The United Kingdom Implements Dependant Visa Ban for Nigerian Students and Foreigners Bringing Family MembersThe UK’s Home Office has initiated the enforcement of a dependant visa ban, restricting Nigerian students and other foreigners from bringing their family members to the UK. This policy, outlined by the Home Office, permits only postgraduate research students or those on government-sponsored scholarships to bring dependants through study visas.Initially introduced under Suella Braverman’s Home Office in May 2023, this measure aims to curtail the influx of immigrants, specifically addressing housing concerns. Dr. Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, clarified that the policy was designed to alleviate housing problems caused by immigration surges.Under this new regulation, foreign students are no longer allowed to switch from the student route to work routes before completing their studies, preventing potential misuse of the visa system.Moreover, the UK plans to review the maintenance requirements for students and their dependents while cracking down on unscrupulous education agents exploiting immigration avenues rather than promoting education.The Home Office, through an official statement, highlighted that the dependant visa ban is part of broader measures aimed at reducing migration. This policy change aims to significantly lower migration numbers to sustainable levels and discourage exploitation of the UK’s immigration system. The Office for National Statistics reported a substantial rise in visas issued to student dependants, prompting the need for stricter regulations to manage migration more effectively.