• In line with its goal to reduce immigration, the UK government has introduced two key restrictions affecting both Health and Care Worker Visas and international student visas in 2024. Starting from March 11, 2024, care workers will no longer be allowed to bring dependants to the UK, while additional restrictions on student visa dependants have been enforced since January 2024.

Changes for Care Workers

• Care workers, particularly those entering the UK under the Health and Care Worker Visa, will be impacted by the new rule banning dependants from accompanying them. Previously, visa holders in this category were allowed to bring their spouse, partner, and children to the UK. This change is expected to limit the number of dependants entering the country, as the care sector has been a significant driver of migration in recent years.

Student Visa Restrictions

• On the student visa front, the government has already introduced restrictions that limit the ability of students to bring dependants. These changes took effect on January 1, 2024, and apply mainly to students enrolled in non-research-based degree programs, such as master’s degrees. Only PhD and government-sponsored students are now permitted to bring dependants to the UK, a policy aimed at reducing the overwhelming number of dependants associated with student visas.

Impact on Immigration Numbers

• Both these restrictions are part of the government’s broader plan to reduce net migration, which has reached record highs in recent years. According to government estimates, these changes could reduce immigration by 300,000 over the next few years, easing pressure on public services.

Conclusion

• The ban on dependants for care workers and the restrictions on student visa dependants reflect the government’s tough stance on migration. Families planning to relocate under these visa categories will need to consider alternative options, as these changes are set to have a lasting impact.