UK immigration policy changes
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has unveiled plans to reform UK immigration policy, emphasizing stricter regulations for hiring foreign workers.
The announcement came as the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported a 20% drop in long-term net migration, from 906,000 in June 2023 to 728,000 in June 2024. 
Speaking on Thursday, Starmer criticized previous immigration policies, stating, “This failure was no accident but a deliberate choice to liberalize immigration policies, turning Brexit into an experiment in open borders.”
He further pledged a robust crackdown on sectors excessively dependent on overseas labour, with employers who fail to comply facing severe penalties.
Stricter Measures to Protect Workers Under UK Immigration Policy Changes
Starmer’s proposed reforms, part of the new Employment Rights Bill under parliamentary review, include extending penalties for employers violating visa and wage laws. Consequently, businesses found exploiting workers will face up to two years of sanctions, thereby doubling the previous one-year restriction on hiring overseas labour.
Additionally, businesses violating visa rules must adhere to action plans with strict timelines for compliance, a period extended from three months to one year. Employers unable to meet these requirements will face bans on hiring international workers.
UK Immigration Policy Changes Focus on Migrant Worker Welfare
The government’s intensified focus on sectors like health and social care addresses prevalent issues of worker exploitation.
Migration Minister Seema Malhotra noted, “Worker exploitation is unacceptable. Employers shifting visa sponsorship costs to employees will face serious consequences.”
Since July 2022, the Home Office has revoked 450 sponsor licenses in the care sector, targeting unethical practices such as underpayment and illegal sponsorship fees. The reforms aim to protect migrant workers while ensuring businesses adhere to minimum wage and immigration standards.
Strengthening Nigeria-UK Economic Relations Through Migration Agreements
Starmer also announced a new deal with Iraq to return foreign nationals with failed asylum claims. This initiative reflects the government’s broader commitment to reforming the UK’s points-based immigration system, ensuring a fairer and more accountable approach to labour migration.
With a clear plan to tighten regulations, the UK government’s immigration policy changes highlight its dedication to protecting vulnerable workers and fostering a balanced, sustainable immigration framework.
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