The UK government is set to introduce new measures to tighten immigration rules, requiring employers to pay higher fees for hiring skilled migrant workers. The initiative, led by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, aims to strengthen immigration regulations and improve integration.
Under the proposed rules, which are expected to be presented in Parliament on Tuesday, migrant workers will need to pass English language tests at an A-level standard to qualify for residency in the UK. Employers will face more stringent hiring requirements for foreign workers. The Home Office will oversee these language assessments as part of the visa application process, with the new rules scheduled to take effect from January.
The immigration skills charge, a fee paid by employers sponsoring foreign workers to fund training for UK residents, will see a 32% increase. This marks the first adjustment to the charge since 2017.
Tougher regulations will also apply to foreign graduates, reducing their post-study residency period from two years to 18 months. This move is intended to address the issue of graduates failing to secure employment after completing their degrees. Additionally, foreign students will be required to demonstrate sufficient funds for self-support, as confirmed by the Home Office.
These plans were outlined in the government’s immigration white paper earlier this year, raising entry standards for students and workers. The stricter criteria aim to enhance migrant integration and address the high net migration figures, which have significantly contributed to the UK’s population growth.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated, “This country has always welcomed those who come here and contribute. However, it is unacceptable for migrants to arrive without learning our language or contributing to our national life. If you come to this country, you must learn our language and play your part.”
In addition to these measures, the government plans to attract top talent to the UK. The high potential individual visa route will be expanded to include graduates from the top 100 international universities, with an annual cap of 8,000 applicants. The Home Office also announced enhancements to the Global Talent route, including an extended list of eligible prizes. Further changes to this route are anticipated next year, with the possibility of transitioning to an invitation-based system.
The impact of these changes on economic growth may be assessed by the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) as they are introduced in Parliament. Think tanks and private sector leaders have urged the government to expedite efforts to attract high-talent individuals, especially following the US’s introduction of a $100,000 fee for a key visa route for highly skilled individuals.
