Labour proposes stricter language tests, longer settlement periods, and curbs on low-skilled migration
In a bold move to reshape the UK’s immigration policy, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced a sweeping overhaul designed to address what he called a “broken” system. The new proposals aim to tighten entry requirements, significantly lengthen the path to citizenship, and reduce reliance on low-skilled foreign labour—all underpinned by a promise to create a system that is “controlled, selective, and fair.”
The long-awaited Immigration White Paper, due for publication on Monday, sets out Labour’s vision to reform migration rules and respond to mounting public pressure, particularly after recent electoral gains by Reform UK, who campaigned heavily on anti-immigration rhetoric.
Key Changes Under Labour’s Immigration Plan
- Stricter English Language Tests: For the first time, adult dependents of visa applicants will be required to demonstrate basic English skills, ensuring better integration and reducing the risk of exploitation. All immigration routes into the UK will see raised language requirements, although exact proficiency levels have yet to be confirmed.
- Longer Wait for Settlement: The traditional five-year route to settlement will be replaced by a ten-year minimum residency requirement. Only after this period can migrants apply for permanent settlement and begin the path toward full citizenship.
- Fast-Track Settlement for Key Workers: In a bid to strengthen the economy, the government will introduce an accelerated settlement scheme for highly skilled professionals, including nurses, engineers, and AI specialists—professions deemed vital for Britain’s growth and global competitiveness.
- Curtailing Low-Skilled Migration: Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced that the UK will end the recruitment of overseas care workers, requiring employers to either hire British nationals or extend the visas of existing overseas workers already residing in the country. This change is projected to reduce the arrival of up to 50,000 low-skilled migrants over the next year.
- Raising Skilled Worker Visa Thresholds: The salary and qualification requirements for Skilled Worker Visas will be increased, moving the minimum threshold from A-level to graduate-level qualifications, narrowing the pool of eligible applicants.
The Economic and Social Impact
Labour’s plans mark a significant policy shift, creating a more restrictive system than most other high-income countries. According to Madeleine Sumption, Director of the Oxford University Migration Observatory, these reforms will increase revenue through ongoing visa fees but may also make it harder for migrants to integrate, as many will lack the full rights associated with permanent status for a longer period.
While critics argue the reforms could separate families and create social hardship for those unable to meet the new language requirements, research shows that nine out of ten migrants already report speaking English well. A lack of language skills remains a key barrier to employment, making the reforms a pragmatic step toward improving economic outcomes for migrants.
However, the Liberal Democrats called the government’s immigration approach “in tatters,” warning that trust in the system had “shattered.” Their home affairs spokeswoman, Lisa Smart, urged Labour to focus on creating a system that supports both the economy and humanitarian responsibilities.
Political Reactions: Is It Enough?
The reforms have sparked fierce debate across the political spectrum.
Conservative MPs backed the decision to restrict low-skilled immigration but promised to push Parliament to impose a legally binding migration cap. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp dismissed Labour’s measures as “too little, too late,” and argued that had the previous Conservative plans remained in place, net migration would have fallen by around 400,000.
Meanwhile, Reform UK’s deputy leader Richard Tice claimed his party’s success in recent local elections was a clear sign of public anger over both legal and illegal migration. He challenged Labour to go further by introducing zero net migration policies.
A Calculated Political Gamble
Starmer’s plan is a direct attempt to rebuild public trust in Labour’s ability to manage immigration, a traditionally challenging topic for the party. By balancing tough rhetoric with selective economic pragmatism, Labour is hoping to appeal to working-class voters concerned about the impact of immigration on jobs and services, while also satisfying business leaders who fear labour shortages in critical sectors.
Yet, the real test will come with implementation. Proposed changes requiring primary legislation mean much of this agenda will not take effect until at least 2026, giving rival parties time to challenge Labour’s commitment and effectiveness.
For now, this marks a clear pivot towards stronger border controls, higher integration expectations, and a merit-based migration system—one that seeks to reassure a restless electorate that Britain’s immigration future will be managed, not left to chance.
