Major reforms to the UK immigration system have been announced and are being implemented in 2025. These changes aim to reduce net migration, strengthen border controls, and prioritize higher-skilled migration. Below are the principal updates:
Skilled Worker and Employment Visas
- The minimum skill level for Skilled Worker visas is raised to RQF 6 (graduate level) and above, narrowing eligibility to higher-skilled roles.
- Salary thresholds for Skilled Worker visas are increased, and the Immigration Salary List (which allowed discounts on salary thresholds) is abolished.
- Access to the points-based system will be limited to occupations with long-term shortages, and only where a workforce strategy is in place and employers commit to boosting domestic recruitment.
- Recruitment of foreign care workers is being significantly restricted, aiming to reduce the number of lower-skilled workers entering the UK by up to 50,000 in the next year.
English Language and Settlement
- English language requirements are now stricter and apply across all visa routes, including for adult dependents for the first time.
- The minimum English proficiency required for settlement is raised from B1 to B2 (Independent User).
- The qualifying period for settlement and citizenship is extended from five to ten years, with exceptions for individuals making a “high contribution” to the UK economy or society, who may be fast-tracked.
Employer and Labour Market Changes
- Employers must demonstrate efforts to recruit and train domestic workers before hiring from overseas.
- A new Labour Market Evidence Group will inform decisions on migration policy, focusing on data-driven approaches rather than defaulting to migration as a solution.
Visa and Entry Requirements
- Universal requirement for either an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) or eVisa for all travelers except British and Irish nationals, effective April 2025.
- Trinidad and Tobago nationals now require a visa for all UK visits, including transit, due to increased asylum claims.
Other Notable Changes
- Increased visa fees across multiple routes, including Skilled Worker and Global Talent visas.
- Updates to the EU Settlement Scheme and the definition of “parent” in the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.
Summary Table of Key Changes
| Area | Change |
|---|---|
| Skilled Worker Visas | Raised to RQF 6 (graduate level); higher salary thresholds; no salary list |
| English Language | Stricter requirements (B2); applies to all routes and adult dependents |
| Settlement/Citizenship | Qualifying period extended from 5 to 10 years (some fast-track exceptions) |
| Care Worker Recruitment | Restricted; aim to reduce lower-skilled worker inflow by 50,000 |
| Employer Requirements | Must boost domestic training before recruiting overseas |
| ETA/eVisa Requirement | Mandatory for all except British/Irish nationals |
| Trinidad & Tobago Visas | Visa now required for all visits |
| Visa Fees | Increased across multiple routes |
These reforms mark a significant tightening of the UK’s immigration regime, focusing on higher skills, integration, and reducing overall migration numbers.
Related links
| Source Type | Title/Description | Link Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Government (PDF) | Restoring Control over the Immigration System White Paper | Link |
| Government News | Immigration white paper to reduce migration and strengthen border | Link |
| Government News | Prime Minister unveils new plan to end years of uncontrolled migration | Link |
| Legal/Policy Analysis | UK announces radical changes to its immigration rules | Link |
| Sector Analysis (NHS) | What changes outlined in the government’s Immigration White Paper… | Link |
| Legal/NGO Summary | Government unveils major immigration reforms… | Link |
| Legal Commentary | UK Government Confirms Major Changes to Immigration Rules… | Link |
| Immigration Law Firm | UK Immigration Rules: Key Changes in April 2025 Explained | Link |
| Media | Labour’s immigration plans at a glance | Link |