Immigration White Paper: 7 Changes Migrants Should Know.

The UK’s latest Immigration White Paper, “Restoring Control over the Immigration System“, reflects a determined political shift. The main focus is on reducing net migration and restricting access across nearly all routes.

While the motivation is clear, the broader implications deserve deeper scrutiny. We must consider the long-term effects on the UK’s economy, workforce, and global appeal.

In this blog, I give an overview of the Immigration White Paper’s potential changes and their challenges.

If you’re ready to discuss your matter, contact our expert team by calling 0203 007 5500 or sending an email to [email protected]

1. Skilled Worker Visas: A Shift Toward Higher Skills

The Skilled Worker Visa landscape is undergoing significant changes. Key changes include:

• Raising the minimum skill level from RQF Level 3 (A-level) to RQF Level 6 (equivalent to a degree)
• Abolishing the Immigration Salary List (ISL)

This means:

• Many roles in hospitality, logistics, and care no longer qualify
• Employers must reassess recruitment strategies
• The new Temporary Shortage List (TSL) for sub-degree level roles is stricter and highly conditional

Business Impact: Employers must now focus on developing UK talent, investing in training, and planning for increased salary thresholds and a 32% rise in the Immigration Skills Charge.

For Applicants: The bar has been raised. Only those in degree-level jobs with strong earnings potential will be eligible. Careful preparation is more critical than ever.

2. Graduate Visas: A Shrinking Window

The Graduate Visa route has been a vital bridge from education to employment. It allows talented graduates to gain valuable UK work experience, build networks, and identify suitable sponsored employment.

The proposed reduction of the Graduate Visa from two years to 18 months adds pressure on international students in various ways:

• Less time to find sponsored employment in an already competitive market
• Particularly affects non-STEM graduates
• May deter students from choosing the UK for higher education

The government cites low transition rates into skilled jobs. Yet, this route plays a critical role in enabling graduates to contribute to the economy and establish roots.

International students must now be highly strategic, job searching much earlier and targeting sectors with RQF Level 6 opportunities.

3. English Language Requirements: A Rising Standard

The Immigration White Paper proposes a tightening of English language requirements, particularly for adult dependants of workers and students. These include:

• New language rules for dependants: CEFR A1 required
• Progressive increases for settlement: A2 for extensions, B2 for settlement and citizenship

Language proficiency is undeniably important for integration and participation in society. But these new requirements could create additional hurdles, costs, and anxieties for families building a life in the UK.

Families must start selecting Secure English Language Test (SELT) providers and preparing for higher-level exams early in their journey.

4. Health and Care Visas: Closure and Uncertainty

One of the most impactful announcements in the Immigration White Paper is the closure of the Health and Care Visa route to new applicants.

• Transition period until 2028 for those already in the UK
• Unclear whether senior care workers will be affected
• No robust plan for domestic workforce replacement

The adult social care sector heavily depends on international workers. Abrupt closure risks worsening existing shortages and creating a decline in quality care for vulnerable individuals.

Visa holders can start exploring extensions and alternative routes now to prepare for the potential 2028 closure.

5. Family Routes: More Financial Barriers

The Immigration White Paper proposes a plan to merge all family-related immigration pathways into a single streamlined category and implement stricter financial evidence requirements.

• Current minimum income: £29,000 (April 2024)
• Future increases to £34,500 and £38,700 (paused but likely)
• Savings threshold: approximately £88,500 for couples without income

Different Settlement Paths: Families of non-British Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) holders may be placed on a 10-year route versus a 5-year route for British citizen families.

Families will need to prepare thorough financial documentation and explore every permitted income source.

6. Life in the UK Test: Potential Reform

The “Life in the UK Test” is already a significant hurdle for many. The test requires a deep understanding of UK history, culture, values, and political systems. Any increased difficulty, broader scope, or changes to the format could add considerable pressure to applicants.

The current format:

• 24 multiple-choice questions
• 75% pass mark achieved in 45 minutes
• Based on the official government “Life in the United Kingdom” handbook

Future changes may include:

• More in-depth questions and topics
• Possibly new interactive or practical assessments

The best way to pass this exam is to memorise the facts and also engage with them to provide context and a better understanding. Using official resources, practising regularly and staying alert to any updates from the Home Office are a good idea.

7. The Digital Shift: Navigating eVisas

The ongoing transition to eVisas and digital identity for all overseas citizens holding UK immigration permission is a significant effort to modernise. One that is generally welcomed for its potential to streamline processes and enhance security.

By 2025, the UK will transition most immigration documents to digital eVisas.

Potential benefits:

• No lost Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs)
• Faster access at borders
• Easier status sharing with employers or landlords

Key steps for migrants:

• Set up a UKVI account
• Keep personal details (especially passport info) updated
• Understand and learn how to generate “share codes”
• Know where to get technical support

Support Available: We assist with technical guidance, error resolution, and smooth onboarding into this digital system.

Final Thoughts on the Immigration White Paper

As an Immigration Solicitor, my concern is that by making the UK less accessible for skilled workers, talented international students, and their families, we risk stifling innovation, worsening existing labour shortages in critical sectors, and diminishing our appeal as a leading hub for global talent and investment.

While the proposed changes may achieve a reduction in headline net migration figures, they could deter the individuals who contribute most vibrantly to our economy, public services, and cultural fabric.

As these proposals evolve, clear legal advice and strategic planning will be essential for people seeking visas.