The United Kingdom has unveiled a series of major reforms to its immigration and student visa policies, including tougher English language requirements, stricter post-study job timelines, and increased financial criteria for international students.
The British Home Office introduced the new measures in Parliament on October 14, as part of the government’s plan to build a controlled, selective, and fair immigration system. If approved, the changes will come into effect from 2027.
A-Level English now mandatory for immigrants
Under the proposed law, all immigrants entering the UK through specific legal routes will be required to pass an A-level equivalent English test in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
The Secure English Language Test must be conducted by a Home Office-approved provider, with results verified during the visa process.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the change reflects a broader effort to ensure newcomers contribute effectively to British society.
“It is unacceptable for migrants to come here without learning our language,” Mahmood said. “If you come to this country, you must learn our language and play your part.”
Graduate job period reduced to 18 months
The post-study work period for international students will be cut from two years to 18 months, starting January 1, 2027.
According to the Home Office, data showed that many graduates failed to transition into graduate-level employment within the current two-year window. The government said the move aims to ensure graduates contribute effectively to the economy.
Increase in student visa finance requirements
From the 2025–26 academic year, foreign students will need to show higher financial capability to support themselves during their stay in the UK.
The Home Office said the update ensures international students can “live independently without overreliance on public resources.”
Raising immigration skills charge
Employers hiring skilled foreign workers will also face a 32% increase in the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) — the first hike since 2017.
Revenue from the charge will be reinvested in training the domestic workforce to reduce dependence on overseas recruitment. Parliamentary proceedings to approve the increase will begin later this week.
Expansion of high-skilled talent routes
The British government’s immigration white paper includes several initiatives aimed at attracting top global talent while maintaining tight border controls:
- High Potential Individual (HPI) Route Expansion: Now open to graduates from the top 100 international universities, with a cap of 8,000 annual applications. The intake is expected to double from 2,000 to 4,000.
- Entrepreneurship Opportunities: Talented entrepreneurs studying in the UK will be allowed to transition from student visas to the Innovator Founder route to establish startups.
- Global Talent Route Enhancements: Includes a wider list of prestigious awards and revised evidential criteria for architects, along with updates to attract more researchers, designers, and creatives in film and television.
Further adjustments to the Global Talent route are expected in 2026.
Tighter border controls and Botswana visa requirement
Effective 3pm on October 14, nationals of Botswana will now require a visa to travel to the UK, including for short visits.
The Home Office said this decision followed a significant increase in asylum claims from Botswana nationals entering as visitors since 2022, calling it a misuse of the UK’s immigration system.
