New Delhi:
Even today Indians are very fond of studying in foreign universities. Every year lakhs of students from India go to study in UK, USA, Australia, Russia and China. Immigration data from the British High Commission showed that 118,000 Indian students received student visas in the year ending June 2022. This is 89 percent more than last year. A British High Commission press release has revealed that India has overtaken China to become the largest nationality in the issuance of sponsored study visas in the UK.
The press release also noted that the UK has also become a popular destination for travelers and vacationers. Of all the visitor visas granted by the UK, Indians account for the highest proportion at 28%. Over 258,000 Indians received visitor visas in the year ending June 2022. This was an increase of 630% from the same period last year as the Covid-19 restrictions were still in place.
About 103,000 Indians also received work visas in the year ending June 2022 – including skilled and seasonal workers – a 148% increase over the same period last year. Indians remain the top nationality to obtain skilled worker visas. Indians account for 46 per cent of all skilled work visas issued globally.
Alex Ellis said, “India first. I am delighted that the year ending June 2022 saw the largest number of UK study, work and visitor visas issued to Indian nationals. Strengthening the unique living bridges connecting our peoples . “
Ellis also reiterated her earlier petition asking students to apply for visas as soon as possible because of an ‘unprecedented’ surge in demand for UK visas as the Covid-19 pandemic eased. “As it turns out, we are experiencing unprecedented demand for visas. I encourage students who are starting courses to apply as soon as possible,” Ellis said.
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The diplomat had earlier this month urged Indians planning to visit the UK not to book their airline tickets before obtaining visas. “We want to see an unprecedented number of Indian students come to the UK this year and we will do everything we can to make sure you get your visa on time. But again, follow the guidelines to the letter,” Ellis told students applying for courses at UK universities and colleges.
