As part of its continued effort to reduce net migration and restore public confidence in the immigration system, the UK Government released a White Paper in May 2025 titled “Restoring Control over the Immigration System.” While these reforms are not yet law, they represent some of the most sweeping immigration changes in recent years. At Farani Taylor Solicitors, we’ve reviewed the proposals in detail to help you understand what’s changing, what it means for you, and why acting early could save you time, stress, and money.
Below, we break down the positive and negative changes and offer expert insight on how you can prepare.
The Positive Changes
✅ Boost for High-Skilled Talent
The UK is keen to attract top global talent. The Global Talent, High Potential Individual (HPI), and Innovator Founder routes are being expanded and streamlined to make it easier for exceptional professionals and graduates to come to the UK without sponsorship. If you’re highly educated, innovative, or accomplished in your field, this is good news.
✅ Introduction of “Earned Settlement”
A new points-based settlement system will allow migrants who make significant economic or social contributions to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) earlier than the standard route. This rewards hard-working individuals who actively contribute to British society.
✅ More Oversight and Worker Protections
The creation of a Fair Work Enforcement Agency and emphasis on employer accountability are designed to crack down on worker exploitation. Migrant workers may benefit from better protections and faster routes to change jobs if they’re being treated unfairly.
✅ Fee Reductions for Long-Resident Children
The Government proposes to lower the cost of citizenship for children and young adults who have grown up in the UK but were not born British. This could be life-changing for many families.
✅ Stronger Pathways for Refugees
For the first time, recognised refugees may be allowed to apply for UK work visas if they possess in-demand skills. This is a compassionate and pragmatic route for displaced professionals.
The Negative Changes
❌ Skilled Worker Route Gets Tougher
This is a major shift. The skill level for job roles will be raised from RQF Level 3 (A-level) to RQF Level 6 (graduate level). That means hundreds of currently eligible jobs—especially in care, hospitality, and retail—will no longer qualify for work visas. If you are a sponsor or applicant in one of these roles, the clock is ticking.
❌ Social Care Route is Closing
The adult social care visa will no longer accept new overseas applications. While those already in the UK can renew or switch, the door is closing for new care workers abroad—a serious blow to care providers already facing shortages.
❌ Higher English Language Requirements
Applicants for work, settlement, and citizenship will need to meet tougher English language standards—in some cases increasing from B1 to B2 (upper-intermediate). Even dependants of workers and students will now need to prove English ability, which was not previously required.
❌ Settlement Period Doubled
In most cases, the qualifying period for ILR will increase from 5 to 10 years. This means longer waiting times, more visa extensions, and higher costs for families and workers hoping to make the UK their permanent home.
❌ Graduate Visa Shortened
The popular Graduate route, currently allowing 2 years of post-study work, will be cut to 18 months. This reduces the window for international graduates to find a sponsor and settle in the UK.
❌ Higher Costs for Sponsors and Migrants
From the Immigration Skills Charge (rising by 32%) to potential new levies on international students, costs are increasing across the board. The Immigration Health Surcharge and visa fees are also expected to go up.
❌ Article 8 Protections Under Review
The Government plans to introduce a stricter framework for human rights-based applications, particularly those relying on family or private life in the UK. This could reduce flexibility for families unable to meet the standard visa requirements.
What You Should Do Now
These changes are still at the proposal stage—but once implemented, they will reshape the immigration landscape significantly. That’s why taking action early can make a real difference. Here’s how:
- Apply under the current rules if you’re eligible. If your role is being downgraded or removed, you may not qualify later.
- Prepare for higher English language standards by taking approved language tests or starting a course now.
- Renew your visa early if your category is being phased out (e.g., Adult Social Care).
- Get legal advice before relying on Article 8 or discretionary applications, as these may soon be more restricted.
- Plan financially—visa fees, surcharges, and extensions will be more expensive under the proposed model.
- Employers should review sponsorship strategy to ensure compliance with the new skill thresholds, salary rules, and right-to-work obligations.
How Farani Taylor Solicitors Can Help
As one of the UK’s leading immigration law firms, Farani Taylor Solicitors is already advising clients on how best to prepare for these changes. Whether you’re a Skilled Worker, international student, sponsor licence holder, or family applicant, we provide tailored legal advice to help you protect your immigration future.
We offer:
- Comprehensive visa strategy consultations
- Sponsor licence compliance audits
- Appeals and human rights representations
- Citizenship and settlement application support
- Training on updated immigration rules for HR teams
Final Thoughts
The UK’s immigration system is evolving rapidly. While some reforms may offer new opportunities, others could limit the options available to individuals and employers alike. Understanding the balance of positives and negatives is key—and acting early is your best strategy.
📞 Need help navigating the upcoming changes?
Get in touch with Farani Taylor Solicitors today. Our experienced immigration team is ready to support you with clear advice, proactive planning, and successful applications—before the rules change.