Government proposes new changes with immigration white paper

After weeks of speculation, the Immigration White Paper was published on 12 May. With some time having passed since its publication and the initial reactions to the proposed measures, we are now in a position to assess our current standing and the implications moving forward. These proposed changes are not yet law and thus not yet enforceable.

The proposed immigration reforms in the UK White Paper aim to balance economic growth with stricter immigration controls. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Economic Impact: The increase in skill level requirements and salary thresholds could attract highly skilled workers, potentially boosting innovation and productivity. However, it might also create challenges for industries relying on lower-skilled labour. Summary of key proposals are as follows:

1. The Skilled Worker threshold will return to RQF Level 6 (Graduate level) and above
2. Overseas recruitment for social care visas will end – there will be a transition period until 2028 to permit visa extensions and in-country switching
3. A new Temporary Shortage List will be introduced for the work route;
4. The Global Talent route to be enhanced to enable the very highly skilled to have opportunities to come to the United Kingdom

2. Employer Responsibilities: The increased Immigration Skills Charge and sponsorship reforms will place more financial and administrative burdens on employers. This could lead to a more selective hiring process but might also deter smaller businesses from hiring internationally. Summary of key proposals are as follows:

1. The Immigration Skills Charge will see an increase of 32% in line with inflation
2. Closure of the care worker route to candidates from outside the UK

3. Digitisation and Efficiency: Streamlining visa processes and introducing digital systems could make the immigration process more efficient and user-friendly. This could benefit both applicants and the government by reducing bureaucracy and processing times.

1. Providing real-time digital access to give people more control over their documents and data, and in the future, eliminate the need for people to physically travel to a Visa Application Centre for a second time to collect their passport with a physical endorsement.

4. Social and Cultural Integration: Higher English language requirements and extended qualifying periods for settlement may promote better integration of immigrants into UK society. However, these measures could also be seen as barriers for some potential immigrants. Summary of key proposals are as follows:

1. The English-language requirement will be raised from B1 to B2 (A-level standard) for Skilled Worker visa applicants
2. A new language requirement will be introduced for adult dependants of workers and students at level A1 (aligning with the spousal and partner routes);
3. Standard residency requirements to qualify for ILR will increase from the current five years to ten years            
4. Expand the Points-Based System to both settlement and citizenship rules so they are based on contribution to the UK
5. Financial requirements for the family routes will be informed by the Migration Advisory Committee’s report on the Minimum Income Requirements expected to be published in June

5. Impact on Education: The reduction in the post-study work period and the introduction of a levy on higher education providers could affect the attractiveness of the UK as a destination for international students. This might impact the revenue of educational institutions and the diversity of the student population. Summary of key proposals are as follows:

1. The Graduate route will be reformed with the grant of leave to be reduced from 24 months to 18 months (excluding PhD students)
2. Compliance obligations will be enhanced with Basic Compliance Assessment metrics being raised by 5%
3. The government will explore introducing a levy on higher education provider income from international students to be reinvested into the higher education and skills system. Further details will be set out in the Autumn Budget.

Overall, the White Paper proposes significant changes that aim to create a more controlled and fair immigration system while supporting economic growth. The actual impact will depend on how these measures are implemented and received by various stakeholders.

A key consideration for employers is to review their budgets for their current sponsored workforce and ensure that they have robust HR systems in place to meet their sponsorship duties.

A key consideration for employees who are on their path to obtaining settlement is to continue to monitor these changes to ensure they meet the correct qualifying period and English language level when they submit their applications.