UK Visa Rules Tightened, Indian Nationals to Be Affected

The UK government has introduced new visa regulations that could make it difficult for Indian nationals to obtain work visas. On July 1, the UK government presented a bill in the House of Commons with stricter visa criteria aimed at limiting the recruitment of foreign workers in various sectors. The new rules were initially proposed in the immigration white paper in May, and will come into effect on July 22 after parliamentary approval.

The aim of the new regulations is to curb the issuance of visas for low-wage jobs while attracting employees with qualifications at the bachelor's level or higher. This change is expected to significantly impact Indian nationals. British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that the government is overhauling the immigration system to restore proper control, as the previous government had increased migration fourfold in the last four years.

Increased Salary Requirements for Work Visa

As part of the changes, applicants will now be required to have a bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification. Existing skilled workers will be exempt from this rule. According to the latest data from the National Statistics Office, the salary requirements for work visas are being raised. Recruitment of foreign workers for social care positions will be stopped on July 22, 2025. New foreign applications will no longer be accepted. However, existing care workers in the UK will be given three years' relief from this rule, until July 2028.

Tougher English Language Requirements

Based on recommendations in the immigration white paper, additional changes will be implemented by the end of this year. These include raising the immigration skills charge for companies hiring foreign workers and introducing stricter English language requirements for visa applicants.