UK Immigration White Paper 2025: Key Reforms and Implications

In May 2025, the UK government released the "Restoring Control over the Immigration System" White Paper, presenting a series of proposed immigration reforms aimed at reducing net migration and placing greater emphasis on high-skilled labour. The changes span across work visas, settlement requirements, student policies, and more.

1. Extended Residency Requirement for Settlement

The qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is proposed to increase from 5 to 10 years for most categories of migrants. This reform is expected to impact a significant number of individuals already residing in the UK. Though early discussions suggested no retrospective application, current indications are that the new timeline may affect any applications filed after implementation.

Source – Financial Times

2. Reforms to Skilled Worker Visas

The paper proposes raising the minimum required skill level for sponsorship from RQF Level 3 to RQF Level 6, effectively requiring a university-level qualification. Additionally, the salary threshold is expected to rise to £38,700, which is designed to reduce low-skilled immigration and encourage higher-earning, high-contribution roles.

Source – Richmond Chambers Immigration Barristers

3. Changes to Student and Graduate Visas

The Graduate visa duration will be reduced from 2 years to 18 months, and universities may face a 6% levy on income from international students. This could impact the UK’s attractiveness as a study destination and place financial pressure on educational institutions.

Source – The Guardian

4. Higher English Language Requirements

Applicants under the Skilled Worker route would need to demonstrate B2-level English proficiency (up from B1), and dependants of students and workers will be required to meet at least A1-level English.

Source – Morgan Lewis

5. Phasing Out Overseas Social Care Recruitment

The White Paper outlines plans to end overseas recruitment for adult social care roles by 2028. A transition period is expected, during which the sector is encouraged to train and retain domestic workers to fill these essential positions.

Source – Financial Times

6. Points-Based Path to Settlement

The government proposes expanding the points-based system to include ILR and British citizenship applications. Points may be awarded for integration, continuous employment, public service, and law-abiding conduct, creating a performance-based route to settlement.

Source – Richmond Chambers Immigration Barristers

7. Implementation and Consultation Timeline

No confirmed implementation dates have been published. The Home Office has confirmed that public consultations and legislative processes will follow, and there may be mitigations or exemptions for certain groups depending on feedback.

Source – Financial Times

Conclusion

The 2025 UK Immigration White Paper outlines a stricter and more skills-oriented immigration system. While these proposals aim to reduce net migration and encourage domestic workforce participation, their real-world impact will depend on the results of ongoing consultations, legal frameworks, and the sectors they affect. Stakeholders should monitor developments closely.

For more information, or for immigration advice and eligibility consultations; contact Hextons Law UK.