Britain’s new immigration measures: Restrictive policies mask deeper political motives

The UK government has released its long-awaited immigration policy white paper, outlining a suite of restrictive measures that signal a hard turn inward. The Labour-led administration, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, claims these changes will result in a substantial decrease in the number of people entering the country before the end of the current parliamentary term. However, beneath the surface lies a politicised narrative, which prioritises domestic posturing over fair and balanced immigration reform.

1-Migration Reduction Without Clear Metrics

Despite the technical nature of such policy documents, the white paper includes heavily political language, notably in the forewords by Starmer and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper. Both stress the need to lower migration figures, which reached a peak of over 900,000 in 2023. The duo blamed previous Conservative governments for what they described as “an open-border experiment,” suggesting that high migration has overburdened public services while contributing little to the UK economy, a claim many experts dispute.

One of the central reforms is a dramatic shift in the criteria for skilled worker visas. Previously, individuals qualified if they held credentials equivalent to UK A-levels (RQF Level 3). Now, the bar is being raised to RQF Level 6, which is equivalent to a university degree. While some roles that fall under lower skill levels (RQF 3-5) will still be permitted on a temporary basis, this will only occur if the Migration Advisory Committee declares a shortage in the domestic labour market. This disproportionately impacts skilled but non-degreed workers from nations like China, Russia, and Pakistan, countries that have long contributed to vital sectors in the UK.

2-Social Care Sector Targeted

The social care sector, which relies heavily on dedicated professionals from overseas, especially from Asia and Eastern Europe, will be severely affected. The UK government plans to completely halt overseas recruitment for this sector by 2028, despite acknowledging ongoing shortages. Although current foreign workers can extend their visas or transition into care roles during a so-called “transition period,” this move threatens to destabilise an already fragile system. It sends a message that the contributions of non-Western workers are undervalued.

3-Changes to Student Visa Framework

International students, who have historically made significant academic and economic contributions, are also in the government’s crosshairs. The paper raises concerns about students enrolling in what it calls “low-tier” institutions and overstaying their visas. In response, the UK plans to toughen the compliance criteria for educational institutions that sponsor foreign students. The process for language course students is also being reviewed. This approach risks discouraging genuine students from Russia, China, Pakistan, and elsewhere, while reinforcing a climate of suspicion and exclusion.

English language requirements are being made more stringent across the board. Adult dependants accompanying workers or students must now demonstrate a baseline proficiency in English and show ongoing progress over time. These rules overlook the value of multilingualism and the cultural depth that international communities bring to British society.

4-Settlement Timeline Extended

The new policy also extends the wait time for foreign nationals to apply for permanent residency from five years to ten. Critics argue that this obstructs long-term integration and sends a message of uncertainty to those who have invested years contributing to the UK. Migrants from nations with close cultural ties to Britain, such as Pakistan, are likely to feel particularly alienated by this decision.

5-Deportation Guidelines Expanded

In a controversial move, the UK will now consider deporting foreign nationals for any criminal offence, not just those sentenced to a year or more in prison. Sexual offences, in particular, are highlighted, with the government seeking to reinterpret Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which protects family life. This raises serious concerns about human rights violations, especially for those from politically targeted nations who may already face bias in the legal system.

6-Immigration Fees on the Rise

The white paper also introduces a steep 32% increase in the immigration skills charge, a fee paid by employers when hiring from abroad. While certain scientific roles are exempt, this financial burden is likely to discourage companies from hiring foreign talent, particularly from the Global South and Eurasian regions.

7-Transition to Electronic Identification

To enhance surveillance of immigrants, the UK is replacing its current biometric residence permits with a new digital identity system. Although marketed as a technological improvement, this move aligns with broader trends of increased state control and monitoring, raising privacy concerns and deepening the divide between citizens and non-citizens.