The Campaign for Science and Engineering (CASE) has raised concerns that the United Kingdom’s visa policy is deterring international researchers and placing pressure on scientific organisations.
In a new report featuring 13 case studies, including examples from the Francis Crick Institute and the James Hutton Institute, Case highlighted high visa costs and a “complex, confusing” system as “significant barriers” to recruitment. It described the current framework as “unsustainable” and a “disincentive” for institutions seeking global expertise.
The warning follows reports that the government is considering scrapping visa fees for top international talent, including scientists, to stimulate economic growth. An immigration white paper released in May also pledged reforms to the Global Talent and High Potential Individual visa routes.
A 2024 Royal Society analysis found that UK visa costs were up to 17 times higher than the average across 17 leading science nations. A similar study in 2021 reported a figure 10 times higher.
However, the case welcomed signs of reform but cautioned that several issues remain unresolved, including changes to the Skilled Worker visa. It stated that the Global Talent visa, in particular, was “ambiguous” and “confusing to navigate,” thereby straining research institutions.
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