In a sweeping immigration shake-up, the United Kingdom has announced a raft of tougher visa rules — including stricter English language tests, higher financial requirements for students, and tighter post-study work options — in a bid to curb record immigration levels and push employers toward hiring domestic talent.

The new measures, tabled in Parliament this week by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, form part of the government’s “Immigration White Paper”, reflecting Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration’s renewed push to “restore control” over migration.

Stricter English tests for skilled workers

From January 8, 2026, all skilled worker visa applicants — including those from India — will need to clear a Secure English Language Test conducted by a Home Office-approved provider. The test will assess speaking, listening, reading, and writing proficiency at a B2 (A-Level/Class 12 equivalent) standard.

“This country has always welcomed those who contribute — but it is unacceptable for migrants to come here without learning our language,” Mahmood said, emphasizing that integration and participation in British life were central to the reforms.

Tougher financial rules for students

For international students, the maintenance fund requirement — proof of living expenses — will rise for the 2025–26 academic year. Applicants studying in London must now show £1,529 per month (up from £1,483), while those elsewhere in the UK must demonstrate £1,171 per month (up from £1,136).

Post-study work window cut

In a move that could particularly impact Indian students, the popular Graduate Route visa will now allow international graduates only 18 months to find employment, down from two years, starting January 1, 2027. PhD graduates will, however, continue to enjoy three years of post-study stay.

“This change is informed by data showing too many graduates not progressing into graduate-level roles,” said Home Office Minister Mike Tapp, adding that the adjustment aims to “ensure those who stay truly contribute to the UK economy.”

Employers face higher levies

The Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) — a fee paid by UK employers hiring overseas talent — will jump 32%, its first increase since 2017. Small or charitable organizations will pay £480 per person, per year (up from £364), while large firms will owe £1,320 (up from £1,000).

The Home Office said the added revenue would “boost investment in British workers and reduce reliance on overseas recruitment.”

Selective expansion of high-skill routes

Interestingly, while tightening most pathways, the UK is also doubling the number of universities eligible under the High Potential Individual (HPI) route, capping total annual places at 8,000. The number of people entering through this scheme is expected to double from 2,000 to 4,000, opening opportunities for graduates of top global universities.

Further changes are expected next year under the Global Talent and Innovator Founder routes, aimed at attracting elite researchers, designers, and entrepreneurs.

Botswana added to visa list

In a separate move, the UK will now require Botswana nationals to obtain visas for all visits, citing a surge in asylum claims from the southern African country since 2022.