, it tightened university sponsorship requirements, introducing tougher thresholds on course completion and visa refusals.
Earlier this year, the post-study stay period for international graduates was also cut from two years to 18 months.
On Monday, Cooper further announced that new applications for the refugee family reunion scheme would be paused. She also confirmed that migrant returns under the UK-France “one in, one out” agreement would begin later this month.
Reactions from Universities and Advocates
Universities UK, the body representing higher education institutions, acknowledged the government’s concerns but urged closer collaboration.
“To effectively address issues, universities need better, real-time data sharing with the Home Office so they can respond swiftly,” the group said.
The Refugee Council cautioned against generalizing students who seek asylum as system abusers.
Jon Featonby, speaking for the council, argued: “It is unfair to assume that all students applying for asylum lack genuine protection needs. Circumstances in their home countries can deteriorate suddenly, or they may feel safer seeking asylum only after arriving in the UK due to fears of surveillance or reprisal.”
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