UK removes Indians from relaxed student visa rule
London, June 16 (IBNS); Triggering an outrage, the United Kingdom government has decided to exclude students from India from a new list of countries considered "low risk" in a bid to facilitate an easier visa application process to universities.
As per the changes in its immigration policy as tabled in the country's Parliament, the UK Home Office announced a relaxation of the Tier 4 visa category for overseas students.
This relaxation includes students from 25 nations from across the world.
The changes will come to effect from July 6.
The changes will aim to make it easier for international students to study in the UK.
India students have not been added to the list.
They will still face tough checks and documentary requirements for studying in the UK.
“It is disappointing that preferential treatment is being given to some countries and India is not on the list, and surprising given claims from the British government that they want to attract the best and brightest from India,” Sanam Arora, founder and chairperson, National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK, told The Times of India.
“It is driving home the hostility message. Clearly, the British government sees an economic advantage in easing restrictions for Chinese students. It is all tied up with the UK-China trade relationship and they, therefore, give all sorts of favours to China,” she said.
Meanwhile, more Indian professionals from the field of medicine could apply for jobs in the UK after home secretary Sajid Javid removed international doctors and nurses from the Tier 2 visa cap.
An official statement issued by the UK government said: "As part of a long-term government plan for the NHS, more details of which will be set out in due course, doctors and nurses are to be excluded from the cap on skilled worker visas."
"The move will mean there will be no restriction on the numbers of doctors and nurses who can be employed through the Tier 2 visa route – giving the ability to recruit more international doctors and nurses to provide outstanding patient care when required," it said.
Home Secretary Sajid Javid said: "I recognise the pressures faced by the NHS and other sectors in recent months. Doctors and nurses play a vital role in society and at this time we need more in the UK. That is why I have reviewed our skilled worker visa route."
"This is about finding a solution to increased demand and to support our essential national services," Javid said.
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