The United Kingdom (UK) Government has unveiled new Immigration White Paper.
Released on Monday, May 12, 2025, the Whitepaper outlined changes across work visas, international study, asylum policy, enforcement, and long-term settlement.
One of the most significant changes is that “Legislation will be brought in to make clear that the Government and Parliament – not courts – determine who should stay, tackling misuse of Article 8 (right to family life) to block deportations.”
Here are 12 things you should know concerning the proposed changes to UK immigration rules:
1. 10-Year Residency for Settlement
Migrants must now live in the UK for 10 years before qualifying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), up from 5 years.
2. Ban on Overseas Care Recruitment
Care homes can no longer hire staff from abroad. Estimated to reduce migration by 100,000 annually.
3. Stricter English Language Rules
All adult dependents must now meet higher English standards. No more silent partners.
4. Digital ID & E-Visas
Digital systems are replacing physical permits — for better monitoring and compliance.
5. Skilled Worker Visa Limitations
Only graduate-level occupations now qualify. Employers must focus on local talent.
6. Increased Visa & NHS Fees
Visa fees up by 5–10% and NHS surcharges have risen. Better check your budget.
7. Tougher Family Visa Conditions
Stricter requirements for spouses and dependents — including tougher language and integration checks.
8. Tighter Deportation Rules
Courts can no longer easily overturn deportation orders using human rights claims
9. Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
If you’re visiting from a non-visa country, you’ll now need an ETA – like the US ESTA system.
10. No Migration Cap, Just Action
No fixed number, but these policies aim to sharply cut down net migration.
11. Salary Thresholds Going Up
The Immigration Salary List, which previously allowed reduced salary requirements for certain jobs, is being abolished. Migrants will now have to meet higher salary thresholds with no discounts.
12. Graduate Stay Period Reduced
The UK will reduce the time international graduates can stay after their studies to 18 months, limiting post-study opportunities.
Also, important notes to take before the new UK Immigration rules come to effect, are;
1. These reforms are still part of an immigration Whitepaper aimed at reducing migration and strengthening borders.
The focus is to reshape the system toward those who contribute most to economic growth, prioritizing higher skill standards.
2. These policies form part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change, to be delivered over the course of this Parliament. Some of the first changes will be introduced in the coming weeks.
3. What I’ve outlined here is my own understanding and interpretation of the policies. Techeconomy encourage our readers to read the official documents on the UK government website for the most accurate and updated information.
Commenting, a British High Commission spokesperson in Nigeria said:
“The UK enjoys strong, long-standing people to people links with Nigeria. We are proud that the UK is still considered a top destination for Nigerians to work, study, visit and settle – and value the contribution this brings to the UK.”
“The UK White Paper sets out reforms to legal migration, including restoring order, control and fairness to the system, bringing down net migration and promoting economic growth. Changes to the system will happen over a period of time and we will engage with relevant partners in the Federal Government of Nigeria once more information about implementation details are available.”
“We have a proud tradition as an outward-looking nation, investing and trading abroad, and welcoming the creativity, ideas and diversity of those who come to contribute here.”
