The UK government has implemented an emergency brake on certain student and work visa routes, with immediate policy updates, reflecting concerns over visa misuse and asylum claims. These changes affect students from Sudan, Afghanistan, Cameroon, and Myanmar.
Student Visa Restrictions
Affected Nationals: Students from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar and Sudan.
Policy: All student visa applications submitted from outside the UK from 26 March 2026 onwards will be refused until further notice. Applications submitted from inside the UK are unaffected.
Practical Implications for Current Students:
Those already studying in the UK are not immediately affected, but should consult the International Student Advice team and the Home Office regarding any upcoming visa applications. Those current students who need to extend their visa during their studies can submit new student visa applications from inside the UK as normal.
Unfortunately, the UK government has confirmed that any students from affected countries who need to make a new student visa application from outside the UK in order to complete their current programme will not be able to do so until after the brake period ends.
The University recommends that affected students who are considering applying for periods of temporary withdrawal, or who are required to undertake periods of resits, make an appointment with the International Student Advice team before taking any action.
If an affected student does find themselves unable to return to the UK, the University will help as much as possible to facilitate completion of studies, however it may be necessary for an extended period of temporary withdrawal to be taken if further attendance on campus is required.
If you have any concerns about these changes and would like any additional support, please reach out to our Centre for Wellbeing, who offer a range of support services for students.
Work Visa Restrictions
Affected Nationals: Afghan nationals.
Policy: All skilled worker visa applications submitted from outside the UK from 26 March 2026 onwards will be refused until further notice.
Note: Nationals from Cameroon, Myanmar and Sudan are not affected by work visa suspensions at this time.
Staff members holding Skilled Work visas sponsored by the University of Surrey should contact Human Resources regarding any queries or concerns.
Students holding Skilled Work visas sponsored by external sponsors should contact their employer regarding any queries or concerns.
The UK government has implemented an emergency brake on certain student and work visa routes affecting students from Sudan, Afghanistan, Cameroon, and Myanmar KA-03051 100 International advice and visas Visa support Published