UK to Halt New Social Care Visas in Major Immigration Overhaul
The UK government has announced it will no longer accept new visa applications from overseas social care workers, marking a major shift in immigration policy under Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership.
The new direction was outlined in a White Paper released Monday, where the government emphasized the need to regain control over migration and prioritize homegrown talent.
“As part of our broader changes to skills and workforce strategy, we’re closing the door on new international applications for social care roles,” the Home Office stated. However, those already in the UK on these visas will be allowed to extend or switch their status until 2028—during a transition period as a new workforce plan is rolled out.
The government says this move is aimed at resetting the immigration system to focus on attracting high-skilled workers who directly support the UK’s economic growth. There’s also a strong push for employers to invest in local training instead of relying on overseas hiring.
Between 2019 and 2023, net migration figures soared, prompting calls for a more sustainable approach. The new plan, titled “Restoring Control over the Immigration System,” includes sweeping reforms designed to reduce long-term dependency on foreign labour.
Some of the key measures include:
-
Raising the minimum qualifications for skilled worker roles back to graduate-level.
-
Increasing salary thresholds for sponsored workers.
-
Phasing out the Immigration Salary List, which previously offered pay exemptions for certain job roles.
Only roles with long-standing shortages—confirmed by the Migration Advisory Committee—will now be considered for international recruitment, and only if a clear domestic training plan is in place.
The plan also introduces a new Labour Market Evidence Group to advise on workforce needs, ensuring that immigration decisions are based on actual gaps—not just convenience.
On education, the government is tightening the rules for universities and institutions that recruit international students. Institutions at risk of non-compliance will face restrictions, including caps on new student admissions and action plans to improve oversight. The period allowed for international graduates to stay after completing their studies will also be reduced to 18 months.
Despite these tougher rules, the UK says it still welcomes top-tier global talent. New pathways will be created to bring in individuals with exceptional skills, particularly in high-growth sectors that support the UK’s future economy.
As part of broader enforcement, stricter scrutiny will apply to asylum claims, especially those filed after arrival or from individuals whose home countries have seen no major change in conditions. Where abuse is detected, additional restrictions will apply.
This shift comes months after Conservative opposition leader Kemi Badenoch called for stricter requirements for permanent residency. In her February comments, she emphasized that earning a UK passport should reflect real contribution, not just time spent in the country.
“We need to slow down the route to citizenship. It should be earned, not handed out,” Badenoch said at the time.
