From Free Movement to Control:What Can Change in the UK Immigration System After 2025?

by | May 13, 2025 | Awareness, Legal Aid

(A simple guide for Indian students, workers, and families in the UK)

If you’re living in the UK or planning to move soon, you’ve probably heard about changes to immigration rules in 2025. These new rules set-up came from something called the UK Immigration White Paper — and it’s a proposal for now.

At ScottishIndian.com, we’re here to help Indian students, professionals, and families in the UK understand what’s going on — in simple words.

Let’s compare the old system vs. the new rules in 2025 so you know what to expect.

Before 2025: What Was the System Like?

Before 2025, the UK had a points-based system. You could move to the UK if you:

  • Got a job that paid enough
  • Spoke English well
  • Had a student or Skilled Worker visa

Key features:

  • Graduate Visa: Let students stay for 2 years after their degree
  • Family Visa: Easier to bring your spouse or kids
  • Care Worker Visa: Allowed people to work in UK healthcare jobs
  • You could apply for citizenship after 5 years in most cases

Many Indian migrants used these routes to study, work, or settle with their families.

After 2025: What Changed in UK Immigration System ?

The 2025 White Paper brought in stricter rules. Here’s what’s different now:

  1. Citizenship takes longer
    • You now need to live in the UK for 10 years before applying (was 5 before).
  2. Graduate Visa is shorter
    • You only get 18 months to stay and find work after graduation (was 2 years).
  3. Skilled Worker rules are tougher
    • You need a graduate-level job
    • The minimum salary is higher
  4. Care Worker Visa will end by 2028
    • The UK wants to hire more local workers instead
  5. Employers pay more
    • Businesses must pay higher visa fees to hire international staff
  6. Stricter English tests
    • Both the main applicant and family members need to pass higher-level English exams

What Does This Mean for You?

For our Scottish Indian community:

  • If you’re a student, plan early — start job hunting before your course ends
  • If you’re a professional, check if your job still qualifies for a visa
  • If you’re applying with family, you’ll need to meet higher salary and language rules

Don’t worry — there’s still a path to success. Just be prepared!

📩 Got questions about the proposal of UK Immigration System After 2025? Visit our Whatsapp community. You’re not alone — we’re here to help!

Stay informed. Stay ready. Stay supported — with ScottishIndian.com