According to the most recent UK immigration statistics released on August 25, India now has the largest share of study visas issued by the UK, surpassing China.
According to the statistics, Indians also obtained the most visitor visas and skilled worker visas issued by the UK between July 2021 and June 2022.
According to the UK government, the overall number of visas issued has surpassed pre-pandemic levels, indicating more than just a recovery from a Covid-induced dip.
Study visas of Indian nationals
The UK issued 4,86,868 sponsored study visas in the fiscal year ending June 2022, with Indian nationals accounting for 1,17,965 — an 89% increase from the previous year. Meanwhile, 1,15,056 study visas were issued to Chinese nationals.
In comparison to 2019, the number of study visas granted to Indians has increased by 215%, while those granted to Chinese students has decreased by 4%. The report did not explain why the share of Indian and Chinese nationals in this category has risen and fallen.
Students of Indian and Chinese origin account for 48% of all sponsored study visas granted by the UK. British High Commissioner to India, Alex Ellis, said the numbers show that the UK is experiencing an unprecedented demand for visas.
Indian nationals were issued the largest number of UK study
“India first again. I’m delighted that Indian nationals were issued the largest number of UK study, work and visitor visas in the year ending June 2022. More strength to the unique living bridge that connects our people,” he said in a statement.
The number of sponsored study visas granted in the fiscal year ending June 2022 is the highest on record since this time series began in 2005. Prior to 2022, the highest number of student visas granted was 3,07,394 in the fiscal year ending June 2010.
The summary of the statistics shows that the UK also remains a popular holiday destination for Indians, who accounted for 28 per cent of visitor visas granted in the year ending June 2022.
“More than 2,58,000 Indian nationals received visit visas in the year ending June 2022 – a 630% increase compared to the previous year (when travel restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic were still in place),” according to a press statement issued by the British High Commission in India.
Indians nationals also accounted for 46 per cent of all skilled work visas granted by the UK.
