Changes to UK Visa and Settlement Rules After the 2025 Immigration White Paper

Changes to UK Visa and Settlement Rules After the 2025 Immigration White Paper

On 12 May 2025, the UK government published a white paper titled Restoring Control Over the Immigration System. The policy document sets out significant proposals aimed at reducing net migration by making it harder to move to and settle in the UK.

A white paper itself does not change the law. Instead, it signals reforms the government intends to implement in the future through amendments to the Immigration Rules or, in some cases, new Acts of Parliament. Since May 2025, some changes have already been introduced, but many proposals remain subject to consultation.

At Deluxe Law Chambers, our immigration solicitors explain the main proposals, the changes already in force, and what these reforms mean for migrants, employers, students, and families.

Key Immigration Proposals in the May 2025 White Paper

The government outlined both broad principles and detailed reforms. Eight proposals were highlighted with projected impacts on net migration:

• Skilled Worker visa restrictions – The list of jobs eligible for sponsorship has been shortened. Medium-skilled jobs (RQF levels 3–5) are no longer eligible unless exempted by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC).
• End of overseas recruitment for social care workers – Employers can no longer sponsor social care staff from abroad.
• Student fee levy proposal – The government is exploring a levy on income universities receive from international student fees.
• Tougher student visa compliance rules – Universities will face stricter requirements to retain sponsor licences.
• Graduate visa reduced – The standard post-study work visa will be cut from 2 years to 18 months.
• Stricter English language requirements – Higher standards for applicants taking language tests, and new minimum English requirements for dependants of work visa holders.
• ILR (settlement) qualifying period extended – The default route to Indefinite Leave to Remain will increase from 5 years to 10 years, with an “earned settlement” pathway offering shorter times for those making strong contributions.
• Expansion of high-skilled visa routes – More flexibility for Global Talent and High Potential Individual visas.

Which Changes Have Already Taken Effect?

The Home Office has already implemented the first round of reforms on 22 July 2025:

• Skilled Worker job list reduced – Many medium-skilled roles have been removed from sponsorship eligibility.
• Overseas recruitment of social care workers ended.

Further changes are scheduled:

• English language requirements will be raised by the end of 2025.
• Immigration skills charge will increase.
• A new family visa framework will also be introduced.

Graduate Visa Holders: What Has Changed?

The Graduate visa allows international students to remain in the UK for 2 or 3 years after completing their studies. However:

• It cannot be extended.
• Many Graduate visa holders expected to switch into a Skilled Worker visa with their employer at the end of this period.
• With the July 2025 job list changes, if their occupation has been removed, this option is no longer available.

This particularly affects graduates in sectors such as transport and dentistry, where roles have been reclassified as ineligible.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) – The 10-Year Settlement Proposal

The most controversial reform in the white paper is the proposal to extend the qualifying period for ILR:

• New default: 10 years of continuous lawful residence, up from 5 years.
• Earned settlement route: Migrants who make significant “Points-Based contributions” to the UK economy and society could qualify sooner. (Criteria will be finalised after consultation.)
• Exemptions:
  • Partners of British citizens (still eligible after 5 years).
  • Victims of domestic abuse.
  • EU Settlement Scheme applicants (protected under the Withdrawal Agreement).

Will current migrants be affected?

The government has not confirmed this. However:

• The white paper’s technical annex suggests the changes may apply to people already in the UK.
• Reports from the BBC and Financial Times indicate this is the government’s intention, though mitigations may apply for those close to settlement.
• A consultation later in 2025 will provide clarity.

Will MPs Vote on These Changes?

Most of the reforms – such as Skilled Worker visa restrictions or ILR changes – can be introduced through statements of changes to the Immigration Rules, which do not require a formal vote.

• Parliament can only block these changes if MPs pass a motion of disapproval within 40 days, which is rare.
• However, certain proposals, like the student levy and naturalisation reforms, do require primary legislation and therefore parliamentary approval.

A non-binding debate on the ILR 10-year proposal is scheduled for 8 September 2025.

How Deluxe Law Chambers Can Help

At Deluxe Law Chambers, our specialist immigration solicitors provide expert advice on navigating the rapidly changing UK immigration system. We can assist with:

• Skilled Worker visa applications under the revised job list.
• Graduate visa to Skilled Worker transitions.
• Family visas and dependants under the new framework.
• ILR and settlement applications, including advice on how the 10-year rule may affect you.
• Appeals and Judicial Review of unfair Home Office decisions.

Contact Our Immigration Solicitors

If you are concerned about how the 2025 immigration white paper changes will affect you, your family, or your business, seek legal advice early.

📞 Call Deluxe Law Chambers today to speak with a solicitor at 01614644140
📧 Or complete our online enquiry form for a fast response.

Our dedicated team will guide you through the upcoming changes and protect your rights in the UK.