A migrant community centre in London as new immigration policies come into force (Photo: File)
UK Autumn Budget 2025: The Budget will signal one of the most significant changes to the UK's immigration landscape in over a decade. Aside from setting tax changes and public spending plans, the government is readying itself to harden the route to long-term residency. For millions of migrants who study, work or raise families in the UK, these proposals could reshape everything from settlement timelines to access to public support.
Recent figures indicate that migration has remained high despite earlier attempts to reduce numbers. Net migration fell from a record of 906,000 in mid-2023 to 728,000 the following year. Even with projections suggesting a fall to about 315,000 by the end of this Parliament, the levels remain well above historic averages.
Most newcomers arrive to study or fill jobs the economy struggles to staff. Health, social care, engineering and tech remain heavy drivers. For many, the UK still offers a stable education system, strong job market and a path to a long-term future, even if that path is becoming more complex.
Over the years, international students have been central to the country's immigration numbers and to university finances. But now the government wants tighter oversight on recruitment, amid concerns that a drop in overseas enrolment might send already struggling universities into deeper financial trouble.
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While the government says it still wants high-skilled talent, the new model demands higher wages, stronger English and longer qualifying periods for settlement unless earnings exceed £50,270. Some engineers, tech professionals and specialists could still qualify in five years, but medium-skilled workers may need up to 15 years.
Care workers and their families are at the heart of the proposed changes. Over 600,000 people who arrived during the surge of health and care hiring could have to wait up to 15 years before being allowed to apply to settle. If they have claimed benefits for a year or more, that wait could stretch to 25 years, raising fears of instability for essential frontline staff.
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Economists remain divided. Immigration often raises the overall level of economic activity, but its effect on living standards per person varies. When migrants fill gaps that would otherwise remain empty, most experts agree they can raise productivity and growth.
The government, however, argues that the UK has leaned too heavily on overseas labour and must shift to training more homegrown workers.
The general qualifying period is due to increase from five to ten years. Some will continue to qualify sooner including NHS doctors and nurses or those earning high incomes. Others may have to wait far longer 20 years for most refugees, up to 30 years for irregular arrivals and overstayers and maybe no route at all for those unable to satisfy minimum income requirements.
Skilled workers, family dependants, long-residence applicants and refugees will all fall under its scope. The EU Settlement Scheme remains exempt and partners of British citizens and Hong Kong BN(O) migrants retain the five-year route, although they are now required to satisfy income and English language requirements.
Disclaimer: This article offers general information and should not be taken as legal guidance. Immigration rules may change and readers should seek independent advice.
