United Kingdom Tightens Immigration Rules to Boost Local Workforce
White paper outlines visa reforms, stricter student controls, and a shift away from foreign labor reliance.
UK-based growth manager Toyibb Adewale Adeyodun has called on the public to thoroughly review the newly released immigration white paper from the UK Home Office. Sharing his thoughts via his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Adeyodun recommended a six-step approach that includes downloading the document, using AI tools like ChatGPT for deeper understanding, and cross-referencing key sections to ensure accurate interpretation.
The UK government’s white paper outlines sweeping immigration reforms aimed at reducing reliance on international labor and prioritizing domestic workforce development. Central to this strategy is the creation of the Labour Market Evidence Group, which will analyze national labor market trends to shape future policies and support the growth of local talent.
Among the key changes is an increase in the skilled worker visa threshold to RQF Level 6, bringing it in line with graduate-level qualifications. Additionally, the points-based system will now focus solely on occupations identified as experiencing long-term shortages, based on recommendations from the Migration Advisory Committee.
The social care sector will also see a major shift. Overseas recruitment through social care visas will be phased out by 2028, though visa extensions and in-country switching will be allowed during the transition period to minimize disruption.
International students will face stricter entry and post-study work conditions. The duration of post-study work visas will be reduced from two years to 18 months, and sponsoring institutions will be held to higher compliance standards to maintain their eligibility.
The white paper also proposes updates to family immigration rules, simplifying the process, and revises deportation criteria—particularly in cases involving violence against women and girls.
As the UK moves forward with these proposed reforms, stakeholders across education, healthcare, and labor sectors are encouraged to review the document and participate in ongoing consultations.