LONDON — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled a sweeping overhaul of the United Kingdom’s immigration system on Monday, including more stringent English language requirements for immigrants and a host of other reforms aimed at curbing migration.
The new policies mark a significant tightening of immigration controls at a time when the right-wing Reform Party, known for its hardline stance on immigration, has seen a notable rise in public support.
“If you want to live in the UK, you should speak English. That’s common sense,” Starmer said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Under the revised regulations, all skilled workers and adult dependents of visa holders will be required to demonstrate proficiency in English. Previously, language requirements were primarily limited to international students and some worker categories. The new rules will also apply to individuals seeking visa extensions and those applying for permanent residency.
The changes are part of a broader strategy outlined in an 82-page white paper released Monday, which details the Labour government’s plan to reform the immigration system.
Among the most consequential proposals is the extension of the qualifying period for citizenship or permanent residency from five to ten years. Additionally, applicants for skilled worker visas will need a university degree, and immigration for other jobs will be determined based on long-term labor shortages.
The government also announced plans to end overseas recruitment for social care visas — a category often used to fill roles in disability and elderly care — and impose stricter financial requirements on families sponsoring relatives to migrate.
“We will take back control of our borders,” Starmer declared during a news conference at Downing Street.
The policy shift has drawn criticism from some members of Parliament. Labour MP Zarah Sultana condemned Starmer’s rhetoric, likening it to the inflammatory anti-immigration language used by the late Conservative politician Enoch Powell in his infamous 1968 “rivers of blood” speech.
Historically, the Labour Party has taken a more inclusive approach to immigration than many of its political rivals, making Starmer’s pivot toward stricter controls a notable departure from party tradition.
The move comes amid growing public dissatisfaction with the Labour government and increasing momentum for the Reform Party, led by Nigel Farage. The UK experienced record immigration levels in recent years, with 906,000 people arriving in the fiscal year 2023, and a slightly lower figure of 728,000 in 2024, according to the Office for National Statistics.
Farage has been vocal in his calls for a halt to what he describes as “non-essential” immigration and has pushed for broader government reforms aimed at reducing public spending.
With immigration shaping up to be a key issue ahead of the next general election, Starmer’s reforms appear to be a calculated response to shifting political pressures and public opinion.
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