‘If You Want to Live in the UK, You Should Speak English’ – Starmer tightens Immigration rules

May 12, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has announced plans to raise English language requirements across all main immigration routes, emphasizing that speaking English is essential for those wanting to live in the UK.

In a tweet, Starmer stated, “If you want to live in the UK, you should speak English. That’s common sense. So we’re raising English language requirements across every main immigration route.”

This move is part of the Government’s effort to take back control of the country’s borders and promote integration. The new rules will require migrants to demonstrate a basic level of English proficiency, applying to both main applicants and dependents.

The UK Government aims to create a more selective and fair immigration system, prioritizing those who contribute to the country’s growth and society.

As part of this effort, the government will also tighten settlement rules, requiring migrants to wait 10 years before applying for citizenship, up from the current 5 years.

Additionally, the Government will introduce sector-specific changes, including ending new international recruitment for adult social care visas and introducing stricter compliance rules for education providers sponsoring international students.

The move is seen as a response to mounting pressure on Prime Minister Starmer following Labour’s local election losses to the anti-immigration Reform UK party.

The changes aim to reduce net migration and promote investment in domestic skills.

The Government’s plans to raise English language requirements and tighten immigration rules are expected to have a significant impact on the UK’s immigration system.

The changes are part of a broader effort to reform the immigration system and ensure that it serves the needs of the country and its citizens.