UK Student Visa 2026: Maintenance Funds, Visa Brake and New Rules for Pakistani Applicants
UK student visa rules changed in 2026 with higher maintenance funds, a visa brake for some nationalities, and stricter university sponsor penalties.
What are the 2026 UK student visa costs?
The visa application fee is £490 and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is £776 per year. Maintenance funds are £1,334/month in London and £1,023/month outside London.
| Cost Item | Amount | PKR Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application fee | £490 | ~PKR 1,70,000 |
| IHS (1-year master's) | £776 | ~PKR 2,70,000 |
| Maintenance (London, 9 months) | £12,006 | ~PKR 42,00,000 |
| Maintenance (outside London, 9 months) | £9,207 | ~PKR 32,00,000 |
Is Pakistan on the UK visa brake list?
No. Pakistan is NOT on the visa brake list as of 2026. The visa brake applies to nationalities with overstay rates above 10%. Pakistani applicants can apply through the standard process.
How much maintenance funds do I need?
For London universities: £1,334/month for up to 9 months (max £12,006) plus tuition. Outside London: £1,023/month for up to 9 months (max £9,207) plus tuition. Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days before your application.
What is the Graduate Route visa?
The Graduate Route allows 2 years of unsponsored work (3 years for PhD) after completing your studies. You can work in any job for any employer. It is a popular pathway to a Skilled Worker visa and eventually settlement (ILR).
| Visa Type | Duration | Work Rights | Job Offer Needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate Route | 2 years (3 for PhD) | Any job, any employer | No |
| Skilled Worker | Up to 5 years | Sponsored role only | Yes |
| ILR (settlement) | Permanent | Unrestricted | No |
What is the traffic light university rating system?
From 2027, UK universities will be rated green, amber, or red based on compliance. Green-rated universities face less monitoring and may simplify your visa process with fewer documentation checks.
How do I apply from Pakistan?
Secure your CAS from a UK university, gather financial evidence, complete the online application, pay visa fee and IHS, attend a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre (Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad), and wait 3-6 weeks for a decision.
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