UK Reports Massive Increase in Work, Study, and Family Visas

The recent UK immigration data shows a drop in the number of work visas granted, particularly in the 'Health and Care Worker' category which saw a 26% decrease compared to the previous year.

With a total of 1.16 million visas granted across various categories, including work, study, and family, the figures illuminate significant trends and shifts in the nation's immigration patterns. The work visa sector experienced notable fluctuations. While the overall number of work visas increased, certain categories saw substantial changes. A total of 286,382 work visas were granted to primary applicants, marking an 11% decrease from the previous year, yet still representing a 109% increase compared to 2019 levels. This indicates a long-term upward trend in work-related immigration despite recent declines.

A particularly striking development was observed in the Health and Care Worker visa category which witnessed a dramatic 26% drop, with only 89,095 visas issued. The final quarter of the reporting period saw an even more precipitous 81% decrease compared to the same quarter in 2023, raising concerns about potential workforce shortages in the healthcare sector. Conversely, the broader Skilled Worker category, encompassing various work-related visas, has more than doubled since 2021, although it too experienced a slight 3% decrease recently, with 88,653 visas granted. Dependants of work visa holders accounted for a significant portion of visas issued, totalling 260,392, with 69% being dependants of Health and Care Workers.

The Temporary Worker visa category, which includes seasonal labour, saw 77,419 visas granted, with notable figures for seasonal workers (34,332) and participants in the Youth Mobility Scheme (24,091). The UK continues to be a prominent destination for international students, as evidenced by a 13% rise in sponsored study visas, totaling 432,225. However, this figure represents a 13% decrease from the previous year, though it remains 61% higher than 2019 levels. Master's-level programs remain particularly attractive, accounting for 65% of all student visas issued. Interestingly, the first half of 2024 saw a sharp 81% decline in visas for student dependants, potentially impacting the UK's appeal as a study destination.

Family-related visas experienced significant growth, with a 40% increase in applications and a total of 98,906 visas granted. This trend reflects a growing emphasis on family reunification. The Migrant Journey 2023 report indicates that individuals entering on family visas have a higher likelihood of securing Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), with a significant percentage attaining ILR after five years and even higher rates after ten years. The pathways to settlement and citizenship in the UK also saw notable increases. A total of 137,020 settlement visas were granted, representing a 17% rise from the previous year. Applications for British citizenship surged, with 246,488 individuals granted citizenship, marking a remarkable 37% increase from the 180,243 granted the previous year.