UK Government Unveils Sweeping Changes to Immigration Policy

In May 2025, the UK Labour Government has published its long-awaited Immigration White Paper, outlining a major overhaul of the UK’s immigration framework. These proposals represent the most significant policy shift since the introduction of the post-Brexit immigration system on 1 January 2021.
Below is a summary of the key proposals and their potential implications for businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals seeking to migrate to the UK.

Key Proposals

Higher Skills and Salary Thresholds

The minimum skill level for work visa eligibility will be raised to RQF Level 6—equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree. At the same time, salary thresholds will increase, and the existing Immigration Salary List—which previously allowed for reduced salary levels in certain roles—will be abolished. As a result, around 180 occupations will no longer qualify for visa sponsorship.

Temporary Shortage Occupation List

A new Temporary Shortage Occupation List will offer time-limited access to the Points-Based Immigration System for roles requiring RQF Levels 3 to 5, but only where long-term shortages are confirmed by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC). Employers must demonstrate a domestic workforce strategy, and visa quotas along with restrictions on dependants will apply.

Increased Immigration Skills Charge (ISC)

The Immigration Skills Charge payable by employers will increase by 32%, marking the first change to the ISC since its introduction in 2017.

Establishment of the Labour Market Evidence Group

A new advisory body—the Labour Market Evidence (LME) Group—will be established. It will include representatives from the Department for Work and Pensions, Skills England, the Industrial Skills Strategy Advisory Council, and the MAC. The group will provide evidence-based recommendations to support strategic workforce and immigration planning.

Emphasis on Domestic Workforce Development

Employers will be required to demonstrate genuine efforts to recruit and train UK-based workers before turning to international recruitment. Workforce strategies will become mandatory in sectors that rely heavily on migrant labour.

Closure of the Overseas Care Worker Route

The route allowing overseas recruitment of care workers will be closed. However, existing visa holders under this route will be permitted to extend or switch their status until 2028.

Tougher Compliance and Enforcement

The government will step up enforcement of immigration rules, including enhanced monitoring of sponsors and faster deportation processes for foreign nationals convicted of crimes.

Changes to Settlement Eligibility

The qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) will be extended from five to ten years for most immigration categories. A new ‘earned settlement’ pathway may allow accelerated ILR for high-contributing individuals, such as healthcare professionals and engineers.

Reforms to British Citizenship

Citizenship eligibility rules will be updated in line with the earned settlement reforms. A review of the Life in the UK test is also anticipated.

Higher English Language Requirements

English language requirements will be strengthened across all visa categories. Adult dependants will be required to show progression from A1 to A2 for extensions and B2 for settlement. Skilled workers will need to meet B2 level at every stage of their visa journey.

Reduction of Graduate Route Duration

The duration of the Graduate Route—which allows international students to work in the UK post-study—will be shortened from two years to 18 months.

Stricter Family and Criminal Provisions

The rules governing family reunification will become more restrictive, and the Home Office will gain broader powers to deport individuals for a wider range of criminal offences.

Expansion of Global Talent and Entrepreneur Routes

The Global Talent visa scheme will expand, particularly for research interns in Artificial Intelligence. Reforms will also be made to the Innovator Founder visa to better support entrepreneurial students graduating from UK institutions. Additionally, the High Potential Individual visa scheme will be broadened by doubling the number of eligible universities worldwide.

What This Means

The White Paper outlines a clear shift towards a more selective, skills-based immigration system with a strong focus on nurturing the domestic workforce. Employers will face greater responsibility for developing local talent, while migrants and their families will encounter more rigorous entry and settlement requirements.

Although these proposals are expected to affect new applicants, those already in the UK under current routes are unlikely to be impacted, subject to final confirmation.

The government’s overarching goal is to significantly reduce net migration by the end of the current parliamentary term, though the practical impact on UK businesses, international students, and skilled professionals will be substantial.

What’s Next?

At this stage, the White Paper outlines proposed reforms and does not constitute binding law. Legislative and policy changes will be required to implement these measures, likely following debate and consultation.

How KTS Legal Can Help

Our Business Immigration team is closely monitoring these developments and will provide updates as further details become available. If you would like tailored advice on how these reforms could impact your organisation, your employees, or your personal immigration status, please contact us at info@ktslegal.com or on WhatsApp at 0044 7508290141.