Immigration White Paper 2025 – key aspects for Health and Social Care.

One of the most significant reforms is the closure of social care visas for new applicants from abroad. Whilst visa extensions for those already in the UK on care worker visas or switching from a different type of visa will be permitted until 2028, the Government has made it clear that no new applicants will be accepted.

Since 9 April 2025, there has already been a requirement to try to recruit from the displaced pool of workers in the UK before looking overseas, but this change goes significantly further. Employers will see a significant reduction in access to overseas workers and will be required to instead recruit and train staff from within the UK.

The minimum skill level required for Skilled Worker visas is being raised from RQF level 3 (equivalent to A levels) to RQF level 6 (graduate level) or higher. As a result, fewer job roles will qualify under the new criteria. This change will not impact current Skilled Worker visa holders, who will still be able to extend their visas, change jobs, or take on additional work in roles currently permitted under the existing skill level.

For occupations where there have been long-term skills shortages, sponsorship may be possible even if the role is below the skills threshold but only for a limited period and only if the role appears on a newly established Temporary Shortage Occupation List. Inclusion on this list will depend on several factors: evidence of persistent skill shortages, a recommendation from the Migration Advisory Committee, the existence of a clear workforce development plan, and a demonstrated commitment from employers to support increased domestic recruitment efforts.

The white paper also refers to higher English language requirements, not only for visa applicants themselves but also for their dependants. Skilled workers will need to meet a level B2 (equivalent to A-level) English language requirement and for adult dependants there will be a new basic level English language requirement introduced. This may disproportionately affect the social care sector where candidates may struggle to achieve the new requirements.

Another major shift comes in the form of a longer route to settlement. Currently, migrants can apply for indefinite leave to remain after five years in the UK. Under the new rules, this will be extended to ten years, with the possibility of a reduction if certain conditions are met. Employers will need to be mindful of this change when sponsoring staff hoping to remain in the UK permanently and this change could affect long-term workforce planning.

There are currently no specific timeframes for the changes and it is not clear to what extent they will impact on current care workers. However, the implications of the white paper are clearly very significant for the Health and Social Care sector. With visa routes closing and tougher compliance rules introduced, care providers may find it increasingly challenging to recruit the staff needed and must take steps to adjust workforce planning.

If you need assistance or have any questions, then please contact our Health & Social Care immigration team.