UK net migration falls 20% as impact of dependant rule takes effect

Net migration in the UK has significantly decreased, falling from 906,000 in June 2023 to 728,000 in June 2024, a 20% decrease. This significant decrease is mostly attributable to the effects of the new dependent rule that the previous administration put into effect in January 2024. Since most international students are prohibited from bringing dependents to the UK, the number of dependents on study visas has decreased from 107,000 to 63,000. Further contributing to the overall decrease in net migration has been a rise in emigration, especially among students who are finishing their education.

The policy raises questions about its possible effects on the education sector and the UK's capacity to draw in highly educated individuals, even while the government wants to slow population growth and the strain on public resources. It is unclear what the long-term effects of this policy change will be, as it might deter talented and international students from choosing the UK.