Statement on Palestinian Student Visas

Thank you for writing to me about student visas for Palestinians. Please also read about my recent actions on Gaza here. 

The Liberal Democrats believe that if a UK university has offered a Palestinian student a place, they should not be prevented from taking it up simply because of biometric requirements that are impossible to meet under current conditions in Gaza.

We are deeply concerned that, following the closure of the UK-authorised biometric registration centre in October 2023, it has become virtually impossible for applicants to travel to alternative centres in neighbouring countries effectively shutting down all safe and legal routes for Palestinians entitled to travel to the UK.

The Liberal Democrats are urging the Government to act without delay to ensure students can reach the UK before the academic year begins, and to uphold the rights of those applying under the family reunion route.

Our party’s Home Affairs Spokesperson, Lisa Smart MP, has written to Home Office ministers, expressing her concern about this issue and urging them to take immediate action to ensure Palestinian students can reach the UK.

Thank you again for writing to me about this important issue.