White Paper 2025: Government Announces Sweeping Reforms to UK Immigration System

On 12 May 2025, the UK Government released its long-anticipated White Paper proposing substantial reforms to the country’s immigration rules. The primary objectives are to strengthen border security, lower migration levels, and create a more direct alignment between immigration policy, skills development, and the needs of the UK labour market.

While the paper outlines wide-ranging policy shifts, it does not clarify whether these changes will apply retrospectively to individuals already holding valid immigration permission. Historically, new immigration rules apply only to applicants entering a route after the changes take effect, with transitional arrangements often protecting those already in the system. This remains to be confirmed once the legislative detail is published, particularly with regard to the extended qualifying period for settlement.

This summary focuses on how the proposed changes will affect employers, businesses, and workers across all sectors.

Key Proposed Changes

1. Immigration Skills Charge (ISC)

The ISC, unchanged since its introduction in 2017, will rise by 32%. For small sponsors or charities, this means an increase from £364 to approximately £480 per visa year. For larger sponsors, the cost will rise from £1,000 to £1,320 per year. Employers remain prohibited from passing these costs on to applicants.

2. Skilled Worker Skill Threshold

The minimum skill level required for sponsored roles will rise from RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) back to RQF Level 6 (graduate level), reversing the 2020 shift. Existing Skilled Workers in roles below RQF 6 can continue to renew visas and change jobs, but new applicants—including those switching visa categories—must meet the new requirements once implemented.

3. Salary Threshold for Skilled Workers

The White Paper confirms that salary thresholds will increase alongside the rise in skill level, though specific figures have not yet been released.

4. Graduate Visas

The post-study visa duration will be reduced from two years to 18 months. Graduates may continue to work without meeting a minimum salary requirement during this time, but will have less time to transition into roles that meet Skilled Worker thresholds. Additionally, universities sponsoring international students will face a new levy and tighter compliance obligations.

5. Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

The standard qualifying period for most applicants will double from five to ten years. While certain exceptions may apply—such as dependants of British citizens—the overall shift aims to tie settlement more directly to sustained contribution to the UK economy and society. The government suggests that some applicants may earn accelerated settlement through yet-to-be-defined contribution metrics.

6. English Language Requirements

• For Settlement: The required proficiency will rise from B1 to B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

• For Main Applicants: Skilled Workers and similar applicants will need to demonstrate B2-level English from the outset.

• For Dependants: Currently exempt in most routes, adult dependants will now need to meet minimum English language standards—starting at A1 for initial applications, A2 for extensions, and eventually B2 to qualify for settlement.

7. Family Visas

In addition to new language requirements, a broader policy review is underway for family migration. Specific changes have not yet been detailed.

8. Shortage Occupations: Introduction of the Temporary Shortage List (TSL)

Replacing the existing Immigration Salary List, the TSL will focus on roles below graduate level (RQF 3–5) that are essential to the UK’s industrial strategy or key infrastructure. Jobs on the TSL will not be eligible under the Skilled Worker route but may be accessed through separate provisions.

9. Closure of the Social Care Visa Route

The Care Worker Visa route will be closed to new overseas applicants. However, until 2028, those already in the UK on this route will be permitted to extend their visas or switch status from within the country.

Looking Ahead

The White Paper marks a fundamental shift in the UK’s immigration landscape, reflecting a broader political commitment to controlling migration while emphasising economic self-reliance and integration.

However, the proposed changes are not yet law. Employers and individuals are strongly encouraged to assess their current recruitment and retention strategies, and to seek professional immigration advice where necessary.

We will continue to monitor the progress of these proposals and provide updates as further details are confirmed.

The full White Paper can accessed here: Restoring Control over the Immigration System May 2025.

For tailored advice or support with any of the visa routes mentioned above, please contact our immigration team at RobertSookias@cartercamerons.com.