If you’re working, studying, or planning to move to the UK, it’s important to stay updated on the government’s latest immigration changes. From July 2025, several new rules have come into effect — and more are expected by early 2026. These updates aim to reduce overall migration while prioritising higher-skilled and higher-paid workers.

For many migrants from East and Southeast Asia, these changes could significantly impact work, family, and settlement plans in the UK. Here’s a breakdown of what’s new, what’s coming next, and how it could affect you.

Summary of Key Immigration Rule Changes (Effective July 2025)

The main alterations focus on raising the thresholds for the Skilled Worker visa and restricting low-skilled migration and dependants.

Proposed Future Changes (Announced but Not Yet Fully Implemented)

The government has proposed further reforms to be introduced, likely by the end of 2025 or early 2026, subject to consultation and parliamentary approval.

III. Impact on Migrants and Migrant Workers from East and Southeast Asia (ESEA)

These new and proposed rules are expected to have a significant and disproportionate impact on ESEA migrants across various visa routes:

1. Skilled Worker Visa Applicants

Higher Entry Barrier for Non-Graduate Roles: The rise in the minimum skill level to RQF 6 means that many roles previously accessible to ESEA workers, such as those in medium-skilled technical trades, administrative, or certain hospitality/retail management positions (RQF 3-5), are now ineligible for new sponsorship.
Greater Financial Hurdle: The increased minimum salary threshold of £41,700 is significantly higher and may be particularly challenging for applicants from countries with lower average wages or those applying for roles outside high-wage sectors or London.
Dependant Restriction for TSL/Medium-Skilled Roles: The prohibition on bringing dependants for workers sponsored in medium-skilled roles (even on the TSL) will severely restrict the appeal of these jobs for ESEA workers who wish to relocate with their families.

2. Social Care Workers

Closure of Overseas Recruitment: As countries like the Philippines have been major sources of care workers for the UK, the closure of the overseas recruitment route for Care Workers and Senior Care Workers will immediately cut off this pathway for new ESEA applicants.
Uncertainty for Existing Workers: While existing care workers can extend their visas until 2028, the long-term pathway is uncertain, especially if the skills threshold is maintained at RQF 6 (degree level), as many care roles are below this level.

3. International Students and Graduates

Reduced Graduate Visa Appeal: The proposed reduction of the Graduate visa to 18 months significantly reduces the time ESEA graduates have to secure a qualifying RQF 6 Skilled Worker role, making the UK a less attractive destination compared to countries with longer post-study work rights.
Increased Competition for High-Skilled Jobs: ESEA graduates who might have previously taken a RQF 3-5 job to gain experience and transition later are now forced to compete for RQF 6 (degree-level) roles immediately, increasing pressure in the graduate labour market.

4. Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

Increased Wait Time: The proposed doubling of the standard settlement period from 5 years to 10 years will create significant long-term uncertainty and financial burden for ESEA migrants planning to make the UK their permanent home.
Impact on Hong Kong BN(O) Holders: Although the government stated it will consult on how the new settlement scheme will affect the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) route, any extension to the qualifying period for ILR would directly affect thousands of BN(O) visa holders from Hong Kong who currently have a 5-year pathway to settlement.

5. Family and Integration

New English Language Requirement for Partners: Introducing a mandatory English language test for all adult dependant partners of work visa holders will add a new cost and logistical barrier, particularly for families where the partner has not previously studied or worked in English-speaking environments.

he UK remains a popular destination for talented workers and students from across Asia. But these new immigration rules make preparation more important than ever. If you’re considering moving, switching visas, or applying for settlement, it’s vital to plan early, check your eligibility, and seek professional advice.

The landscape is changing fast — staying informed could make all the difference in achieving your goals in the UK.

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