The Main Change: From 28 Days to 14 Days
The Home Office has shortened the financial evidence timeline, allowing students to prove sufficient funds with just 14 consecutive days of uninterrupted balance in their account, down from the previous requirement of 28 days.
This sounds advantageous — less preparation time required. But the reality is more complicated.
Why 14 Days Is a "Trap"
Reducing the requirement from 28 days to 14 days means you only need to prove funds remain untouched in your account for two consecutive weeks. However, this creates real financial pressure:
- Funds must be frozen: You cannot withdraw money, make transfers, or use it during the 14 days. If you need funds to pay tuition or other expenses, you must wait until after submitting your application.
- Narrow application window: You must submit your application within that 14-day window. If you miss the deadline, you must start the financial evidence requirement all over again.
- Caseworkers may still ask for more: Although the official requirement is 14 days, some sources advise applicants to still prepare documentation based on the 28-day standard, because guidance from UKVI caseworkers and advice from educational institutions remains inconsistent.
This means official rules and practical reality do not align. Some caseworkers may still request 28 days of evidence, which could result in your application being rejected.
Graduate Route: From 2 Years to 18 Months
The most significant change for international students is the shortening of the Graduate Route (formerly known as Post-Study Work visa) from two years to 18 months for bachelor's and master's degree holders.
This is a major turning point. If you want to stay in the UK to work after graduation, you now have only 18 months instead of 24 months. This affects:
- Job search timeline: You must find employment faster. Instead of having 2 years to accumulate work experience, you now have only 1.5 years.
- Skilled Worker visa: If you want to stay longer, you must switch to a Skilled Worker visa. However, this visa requires a minimum salary of £41,700 and your employer must be a licensed sponsor. Not all companies are willing to sponsor.
- Critical deadline: Students should apply for the Graduate Route before December 31, 2026, to ensure you get the full 2-year visa. After that date, you will only receive 18 months.
Digital Visa System: Changes to Visa Management
From February 25, 2026, most UK entry visas, including Visitor and Work routes, will be issued as digital eVisas rather than stickers placed in your passport. Anyone receiving a visa under this new system must create a UKVI account to view immigration status, share it with employers or landlords via a share code, and update passport or personal details online.
This appears convenient, but it also has drawbacks:
- Dependence on the online system: If your UKVI account is locked or experiences technical issues, you have no visa evidence in your passport. Employers or landlords may not accept the share code.
- Information updates: If you change your passport or address, you must update it online. If you forget, your visa may be considered invalid.
Who Is Most Affected?
- Students about to apply: You need to manage your finances more carefully. Funds must remain untouched for 14 days before submission.
- Students graduating in 2027: If you want to stay and work, apply for the Graduate Route before December 31, 2026, to secure the full 2 years. After that, you will only get 18 months.
- Students from certain countries: From March 26, 2026, nationals of Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar, and Sudan are no longer permitted to apply for UK student visas. If you are from these countries, the UK is no longer an option.
How to Prepare
- If you are considering studying in the UK: Prepare your funds early. Allow your money to remain untouched in your account for at least 14 days before submission. It is better to prepare for 28 days to be certain.
- If you are about to graduate: Decide early whether you want to stay and work. If so, apply for the Graduate Route before December 31, 2026.
- Check your UKVI account: When you receive your visa, create your UKVI account immediately and check it regularly. Make sure your personal information is always up to date.
