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UK May 2025 New Rule

UK Immigration Changes 2025: What Students, Workers, and Migrants Must Know

The UK government has introduced a series of major changes to its immigration and visa policies. These updates are part of a broader strategy to reduce overall migration, strengthen visa compliance, and prioritise high-skilled applicants. The impact of these changes is far-reaching, especially for international students, skilled workers, and migrants already in the UK who are working toward settlement or citizenship.

This guide explains each change in simple terms and how it affects different groups of people. We’ve used information from official UK government sources and reputable immigration advisors.

Summary of Key Changes (May 2025)

  1. Graduate visa duration reduced from 2 years to 18 months.

  2. Financial requirements for student visas increased.

  3. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) increased to £776 per year.

  4. Restrictions on student dependents continue.

  5. Skilled worker salary threshold increased to £38,700.

  6. ILR (permanent residency) eligibility extended to 10 years for most routes.

  7. Stricter enforcement and compliance checks on universities and visa applicants.

  8. Reduced opportunities in care worker sponsorship and lower-skilled roles.

  9. Additional guardianship requirements for child students.

Changes to Student Visas and Graduate Route

Graduate Route Reduced

As of May 2025, international students graduating with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the UK will only be eligible to stay for 18 months under the Graduate visa route. This is a reduction from the previous two-year duration. PhD graduates can still stay for up to 3 years. To qualify, the job secured must meet a minimum skill level and align with the UK’s Standard Occupational Classification list.

(Source: Economic Times, May 2025)

Higher Financial Proof Required

From January 2025, student visa applicants must show increased living expenses in their bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying:

  • Students in London: £1,483 per month (previously £1,334)

  • Students outside London: £1,136 per month (previously £1,023)

This means a student enrolling in a 9-month course in London would need to show £13,347 in available funds.

(Source: GOV.UK, Financial Requirements Update)

Dependents Policy Remains Tight

The UK government continues to restrict dependents from accompanying student visa holders unless the main applicant is:

  • Enrolled in a PhD or research-based postgraduate course, or

  • Sponsored by a UK government-funded scholarship.

Dependents include spouses or children under 18. This policy was introduced in January 2024 and has not been reversed.

(Source: GOV.UK)

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Increased

The Immigration Health Surcharge for international students and visa holders has increased to £776 per year, up from £470. For a two-year master’s program, this means a student must now pay £1,552 to access the NHS.

(Source: Home Office Fees 2025)

Impact on International Students

The UK remains a leading global destination for higher education, but these recent changes make studying in the UK significantly more expensive and challenging:

  • Higher upfront costs make the visa process harder for students from developing countries.

  • The shorter post-study work period means students have less time to find employment.

  • Dependents restrictions impact family decisions for married or parenting students.

  • Job opportunities post-study may not meet the Skilled Worker visa requirements.

According to Research, there has been a 32.55% drop in Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) issued to Indian students in early 2025, showing clear signs of reduced interest due to policy tightening.

Changes for Skilled Worker Applicants

Higher Salary Threshold

As of April 2025, the minimum salary required to qualify for a Skilled Worker visa is £38,700 per year. For new graduates and PhD holders, a reduced threshold of £30,960 applies, but only if the job falls under an eligible “new entrant” route.

This change affects employers and workers, especially in sectors like hospitality, education, and care services, where salaries often fall below these levels.

(Source: GOV.UK Skilled Worker Rules)

Care Worker Route Phasing Out

The care worker visa route, previously a major source of overseas recruitment, is being scaled down. The Home Office confirmed that overseas hiring for low-wage care jobs will be phased out by 2028. Employers in the care sector are now encouraged to invest in domestic training.

(Source: The Guardian, May 2025)

How the New Rules Affect Migrants Already in the UK

Many migrants currently residing in the UK on student or skilled worker visas are impacted in several ways:

  • It is now harder to switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa unless the job meets the new salary threshold.

  • Time spent on certain temporary visas may no longer count towards settlement (ILR) unless the visa leads to a permanent route.

  • Universities are under increased scrutiny, and visa compliance violations could lead to visa curtailment or refusal.

Institutions that fail to meet the government’s compliance criteria may lose their license to sponsor international students, affecting those currently enrolled.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and Citizenship

ILR Waiting Period Extended

One of the most impactful changes is the extension of the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from 5 years to 10 years for most applicants. This applies to skilled workers, students, and even some family routes. The government justifies this as a way to ensure only long-term, contributing migrants gain permanent residency.

(Source: The Times, May 2025)

Citizenship Applications

Those applying for UK citizenship now face tighter criteria:

  • Proof of English language proficiency has been strengthened.

  • Criminal record checks are more thorough, and even minor convictions may lead to rejection.

  • Applicants must now demonstrate long-term contributions to the UK economy or society.

Naturalisation still requires at least one year of ILR before applying.

What Should Stakeholders Do?

Whether you’re a student, a skilled worker, or planning to apply for settlement or citizenship, here’s what you can do:

  • Plan early: Review all visa requirements at least 6 months before applying.

  • Speak to a licensed immigration advisor: Each case is unique, and rules can change rapidly.

  • Stay informed: Check the official UK government website regularly for updated information.

  • Secure employment early: Especially if you’re on a Student or Graduate visa and aiming to switch to a Skilled Worker visa.

  • Maintain compliance: Ensure your sponsor (university or employer) meets their responsibilities, and always keep your immigration record clean.

Final Thoughts

The UK government’s new immigration framework clearly signals a shift toward stricter controls and a more selective migration model. While high-skilled professionals and researchers are still welcome, the path for students, low-wage workers, and short-term migrants is more restricted than ever before.

For many, the UK remains an attractive destination—but now, with higher costs, more conditions, and longer timelines to secure permanent status or citizenship. Whether you are applying from abroad or already living in the UK, understanding these changes is essential to make informed decisions for your future.

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