The UK government has published its 2025 Immigration White Paper, setting out a series of proposed reforms intended to reshape the legal migration system over the course of this Parliament. The white paper, titled Restoring Control Over the Immigration System, focuses on reducing net migration, prioritising high-skilled migrants and introducing stricter enforcement and settlement rules.
These changes will affect individuals, employers, students and sponsoring institutions. While they’re only proposed changes at the moment, understanding the proposals now can help you prepare for legal and procedural changes expected in the months ahead.
If you’re unsure how these proposed changes might affect your visa, settlement eligibility or sponsor responsibilities, it’s important to seek legal advice early. Keep reading to find out all about the changes and how you can claim a 30-minute consultation with a solicitor for free.
5 key aims of the reform
The Home Office has described the paper as part of a broader effort to improve the balance between attracting global talent and reducing reliance on migration. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper have framed the reforms as necessary to restore public confidence, ease pressure on public services and strengthen border control.
Among the headline measures are:
- Raising the skill threshold for skilled worker visas
- Ending the social care visa route for new applicants
- Reducing post-study work rights for international graduates
- Increasing language and settlement requirements
- Introducing stronger enforcement for immigration violations
Skilled worker route: Higher thresholds and stricter access
One of the most significant changes involves the skilled worker visa route. Currently, applicants can qualify for a skilled visa with roles rated at RQF Level 3 (equivalent to A-levels). Under the new system, this will be raised to RQF Level 6 (graduate level). This change will make most degree-level roles the minimum threshold for eligibility.
In addition, the Immigration Salary List, which allows for reduced salary thresholds in shortage occupations, will be abolished. A new Temporary Shortage Occupation List will be introduced, but roles will only be included under strict conditions – such as evidence of long-term domestic shortages and active employer investment in training the UK workforce.
Who is affected?
These reforms are likely to be particularly relevant for businesses recruiting in sectors such as IT, engineering and healthcare. Employers will be expected to show greater commitment to upskilling domestic workers before turning to international hiring.
Social care route: Closure to new overseas applicants
The white paper confirms that the social care visa route will be closed to new applicants from abroad. While this route was introduced to help fill critical vacancies in the care sector, the government now plans to encourage domestic recruitment and reform the care workforce more broadly.
A transition period until 2028 will allow those already working in the UK under this route to extend their visas or switch into new roles. However, no new applications from overseas will be accepted during or after this period.
Who is affected?
This change may present challenges for care providers, particularly in areas where workforce shortages remain acute. Employers may wish to review workforce strategies in light of the new requirements.
International students: Compliance and post-study work
The white paper also introduces new compliance measures for institutions that sponsor international students. Universities and colleges will be required to meet higher standards under the Basic Compliance Assessment (BCA), including minimum enrolment and course completion thresholds. A Red-Amber-Green rating system will be used to identify institutions at risk of non-compliance.
In addition, the Graduate Visa route – which currently allows international students to remain in the UK for two years post-study – will be reduced to 18 months. This change, along with possible levies on international tuition income, may impact how institutions structure future recruitment strategies.
Who is affected?
These measures reflect the government’s intention to ensure that international study routes continue to support genuine students while maintaining integrity within the visa system.
Enforcement, deportation and language requirements
A number of changes aim to strengthen compliance and enforcement across the immigration system. This includes:
- Expanding deportation criteria to cover a broader range of criminal offences
- Introducing e-identity systems to replace physical biometric residence permits
- Enabling the Home Office to act more quickly where there is evidence of visa misuse
There will also be wider English language requirements across immigration categories. For example, all adult dependants of workers and students will be required to demonstrate a minimum A1 level of English proficiency on arrival, with progression to A2 for visa extensions and B2 for settlement.
These new requirements aim to support integration and ensure that all migrants are equipped to participate in UK society and public life.
Settlement and citizenship: New frameworks
One of the most far-reaching reforms is the increase in the standard settlement period from five years to ten. This applies to most visa holders seeking indefinite leave to remain (ILR). The government also plans to integrate the points-based system into both settlement and citizenship processes, with contributions to UK society and the economy being key criteria.
Shorter settlement pathways will still be available for certain groups, including dependants of British citizens and individuals with protected characteristics or vulnerabilities.
The revised Life in the UK test and potential support for long-term residents (including care leavers and undocumented young people) also feature as part of broader plans to make the system clearer and more structured.
What happens next?
The white paper outlines a phased approach, with several reforms expected to be implemented in the coming months and others following over the course of this Parliament. Employers, individuals and sponsoring institutions should start reviewing their existing compliance processes and recruitment plans now to prepare for these upcoming changes.
More reforms relating to the asylum system and border security are also expected later this year.
Talk to an immigration solicitor today
If you are concerned about how the proposed changes could affect your business, your visa application or your right to remain in the UK, Osbourne Pinner is here to help. Our immigration solicitors in London provide expert legal advice tailored to your circumstances – whether you are an individual seeking to settle, a student navigating post-study options or an employer managing sponsorship duties.
We offer a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your case and recommend the most effective path forward. Contact us today via the form below, call 0203 983 5080 or email [email protected] to speak with a local divorce solicitor near you. We can speak with you via video call or welcome you to one of our local offices in London (Harrow, Canary Wharf or Piccadilly Circus) or Manchester City Centre.
