Senate Panel informed: up to 15,000 Pakistani students settle in UK annually amid migration concerns

Celina Ali

Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis was told on Friday that between 13,000 to 15,000 Pakistani students migrate to the United Kingdom each year with the intention of permanent settlement, highlighting a significant brain drain trend.

Briefing the committee chaired by Senator Zeeshan Khanzada, a Foreign Ministry representative stated, “Every year, thousands of Pakistani students opt to remain in the UK after completing their studies, integrating into the British workforce rather than returning home.” The official emphasized that these students are often willing to work at minimum wage levels, reflecting both their commitment to staying abroad and the economic pressures they face.

The official noted that Pakistani nationals make up a sizable diaspora in the UK, with the current population estimated at 1.8 million. However, challenges persist, particularly regarding language barriers, with many migrants struggling due to limited English proficiency, hindering full societal integration and access to opportunities.

The statement came amid a week of diplomatic and policy developments between Islamabad and London. Earlier this week, the UK introduced e-visas for Pakistani students and workers, part of its broader effort to modernize its border and immigration systems. The move is expected to simplify entry procedures for eligible Pakistanis.

Furthermore, the e-visa announcement followed the formal signing of the UK-Pakistan Trade Dialogue Mechanism Agreement, under which both countries agreed to establish a UK-Pakistan Business Advisory Council. This council aims to promote institutionalized cooperation in trade, investment, and economic affairs.

In another significant development, the UK Civil Aviation Authority removed Pakistan from its Air Safety List, lifting restrictions that had previously prevented Pakistani airlines from operating direct flights to the UK. This clearance paves the way for airlines like PIA to reapply for flight operations to Britain, marking a critical step in restoring air connectivity.

However, despite these positive developments, concerns loom over immigration policy changes in the UK. In May, a British official indicated that the Labour-led government under Prime Minister Keir Starmer was considering restricting student visa applications from countries with high asylum claim rates — including Pakistan. The proposed tightening of immigration rules came in response to domestic political pressure after Labour’s poor performance in local elections, where illegal immigration emerged as a key issue among voters.

The Senate committee took note of these trends and is expected to deliberate further on strategies to address the growing outflow of Pakistani talent, the challenges faced by overseas citizens, and the implications of shifting immigration policies in host countries.