UK changes immigration requirements: what should Ukrainians know?

Moving to the UK is becoming more difficult, but not impossible. Find out more about the updates, how they will affect Ukrainians, who has a chance to get a visa, and what requirements have become stricter

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad

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In 2025, the UK government announced a significant tightening of immigration rules that will have a significant impact on those planning to move to the country. The innovations are aimed at limiting low-skilled immigration and increasing the requirements for those seeking to remain in the UK on a permanent basis.

Key changes in immigration policy

According to the announcements of the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, new immigration rules will come into force in June 2025, including

English language proficiency: All adult dependent migrants (e.g., family members of the main applicant) must demonstrate basic English language skills.

Permanent residence only after 10 years: Permanent residence (settled status) will be granted only after 10 years of legal residence in the UK and only if they have contributed to the economy and society.

Visa restrictions: All immigration routes - including work, student and family reunification - will be reviewed and made more difficult.

Ban on hiring caregivers: Foreigners will no longer be able to work in Britain as caregivers. Those already working in this field will be allowed to extend their contract or change employers.

Reduction of visas: The number of low-skilled visas will be reduced by 50 thousand starting next year.

Speeding up deportations: The process of expelling foreign criminals will be accelerated.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that immigration to the UK should be seen as a “privilege, not a right.”

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Who is favored?

Despite the overall tightening of rules, the government emphasizes that migration policy will be adapted to the real needs of the labor market. According to Home Secretary Evette Cooper, certain industries will continue to receive support in immigrating foreign professionals.

These priority areas include:

Construction

Healthcare

Engineering

Artificial intelligence (AI)

Specialists in these fields will have accelerated immigration routes that will allow them to obtain residence and work permits faster.

For Ukrainians planning to move to the UK, it is important to carefully read the new rules and prepare in advance for possible challenges, particularly in the areas of language, qualifications, and documentary evidence of experience. If your profession falls within the priority areas, the chances of successful immigration remain high.

If you are planning to move, want to extend your visa or legalize your stay in the UK, Visit Ukraine lawyers will help you do it without mistakes and stress. Why should you turn to specialists?

Up-to-date knowledge of changes in British legislation

Individual approach to each case

Support at all stages — from document submission to appeals

Saving time and nerves

Professionals will help you adapt your documents to the new conditions, which will significantly increase your chances of success!

We remind you! UK law requires or recommends that foreigners entering the country have an insurance policy, depending on the purpose of their trip and the length of their stay. However, the policy may have different requirements. Read our previous article to find out when and what kind of insurance is required to enter the UK.

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