• Source:JND
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A significant policy shift aimed at making immigration more difficult and pushing integration, the United Kingdom has introduced wide reforms to its visa policies. The new measures, authorised by Parliament, are stringent English language testing, increased finance limits, and increased visa fees for highly skilled personnel and foreign students. 

With the new reforms that become effective from January 8, 2026, the applicants for the skilled worker, scale-up, and student visa are expected to be A-level or B2-level Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) proficient in English. B2-level speakers are high enough to “understand complex texts” and “communicate fluently and spontaneously,” the government states is needed for the successful integration.

Home Secretary’s Remarks

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood noted that the policy wishes migrants to be able to take their fair share of contributions to British society. “This country has always welcomed those who come here and add to it,” she told Parliament. “But it's not OK for migrants to come here without learning our language, so they are unable to contribute to our national life. If you come to this country, you need to learn the language and pull your weight.”

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English Proficiency Testing

The standard of English will be verified by a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from a recognised provider and screened by virtue of the visa application procedure itself.

Higher Financial Requirements for Students

Other than proficiency in language, the new immigration system raises the cost thresholds for international students from the 2025–26 academic year. Applicants must evidence sufficient funds to take care of themselves when travelling. The administration argues these measures will ensure that only those with having real purpose and financial prudence are welcomed. 

The reforms also include initiatives to attract the very best overseas talent to the UK. The High Potential Individual (HPI) visa has been extended to the world's top 100 university graduates, capped at 8,000 applications annually. This could double the existing take-up of between 2,000 to 4,000 and open a path for the very top university graduates to carve careers for themselves in the UK.

Support For Entrepreneurs And Global Talent

International students completing their studies in the UK will also benefit from having greater access to entrepreneurship through the Innovator Founder route, and the Global Talent visa will also be broadened to accept higher levels of internationally acclaimed prizes and professional expertise.

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These are crucial factors in the Government's "Plan for Change" immigration white paper, which will look towards making the system “controlled, selective and fair.” Aides also look further ahead for further action later this autumn on asylum and border security.

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