Universities UK International, in an update to the sector, confirmed that UK Visas and Immigration is looking to make the important update to CAS, as it works to respond to agent-linked compliance issues.
“Responding to the Migration Advisory Committee’s recommendation on greater transparency, UKVI will seek to develop the technical capability to add agent details to the CAS,” read the update.
“UKVI have been engaging with the UKCISA Immigration Compliance Network on the technical aspect. UKVI expect to have the systems capability by summer 2025 with a view to having meaningful data some 6 to 12 months thereafter that can be shared with the sector to enhance visibility of agent-linked compliance.”
The move follows the MAC’s review of the Graduate Route, which found no evidence of “significant abuse” but raised concerns about recruitment agents providing “misleading information”. As a result, the review recommended the technical update to enable UKVI to collect comprehensive data on agents and their activities.
UKVI expect to have the systems capability by summer 2025
UUKi
Donal O’Conor, director for future students at University of South Wales, said the update is “welcome news given alternatives [of increased regulation], I’m sure [the details] will all be thrashed out and work effectively longer term if rolled out”.
Meanwhile, Adeel Kayani, co-founder and director of strategic partnership at Oxfordian College, commented: “Adding the agent’s details to the CAS can increase transparency and accountability, as it clearly links each student’s application to a specific agent.
“This could encourage agents to provide higher-quality applicants and reduce compliance issues. Over time, this may improve the overall recruitment process and strengthen trust between the institution and its agent network, although it may require clear communication and efficient data management.”
UUKi’s update also revealed details on the timeline for the Home Office’s overhaul of Secure English Language Tests in the UK, which will see the introduction a new Home Office Language Test.
Speaking more broadly, Jamie Arrowsmith, UUKi director said: “We remain dedicated to working with government to ensure a welcoming policy environment for international students, and to countering negative rhetoric with positive messaging.”
