On 12 May 2025, the UK Government released its comprehensive immigration white paper titled Restoring Control Over the Immigration System, marking a significant shift in the nation’s immigration policy. The proposed reforms aim to reduce net migration, focusing on tightening visa regulations across work, study, and settlement routes.
Key Reforms and Their Impact
Elevation of Skilled Worker Visa Requirements
- Qualification Threshold: The minimum skill level for Skilled Worker visas will be raised from RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) to RQF Level 6 (bachelor’s degree level). This change will limit visa sponsorship to highly skilled occupations.
- Salary Adjustments: Corresponding salary thresholds will be updated to reflect the higher skill level, ensuring that sponsored roles offer competitive remuneration.
Implications for Employers: Sectors such as care, hospitality, and construction, which often rely on sub-degree level roles, may face challenges in recruiting international talent. Employers should assess their workforce strategies and consider investing in domestic training programs.
Abolition of the Immigration Salary List (ISL)
The ISL, previously known as the Shortage Occupation List, will be abolished. In its place, a Temporary Shortage Occupation List will be introduced, applicable only to roles below RQF Level 6 and requiring a formal review by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC).
Implications for Employers: This change emphasises the government’s intent to prioritise domestic workforce development. Employers must demonstrate genuine efforts to recruit locally before seeking international candidates.
Establishment of the Labour Market Evidence Group
A new entity, the Labour Market Evidence Group, will be formed to assess the state of the labour market. This body will work closely with industry associations to advise the government on which roles merit immigration access.
Employer Action Points: Engage proactively with trade associations and ensure your sector’s needs are effectively represented. Collaboration with this group can influence future immigration policies relevant to your industry.
Closure of Overseas Recruitment for Social Care Workers
The Health and Care Worker visa will no longer be available for frontline care workers. Employers will be barred from recruiting new international care staff under this route. Existing visa holders will be permitted to extend or switch status until 2028.
Implications for Employers: Social care providers must pivot towards domestic recruitment and training initiatives to fill workforce gaps.
Increase in Immigration Skills Charge (ISC)
The Immigration Skills Charge will see its first increase since 2017 by 32%.
Implications for Employers: Budgeting for increased sponsorship costs is essential. Employers should evaluate the financial impact on their recruitment strategies.
Reduction of Graduate Route to 18 Months
The Graduate Visa, allowing international graduates to work in the UK without sponsorship, will be shortened from two years to 18 months.
Implications for Employers: Organisations relying on this route for talent acquisition will need to transition graduates onto sponsored visas more swiftly.
Enhancements to High-Skilled Visa Routes
The government plans to expand and streamline high-skilled visa routes, including:
- Global Talent Visa: Simplification and increased accessibility.
- Innovator Founder Visa: Revisions to encourage entrepreneurship.
- High Potential Individual (HPI) Route: Expansion to attract top global talent.
Implications for Employers: These changes present opportunities to attract and retain high-caliber professionals in sectors like technology, life sciences, and academia.
Strengthening Sponsor Compliance and Digital Tracking
New measures will be introduced to ensure sponsor compliance, including:
- Mandatory improvement plans for sponsors deemed at risk.
- Temporary restrictions on recruitment capabilities.
- Expanded digital tracking of visa holders.
Implications for Employers: Regular internal audits and compliance checks will be crucial to avoid enforcement actions.
Enhanced English Language Requirements
English language expectations will rise across various visa categories, applying to both main applicants and dependants. Additional measures will assess whether English proficiency improves over time.
Implications for Employers: Recruitment processes should be updated to incorporate these new language standards.
Reform of Family Migration System
The white paper outlines intentions to overhaul the UK’s fragmented family migration routes, aiming for a more coherent system. Reforms will include:
- Clearer relationship requirements.
- Stronger safeguards against forced marriage and abuse.
- Revised English language and financial thresholds.
Implications for Employers: Employees with family members abroad may be affected. Employers should provide support and guidance during this transition.
Introduction of Points-Based Settlement and Citizenship
The residency period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is expected to increase from five to ten years. A points-based model for early settlement or citizenship will be introduced, considering factors like tax contributions, public service employment, and community engagement.
Implications for Employers: Long-term workforce planning should account for these changes to ensure retention of skilled employees.
Strategic Recommendations for Employers
To navigate these reforms effectively:
- Review your organisation’s reliance on international workers.
- Conduct internal audits of your sponsor licence and HR systems.
- Plan early for affected roles and visa transitions.
- Budget for increased sponsorship costs.
- Engage with industry bodies to represent your sector’s needs.
How Our London-Based Immigration Law Firm Can Assist
Navigating the complexities of the UK’s evolving immigration landscape requires expert guidance. Our firm offers:
- Strategic advice tailored to your sector.
- Comprehensive compliance audits to prevent enforcement risks.
- Assistance with visa and sponsorship applications.
- Representation in communications with the Home Office and MAC.
- End-to-end support across all immigration categories.
Stay ahead of the curve – contact our team today to arrange a consultation and safeguard your business against the shifting tides of immigration reform.