Britain's New Immigration Policy
Internationl News:The road is no longer easy for millions of Indians and immigrants from around the world who dream of living in Britain. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a historic change and decided to implement a new immigration law, under which now any immigrant will be able to apply for British citizenship not in five years, but only after at least ten years.
This policy is more than a legal reform — it reflects Britain's evolving social framework and its vision for the future.
Till now, those who lived continuously for five years in Britain had an easy process of permanent residence (Indefinite Leave to Remain) and then citizenship. But this facility has been abolished in the new system. Now all immigrants will have to prove that they have made a real contribution to Britain's economy, society and cultural life.
Highly skilled professionals like doctors, engineers, AI experts, nurses and scientists will definitely get some relief, but the rest will have to go through a difficult journey of 10 years.
Another strict condition of the new law is that now all adult dependents will have to show basic knowledge of the English language. Be it a spouse or parents – everyone will be required to prove this to mix in British society, get employment and protect their rights.
The UK government is now going to give less exemption to those students who want to work for a few years after completing their studies. So far, foreign students could stay on post-study work visa for 24 months, but now this period will be reduced to 18 months.
Apart from this, the minimum salary and eligibility criteria for visas for skilled workers will also be increased. The process of granting visas in the health and care sector will also no longer be as easy as before.
Starmer said in the press conference that this decision was not taken suddenly, but after deep thinking. He described the "open borders" policy of the previous Conservative Party as 'an experiment that failed'.
Starmer promised that now Britain will open its doors only to those who really want to contribute to society, not just take advantage of the facilities.
This decision has come at a time when anti-immigration parties are getting support in Britain's local politics. In the recent local elections, staunch anti-immigrant forces like the 'Reform Party' have received unexpected support. This increased the pressure on the mainstream Labor Party to control immigration.
Now if anyone wants to go to Britain, he will have to make a solid plan in advance. Be it studies, work or family - every path will require more evidence, time and patience than before.
This law sends a clear message: "The UK will no longer just welcome migrants, but expect them to contribute."
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