The UK government is launching significant immigration reforms that aim to cut net migration and enforce stricter entry visa rules.
Immigration Reforms Announced
Earlier in 2022, net migration to the UK hit 745,000, sparking public concern and political pressure. By 2023, this number rose to 906,000.
Consequently, the government has acted to overhaul the system. These changes are part of the “Restoring Order” plan that the Labour Party promised in its 2024 manifesto.
Tougher UK Visa Measures
In particular, the new immigration reforms target the Skilled Worker, Care, Student, and Family visa categories. Effective July 22, 2025, they will significantly raise entry barriers.
Skilled Worker Route: The government has raised the minimum salary threshold. Now, only jobs at RQF (Regulated Qualifications Framework) level 6 or above are eligible. In addition, over 100 lower-skilled occupations were removed from the list.
Care Worker Visas: From July, international care workers can no longer bring dependants. Moreover, immigration authorities will halt overseas recruitment for entry-level roles. Instead, they will introduce a limited, tightly controlled Shortage Occupation List.
Student Visas: International graduates will now have just 18 months to stay post-study, reduced from the previous two years. Additionally, the UK has increased English-language requirements.
Family and Citizenship Rules: The UK will double the citizenship qualification period from five to ten years. A new family migration framework is also under development. Importantly, the Home Office has now expanded its powers to revoke visas for non-compliance.
Immigration Reforms: Full Reset
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated, We are delivering a complete reset of our immigration system to restore proper control and order, after the previous government allowed net migration to quadruple in four years.”
She also emphasized the need for a fair, firm system that prioritizes high-skilled migrants and domestic training. Moreover, these changes aim to reduce long-term dependency on overseas labor.
“These new rules mean stronger controls to bring migration down, to restore order to the immigration system and to ensure we focus on investing in skills and training here in the UK,” she added.
Impact on Sectors and Families
Many sectors are bracing for disruption. For instance, the care industry, which heavily relies on migrant labor, has raised alarms. Consequently, universities warn that stricter student rules may reduce global enrolments.
On the other hand, Labour says the immigration reforms will push employers to invest more in local talent. As a result, families may also face tighter restrictions and longer reunification timelines. However, current visa holders in the care sector can expect transitional arrangements.
Public and Political Reaction
Voter frustration over high migration has been rising. Meanwhile, populist groups like Reform UK are demanding even stricter measures. Their “market-based visa” idea includes attaching price tags to immigration routes.
Despite this, the Labour Party believes the current plan balances control with economic need. However, critics argue it may harm the UK’s global competitiveness and strain industries.
Border Security & Immigration Bill
Parliament will soon debate the broader Border Security and Immigration Bill. In addition, the Migration Advisory Committee will also review the reforms in early 2026. Until then, the government insists it is on track to “bring numbers down and restore order.”
Photo by Julia Taubitz on Unsplash
