UK Immigration White Paper 2025: Key Proposals and Implications

On May 12, 2025, the UK government released its long-anticipated Immigration White Paper, titled Restoring Control Over the Immigration System. This document outlines proposed reforms aimed at overhauling the UK’s legal migration framework, with a focus on reducing net migration, emphasizing high-skilled immigration, and enhancing integration measures. While these proposals are not yet law, they signal significant potential changes that could impact various stakeholders, including employers, migrants, and educational institutions.

1. Work Reforms
2. Study Reforms
3. Settlement and Integration
4. Enforcement and Compliance

• Elevation of Skill Thresholds: The qualification level for Skilled Worker visas is set to return to RQF Level 6 (graduate level jobs) and above, narrowing the range of roles eligible for sponsorship.
• Increased Salary Thresholds: Minimum salary requirements for Skilled Worker visas will rise, aligning with the emphasis on attracting high-value talent.
• Closure of Social Care Visa Route: New applications for social care visas from abroad will cease. However, a transition period until 2028 will allow current visa holders to extend or switch visas within the UK.
• Introduction of Temporary Shortage Occupation List: A new list will provide time-limited access to the Points-Based Immigration System for roles below RQF 6, replacing the current shortage occupation list.
• Increased Immigration Skills Charge: The charge paid by employers will increase by 32%, marking its first rise since 2017.

• Reduction of Graduate Visa Duration: The length of the Graduate visa will decrease from two years to 18 months, affecting international students’ post-study work opportunities.
• Enhanced English Language Requirements: English proficiency standards will be raised and extended to all adult dependants of workers and students, requiring at least A1 level proficiency.

• Extended Settlement Period: The standard period for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) in points-based system routes will double from five to ten years.
• New Bereaved Parent Route: A dedicated immigration route will be established for bereaved parents, though specific details are pending.

• Employer Accountability: Employers will face increased scrutiny and potential penalties if visa holders breach immigration regulations.
• Enhanced Monitoring: The UK Home Office will gain expanded powers to revoke visas for certain infractions, even those not leading to imprisonment.

These proposed changes represent a significant shift in the UK’s immigration policy, emphasizing higher skill levels, increased employer responsibilities, and stricter compliance measures. Employers may need to reassess their recruitment strategies, especially in sectors reliant on lower-skilled labour. International students and current visa holders should stay informed about how these changes might affect their future in the UK.