The UK is on the brink of a major overhaul of its immigration system, with sweeping changes set to begin on July 15, 2025. These reforms are part of the government’s May 2025 white paper titled Restoring Control Over the Immigration System and aim to tighten migration rules, promote domestic hiring, and shift toward a more digital, streamlined process.
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of eVisas, which will replace physical visa stickers. From July 15, 2025, all UK visas will be issued as secure digital records linked to the passport numbers of travelers. This transition is expected to simplify border procedures and reduce paperwork for both migrants and officials.
Meanwhile, the Skilled Worker visa route is undergoing major reforms. The UK government has raised the skill threshold, removing 111 occupations from the eligibility list. Additionally, a higher salary requirement of £41,700 now applies to new Skilled Worker visa applications. Employers will also need to present a workforce strategy justifying the need to recruit from overseas, especially for medium-skilled roles (RQF levels 3–5). Only under specific exemptions recommended by the Migration Advisory Committee will such roles be considered for sponsorship.
A particularly impactful measure involves the closure of the social care worker visa route, effective from July 22, 2025. After this date, employers will no longer be permitted to sponsor overseas care workers. However, individuals already sponsored in this sector before the cutoff will not be affected.
Further, the path to permanent residency is also set to become more stringent. The standard settlement period is expected to increase from five to ten years, with an “earned settlement” system in development. This new model will recognize migrants who contribute positively to the UK’s economy and society, although specific criteria are still pending. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that more details will be released later in the year following public consultation.
The white paper also hints at other upcoming reforms. These include a proposed levy on universities for income generated from international students, stricter compliance requirements for educational institutions sponsoring student visas, and a reduction in the Graduate visa duration from two years to 18 months. Additionally, English language requirements may be tightened further, even for dependents of primary visa holders. A new Labour Market Evidence Group will be established to guide future visa policy and eligibility.
While not all proposals have specific implementation dates, several core changes—such as the eVisa rollout, Skilled Worker visa restrictions, and the closure of the social care visa route—are already scheduled for summer 2025, signaling a dramatic shift in the UK’s immigration landscape.
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