British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has introduced tough new immigration rules, calling an end to what he described as a “failed open borders policy.” He promised to “take back control” of the system with stricter rules that make it more difficult to get work, family, or student visas for the UK.
This major policy shift is likely to impact many Indians who aim to study or work in Britain. The key changes have been outlined in five important points.
UK Prime Minister Introduces Strict Immigration Rules
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has introduced tough new immigration rules aimed at ending what he described as a “failed open border policy.” He promised to “take back control” by tightening visa rules for work, study, and family purposes. This major policy shift will especially impact Indians who plan to study or work in the UK.
According to a report by NPR, Starmer stated in a policy document that the effects of unchecked immigration on the UK have been “incalculable.” He added that the new measures are necessary to prevent the country from becoming “an island of strangers.”
These new rules are crucial for Indian citizens, as they currently form the largest group of non-EU immigrants in the UK. By June 2024, over 116,000 work visas and nearly 127,000 student visas are expected to be issued to Indian nationals.
The changes come as the UK recorded a record-high net migration of 906,000 in the year ending June 2023, under the previous Conservative government. However, this number started to drop after former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak introduced stricter controls on family and dependent visas, as reported by the Financial Times.
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5 Key UK Immigration Rule Changes
As the UK tightens its immigration policy, Indian students and professionals aiming to move to Britain must prepare for major changes. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has rolled out stricter rules for work, study, and family visas. The following are the five important updates Indians should be aware of:
1. Stricter Rules for UK Work Visas
One of the biggest changes is the tougher eligibility for Skilled Worker visas. From now on, most foreign workers must hold degree-level qualifications to apply, this reverses the previous rule under Boris Johnson that allowed A-level (12th-grade equivalent) holders to qualify.
- The new requirement is RQF Level 6 (degree level), up from RQF Level 3 (A-level).
- A few sectors facing worker shortages may continue with reduced qualification demands, but only temporarily.
- The UK is also expanding its special visa route for graduates from top global universities.
2. Longer Wait for British Citizenship
Getting permanent residency, known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), will now take 10 years of living in the UK, instead of five.
- A new “earned settlement” system is coming soon. Immigrants can earn points through work and contributions to society to qualify sooner.
- Details about when this change starts or how the point system works will be shared later this year.
3. Shorter Post-Study Work Visa for Students
International students, including Indians, can now stay in the UK for only 18 months after finishing their studies. Previously, the post-study visa allowed 2 years of stay.
- The government is also considering a 6% tax on tuition fee income from overseas students.
- This could lead to higher tuition fees and fewer student applications in future.
4. Tougher English Language Requirements
The UK is raising the English proficiency levels required for work visa holders and their adult dependents.
- Spouses and partners applying for visas must prove they can speak basic English.
- Applicants extending their stay or applying for permanent residency will need to show stronger English skills.
5. Stricter Family Visa Rules
The government plans to revise how family rights under European human rights law are applied in immigration cases.
- A new law will be introduced to make it harder for individuals to delay deportation using family life claims.
- Parliament will have more authority to create a clear framework to limit misuse of family visa rules.
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FAQs
Q.1. What are the new UK work visa rules for Indians?
Ans. Indians applying for Skilled Worker visas must now hold a degree-level qualification (RQF Level 6), replacing the earlier A-level (RQF Level 3) requirement.
Q.2. How long must immigrants stay in the UK to get permanent residency now?
Ans. The new rules require immigrants to live in the UK for 10 years to be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), up from the previous 5-year requirement.
Q.3. What changes have been made to the post-study work visa for international students?
Ans. The post-study work visa has been reduced from 2 years to 18 months for international graduates, including Indian students.
Q.4. Will the English language requirement for UK visas change?
Ans. Yes, both primary applicants and adult dependents will face tougher English proficiency requirements, especially for settlement or family-related visas.
Q.5. How will the new family visa rules affect Indian immigrants?
Ans. The UK will limit the use of family life claims to delay deportation, making it harder to bring or retain family members without meeting stricter legal requirements.
