In a bold move to reshape the United Kingdom’s immigration system, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has introduced a set of strict new immigration policies aimed at significantly reducing net migration. The announcement comes ahead of the release of the UK government’s official immigration white paper, detailing tighter regulations affecting work visas, student stays, and overseas recruitment.

UK Government to “Take Back Control” of Borders

Speaking at a Downing Street press conference, Starmer emphasized that the UK must avoid becoming an “island of strangers” by enforcing fair but firm immigration rules. He echoed the Brexit-era slogan of “taking back control of our borders” and criticized the previous government for allowing net migration to skyrocket to over 900,000 in 2023.

Though net migration has dropped to approximately 728,000 as of mid-2024, largely due to a decline in arrivals post-pandemic, Starmer insists further reductions are necessary for national unity and stability.

New UK Immigration Rules 2025: Key Changes

The upcoming immigration reforms introduce several tougher eligibility requirements:

1. Higher English Language Standards

Applicants will face stricter English language requirements, with mandatory progress evaluations over time.

2. Skilled Worker Visa Reforms

To qualify for a skilled work visa, applicants must now hold graduate-level qualifications, raising the bar for non-EU migrants.

3. Longer Wait for Permanent Residency

Foreign nationals will now be required to live in the UK for 10 years before being eligible for settlement, replacing the previous 5-year rule.

4. Restrictions on Care Sector Recruitment

The UK will phase out overseas hiring in the care sector by 2028, leaving care homes with limited options amid an existing shortage of 131,000 vacancies in England alone.

5. Student Visa Changes

Post-study work rights will be curtailed. International graduates will be allowed to stay for a maximum of 18 months, down from 2 years.

Impact on UK’s Labour and Education Sectors

The changes are expected to hit the health and social care sector the hardest. Industry leaders have expressed concern that removing the option for international recruitment could exacerbate staffing shortages. Care England’s CEO, Prof. Martin Green, called the reforms “a crushing blow” to a sector already under pressure.

The education sector is also bracing for impact, as stricter recruitment standards for international students could reduce the number of applicants and strain university revenues.

Why Is the UK Tightening Immigration?

The move follows a strong performance by the far-right Reform Party in recent local elections. The government aims to regain public trust and address concerns over rapid population growth due to immigration from war-torn countries (like Ukraine), Hong Kong, and non-EU skilled workers post-Brexit.