On 12 May 2025, the UK government published its Immigration White Paper outlining a series of significant reforms aimed at reducing net migration and restoring control over the UK borders. The measures presented are designed to reshape the immigration system, prioritising those who contribute most to economic growth. Key provisions include changes to the Skilled Worker route, adjustments to social care recruitment, restrictions on international student post-study work and stronger measures against immigration abuse.
Below are the summaries of key provisions from the 82-page document, “Restoring Control over the Immigration System”.
One of the main reforms includes raising the threshold for Skilled Worker visas, which will now be limited to those with qualifications at RQF 6 (graduate level) or above. This change also comes with higher salary thresholds and the immigration salary list, which previously allowed discounts on these thresholds, will be abolished. Access to the points-based immigration system will now only be available to occupations experiencing long-term shortages. The Migration Advisory Committee will play a critical role in determining whether these shortages are justified. In addition, employers seeking to recruit from abroad will be required to demonstrate a commitment to increasing recruitment from the domestic workforce.
As part of wider reforms to reduce reliance on international recruitment, the government will end social care visas to new applicants from abroad. This measure is intended to encourage a shift towards boosting domestic workforce training. However, during a transition period until 2028, individuals already in the country under the social care visa will be allowed to extend their visas or switch their status within the UK. This approach will be kept under review.
The Immigration White Paper outlines stricter requirements for sponsoring institutions that wish to recruit international students. The government will introduce new interventions for sponsors who are nearing non-compliance, including action plans and limits on the number of new international students they can recruit while on these plans. Additionally, the ability for graduates to remain in the UK after completing their studies will be reduced to a period of 18 months.
The White Paper aims to simplify the complicated family and private life immigration processes. New legislation will make it clear that the government and Parliament, rather than the courts, will decide who should have the right to remain in the UK. This reform addresses concerns where Article 8 (the right to family life) is used to delay deportation in cases where removal is clearly in the public interest.
The government states it is committed to attracting and retaining the brightest global talent. This includes introducing fast-track routes for highly skilled individuals in key sectors, such as science, technology and design. The White Paper also proposes increasing the number of places in schemes for research interns and reviewing the Innovator Founder visa and Global Talent visa to ensure that they better serve the UK economy.
Stronger measures will be implemented to tackle immigration abuse and visa misuse. New policies will target individuals claiming asylum when conditions in their home countries have not materially changed. Tighter visa controls and restrictions will be applied where there is evidence of abuse. Furthermore, the government will implement innovative financial measures, penalties and sanctions for sponsors of migrant workers or students where abuse is evident.
A significant reform concerns the deportation system for foreign nationals convicted of crimes. The Home Office will now be informed of all foreign nationals convicted of criminal offences, not just those incarcerated. The deportation thresholds will also be reviewed to ensure that more factors are considered, particularly those involving violence against women and girls.
As part of the government's effort to ensure better integration of migrants into British society, the Immigration White Paper introduces new English language requirements for a broader range of immigration routes. These requirements are designed to ensure that migrants can effectively communicate and participate in the social, economic and cultural life of the UK.
New English language requirements include demonstrating proficiency in the English language for both main applicants (those applying for a visa or immigration status) and their dependants (family members accompanying them). The exact level of proficiency needed will depend on the immigration route but will be assessed over time, allowing for gradual improvement.
These new requirements reflect a broader shift in UK immigration policy, focusing not just on immigration but also on successful integration. By ensuring a better command of the language, the government aims to reduce language barriers and improve opportunities for social mobility, employment and community involvement.
In addition to the English language reforms, the White Paper proposes significant changes to the processes surrounding settlement and citizenship:
This change reflects the government's broader vision of immigration that prioritises individuals who have made a positive and lasting contribution to the UK. By requiring a longer period for settlement and applying the points-based system to both settlement and citizenship, the UK seeks to ensure that those seeking permanent residence or citizenship are well-integrated and have consistently met the required standards.
These reforms are part of the UK government’s Plan for Change and will be rolled out gradually throughout the course of this Parliament. The first changes are expected in the coming weeks, with additional reforms focusing on the asylum system and border security expected later this summer. The measures outlined in the White Paper are designed to create a more structured and controlled immigration system, focused on skills, domestic workforce training and addressing immigration-related challenges.
