By Brilliant Pongo 14 May 2025
On 12 May 2025, the UK government released a new immigration white paper titled “Restoring Control over the Immigration System”. This document lays out a series of proposed changes that could significantly reshape the current visa system, particularly affecting skilled workers from countries like Zimbabwe.
This white paper is not yet law. It is part of a consultation process, where the UK government presents its intentions and invites discussion. Once debated and agreed upon in Parliament, the proposals may become law and come into effect—this is when they become enforceable and impact visa applicants.
What Is Changing?
Here’s a breakdown of the key proposals in the white paper and what they could mean, especially for Zimbabweans on or applying for Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) under Skilled Worker visas.
1. Higher Skill and Salary Requirements
- Skill Level: The minimum required job skill level will be raised from RQF Level 3 (A-levels) to RQF Level 6 (equivalent to a degree). This means many jobs previously considered “skilled”, such as social care roles, will no longer qualify.
- Removed Jobs: Over 180 occupations are likely to be removed from the eligible list, especially in sectors like care and hospitality.
- Salary Threshold: The minimum salary threshold is set to increase, though final figures are still under discussion.
2. English Language Requirements
- Applicants for Skilled Worker visas must now meet B2 level English proficiency (up from B1).
- Dependents, including spouses, will now be required to demonstrate English skills at A1 level when applying and A2 level for visa extensions.
3. Impact on Social Care Visas
- The social care visa route will be closed to new overseas applicants.
- Those already in the UK on a social care visa will be allowed to remain and extend their stay until 2028, offering a transition period.
4. For Current CoS Visa Holders
If you are already in the UK on a CoS visa:
- You can still extend your visa under the existing rules during the transition period.
- However, the pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is changing—the qualifying period will increase from 5 to 10 years for most visa categories, including Skilled Workers.
5. Other Key Proposals
- Immigration Skills Charge: Employers will pay more to sponsor workers, rising from £1,000 to £1,320 per year.
- Graduate Visa Shortened: The post-study Graduate Visa will be reduced from 2 years to 18 months.
- New Shortage Occupation List: Only long-term, proven shortages will be eligible for special visa treatment.
6. Healthcare and Public Services
- The white paper does not make major changes to how healthcare is provided to migrants.
- However, the closure of the social care visa route may put additional pressure on the UK’s health and care sectors.
What Does This Mean for Zimbabweans?
Many Zimbabweans currently in the UK on Skilled Worker visas, especially in care roles, could be affected by these changes. If passed, the white paper would make it harder to bring dependents, meet salary and language requirements, and eventually qualify for settlement.
However, remember: this is not yet law. These are proposed changes. Final decisions will only be made after consultation, debate, and parliamentary approval.
Stay Informed, Stay Prepared
If you’re in the UK or planning to come through the Skilled Worker route, now is the time to:
- Review your current visa terms
- Speak to a qualified immigration advisor
- Stay updated on changes as they move through Parliament
This white paper marks a turning point in UK immigration policy. While the intent is to focus on “high skill” migration, the potential impact on Zimbabwean professionals—particularly in care and health—cannot be ignored.
