British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a series of strict immigration reforms, aiming to reduce the UK’s net migration, which has seen an unprecedented rise following Brexit. The move comes as the country faces increasing challenges in maintaining social cohesion, with net migration reaching an “unusually high” level in the year ending June 2024.
Starmer’s plan promises to “significantly” lower migration levels over the next four years. While the exact target remains unspecified, the government’s policy document suggests that these changes could reduce annual arrivals by as much as 100,000. The policy overhaul includes a range of measures aimed at tightening rules for residency, citizenship, visas, and language requirements.
Key Reforms in the UK Immigration Policy:
1. Lengthened Residency Requirement for Citizenship
One of the most significant changes is the extension of the residency requirement for immigrants seeking to apply for citizenship or indefinite leave to remain. The current five-year waiting period will increase to 10 years for most migrants. However, individuals who can demonstrate significant contributions to the UK’s economy or society may still be able to apply sooner. The government will consult on when these changes will take effect and whether they will apply to current residents or only to new arrivals.
2. Increased Immigration Skills Charge for Employers
In a bid to encourage the recruitment of domestic workers, the government is proposing a 32% hike in the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC), which employers must pay when hiring foreign workers under skilled visa routes. This charge, which has remained unchanged since its introduction in 2017, will rise to better align with inflation. This increase aims to bolster the funding of domestic skill development initiatives.
3. Restrictions on Post-Graduation Work Opportunities
International students will continue to be allowed to work in the UK after completing their higher studies, but this period will be reduced from two years to just 18 months. Furthermore, the government plans to introduce a levy on tuition fees paid by international students, with funds potentially reinvested into the education and skills system. The proposal for a 6% levy could result in higher tuition costs for international students in the UK.
4. Stricter English Language Requirements
As part of the reforms, the government will introduce stricter English language requirements for both primary applicants and their dependents. Skilled workers will now need to meet a higher standard, moving from B1 to B2 (Independent User) levels. Additionally, adult dependents will have to meet a basic proficiency level of A1, with requirements for visa extensions and settlement tied to language progression.
5. End of the Adult Social Care Visa Route
The UK government has decided to close the Adult Social Care visa route due to concerns over worker exploitation. While there will be a transition period until 2028, during which existing visa holders can extend their stay or switch to other roles, no new applications for social care positions from abroad will be accepted. This decision aims to address ongoing issues of abuse and to reduce reliance on foreign workers in the care sector.
6. Stricter Asylum Rules
The UK government is set to tighten its asylum rules by introducing new legislation or amendments to make it easier to reject asylum claims from individuals who violate immigration laws. This includes limiting the use of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which protects the right to family life, to reduce the number of asylum seekers claiming “exceptional” cases.
7. Consultation and Further Reforms
The government will hold consultations before implementing the changes, and additional reforms to the asylum system are expected later this year. These measures are part of the broader effort to reduce the impact of high migration levels on the UK’s public services, infrastructure, and social cohesion.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Starmer’s newly proposed immigration policies represent a significant shift in the UK’s approach to managing migration. With the goal of reducing net migration, the government aims to balance its economic needs with concerns about social integration and national security. These measures, if passed, are expected to reshape the UK’s immigration landscape for years to come.
