The UK government has unveiled a significant new white paper detailing a series of sweeping reforms to the country’s immigration system. Titled Restoring Control over the Immigration System, the paper sets out the government’s plan to reduce net migration and refocus immigration policies around skills, economic contribution, and public confidence.
As a law firm with longstanding expertise in UK immigration law, Arlingsworth Solicitors is here to break down what these changes mean – and how they may affect individuals, employers, and institutions.
A Skills-Led Immigration System
At the heart of the white paper is a move towards prioritising those with higher skill levels. The current Skilled Worker route will be tightened, with the qualification threshold raised back to RQF Level 6 – essentially graduate-level roles and above. Salary thresholds are also set to increase, while the Immigration Salary List, which previously allowed lower thresholds in shortage occupations, will be scrapped entirely.
Access to the UK’s points-based system will now only be granted where there’s clear evidence of long-term shortages, supported by a sector-specific workforce strategy and a genuine commitment from employers to recruit domestically.
Ending Dependence on Overseas Recruitment
A key theme of the reforms is to reduce reliance on international recruitment, especially where it has replaced investment in domestic training. A new Labour Market Evidence Group will be established to guide policy based on data, rather than assumptions or short-term needs.
In adult social care – a sector with traditionally high numbers of overseas workers – the government will close the visa route to new applicants. Transitional arrangements will be in place until 2028 for those already in the UK on social care visas, allowing extensions and switching within the country.
Stricter Rules for International Students
Higher education providers will face tighter scrutiny under the new proposals. Institutions that fall short of sponsor duties may be placed on compliance action plans and face temporary limits on their ability to enrol new international students.
Additionally, the post-study work period for international graduates will be reduced to 18 months, down from the current two-year duration.
Reforming Family Visas and Article 8 Claims
The white paper also outlines a simplification of family and private life visa routes, reducing the reliance on “exceptional” cases. Legislation will be introduced to clarify that it is Parliament, not the courts, that ultimately determines the legal framework for who may remain in the UK.
This change is aimed at addressing concerns around the use of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights – particularly where it’s used to prevent the deportation of individuals whose removal is deemed to be in the public interest.
Attracting Top Global Talent
While tightening many routes, the government has signalled a strong commitment to attracting high-calibre individuals in science, research, and innovation. Plans include expanding the Global Talent Visa, improving access for top researchers and designers, and reviewing existing routes like the Innovator Founder visa and High Potential Individual route to maximise their benefit to the UK economy.
Tackling Abuse and Strengthening Compliance
A more robust approach will be taken towards abuse of the immigration and asylum systems. New controls will apply to individuals making asylum claims without a material change in their home country’s conditions. Visa sponsors will also face financial penalties or sanctions if they’re found to have facilitated abuse of the system.
Furthermore, the government aims to ensure better cooperation from foreign governments when it comes to returning their nationals.
Deportation Reforms and Criminality
A significant update to deportation policy is proposed, ensuring the Home Office is notified of all foreign nationals convicted of criminal offences – not just those who serve custodial sentences. Revisions to the current legal exceptions will aim to better reflect the severity of crimes, particularly those involving violence against women and girls.
English Language, Settlement and Citizenship
Stronger English language requirements will be introduced across a wider range of immigration categories – for both main applicants and their dependants.
The qualifying period for permanent settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) will double from five years to ten. Moreover, the government intends to integrate a points-based approach into both settlement and citizenship pathways, rewarding those who contribute meaningfully to UK society and the economy.
What Happens Next?
These measures are part of the government’s broader Plan for Change and will be implemented in phases throughout this Parliament. Further announcements, particularly around asylum and border security, are expected later this summer.
At Arlingsworth Solicitors, we understand that changes to immigration law can be complex and stressful. Whether you’re an individual navigating visa options, a business employing international staff, or an educational institution looking for compliance support, our team is here to help.
