Starmer vows overhaul of ‘broken’ immigration system with tougher language rules and settlement limits

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to unveil a set of immigration reforms aimed at what he calls “tightening up” a “broken” system, including tougher English language requirements and a significant extension to the settlement timeline for foreign workers.Under proposals outlined in Labour’s long-awaited Immigration White Paper, adult dependents accompanying foreign workers will, for the first time, be required to pass an English test before entering the UK. The government will also shut the door on overseas recruitment for care home staff and extend the minimum residency period for migrants to apply for settlement from five to ten years.

If you want to live in the UK, you should speak English. That’s common sense.

So we’re raising English language requirements across every main immigration route.- Keir Starmer (@keir_starmer) May 12, 2025

Speaking ahead of the White Paper’s release, the UK PM said the current system “shuts out young people weighing up their future” while allowing industries to remain “almost addicted to importing cheap labour.”
He cited engineering as one such sector, noting that visa numbers have surged while apprenticeships have declined. He also accused the preceding Conservative Party administration for leaving behind a “mess of open borders experiment.”

Also Read: US and China agree to major reductions in tariffs for 90 days

The new measures come amid rising political pressure following Reform UK’s electoral gains in this month’s local elections, and as net migration remains historically high at 728,000 for the 12 months to June 2024.

The key reforms will include English tests for all adult dependents. Accompanying adults would be required to pass an A1-level test demonstrating basic communication skills. Those applying to extend a visa will need A2-level proficiency, while settlement applicants must pass a B2-level exam.

Migrants will also be required to live in the UK for ten years before applying for settled status, doubling the current five-year period. However, a “fast-track” route will be introduced for high-demand professions like nursing, engineering, and AI. Skilled Worker Visa requirements will rise to graduate-level qualifications, and exceptions for temporary shortages will be reduced.

Also Read: Bangladesh bans Awami League under anti-terror law amid rising political turmoil