The British government has announced new immigration reforms, including stricter English language requirements and a reduction of the post-study visa period for international graduates from two years to 18 months, effective January 1, 2027. Unveiled in the Home Office’s immigration white paper and Plan for Change, the measures aim to create a “controlled, selective, and fair” system.
Migrants applying through specific legal routes must pass a Secure English Language Test at A-level standard in speaking, listening, reading, and writing, verified by a Home Office-approved provider. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized that migrants must learn English and contribute to UK society.
Additional changes include a 32% increase in the Immigration Skills Charge for employers sponsoring foreign workers, with funds reinvested in training British workers. From the 2025–2026 academic year, international students must demonstrate greater financial capacity.
The High Potential Individual route will expand to 8,000 graduates from top 100 universities, and the Global Talent route will attract leading researchers. Botswana nationals will now require visas due to rising asylum claims. Further asylum and border security reforms are expected.
