Policy Documents

20 November 2015

EU Membership and the Effectiveness of UK Science

Science is a global pursuit and is most effective when ideas and people are mobile across borders. EU membership helps to underpin the competitiveness of our leading universities and the UK economy as a whole.

18 September 2015

Review of skilled worker visa route

Proposals being considered by the Migration Advisory Committee could have significant negative consequences for the UK’s universities and research base. Careful consideration is needed before any reforms are made to the Tier 2 route to ensure universities can continue to recruit and retain world-leading academics and researchers and to attract talented international students.

03 July 2015

Review of salary thresholds for skilled worker visas

We are concerned about the impact that an increase in the minimum salary thresholds for Tier 2 (skilled worker) visas could have for our universities' ability to attract and retain international staff across a range of roles, and in the attractiveness of the UK for international students who may find it harder to switch from Tier 4 into Tier 2. 

10 March 2015

Russell Group immigration discussion in the House of Lords

The Russell Group held a lunch discussion on the issue of international students and staff, and the impact of recent changes to immigration policy on our universities and the UK as a whole. This is a note of the meeting in the House of Lords on 10 March 2015.

30 June 2014

Government's Science and Innovation Strategy

Our universities lead the world in producing excellent research – we should aim to secure this position of strength for the long-term, maintaining our international competitiveness and paving the way for future economic growth.

20 February 2014

House of Lords Science and Technology Committee inquiry on international STEM students

It is crucial that our visa system continues to support the efforts of our leading universities to attract the very best students, academics and researchers from around the world. 

03 December 2013

Home Office consultation on visa fees and charges

Excellent international staff and students are indispensable for world-class universities and a thriving society, culture and economy. 

28 August 2013

Home Office consultation on migrant access to health services

21 August 2013

Home Office consulation on tackling illegal immigration in privately rented accommodation

05 August 2013

Government's Balance of Competences review - Free Movement of Persons