World Immigration News

Restoring control over the UK immigration system: Key takeaways from the Government’s white paper

Release Date: 2025-05-27
Media: Fox Williams
Summary: The UK Labour Government has released a White Paper titled Restoring Control Over the Immigration System, outlining a comprehensive reform agenda to reduce net migration and the UK’s reliance on overseas labour. While still under parliamentary review with no confirmed implementation timeline, the direction is clear: higher eligibility thresholds, stricter compliance, and a greater emphasis on domestic workforce development.

One of the most significant proposals is tightening the Skilled Worker visa criteria. The required skill level will increase from RQF Level 3 (A-level) to RQF Level 6 (degree level), effectively removing eligibility for many roles in hospitality, transport, and social care. Salary thresholds will rise, the current Shortage Occupation List will be replaced with a new, more restrictive Temporary Shortage List (TSL), and English language requirements will also be raised. In the care sector, overseas recruitment will be phased out by 2028, with limited transition rights for existing visa holders.

Immigration policy will be more closely aligned with domestic labour strategies through the creation of a Labour Market Evidence Group. Employers in key sectors must develop and adhere to workforce plans. The Immigration Skills Charge will be increased by 32% to support domestic training.

Sponsorship rules will also be reformed to increase employer accountability and reduce worker exploitation, including making it easier for visa holders to change employers. The Domestic Worker visa route is also under review due to abuse concerns.

At the same time, the system aims to attract high-skilled talent. The Global Talent visa will be expanded in growth sectors like AI and life sciences, and the cap on intra-company transfers will be doubled.

Student visa sponsors will face stricter compliance standards, including tougher BCA pass marks and mandatory participation in an Agent Quality Framework. The Graduate visa duration will be shortened from two years to 18 months, and a levy on international student income will fund the education and skills sector.

Technology will play a central role in enforcement, with the rollout of eVisas and Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) allowing real-time tracking and compliance alerts. The forthcoming Border Security and Asylum Bill will increase penalties for illegal employment and expand obligations for banks and financial institutions.

Family migration and settlement pathways will also change. A new family migration policy will impose stricter income and English language requirements. The standard Indefinite Leave to Remain period will rise from five to ten years under a new “Earned Settlement” model, though fast-track routes may be available for “high-contributing” migrants. An “Earned Citizenship” system will follow, with a reformed Life in the UK Test and a points-based route to naturalisation.

In preparation, employers should accelerate visa applications under the current rules, review recruitment and sponsorship policies, enhance compliance systems for digital integration, and support international employees who may face longer settlement timelines or stricter family migration rules.
Tags: UK