The United Kingdom has unveiled an extensive immigration white paper detailing substantial changes across multiple sectors.
A white paper serves as an official government document presenting finalized policy proposals and can sometimes act as a precursor to future legislation.
Released on Monday by Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration, the 82-page document signifies a major policy overhaul focused on curbing immigration and redefining the UK’s border control strategy.
During a press briefing, Starmer stated that the initiative aims to “regain control of our borders,” attributing the rise in immigration levels to the policies of the previous Conservative government.
“This plan will reduce migration — that’s a promise,” he stated. “If additional action is needed to ease pressure on housing and public services, we’ll take it. But this isn’t just about numbers.”
Key Points on the UK’s Ban on Overseas Social Care Recruitment
1. Immediate Ban on International Social Care Recruitment
- The UK has ceased accepting new applications for overseas social care roles.
- Existing care workers in the UK can extend or switch visas only until 2028.
- The policy aims to address exploitation and rebuild public confidence.
2. Reducing Reliance on Low-Wage Migrant Labor
- Employers are required to invest in long-term workforce development domestically.
- Social care providers must transition from overseas hiring to training UK-based staff.
3. Release of a Comprehensive Immigration White Paper
- The document, titled “Restoring Control Over the Immigration System”, outlines sweeping changes to migration policies.
- It reflects the government’s final policy vision under Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
4. Post-Study Stay for Graduates Reduced
- International graduates can now remain in the UK for only 18 months after completing their studies, down from five years.
5. Stricter Requirements for Student Visas and Sponsors
- Educational institutions face stricter rules for recruiting international students.
- Measures are designed to ensure genuine study purposes and curb abuse.
6. English Language Tests for Dependants
- Dependants of visa applicants must now pass English proficiency tests.
- This applies to more immigration routes to encourage integration.
7. Extended Settlement Period for Migrants
- The eligibility period for indefinite leave to remain has increased from 5 to 10 years.
- Early qualification applies only to “high-value” contributors in sectors like health and tech.
8. Tougher Deportation Rules for Foreign Offenders
- The Home Office must be informed of all foreign nationals convicted of crimes, regardless of prison time.
- Deportation thresholds will now account for broader factors, including violence against women.
9. Accelerated Deportation Plans
- Efforts to fast-track deportation processes are underway, though specifics are yet to be outlined.
- Effective implementation will require international cooperation.
10. Formation of a Labour Market Evidence Group
- This group will assess genuine labor shortages to guide international recruitment policies.
- Only sectors with proven long-term shortages and workforce strategies can recruit abroad.
11. Increased Salary Thresholds for Skilled Workers
- The minimum salary requirement for skilled visas will rise.
- Discounts for shortage roles are being abolished to prevent wage suppression.
12. Redefining Skilled Work
- The points-based immigration system will have stricter definitions of “skilled work.”
- Jobs not meeting the new criteria will no longer qualify for visas.
13. Prioritizing Domestic Hiring
- Employers must demonstrate efforts to recruit locally before hiring internationally.
- The government emphasizes building a skilled domestic workforce over relying on migration.