UK’s New Immigration Plan Shatters Relocation Dreams for Many Nigerians

• UK’s New Immigration Plan Shatters Relocation Dreams for Nigerians
• Social care visas for new applicants to be closed
• Nigerians urged to consider Canada, Germany, Portugal

The aspirations of many Nigerian youths to migrate to the United Kingdom for work or study are now under threat, following the unveiling of a controversial White Paper aimed at drastically cutting net migration.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that on Monday, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer presented the 2025 Immigration White Paper titled “Restoring Control over the Immigration System.” The document proposes reducing net migration by 100,000 annually and introduces sweeping changes to immigration rules covering work, study, family reunification, and asylum.

While the document is not yet law, it has sparked widespread concern. A draft bill will soon be introduced in Parliament based on feedback received.

Key reforms include raising the salary threshold for skilled workers, shortening post-study work visas from two years to 18 months, enforcing higher English language requirements, and extending the default settlement period to 10 years—up from five—except for those with “notable economic or social contributions.”

A major blow comes for social care workers, a sector heavily populated by Nigerian migrants. The UK government plans to close social care visas to new overseas applicants. Those already in the country can renew or switch their visas until 2028, subject to review.

Universities and international students will also face tighter rules. Institutions must ensure at least 95% course enrolment and 90% completion rates, while a new levy on income from international students is under consideration to fund domestic skill development.

Additionally, a clause aims to reduce judicial interference in deportation cases, targeting misuse of Article 8, the right to family life.

Dr. Oyedele Ogundana, a senior lecturer at Nottingham Trent University, advised Nigerians to reconsider relocating to the UK, suggesting countries like Germany, Portugal, Canada, and Australia as better options.

UK Student Visa

London-based immigration lawyer, Mrs. Efuru Nwapa, acknowledged the pressure on the British government to cut migration and advised Nigerians to upgrade their qualifications to stay compliant. Travel agent Elizabeth Nwachukwu added that the policy might face amendments due to public opposition and urged Nigerians to consider alternatives like Luxembourg and Scotland.

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