The United Kingdom has announced a major shake-up of its immigration policy, introducing tougher visa rules that will directly affect Nigerian workers, students, and their families.
The new measures, aimed at reducing annual net migration by 100,000, include higher salary thresholds, stricter qualifications for work visas, reduced post-study stays for international students, and tighter family reunification rules.
The British government said the reforms are part of efforts to “restore order” to what it called a “failed system,” and reduce the country’s reliance on foreign labour. Under the new system, work visa applicants will need university-level education, and the salary requirement for skilled worker visas will increase to over £38,700 per year. Sectors such as healthcare, which previously enjoyed lower salary entry points, will now face reduced access to overseas recruitment.
The UK also plans to phase out new care worker visa applications by 2028. This change is expected to affect thousands of Nigerian care workers currently seeking opportunities in the UK.
Student visa rules will also tighten. Foreign graduates will now be allowed to stay only 18 months after completing their studies, down from two years. Institutions will face stricter oversight and may be taxed up to 6% on income from international students.
Family visa applicants, including British citizens bringing in spouses, will have to meet stricter financial and English language requirements. A review of the “right to family life” clause will also reduce the number of exceptions used to block deportations.
Nigerians are expected to be significantly affected by these changes, as the UK remains a top destination for work, study, and family relocation. According to the Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigerians received over \$4.2 billion in remittances between January and October 2024, much of it from the UK.
While the UK government insists the policy is necessary to protect local jobs, critics argue it could harm businesses and weaken ties with international partners, particularly in Africa. Some employers and charities have warned of labour shortages and economic disruption.
The reforms are expected to be rolled out gradually, with some rules like the care visa closure scheduled for 2028.
