The UK Government’s White Paper, presented to Parliament in May 2025, outlines significant changes to the UK’s legal migration framework.
These reforms aim to reduce net migration, tighten visa eligibility, and align migration policy with broader labor market, skills, and integration strategies.
It’s important to note that White Papers are policy documents produced by the Government that set out their proposals for future legislation. It is not law at this stage.
Here is a summary of the the key proposals:
Skilled Worker Route:
- The minimum skill level for sponsored roles is raised to RQF Level 6 (degree-level).
- The salary threshold is increased to £38,700, with the abolition of the Immigration Salary List.
- Existing visa holders can extend or change jobs until 2028, but new applicants face stricter criteria.
Temporary Shortage List (TSL):
- A new, time-limited pathway for RQF Levels 3-5 roles, with strict sector-specific workforce strategies and compliance requirements.
Social Care Visa Route:
- The Health and Care Worker visa route for adult social care is closed to new overseas recruits, with transitional measures until 2028.
- The focus shifts to domestic workforce solutions and Fair Pay Agreements.
Family Migration and Dependants:
- The minimum income requirement for sponsoring a partner is raised to £38,700 by 2026.
- New English language requirements for dependents: A1 to enter, A2 to extend, and B2 for settlement.
Earned Settlement and Citizenship:
- The qualifying period for settlement is increased to ten years, with accelerated pathways for exceptional contributions.
- A points-based framework for ILR and naturalization is introduced, emphasizing integration and public service.
Study Routes and Graduate Visas:
- Restrictions on dependents of international students, limited to PhD or advanced research programs.
- Stricter compliance requirements for sponsoring institutions and a review of the Graduate Route.
Source: UK Government website
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