International students warned not to overstay visas: a full guide for UK students and families

In September 2025, the UK government launched a nationwide campaign reminding international students not to overstay their visas. Thousands of students and their dependants received text and email warnings directly from the Home Office, clearly stating: if you have no legal right to remain in the UK, you must leave. If you don’t, you risk removal and long-term consequences for your immigration record.

This warning reflects growing concern around overstaying, misuse of the student visa route, and a sharp increase in asylum claims made by people who originally entered on a student visa. For students currently studying in the UK whether in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Cardiff or beyond the message is clear: understand your rights, comply with visa conditions, and seek trusted legal advice if you are unsure.

What is the UK government’s warning to international students?

According to BBC News the Home Office has contacted more than 130,000 students and dependants holding visas due to expire in the near future. The communication is part of a wider strategy to protect the integrity of the immigration system while ensuring that students fully understand their responsibilities.

How were students contacted?

• Text messages sent directly to students’ UK mobile numbers
• Emails sent to the address used in visa applications
• Official notices reminding students of their visa expiry dates and consequences of overstaying

By using direct communication channels, the Home Office aims to avoid confusion and ensure students cannot claim they were unaware of the rules.

What does the message say?

The message itself is simple but strict:

• If you have no legal right to remain in the UK, you must leave when your visa expires.
• If you stay without permission, you will be removed.
• Removal could prevent you from returning to the UK in future.

This firm language is designed to discourage students from ignoring visa deadlines or attempting to extend their stay unlawfully.

Why is this campaign being launched now?

There are two main reasons: rising asylum applications from students, and the government’s wider effort to strengthen border control and reduce irregular migration.

Rising asylum claims from student visa holders

Official figures show that asylum claims from international students have increased six-fold since 2020. Last year alone, more than 16,000 applications were lodged by people originally in the UK on a student visa. This has raised concerns that the visa route is being misused by individuals who may not genuinely intend to study. 

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/sep/02/home-office-tells-foreign-students-they-will-be-removed-if-they-overstay-visas

Safeguarding the student route

The government is keen to protect the reputation of the UK’s higher education system. With cities like Leicester, Coventry, Plymouth, and Nottingham heavily reliant on international student income, ministers argue that the system must be robust enough to prevent abuse while still welcoming genuine students.

What happens if you overstay your student visa?

Overstaying a visa in the UK is a serious immigration offence with significant consequences.

Deportation and removal

If you remain in the UK without a valid visa, you are classed as an overstayer. The Home Office can begin removal action, which may involve detention, enforced departure, and an official ban on returning to the UK.

Visa bans and future immigration impacts

Overstaying your visa can affect your ability to return to the UK or travel to other countries. In many cases:

• Overstaying for more than 30 days can trigger a re-entry ban of 1 to 10 years.
• Future applications may be automatically refused because of your previous immigration history.
• You may struggle to secure visas for other countries such as the US, Canada, or Australia, as immigration authorities often share data.

Effect on your studies and career

Remaining in the UK unlawfully could also mean:

• Losing your right to study at your university.
• Losing access to healthcare, accommodation contracts, or part-time work rights.
• Creating long-term barriers to your career if you plan to work internationally.

What support and guidance is available to students?

While the warning has caused anxiety, international students are not without support.

UKCISA advice

The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has emphasised that the risk of overstaying is not new. Their advice includes:

• Speak to your university’s international student adviser if you are unsure about your visa status.
• Do not ignore communications from the Home Office.
• Be cautious of scams rely only on official channels or trusted immigration solicitors.

Protecting your student status

Students are encouraged to:

• Check their visa expiry date well in advance.
• Apply early if they are eligible for a visa extension or a switch (for example, to a Graduate visa or Skilled Worker visa).
• Leave the UK in good time if no legal extension is possible.

By being proactive, students can avoid the risks associated with overstaying.

Local impact: could this campaign affect UK cities and universities?

The implications extend beyond individual students. Many UK towns and cities rely heavily on international student spending.

Cities most affected

Research shows that in cities like Leicester, Hull, Plymouth, and Stoke-on-Trent, international student fees and spending make up as much as a quarter of university income. Any reduction in student numbers could create challenges for:

• Local economies (shops, housing, transport, hospitality)
• University budgets and teaching quality
• Community cohesion in multicultural student hubs like London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Leeds

Balancing immigration control with education

While the government argues the campaign is necessary, education leaders warn that overly harsh enforcement could discourage genuine students from choosing the UK as a study destination, harming universities and the wider economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I overstay my student visa in the UK?

You risk deportation, removal, and long-term bans on re-entering the UK. Your future visa applications may also be refused.

Can overstaying affect my ability to study again in the UK?

Yes. If you overstay, your university may be forced to withdraw your place. You may also find it very difficult to obtain another UK student visa in the future.

What should I do if my visa is about to expire?

Check whether you are eligible to extend your visa or switch to another visa category (such as Graduate or Skilled Worker). If not, you must leave the UK before your visa ends.

Where can I get legal help with my visa?

You can contact trusted immigration solicitors, such as Deluxe Law Chambers in London, for free initial advice and expert support tailored to your circumstances.

The Home Office’s decision to issue a nationwide warning shows how seriously the UK government is treating overstaying. For international students, the message is clear: overstaying a visa can damage your future in the UK and beyond. But with the right advice, planning, and support, you can protect your legal status and continue building a successful future.If your visa is due to expire soon or you are unsure about your legal status, don’t take risks.

Contact Deluxe Law Chambers today for free, expert advice on your UK visa. Our team of experienced immigration solicitors will guide you through every step, helping you stay compliant and safeguard your future.