London, May 12, 2025 – The UK government has unveiled major changes to its immigration system, significantly reducing the time international graduates can remain in the country after completing their studies.

Under the new rules, the post-study visa period will be cut from two years to 18 months. The reforms aim to tighten immigration controls and ensure that migration benefits the UK’s national interest.

In addition to the shortened stay for graduates, the government will introduce stricter English language requirements across all key immigration routes, affecting both applicants and their dependents. Educational institutions recruiting international students will also face new compliance regulations.

According to a government document obtained by Sky News, the path to settled status will now take 10 years, up from the previous five-year requirement.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for stronger border control and more selective immigration. “If you want to live in the UK, you should speak English. That’s common sense,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Unveiling the government’s white paper on immigration reform, Starmer said, “We’re restoring common sense and control to our borders.” He outlined a system where businesses bringing in foreign workers must first invest in domestic skills and talent.

“This is a clean break with the past. We are linking visa access to investment in Britain,” he added.

The new policy framework is expected to lower net migration, increase skill levels within the workforce, and offer more support for British workers.

As part of the broader immigration overhaul, the UK government also plans to halt the recruitment of care workers from overseas, targeting what it describes as an overreliance on lower-skilled visa routes. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper told the BBC, “Time don reach to end care worker recruitment from abroad,” signaling that new rules will take effect this year. Under the upcoming changes, care providers will be required to hire domestically or extend the visas of overseas care workers already residing in the UK, further tightening access to the UK job market for foreign nationals.

Critics have expressed concern about the potential impact on international students and the higher education sector, which relies heavily on foreign enrolment. Nonetheless, the government insists the changes are necessary for a fair and sustainable immigration system.