The Government has published its long-anticipated Immigration White Paper, setting out a wide-ranging reform agenda that significantly tightens the UK’s immigration system. First proposed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer four months after taking office, the paper responds to mounting pressure following net migration figures of nearly one million in the year ending 2023.
Unlike the more liberalising changes introduced post-Brexit in 2021, which made it easier for employers to access international talent under a streamlined points-based system – this White Paper signals a marked shift in the opposite direction: reducing lower-skilled migration, restricting access to dependants, and placing greater emphasis on employer investment in UK workers.
Skilled Worker route to be restricted to RQF Level 6 roles
The Government has confirmed that the minimum skill threshold for the Skilled Worker route will rise to RQF Level 6 (graduate level). Roles below this threshold will no longer qualify for sponsorship, except where included on the new Temporary Shortage List (TSL) – a tightly controlled exemption mechanism.
The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) will advise on which roles may be added to the TSL, with decisions based on clear labour market evidence and aligned to sector-led workforce strategies. Importantly, occupations added to the TSL will only be eligible on a time-limited basis, and employers sponsoring these roles will not be able to bring in dependants.
Increase to the Immigration Skills Charge
The Immigration Skills Charge, which is paid by employers sponsoring Skilled Worker visas, will be increased for the first time since its introduction. It will rise by 32%, in line with inflation, adding further cost pressure on overseas recruitment.
Closure of the overseas care visa route
The Adult Social Care route will be closed to new overseas applicants. Those already in the UK may still apply to extend or switch roles, with a transition period in place until 2028.
Graduate route reduced to 18 months
The post-study Graduate visa will be shortened from two years to 18 months. This may affect the attractiveness of the UK as a post-study destination and reduce availability of international graduates in the UK workforce.
Stricter English language requirements
Applicants on work routes will be required to meet B2 level English (up from B1), and for the first time, all adult dependants (including of students and workers) will need to demonstrate at least A1 level English on entry, with progression expected over time.
Stricter sponsor compliance rules for education providers
Institutions sponsoring international students must now meet higher Basic Compliance Assessment (BCA) thresholds, with a 5% increase in pass rates required for enrolment, course completion, and visa refusal metrics.
Note: While these changes are expected, the Government has not yet published implementation dates. Stakeholders should expect further guidance over the coming months.
Settlement period to increase to 10 years
The Government has confirmed its intention to increase the standard qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from five to ten years across most visa categories. However, details around transitional arrangements and implementation timelines remain under development.
Introduction of an ‘earned settlement’ model
A new points-based system will allow individuals to earn settlement more quickly if they make significant economic or social contributions. Formal consultations are expected to follow later this year to determine how points will be awarded and how fast-track routes will operate.
British citizenship reform to follow settlement overhaul
Reforms to British citizenship are expected to align with the new settlement framework. This includes increasing the residence period before naturalisation, updating the Life in the UK test, and recognising contribution as part of eligibility. Precise criteria and timings remain subject to future consultation.
Immigration access to be tied to workforce planning and domestic skills investment
The Government is moving towards a system where access to the Skilled Worker route – even for RQF Level 6+ roles – is conditional on credible workforce planning. Sectors that are overly reliant on migration without investing in domestic pipelines may face restrictions. A new Labour Market Evidence Group will oversee this, advising on whether sectors should retain access to sponsorship routes.
At the employer level, the Government is also exploring ways to ensure businesses using the immigration system are actively investing in UK talent. Options under consideration include restricting sponsorship access for employers who cannot demonstrate a commitment to training and upskilling their workforce.
Introduction of a Higher Education levy on international student fees
The Government has confirmed its intention to introduce a levy on international student tuition fee income, payable by education providers and reinvested into the UK’s education and skills system. While a 6% rate was used illustratively in the Home Office’s Technical Annex, the final design and rate remain under consultation.
Greater flexibility for workers to switch sponsors
The Government is reviewing whether to allow more flexibility for workers to change employers once in the UK, especially in lower-paid or previously restricted sectors. This is intended to reduce risk of exploitation, but details are still under review.
While some reforms are expected to move ahead without prior consultation, many others will require legislative change or further engagement with stakeholders. The Government has acknowledged that there is uncertainty on the exact detail of some of the policy proposals and their implementation dates.
In the coming months, we expect:
Now is a good time to start assessing immigration strategy and workforce exposure, particularly where your business:
We understand that many businesses are still digesting the scale of what’s been proposed, and that needs will vary widely across organisations. We’re already working with clients across a range of sectors to assess risks, model impacts, and prepare for change.
Whether you’re looking for a rapid impact assessment, a deeper review of your workforce strategy, or help navigating your next steps, our team can support you. If you’d like tailored guidance based on your workforce profile, compliance position, or sponsorship activity, please get in touch with our immigration team here.
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