Recently, the UK government officially released a 138-page white paper on new immigration policies, which will comprehensively reform the skilled immigration system starting from July 22, 2025. Dubbed a "total reset of the immigration system" by the media, the key word is: strict.
Core Changes of the UK's New Policy: A Simple Guide
Raised Thresholds for Skilled Worker Visas
Applying for a Skilled Worker Visa will no longer be as easy as meeting low academic or salary requirements.
New Requirements:
Must hold a bachelor's degree or higher (RQF Level 6).
Annual salary threshold increased to £41,700 (approximately RMB 380,000).
Industry wage standards for many popular roles have also risen, e.g.:
Software Engineer: from £49,400 to £54,700.
Nursing roles: no longer open to overseas workers.
Significant Cuts to Low- and Mid-Skilled Jobs
Over 110 roles previously requiring only a college diploma (RQF Levels 4-5) will be removed. Only a few special positions (e.g., infrastructure, defense) will remain, with:
No wage discounts.
No family reunification allowed.
Full-price visa fees.
Additional Tightening Measures (Expected by Year-End)
Higher language requirements for visas.
Employers to pay higher skill surcharges.
Further restrictions on family visas.
Impact on International Students in the UK
Many parents and prospective students ask: Is studying in the UK still worth it? Will it be harder to stay after graduation? Let's break it down.
Impact 1: Tougher Work Visas, Higher Employment Barriers
Previously, a UK bachelor's or master's degree, coupled with employer sponsorship and salary compliance, could lead to a Skilled Worker Visa. From July 2025, however, not only must applicants have a bachelor's degree, but salary thresholds will also rise sharply. Many graduates in ordinary roles may fail to meet these standards.
Implications:
Fewer opportunities for low- to mid-skilled roles; competition intensifies.
Difficulty spikes for liberal arts graduates to stay.
Strategic planning in academic choices becomes crucial for those aiming to immigrate.
Impact 2: Closed Pathways for Nursing and Low-Paid Roles
Nursing, once a "stable job option," will no longer accept overseas workers. This blocks a key route for international students to stay in the UK.
Impact 3: Focus on "Cost-Effectiveness" and Returning Home
The UK's message is clear: welcome high-skilled talent, but reject low-paid migration. Thus:
UK education returns to its academic core, moving away from the "degree + immigration" model.
Quality degrees in high-demand fields (finance, computer science, AI, education, law) still offer strong UK job prospects.
For most, "gaining experience abroad + returning to China" is now more practical.
Strategies for Students and Parents
Clarify Goals: Study ≠ Immigration
Treat UK education as a chance for self-improvement, global exposure, and building an international resume—not solely a path to residency.
Choose High-Value Majors
Prioritize:
Computer Science, AI, Data Analysis.
FinTech, Financial Engineering, Actuarial Science.
Education, Research Psychology, Law (with career planning).
These fields are in demand globally and in China.
Select Universities Carefully
Opt for top-ranked QS institutions with strong internship networks (e.g., Imperial College, Oxford/Cambridge, UCL, Edinburgh, Manchester). Start career planning early, including language and skill development.
The New Policy's Message
Tighter immigration, higher job thresholds, and a call for pragmatic study planning. For families prioritizing education quality, the UK remains a top choice. However, those seeking "easy residency" must rethink strategies.
UK education is shifting from a "low-threshold immigration gateway" back to its "elite academic essence." With the right major and planning, it still offers a high-quality, high-value path.
Why the UK Remains Attractive
Despite changes, the UK stays a priority for Chinese families. Key reasons:
Top-Tier Education: Universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and UCL consistently rank globally, with unmatched research strength and reputation.
Short Programs, High Efficiency: 3-year undergrad, 1-year master's—saving time and costs compared to the US/Australia.
Visa-Friendly Policies: The Post-Study Work Visa (PSW) allows 2 years of work post-graduation, enabling a "study-work-immigrate" pathway.
Strong Support System: As China's second-largest study destination, the UK offers mature services and vibrant Chinese communities, easing adaptation.
Property Investment: A Dual Win for Study and Living
For families with capital or long-term UK plans, "property-funded education" is gaining traction.
How It Works: Buy a property for self-use, cutting rent costs, while benefiting from property appreciation. In cities like London, where rents are high and prices stable, students can:
Save 3-5 years of rent.
Rent out spare rooms for income.
Achieve asset growth.
Instead of spending millions on rent, investing in UK core-city property combines education, housing, and asset preservation—a strategic move amid strong GBP and rising London prices.
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