ALMA

On May 12, 2025, the UK Government published a significant white paper titled "Restoring Control over the Immigration System," introducing substantial changes to the UK's immigration framework. As specialists in UK visa consultancy with a 100% success rate, ALMA Visa Consultants provides this comprehensive analysis of the key changes and their implications for visa applicants.

Overview of the White Paper

The white paper aims to "restore confidence in the immigration system" while ensuring migration is "properly controlled and managed." The UK Government seeks to address the significant increase in net migration, which rose from 224,000 in June 2019 to 906,000 in June 2024, with the goal of reducing these numbers to more sustainable levels.

Key Changes Affecting Visa Applicants

1. Extended Settlement Period for Points-Based System Migrants

Current Requirement: Points-Based System migrants (including Skilled Workers) and their dependants qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after a continuous period of five years in the UK.

New Proposal: The qualifying period for ILR will be extended to 10 years for Points-Based System migrants and their dependants.

Potential Exceptions: The government has indicated that individuals may reduce this qualifying period based on their contributions to the UK economy or society, though specific criteria have not yet been detailed.

Implementation Timeline: While no specific date has been announced, the government plans to consult on these changes and publish further details by the end of 2025, with implementation likely in 2026.

Important Note: These changes may affect those who already hold immigration status under a Points-Based System category. However, migrants under other routes (such as partners of British citizens or those with pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme) will continue to qualify for settlement after five years.

2. Higher Skills Threshold for Skilled Worker Visas

Current Requirement: Roles eligible for Skilled Worker visas must require skills at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) level 3 or above (equivalent to UK A-level qualifications).

New Proposal: The minimum skill level will be raised to RQF level 6, requiring at least a UK Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification.

Implications: This change will effectively return the Skilled Worker category to pre-Brexit requirements and will likely increase the minimum salary threshold, which is currently £38,700.

Who Is Protected: Existing Skilled Worker visa holders will be "grandfathered" and can renew their permission, change employment, and take supplementary employment based on the current RQF level 3 criteria.

Exceptions: A new "Temporary Shortage List" will be established for occupations below RQF level 6 that are deemed critical to the UK's industrial strategy or infrastructure delivery.

3. Additional Significant Changes

• Social Care Worker Route Closure: The category enabling employers to sponsor individuals for adult social care work will be closed due to concerns over worker exploitation.
• Immigration Skills Charge Increase: The charge will rise by 32% to account for inflation since 2017, reaching approximately £1,320 per year for large employers and £480 for small employers.
• Graduate Route Reduction: The period of immigration permission under the Graduate route will be reduced from two years to 18 months.
• High Potential Individual Route Expansion: The number of qualifying institutions will double, increasing opportunities for talented graduates from top global universities.
• Global Talent Route Streamlining: The application process will be simplified for top scientific and design talent.
• Enhanced English Language Requirements:
  • Skilled Workers and other work categories: Increased from B1 to B2 level
  • Adult dependants: New requirements starting at A1 level for initial applications, A2 for extensions, and B2 for settlement

Implications for Visa Applicants

These changes represent the most significant overhaul of the UK immigration system since the post-Brexit reforms. For individuals considering UK visa applications:

1. Plan for Longer Settlement Timelines: Those entering under Points-Based System routes should prepare for a potentially longer path to settlement.
2. Higher Qualification Requirements: Prospective Skilled Worker applicants should assess whether their roles meet the new RQF level 6 requirement.
3. Enhanced Language Preparation: Both primary applicants and dependants should prepare for stricter English language testing.
4. Increased Costs: Employers and sponsored workers should budget for higher Immigration Skills Charge costs.
5. Expedited Applications: Those eligible under current rules may wish to submit applications before these changes take effect.

How ALMA Visa Consultants Can Help

At ALMA Visa Consultants, our expertise ensures that your visa application process remains smooth despite these changing regulations:

• Strategic Planning: We provide personalized guidance on timing your application to maximize success under current or new rules.
• Documentation Expertise: Our consultants ensure your application meets all new requirements, particularly regarding qualification evidence and English language proficiency.
• Alternative Pathway Identification: If the Skilled Worker route becomes unavailable due to the higher skills threshold, we can identify alternative visa categories that might be suitable.
• Settlement Planning: We offer long-term immigration planning to navigate the extended settlement period and identify potential ways to reduce the qualifying period.

Stay Informed

The white paper represents proposed changes, many of which will be subject to further consultation. ALMA Visa Consultants will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as implementation details are confirmed.