Today, 12th May 2025, the UK Government released a White Paper outlining proposed immigration reforms that could significantly reshape the system for workers, students, families, and employers. While these changes are not yet law, they offer a clear signal of the Government’s future direction—and it’s important to be ready.

What Is a White Paper Stage?

A White Paper is a government document that outlines proposals for changes in policy or law. While it offers a clear direction of the government's intentions, it is not yet law. White Papers are part of the consultation process and open to feedback before the final legislation is drafted and enacted. So, while it’s essential to be aware of these proposed changes, they are still in the discussion phase. There's no need to panic, but it’s wise to stay prepared and plan accordingly, as these changes may influence your future immigration plans.

What are the Key Proposals - And Why They Matter

1. Raising the Skill Bar for Skilled Worker Visas

• Skill threshold may be increased to RQF Level 6 (graduate level), with higher salary requirements.
• Some lower-skilled jobs may be exempt temporarily—but dependants won’t be allowed under those exemptions.

Why it matters: Many roles currently eligible could become ineligible unless reclassified, significantly curbing the recruitment of overseas talent. The focus for employers would shift toward training and recruiting locally, rather than relying on international hires.

2. Closure of Care Worker Visa Route

• Proposal to end new overseas applications for care and senior care worker roles.

Why it matters: Employers in the care sector will face major hiring restrictions, and prospective applicants may lose a key migration route to the UK. It's also important to note that care workers are already restricted from bringing dependants, except in exceptional circumstances—further limiting the attractiveness of this pathway.

3. Graduate Route to Be Shortened to 18 Months

• Proposal to shorten the post-study work visa from 2 years to 18 months.

Why it matters: Graduates will have less time to secure skilled jobs or switch visa routes, reducing the overall attractiveness of studying in the UK. This challenge is compounded by the increased salary thresholds under the Skilled Worker route—with further hikes expected, making it even harder for recent graduates to transition into long-term employment.

4. 6% Higher Education Levy for International Students

• A new levy on tuition fees may be introduced, increasing the overall cost of studying in the UK.

Why it matters: Universities may pass this cost on to students, impacting affordability and influencing application decisions. This could lead to fewer student visa approvals, as rising tuition fees—on top of already high living costs—create additional financial barriers for international applicants.

5. Stricter English Language Rules

• English requirement for Skilled Workers may rise from B1 to B2.
• All adult dependants of workers and students may be required to show A1 English proficiency.

Why it matters: This marks a significant shift, as previously only the main applicant was required to meet an English language requirement—dependants were exempt. Introducing a mandatory test for dependants affects family unity and visa eligibility. As passing the English language test is a mandatory requirement, those unprepared for testing could face delays or outright refusal, potentially disrupting family plans.

6. Tougher University Compliance Rules

• Proposed changes to make it harder for institutions with weak compliance records to sponsor student visas.

Why it matters: Students must carefully research sponsor reliability, as losing sponsorship could result in visa curtailment.

7. Settlement Delay

• Proposal to increase the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain to 10 years.

Why it matters: This extends the timeline and cost for long-term migrants seeking permanent residence and citizenship.

Who Should Be Paying Close Attention – and Why

Understanding the real-world impact of these proposed immigration reforms is significant for anyone intending to work, study, or settle in the UK. This requires going beyond surface-level analysis. Below is a breakdown of who is most affected, what they need to keep in mind, and the common pitfalls and risks they should be aware of.

Prospective Skilled Workers and Employers:

This is especially relevant for those in non-graduate-level occupations (below RQF Level 6) or for workers with dependants. It’s important to note that jobs currently eligible for the Skilled Worker visa may soon become ineligible unless they are reclassified or specifically exempted. This is crucial for employers looking to recruit overseas workers to come to the UK, as well as for prospective Skilled Workers with dependants. Moreover, Certain occupations may be permitted without the right to bring dependants, limiting suitability for families.

Common pitfalls:

• Submitting an application after the changes take effect without verifying updated skill level requirements.
• Assuming a valid job offer alone ensures visa eligibility—updated skill level, salary threshold, and English language requirements must all be met.

Professional tip: Consider fast-tracking sponsorship while existing criteria still apply and monitor your role’s classification closely.

International Students & Graduates

Keep in mind:

The Graduate Route is proposed to be shortened to 18 months, giving graduates less time to secure a sponsored job. A new levy on tuition fees could increase costs, especially for self-funded students. Universities that don’t meet stricter compliance standards may lose their ability to sponsor student visas, which could affect the validity of student visas.

Common Pitfalls:

• Choosing a sponsor institution that is vulnerable to compliance failure, leading to visa curtailment.
• Underestimating the impact of reduced graduate visa time, especially with rising salary thresholds for Skilled Worker sponsorship.

Professional tip: Select highly compliant universities and begin job-seeking and visa planning well before graduation.

Dependants (Spouses and Family Members)

Keep in mind:

English language testing (A1 level) will be required for all adult dependants, aligning with the spousal/partner route and failure to meet this new requirement could result in refusal or delay of the dependant visa, impacting family unity.

Common Pitfalls:

• Assuming previous exemptions for dependants still apply under new rules.
• Not allowing sufficient time for English test preparation and certification, particularly in high-demand or low-resource countries.

Professional tip: Begin English preparation well in advance of your application and confirm which test providers are Home Office approved.

UK Employers (Especially in Care, Hospitality, and Entry-Level Sectors)

Keep in mind:

Many roles, especially below RQF Level 6, are likely to become ineligible unless reclassified through a government assessment process. Furthermore, employers may need to evidence domestic recruitment strategies before accessing international talent for lower-skilled roles.

Common Pitfalls:

• Continuing recruitment efforts based on obsolete eligibility criteria can result in visa refusals. As a result, the worker may suffer, and the employer may lose the assigned CoS and the associated assigning fee.
• Failing to adjust internal processes in time for enhanced compliance checks and sector-specific reviews.

Professional tip: Conduct an internal audit of all sponsored roles and ensure the Cos is assigned on the basis of updated Occupation codes and salary is updated accordingly.

Settled-Status Seekers

Keep in mind:

The proposed extension of the qualifying period for settlement to 10 years will significantly affect long-term planning for both individuals. This longer wait to apply for permanent residency could disrupt career and personal plans. Additionally, the need for more frequent visa renewals, rising costs, and increased paperwork will become the norm, creating ongoing financial and administrative burdens. Employers may also have to manage extended compliance requirements, adding administrative tasks for maintaining sponsorships and ensuring checks on their workers confirming their compliance with immigration regulations.

Common Pitfalls:

• Not realising that certain routes may no longer offer settlement at 5 years, affecting financial and personal plans.
• Assuming retrospective application of the new rule won’t affect current timelines—policy implementation details remain uncertain.

Professional tip: Review whether accelerated routes such as Long Residence, Global Talent, or family-based pathways offer more certainty and cost-effectiveness in your case based on your eligibility.

What Can You Do Now?

Stay Informed: Keep track of these proposed changes by subscribing to updates from trusted immigration sources (or follow us for the latest insights).

Apply Promptly: If you qualify under current regulations, submit your applications before the new rules take effect.

Prepare for English Tests: Both main applicants and dependants should begin preparing for English language tests now to avoid last-minute rushes.

Plan for Long-Term Settlement: Consider how the potential 10-year wait for settlement could impact your plans and factor this into your visa choices.

Seek Expert Advice: With immigration rules evolving rapidly, consulting with an expert can save you time, money, and stress in navigating these changes.

How We Can Help You at Star Jet Immigration Law Firm

At Star Jet Immigration Law Firm, we are committed to staying ahead of the curve. Our team of experienced immigration caseworkers continuously monitors any proposed changes in immigration policy, ensuring we can provide you with the most up-to-date advice. Whether you are concerned about the potential impact of these reforms or need assistance with your visa application, we offer tailored solutions to meet your specific needs.

Should you face any risk of ineligibility, we also provide strategic fall-back options to ensure your plans stay on track. With our expertise and commitment to your success, you can trust us to navigate the complexities of immigration law with confidence.

Book a consultation today and let us help you navigate the proposed changes with confidence.