In mid-May, the Government published a raft of new proposals that included discriminatory measures to prevent those with Pakistani, Nigerian and Sri Lankan nationalities from acquiring international student visas, based on the Government’s demonising assessments that these nationalities are more likely to ‘abuse’ the system by claiming asylum. A member of our community who came to the UK as an international student but had to claim asylum shared their thoughts with us on the proposals.
“I came to the UK in 2023 as an international student from Afghanistan. Before that, I was staying in India for four years, a country that posed countless challenges for migrants, and where settling long-term is never an option for any non-Indian. At the same time, I’ve always been an academic person. Even if I the situation was not bad in my home country, I would still have aimed to study in the UK or US to pursue higher education. That aspiration has been with me for a long time.
When the opportunity came, I took it and came to the UK, driven by the passion to be educated to international standards. On the surface, it might seem like two different paths being an immigrant facing homelessness, and being someone passionate about studying abroad and building a career. But for me, both were real. After finishing my studies, I knew very well that claiming asylum wasn’t ideal but what else I could probably do? I needed a safe place to live, and work and support my family who are living a miserable life in Afghanistan. I hope one day I can return to my country, once the situation improves.
I don’t know if others are misusing this route for resettlement, but for people who can’t return home, imposing legal restrictions like this one feels like slamming the door on them. International students enrich our communities, so why not give them a chance?
I’m witnessing more and more restrictions being placed on migrants, and it’s heartbreaking. Refugees are knocking on every door, just looking for safety. They deserve understanding and humanity, not more barriers.”
You can find out more about the Immigration White Paper here. If you’re interested in campaigning against the proposals or want to find out more then sign up here.