Keir Starmer announces new UK immigration rules

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has committed to reforming what he describes as the UK's "broken" immigration system, with a series of stricter measures set to be introduced on Monday. Starmer plans to implement reforms that will tighten immigration controls across work, family, and study routes, aiming to reduce net migration, which reached 728,000 last year.

The proposed changes include requiring migrants to live in the UK for ten years before applying for citizenship, raising the English language requirement for all visa routes, and closing the care worker visa to overseas recruitment. Skilled worker visas will now demand a university degree, and stricter limits will apply to occupations facing labor shortages.

Starmer emphasized that enforcement will be "tougher than ever," stating that settlement in the UK will be treated as a privilege rather than a right, and newcomers must commit to learning English and integrating into British society.

However, the Conservative opposition has criticized the plans, accusing the government of taking credit for visa reductions achieved through earlier Conservative reforms. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp questioned Starmer’s credibility, referencing his past opposition to deporting foreign criminals and recent record on illegal immigration.

Key measures include:

1. End to Overseas Care Worker Recruitment: The care worker visa will be discontinued, though employers can still recruit from the existing pool of visa holders. Care England has criticized the decision, calling it a severe blow to the struggling sector.

2. Higher English Language Standards: Applicants, including adult dependants, will be required to demonstrate a higher level of English proficiency, equivalent to a foreign language A-level.

3. Visa Overstay Clampdown: The government will target countries with high visa overstay rates, such as Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka, tightening restrictions for work and study visas.

4. Extended Wait for Permanent Residency: The path to indefinite leave to remain will be extended from five to ten years for most migrants, particularly those who spend significant time outside the UK or have financial stability concerns.

5. International Student Reforms: Compliance standards for universities recruiting international students will be tightened to prevent misuse of study visas.

Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, also announced that the government will work with the National Crime Agency to identify and deter potential visa overstayers and establish a new evidence group to assess which sectors are overly dependent on foreign workers.