The United Kingdom has announced a major change to its immigration policy, cutting the post-study work period for international students — including Nigerians — from two years to 18 months, effective January 2027. The new directive was revealed by UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood on October 14, marking a significant shift in the country’s graduate visa scheme.

The adjustment comes as part of broader efforts by the UK government to tighten immigration routes while maintaining pathways for skilled graduates to remain and work after their studies. The graduate visa, which currently allows foreign students to stay for up to two years (or three years for PhD holders), has been a popular route for international students seeking post-study employment opportunities.

The policy change is expected to impact thousands of Nigerian and other foreign students who make up a large portion of the UK’s international education community. While the government says the reform aims to ensure a “balanced and sustainable” migration system, critics fear it could discourage prospective students and reduce the UK’s appeal as a global study destination.

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