UK Clarifies Policy on Dependents of International Students

The United Kingdom (UK) has clarified its policy regarding the eligibility of international students to bring dependents into the country, stating that only those coming for Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) studies are eligible to do so.

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, revealed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, explaining that the policy change earlier this year was aimed at curbing the increasing number of foreign students bringing in dependents.

Montgomery emphasized that the surge in dependents was putting unsustainable pressure on many universities, citing challenges such as accommodation, access to medical services under the National Health Service, and access to schools for dependents.

He clarified that the restrictions do not apply to all categories of students, noting that those undertaking long-term research degrees, such as a PhD or doctorate, are not affected by the policy change.

While acknowledging the concerns raised by universities’ Chancellors regarding the policy change, Montgomery reiterated the importance of the new rules, particularly due to the large higher education sector in the UK, with many universities located in towns across the country.