In an attempt to curb net migration, the UK government issued a policy paper, “Restoring Control Over the Immigration System,” on May 12, 2025, outlining a clear agenda to propose eight major immigration reforms. It will establish new norms for how foreign nationals interact while studying, working, and settling in the UK.
The proposal also comes against the backdrop of net migration rising to its highest level ever: +728,000 in the year ending June 2024—a slight drop from +906,000 as of June 2023, which is still more than three times the 224,000 recorded in 2019.
Let’s break down eight key proposals aimed at reducing migration numbers and what they imply for prospective immigrants in 2025 and beyond.
1️⃣ Skilled Worker Visa: Smaller Job List
The UK plans to reduce the list of eligible jobs for Skilled Worker visas. Jobs that are classed as medium-skilled (RQF Level 3) will no longer be eligible unless they have a special exemption. Sectors should prove that they have made considerable efforts to recruit domestically before venturing abroad.
2️⃣ Care Workers Recruitment Ban
Major proposed disruptive reinforcements include ending international recruitment of care workers, which would involve removing the present exception that allows them to be sponsored by UK employers. It would starkly impact healthcare staffing pipelines.
3️⃣ University Levy Makes Studying Costlier
International students could face higher tuition fees with the proposed levy on university income earned from them. The levy aims to fund domestic education and training, but the financial burden is likely to be passed on to students.
Additionally, tuition fees have been increased by 3.1% for the academic year 2025/26, with full-time standard undergraduate courses now costing £9,535.
4️⃣ Student Visas: Harder for Universities to Comply
The government plans to strengthen conditions for universities that sponsor student visas, limiting their ability to retain sponsorship licenses. That could impact the number of institutions certified to accept international students.
5️⃣ Graduate Visa: Shorter Stay After Studies
The Graduate Visa, which allows students to stay in the UK for 2 years after graduation, is now being considered for a possible reduction to 18 months. Lesser time to find employment or apply for another visa, especially for Skilled Workers.
6️⃣ English Language Requirements: Bar Raised
Both English language requirements are being strengthened:
- Skilled Worker: English level raised from B1 to B2
- Adult Dependants: New entry-level requirement of A1, becoming aligned with spouse visa requirements
It is all to ensure better integration and communication from the very beginning.
7️⃣ Permanent Residence: Waiting Time Doubled
Inevitably, it will take longer to get Indefinite Leave to Remain. That limit could be extended from 5 to 10 years, although a short list of exceptions will also be considered.
8️⃣ Talent Routes: One Bright Spot
With controls tightening, one door is being nudged wider to allow easier access via Global Talent and High Potential visa routes to high-skilled professionals in priority fields.
