According to The Guardian, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to unveil new immigration measures on May 12.
The report suggests that the upcoming immigration policies will adopt a contribution-based model. Under the new rules, foreign migrants applying for UK citizenship will need to extend their residency period from the current 5 years to 10 years. However, individuals who make significant and long-lasting contributions to the UK economy and society—such as healthcare workers, engineers, and artificial intelligence experts—will be exempt from this requirement.
Additionally, Starmer plans to raise English language requirements for all immigration pathways. Foreign migrants applying for visa extensions will be required to have their family members pass a higher-level English A2 exam. Meanwhile, those applying for permanent settlement will need to pass a B2 exam, which tests their ability to understand complex texts on both concrete and abstract topics and engage in spontaneous interactions with a certain level of fluency.
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