“UK Ends Police Registration Requirement for International Students”
📰 What Changed?
As of immediate effect, the UK Government has abolished the Police Registration Scheme. This rule previously required nationals from certain countries—including Pakistan—to register with the local police after arriving in the UK on a long-term visa (such as a student, work, or spouse visa).
🔍 What Was the Police Registration Scheme?
If you were a Pakistani student coming to the UK for studies longer than 6 months, you were often instructed in your visa or arrival letter to register with the police within 7 days of arriving. You had to:
- Visit a police station
- Provide your visa and passport details
- Pay a £34 fee
- Get a Police Registration Certificate (PRC)
This certificate was sometimes needed again when:
- Extending your visa
- Changing your address or university
- Applying for post-study work visas
🎯Impact on Pakistani Students:
✅Less stress on arrival – no police appointment to schedule
✅Saves money – no £34 police registration fee
✅No paperwork – no need to carry or update a Police Registration Certificate
✅Simplified compliance – one less condition tied to the visa
Final Note:
This change reflects the UK Government’s move to modernize immigration processes, remove duplication, and make life easier for genuine students.
If you’re a Pakistani student planning to study in the UK from now on — you do not need to register with the police, even if your visa or offer letter still mentions it.