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UK Visa Rules Threaten Research Talent, Economy Warns Scientist

12/5/2025

25 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Prof Sir Paul Nurse, a leading UK scientist, says the visa system for researchers deters early-career talent and jeopardizes the economy.
He says high visa fees and strict rules make UK less attractive than China and Singapore.
Nurse describes UK's scientific base as fragile, urging reevaluation of the visa system, including the NHS surcharge.
A Centre for Policy Studies expert agrees and urges a tight migration limit after surge in immigration.

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Story summary

Prof Sir Paul Nurse, a leading UK scientist, says the visa system for researchers deters early-career talent and jeopardizes the economy.
He says high visa fees and strict rules make UK less attractive than China and Singapore.
Nurse describes UK's scientific base as fragile, urging reevaluation of the visa system, including the NHS surcharge.
A Centre for Policy Studies expert agrees and urges a tight migration limit after surge in immigration.