The UK Government’s 2025 Immigration White Paper, titled Restoring Control over the Immigration System, outlines significant proposed reforms aimed at reducing net migration and reshaping the country’s immigration framework. Published on 12 May 2025, the document emphasizes a shift towards a more controlled and skills-focused immigration system.
Key Proposals
- Extension of Settlement Qualification Period: The qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is proposed to increase from five to ten years. This change may affect approximately 1.5 million foreign workers who arrived in the UK since 2020, though it’s unclear if the policy will apply retroactively.
- Reform of Skilled Worker Visas: The skill threshold for visa eligibility will rise from RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) to RQF Level 6 (degree-level). Additionally, the Immigration Salary List will be replaced with a Temporary Shortage List, offering time-limited visas for certain occupations critical to the industrial strategy.
- Changes to Graduate Route: The duration of the Graduate Route visa, which allows international graduates to stay in the UK post-study, will be reduced from two years to 18 months.
- Restrictions on Caregiver Visas: New caregiver visa applications will be phased out by 2028. In the interim, restrictions will limit the ability of care workers to bring dependents, and overall visa issuance in this category will be reduced.
- Increased English Language Requirements: Applicants for all visa categories will face stricter English proficiency standards.
- Enhanced Enforcement Measures: The Home Office will gain increased powers to revoke visas for certain offenses, and there will be heightened age verification processes for asylum seekers.
Underlying Principles
The White Paper is grounded in five core principles:
- Reducing net migration
- Upskilling the domestic workforce
- Ensuring a fair and effective system
- Strengthening enforcement mechanisms
- Promoting integration of migrants into society
Political Context
Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need to “restore control” over the UK’s borders, criticizing previous policies for leading to a significant increase in net migration. The reforms aim to address public concerns and rebuild trust in the immigration system.
Next Steps
As a White Paper, these proposals are not yet law but indicate the government’s intended direction. Further legislation and consultations are expected to implement these changes.
For a detailed overview, you can access the full White Paper here: Restoring Control over the Immigration System.