UK Immigration White Paper 2025 – 12 May 2025 – Home Office Announcement

The UK Government has unveiled its long-awaited UK Immigration White Paper 2025, introducing sweeping reforms to the Skilled Worker visa route, family migration policies, settlement requirements, and post-study rights. Aimed at reducing reliance on migration, boosting domestic workforce development, and tackling abuse within the system.

Skilled Worker Visa Threshold Raised to RQF Level 6

One of the most impactful changes is the decision to raise the skills threshold for Skilled Worker visas back to RQF Level 6 (degree level). This reverses the 2020 reform, which had lowered the bar to RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent).

Key Implications:

• An estimated 180 occupations will no longer qualify.
• Salary thresholds will increase significantly.
• Employers must now focus on high-skilled roles to access overseas talent.

This change aims to curb lower-skilled migration, promote higher salaries, and ensure the UK attracts the “brightest and best” global talent.

Closure of Social Care Visa Route

Due to widespread concerns about exploitation and poor working conditions, the Government will end overseas recruitment through the Adult Social Care visa route.

Transition Period:

• New overseas applications will no longer be accepted.
• In-country extensions and switching will be allowed until 2028, subject to ongoing review.

The Government instead plans to boost domestic recruitment by introducing Fair Pay Agreements to improve wages and working conditions in the care sector.

Temporary Shortage List for RQF 3–5 Roles

To manage shortages in lower-skilled roles, a new Temporary Shortage List will be introduced. Only occupations that:

• Are below RQF Level 6,
• Have long-term shortages,
• Have a workforce strategy in place.

Increased Immigration Skills Charge

The Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) will rise by 32%, aligning it with inflation. This increase aims to:

• Encourage employers to invest in domestic training,
• Fund skills development in priority sectors.

The current immigration skills charge is £364 per year.

Graduate Visa Route Shortened to 18 Months

The Graduate visa, allowing international students to remain in the UK post-study, will be reduced from 2 years to 18 months.

Additional Measures:

• A levy on university income from international students is under review, with revenue redirected to the skills sector.
• Stricter compliance checks will be introduced for student sponsors.

Major Reforms to Family Migration

A new Family Migration Policy will be released by the end of 2025. Key proposed measures include:

• Stricter relationship requirements to reduce forced marriages.
• Stronger English language standards for dependants.
• Extended financial requirements to ensure families are self-sufficient.
• A shorter 5-year settlement route for Armed Forces families.

Stricter English Language Requirements

English language standards across the immigration system will be raised:

• Skilled Workers: From B1 to B2 (Independent User).
• Adult dependants of students and workers: New A1 requirement, rising to A2 at extension, and B2 for settlement.
• Settlement across most routes: Increased from B1 to B2.

These changes promote integration and ensure migrants can fully participate in UK life.

Settlement Reforms: 10-Year Standard Pathway

The route to permanent settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) will now require:

• A 10-year residency period, instead of 5 years for most routes.
• Opportunities to earn settlement faster through a new Points-Based contribution system.
• A continued 5-year route for British citizens’ dependants and victims of domestic abuse.

Earned Citizenship and Life in the UK Test Overhaul

British citizenship will also move to an “earned” model, mirroring changes to settlement. The Government will:

• Extend the standard residency period.
• Offer accelerated routes for high contributors.
• Reform the Life in the UK test to ensure it is meaningful and up to date.

Summary: What This Means for Employers, Migrants & Advisors

Need Help Navigating the New UK Immigration Rules?

At Deluxe Law Chambers, our expert UK immigration solicitors can provide clear, strategic advice to individuals, employers, and education providers affected by the new white paper. Whether you need assistance with Skilled Worker sponsorship, family visa applications, graduate immigration, or settlement planning, we’re here to help.

📞 Contact us today for a immigration advice or to discuss how these changes may affect your immigration plans.