The UK government is set to introduce tougher visa restrictions in 2025, particularly targeting work and study visa holders from countries like Nigeria, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. This move comes as part of efforts to clamp down on individuals who legally enter the UK, then later apply for asylum—often as a way to remain in the country permanently.
According to the Home Office, the upcoming Immigration White Paper will outline detailed reforms aimed at fixing the UK’s “broken immigration system.” The spotlight is on curbing what ministers describe as “abuse” of the asylum process by those who switch status after arrival.
In 2023 alone, the UK received over 108,000 asylum applications—the highest on record—with Pakistan (10,542), Sri Lanka (2,862), and Nigeria (2,841) leading the numbers. Although over 732,000 international students came to the UK that year, concerns persist that some may exploit the system to stay indefinitely.
The Labour government, led by Sir Keir Starmer, is under pressure to reduce both legal and illegal migration. With net migration peaking at 906,000 in 2023 before dropping slightly in 2024, tougher rules—including higher salary thresholds for foreign workers and restrictions on dependants—have already been rolled out.
Critics warn that not all asylum claims from students or workers are fraudulent, as political instability back home can force legitimate status changes. Still, the government is focused on identifying patterns early to prevent system abuse.
The full immigration reform plan is expected later in May 2025.
