Important Updates
Important Updates
July 23, 2025 | United KingdomGrand Designs Magazine: How to Buy Your Dream Home Overseas
July 24, 2025 | China, AzerbaijanAzerbaijan/Mainland China: Reciprocal Visa Exemption in Effect
July 24, 2025 | United Kingdom, IndiaUnited Kingdom/India: Free Trade Agreement and Social Security Agreement Forthcoming
July 23, 2025 | United KingdomConstruction Management: Immigration Reforms: What’s Next for Construction Employers?
July 23, 2025 | EgyptEgypt: Power of Attorney Now Required Where Legal Representative Used in Residence Permit Application
July 23, 2025 | United KingdomGrand Designs Magazine: How to Buy Your Dream Home Overseas
July 24, 2025 | China, AzerbaijanAzerbaijan/Mainland China: Reciprocal Visa Exemption in Effect
July 24, 2025 | United Kingdom, IndiaUnited Kingdom/India: Free Trade Agreement and Social Security Agreement Forthcoming
July 23, 2025 | United KingdomConstruction Management: Immigration Reforms: What’s Next for Construction Employers?
July 23, 2025 | EgyptEgypt: Power of Attorney Now Required Where Legal Representative Used in Residence Permit Application
July 23, 2025 | United KingdomGrand Designs Magazine: How to Buy Your Dream Home Overseas
Subscribe
Fragomen.com home
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMedia
Search Fragomen.com
  • Our Services
    For EmployersFor IndividualsBy IndustryCase Studies
  • Our Tech & Innovation
  • Our People
  • Our Insights
    Worldwide Immigration Trends ReportsMagellan SeriesImmigration AlertsEventsMedia MentionsFragomen NewsBlogsPodcasts & Videos
  • Spotlights
    Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump AdministrationTravel & Mobility Considerations: Situation in the Middle EastImmigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance RoadmapHumanitarian and Evolving Legal Pathways (HELP)Vietnamese ImmigrationAustralian Immigration: New Skills in Demand Visa
  • About Us
    About FragomenOfficesResponsible Business PracticesFirm GovernanceRecognition

Our Services

  • For Employers
  • For Individuals
  • By Industry
  • Case Studies

Our Tech & Innovation

  • Our Approach

Our People

  • Overview / Directory

Our Insights

  • Worldwide Immigration Trends Reports
  • Magellan Series
  • Immigration Alerts
  • Events
  • Media Mentions
  • Fragomen News
  • Blogs
  • Podcasts & Videos

Spotlights

  • Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump Administration
  • Travel & Mobility Considerations: Situation in the Middle East
  • Immigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance Roadmap
  • Humanitarian and Evolving Legal Pathways (HELP)
  • Vietnamese Immigration
  • Australian Immigration: New Skills in Demand Visa

About Us

  • About Fragomen
  • Offices
  • Responsible Business Practices
  • Firm Governance
  • Recognition
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMedia
  • Insights

Unlocking the UK's Future: Is the Immigration System Designed to Attract Global Tech Talent?

January 8, 2025

Unlocking the UK's Future: Is the Immigration System Designed to Attract Global Tech Talent?

Country / Territory

  • United KingdomUnited Kingdom

Related contacts

Photo of Tayyaba Karim

Tayyaba Karim

Senior Associate

London, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 20 7090 9421

Related offices

  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Tayyaba Karim

Tayyaba Karim

Senior Associate

London, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 20 7090 9421

Related offices

  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Tayyaba Karim

Tayyaba Karim

Senior Associate

London, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 20 7090 9421

Related offices

  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

By: Tayyaba Karim

As 2025 begins, the release of a White Paper focused on reducing migration, announced by Kier Starmer in November 2024, is highly anticipated, with many hoping its contents align with the ambitions outlined at the Invest 2035 Summit, which envisions the UK as a global leader in innovation, technology and sustainability.
 
A critical question remains unanswered: Is the UK’s immigration system truly equipped to attract the global talent necessary to achieve these goals? This question becomes even more pressing as the government seeks to reduce net migration, a goal that may conflict with its ambitions for industrial growth and technological advancement.
 
Understanding the Government’s Industrial Strategy and Immigration Policies
 
The UK Government’s industrial strategy aims to position the nation as a global leader in advanced sectors like artificial intelligence, green energy and biotechnology. This strategy emphasises long-term investments and regulatory reforms to drive economic growth and innovation. However, these ambitions require a workforce with highly specialised skills that the domestic labour market cannot fully supply.
 
At the same time, immigration policies guided by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) aim to lower net migration. This creates a challenge: The UK needs skilled professionals to drive industrial growth, but strict immigration rules make it harder for them to come. Finding a way to balance these goals is key to keeping the UK competitive.
 
The Relevance of the Invest 2035 Summit to Immigration and the Tech Sector
 
The Invest 2035 Summit highlighted the pivotal role of immigration in meeting labour market needs and achieving industrial goals. For the tech sector, this event underscored the urgency of aligning immigration policies with the demands of innovation-driven industries.
 
Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google, delivered a powerful message during the summit, urging the Prime Minister to expand immigration channels for high-skilled workers. Schmidt’s remarks reflect a broader recognition: Global talent is indispensable for industries like AI, renewable energy and cybersecurity to thrive.
 
The Impact of Immigration Reforms on Skilled Worker Visas
 
Recent reforms to immigration policy have introduced stricter measures and significantly increased the cost of immigration to the UK, i.e., increased salary thresholds for a Skilled Worker visa, increased visa application fees and increases to the Immigration Health Surcharge.
 
According to the government data:
      • Skilled Worker Visas: Applications by main applicants dropped to 4,100 in November 2024 - a 20% decline compared to the pre-April average of 6,000 per month. Between April and November 2024, there were 46,700 applications, marking a slight 3% decrease from the same period in 2023.
      • Dependants on the Skilled Worker route: Applications for dependants rose by 7%, reaching 39,200 during the same period.
 
These figures reveal that stricter immigration policies are now starting to have a significant impact on migration to the UK as businesses and applicants are hit by the increasing costs. While the demand for skilled workers persists, numbers are decreasing. This misalignment could hinder the government’s industrial ambitions, especially as businesses struggle to access the talent they need.
 
The Importance of Foreign Talent and Training Local Workers
 
The government’s goals of reducing net migration while attracting top global talent might seem conflicting, but they can work together. Skilled migration helps fill urgent gaps in high-demand roles that can’t be covered locally. At the same time, businesses can focus on training and developing the UK workforce to create a steady supply of talent for the future.
 
To achieve this, the UK needs a well-designed immigration system that supports industries vital to economic growth. Without these steps, the country risks losing its competitive edge on the global stage.
 
Opportunities for Engagement and Influence
 
The UK’s immigration framework raises a critical question: Is it effectively designed to attract global talent while reducing net migration? The influence of the Migration Advisory committee (MAC), which advises the government, alongside other public and government bodies, is evident. However, more engagement between industry leaders and policymakers is needed to align immigration strategies with economic objectives.
 
The MAC is currently undertaking a consultation of the IT, telecommunications and engineering sectors to identify why these sectors have historically been so reliant on hiring workers from overseas. They will consider training needs, recruitment challenges and the attractiveness of the sectors to domestic workers with regards to pay and working conditions amongst other factors. The outcome of this review will likely shape future immigration policies as well as impact how the government will attempt to upskill the domestic workforce.
 
This represents an opportunity for businesses to play an active role in advocating for streamlined, business-friendly immigration processes, using their first-hand, data-backed experience to highlight the needs of their industry. 
 
The opportunity to collaborate with the government on its final Industrial Strategy is a pivotal moment for businesses. By engaging proactively, companies can shape policies that address labour shortages and support emerging demands for specialised skills. As consistently emphasised, economic growth depends on immigration to fill immediate gaps while fostering long-term workforce development.
 
Additionally, the key sectors identified for growth provide clear direction for developing expertise and advocating for supportive policies.
 
Why Diverse Global Teams Drive Innovation
 
Diversity is a catalyst for innovation. Global tech hubs like Silicon Valley owe much of their success to their ability to attract talent from around the world, fostering collaboration and fresh perspectives. The UK has an opportunity to replicate this model by prioritising skilled migration.
 
By building diverse teams, businesses can:
      • Foster innovation and creativity;
      • Access specialised skills essential for growth; and
      • Enhance competitiveness in a global market.
 
Achieving this requires a transparent, efficient immigration system that aligns with industrial needs. Expert guidance is crucial for navigating these complexities and maximising opportunities.
 
What’s Coming Next
 
The Invest 2035 Summit reinforced the importance of technology as a driver of the UK’s future growth. From AI to green energy, the government is making substantial investments in industries that will shape the next decade. For businesses, this presents significant opportunities to innovate and expand.
 
The UK’s industrial ambitions hinge on resolving the tension between reducing net migration and meeting labour market demands. Immigration policies must evolve to attract global talent while supporting long-term workforce development.
 
For businesses, this is a critical moment to engage with immigration policies strategically. By hiring globally and building diverse teams, companies can drive innovation, foster growth, and secure their place in a competitive global market. As advisors, we stand ready to guide our clients through this evolving landscape, ensuring they are well-positioned to influence policy and capitalise on emerging opportunities.
 
Need to Know More?
 
For more information on the UK immigration system, please contact Associate Tayyaba Karim at [email protected].
 
This blog was published on 8 January 2025, and due to the circumstances, there are frequent changes. To keep up to date with all the latest updates on global immigration, please subscribe to our alerts and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.

Country / Territory

  • United KingdomUnited Kingdom

Related contacts

Photo of Tayyaba Karim

Tayyaba Karim

Senior Associate

London, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 20 7090 9421

Related offices

  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Tayyaba Karim

Tayyaba Karim

Senior Associate

London, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 20 7090 9421

Related offices

  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Photo of Tayyaba Karim

Tayyaba Karim

Senior Associate

London, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 20 7090 9421

Related offices

  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Explore more at Fragomen

Media mentions

Construction Management: Immigration Reforms: What’s Next for Construction Employers?

Associate Ilaria Iovieno outlines how recent UK immigration reforms will impact construction employers and their ability to sponsor overseas talent.

Learn more

Media mentions

Grand Designs Magazine: How to Buy Your Dream Home Overseas

Director Isobel Neilson discusses how changes to golden visa programmes are affecting UK buyers pursuing overseas property investment.

Learn more

Media mentions

TechInformed: Global Talent, Local Growth: Immigration’s Role in the Tech Economy

Senior Associate Tayyaba Karim and Associates Aisha Shahid and Yinny Tan outline how UK immigration changes affect tech talent access and business alignment.

Learn more

Media mentions

The New York Times: Hoping to Visit the U.S.? It Might Cost You an Extra $250.

Partner Parisa Karaahmet is quoted on a new country-specific, $250 "visa integrity fee" introduced by the current US administration as part of a domestic policy bill.

Learn more

Media mentions

New Civil Engineer: The immigration white paper and the government’s Industrial Strategy – how do they compare?

Paralegal Sean Pearce discusses the UK government's immigration White Paper in the context of its Industrial Strategy, noting the importance of overseas talent in meeting infrastructure and housing goals.

Learn more

Video

Update on U.S. Tariffs | #MobilityMinute

In this Mobility Minute, Partner Christian Dallman shares an update on US tariffs as the August 1 deadline for trade negotiations approaches.

Learn more

Media mentions

Saudi Gazette: Saudi Arabia’s Skill-Based Work Permit System Reshapes Expat Employment Landscape

Partner Haider Hussain discussed how Saudi Arabia’s new skill-based work permit system is reshaping employer compliance and recruitment strategies.

Learn more

Podcast

Visa Policy Changes in Nigeria

Director Caroline Kanzara-Obinwa and Manager Tarissa Wareley are joined by Bloomfield Law Practice's Kunle Obebe and Peace Lotechukwu to discuss Nigeria's 2025 visa policy reforms.

Learn more

Media mentions

Windpower Monthly: Wind Industry’s Chronic Skills Shortage Exacerbated by Tough Immigration Rules

Associate Yinny Tan outlines how proposed UK immigration changes may affect workforce planning and talent access in the wind industry.

Learn more

Blog post

UK Creative Industries & Immigration: What the 2025 Policy Changes Mean

Senior Manager Sean Rhodes, Associate Jennifer Gray and Paralegal Mariel Arquero outlines how the United Kingdom's 2025 immigration policy changes will impact the creative industries.

Learn more

Media mentions

AAML: Navigating U.S. Passport Applications for Minors Under 16: A Guide for Family Law Attorneys

Senior Associate Carolyn Alvarez outlines US passport rules for minors to guide family law attorneys on immigration requirements.

Learn more

Blog post

Fast-track Visa Options for Technical Workers: Türkiye’s AMS Visa and Greece’s Installation Visa

Senior Manager Ben Morgan and Manager Mariana Da Encarnacao outline Türkiye’s AMS visa and Greece’s Installation visa as streamlined immigration options aimed at attracting technical talent to support national innovation and economic growth.

Learn more

Media mentions

Construction Management: Immigration Reforms: What’s Next for Construction Employers?

Associate Ilaria Iovieno outlines how recent UK immigration reforms will impact construction employers and their ability to sponsor overseas talent.

Learn more

Media mentions

Grand Designs Magazine: How to Buy Your Dream Home Overseas

Director Isobel Neilson discusses how changes to golden visa programmes are affecting UK buyers pursuing overseas property investment.

Learn more

Media mentions

TechInformed: Global Talent, Local Growth: Immigration’s Role in the Tech Economy

Senior Associate Tayyaba Karim and Associates Aisha Shahid and Yinny Tan outline how UK immigration changes affect tech talent access and business alignment.

Learn more

Media mentions

The New York Times: Hoping to Visit the U.S.? It Might Cost You an Extra $250.

Partner Parisa Karaahmet is quoted on a new country-specific, $250 "visa integrity fee" introduced by the current US administration as part of a domestic policy bill.

Learn more

Media mentions

New Civil Engineer: The immigration white paper and the government’s Industrial Strategy – how do they compare?

Paralegal Sean Pearce discusses the UK government's immigration White Paper in the context of its Industrial Strategy, noting the importance of overseas talent in meeting infrastructure and housing goals.

Learn more

Video

Update on U.S. Tariffs | #MobilityMinute

In this Mobility Minute, Partner Christian Dallman shares an update on US tariffs as the August 1 deadline for trade negotiations approaches.

Learn more

Media mentions

Saudi Gazette: Saudi Arabia’s Skill-Based Work Permit System Reshapes Expat Employment Landscape

Partner Haider Hussain discussed how Saudi Arabia’s new skill-based work permit system is reshaping employer compliance and recruitment strategies.

Learn more

Podcast

Visa Policy Changes in Nigeria

Director Caroline Kanzara-Obinwa and Manager Tarissa Wareley are joined by Bloomfield Law Practice's Kunle Obebe and Peace Lotechukwu to discuss Nigeria's 2025 visa policy reforms.

Learn more

Media mentions

Windpower Monthly: Wind Industry’s Chronic Skills Shortage Exacerbated by Tough Immigration Rules

Associate Yinny Tan outlines how proposed UK immigration changes may affect workforce planning and talent access in the wind industry.

Learn more

Blog post

UK Creative Industries & Immigration: What the 2025 Policy Changes Mean

Senior Manager Sean Rhodes, Associate Jennifer Gray and Paralegal Mariel Arquero outlines how the United Kingdom's 2025 immigration policy changes will impact the creative industries.

Learn more

Media mentions

AAML: Navigating U.S. Passport Applications for Minors Under 16: A Guide for Family Law Attorneys

Senior Associate Carolyn Alvarez outlines US passport rules for minors to guide family law attorneys on immigration requirements.

Learn more

Blog post

Fast-track Visa Options for Technical Workers: Türkiye’s AMS Visa and Greece’s Installation Visa

Senior Manager Ben Morgan and Manager Mariana Da Encarnacao outline Türkiye’s AMS visa and Greece’s Installation visa as streamlined immigration options aimed at attracting technical talent to support national innovation and economic growth.

Learn more

Stay in touch

Subscribe to receive our latest immigration alerts

Subscribe

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Have a question?

Contact Us
  • LinkedIn
  • Youtube
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

© 2025 Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP, Fragomen Global LLP and affiliates. All Rights Reserved.

Please note that the content made available on this site is not intended for visitors / customers located in the province of Quebec, and the information provided is not applicable to the Quebec market. To access relevant information that applies to the Quebec market, please click here.