Some Nigerians studying in the United Kingdom are turning to legal options to remain in the country as their student visas approach expiration, amid tougher migration rules and recent warnings from UK authorities.
UK Government Issues Fresh Warning
In an emergency alert published on its official website last Sunday, the UK government revealed that around 10,000 international students had been contacted and directed to leave after their visas lapsed. Officials linked the decision to a surge in asylum claims filed by visa holders.
Rise in Asylum Applications
Authorities reported that asylum requests from students, workers, and tourists had more than tripled under the previous administration, with 41,400 applications recorded by June 2025.
This group represented 37 per cent of all asylum claims, with students accounting for the largest share at 40 per cent, according to Home Office data.
Direct Messages Sent to Students
To curb the trend, the Home Office began a direct messaging campaign to remind students of their expiring permits. The notices warned that asylum applications lacking merit would be swiftly rejected, and overstaying without valid permission would result in removal.
Overseas Student Numbers Decline
According to the UK House of Commons Library, about 732,285 foreign students—23 per cent of the total student population—studied in the UK during the 2023/24 academic year. This included 428,200 new entrants, down nearly 7 per cent from the year before. Nigeria remained the third-largest source country, with 34,500 students enrolled.
Anxiety Among Nigerian Students
A Nigerian PhD student in Scotland, who requested anonymity, told M10news that uncertainty over policy shifts had caused widespread anxiety. “People are panicking. Some received the texts and emails directly,” he said.
Switching to Skilled Worker Visas
He explained that while some students had managed to secure skilled worker visas to avoid deportation risks, many remained unsure about their future. Post-study work opportunities have also been shortened from two years to 18 months.
Risks of Illegal Stay
The student stressed that once a visa expires without a legal transition to another category, the individual becomes an undocumented immigrant, which is a criminal offence under UK law.
Postgraduate Student Reacts
Another Nigerian postgraduate at the University of Salford described the new restrictions as distressing. “It is devastating after all the time and money spent,” he said, adding that some students were considering leaving the UK for alternative destinations.
Skilled Worker Transition
The Salford student disclosed that he had successfully switched to a skilled worker visa valid until 2028 but acknowledged that many peers faced difficult choices.
Cambridge Graduate’s Perspective
A Nigerian graduate of the University of Cambridge said she applied for a post-study visa after her student permit expired on August 30, 2025. Her application has since been accepted by the Home Office.
Desire to Remain in the UK
She explained that many of her colleagues had already transitioned to the post-study route, and she had no plans to return to Nigeria, citing better work opportunities abroad.
NiDCOM Issues Advisory
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) urged citizens abroad not to overstay. “Once your visa expires, staying becomes illegal,” spokesperson Abdur-Rahman Balogun warned.
Emphasis on Good Conduct
Balogun added that Nigerians should always uphold good behaviour abroad and serve as positive ambassadors for the country.
Analysts Assess Policy
Commenting on the situation, Globalink Pathway College co-founder Tolani Jaiyeola said the new warnings reflect the UK’s broader goal to cut net migration.
Concerns Over Message Delivery
Jaiyeola acknowledged the UK’s right to enforce immigration rules but argued that the blunt delivery could discourage genuine students.
Impact on Nigeria–UK Education Ties
He warned that the development may dampen Nigeria’s enthusiasm for UK education, especially following restrictions on dependants of student visa holders.
Concerns of Exploitation
Prof. Anthony Kola-Olusanya of Osun State University criticised the UK’s stance, suggesting it portrays international students as commodities rather than contributors to society.
Questions of Fairness
He argued that taking tuition fees from foreign students while restricting post-study opportunities raises moral and reputational issues for the UK.
Visa Compliance is Key
Conversely, Prof. Francis Egbokhare of the University of Ibadan maintained that visa compliance is essential, saying exceeding one’s stay breaches the contract between the immigrant and the host country.
Burden on Nigeria
Prof. Bayo Oladipo of the University of Lagos echoed similar views, stressing that Nigeria must fix its internal challenges to encourage voluntary return of its citizens.
Call for Integrity
Oladipo reminded students that by applying to UK institutions, they had already committed to returning home after their programmes, and should honour that obligation.
