Major Immigration Changes: New UK Government White Paper “Restoring Control Over the Immigration System” Analysis

May 2025

The UK government has recently released a comprehensive white paper titled “Restoring Control over the Immigration System”, outlining significant changes to the UK’s immigration framework.

As specialists in immigration law, Tann Law Solicitors is committed to informing you about these important developments that will affect individuals, families, and businesses across the UK.

This White Paper introduces sweeping reforms across multiple aspects of the immigration system. Below, we break down the key changes and what they mean for you.

Overview of the White Paper

The new white paper stems from the government’s commitment to reduce net migration significantly. It focuses on five core principles:

1. Reducing overall net migration.
2. Linking immigration to UK skills and training requirements.
3. Creating a fairer and more effective system.
4. Ensuring rules are respected and enforced.
5. Supporting integration and community cohesion.

Key Changes to Work Visas

Skilled Worker Route Changes

The most significant change for employers and skilled professionals is the raising of the skill threshold for the Skilled Worker route from RQF 3 (A-Level equivalent) back to RQF 6 (Degree level), eliminating approximately 180 occupations from eligibility. This represents a reversal of the 2020 changes that lowered the threshold.

What this means in practice:

• Only graduate-level jobs will qualify for the Skilled Worker route.
• The Immigration Salary List, which allowed for salary threshold discounts, will be abolished.
• Salary thresholds will rise, with the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) conducting a review of requirements.

Important note: Existing Skilled Worker visa holders in roles below RQF 6 will be allowed to extend their visas and change employers within eligible occupations, but new applicants must follow the new rules.

New Temporary Shortage List

For occupations below degree level (RQF 3-5) where critical shortages exist, the government will introduce a new Temporary Shortage List. This will only be open to sectors that:

• Are key to industrial strategy or infrastructure.
• Have a workforce strategy aimed at maximising UK workforce utilisation.
• Have received a MAC recommendation.
• Are committed to training domestic workers.

Social Care Visa Changes

In one of the most immediate changes affecting thousands of workers, the government will close the social care visa route to new overseas applications. The route will remain open for in-country extensions and switching until 2028, but this will be kept under review.

Changes for Dependants

The White Paper signals restrictions on bringing dependants for lower-skilled workers on the Temporary Shortage List, though specific details will follow in subsequent announcements.

Immigration Skills Charge

The Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) will increase by 32% to align with inflation since its introduction in 2017. Funding from the ISC will support skills development for the domestic workforce.

Student and Graduate Route Changes

Tighter Compliance for Sponsoring Institutions

The government is strengthening requirements for institutions sponsoring international students:

• Raising the Basic Compliance Assessment metrics by 5 percentage points (e.g., course completion rate must be at least 90%).
• Implementing a Red-Amber-Green system to rate the BCA performance of each sponsor, so it is clear which institutions are achieving a high level of compliance.
• Introducing new interventions for sponsors close to failing their metrics.
• Requiring all sponsors to sign up to the Agent Quality Framework when using recruitment agents

Graduate Route Changes

The Graduate route, which currently allows international students to stay for 2-3 years after completing their studies, will be reduced to 18 months. The government is also exploring a levy on higher education provider income from international students to reinvest in the skills system.

Family and Settlement Changes

English Language Requirements

One of the most significant changes affects English language requirements across various routes:

• Skilled Worker route English language requirements will increase from B1 to B2 level (Independent User).
• A new English language requirement at A1 level (Basic User) will be introduced for all adult dependants of workers and students.
• Visa extensions will require progression to A2 level.
• Settlement will require B2-level English proficiency.

Extended Settlement Period

Under a new “Earned Settlement” model:

• The standard qualifying period for settlement will be extended from 5 to 10 years.
• A points-based system will be introduced, allowing individuals to reduce this period based on contributions to the UK economy and society.
• Dependants of British citizens will still qualify after 5 years.
• Safeguards for vulnerable individuals, including victims of domestic abuse, will be maintained.

The White Paper also proposes creating a new bereaved parent route for those who have lost a child in the UK, allowing them to settle immediately.

Analysis: What These Changes Mean

These proposed changes represent the most significant overhaul of the UK immigration system since the post-Brexit changes of 2020. The government is clearly focused on:

1. Reducing overall numbers – Through various restrictions across work, family, and student routes.
2. Prioritising highly skilled migrants – By raising thresholds and increasing requirements.
3. Making settlement harder – Through longer qualifying periods and stricter English language requirements.
4. Stronger enforcement – With increased focus on compliance and returns.

For individuals and businesses navigating the UK immigration system, these changes will require careful planning, particularly for:

• Businesses that are relying on overseas recruitment for roles below degree level.
• International students planning their future in the UK.
• Families hoping to settle in the UK permanently.
• Existing visa holders who are approaching settlement deadlines.

Timeline for Implementation

The white paper does not provide a specific timeline for all changes, but indicates:

• Some measures will require new legislation.
• Others will be implemented through changes to immigration rules.
• The settlement changes will be subject to consultation later this year.

How Tann Law Can Help

At Tann Law Solicitors, our immigration specialists are closely monitoring these developments and are prepared to guide you through these significant changes. We can help:

• Evaluate how these changes affect your specific circumstances.
• Develop strategies to navigate the new requirements.
• Ensure compliance with new and changing rules.
• Provide clear, practical advice on your immigration options.

These changes will affect different people in different ways, so we seek to ensure the advice we give you is completely tailored to your situation.

If you’re concerned about how these changes might impact you, your family, or your business, contact our team for guidance.

Keep Informed

UK Immigration regulations continue to evolve. For the latest updates on these changes and other UK immigration news, follow our blog and subscribe to our newsletter.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. For specific guidance related to your circumstances, please consult with a qualified immigration lawyer.