The United Kingdom’s High Commission to Kenya has issued a clarifying statement in response to rising concerns among Kenyans over newly announced immigration reforms by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
On Monday, Prime Minister Starmer unveiled an immigration white paper, signaling sweeping changes aimed at tightening the UK’s immigration system and ending what he termed “Britain’s open borders experiment.” Among the proposed reforms is the planned termination of the care worker visa route, a move that has sent ripples across countries like Kenya, where many citizens seek employment in the UK’s health and care sectors.
In a statement released Tuesday, the UK High Commission stressed that the proposed immigration changes are not targeting Kenya or any specific country. “These have not yet been implemented,” the statement noted, adding that claims of a UK-Kenya migration deal being terminated were “inaccurate – no such deal exists.”
The Commission reiterated that the immigration reforms are part of broader efforts to regain control of UK borders and reduce dependency on foreign labor across multiple sectors. “When the measures are introduced, these will tighten up visa rules for students and those looking to work in the UK, including increasing skills requirements,” it said, while promising to release further details in due course.
Additionally, the High Commission dismissed circulating reports about an imminent visit to Kenya by Prime Minister Starmer, calling them unfounded.
Key Reforms Proposed:
- Termination of Care Worker Visa Route: Aimed at reducing the UK’s reliance on foreign care workers.
- Extended Citizenship Timeline: Immigrants will need to live in the UK for 10 years instead of 5 to qualify for citizenship, unless they demonstrate significant economic or social contribution.
- Increased Immigration Skills Charge: Employers hiring skilled foreign workers will pay 32% more in fees.
- Reduced Post-Study Work Period: International students will now have 18 months to work after graduation, down from two years.
- Tougher English Language Requirements: Adult dependents must now demonstrate basic English skills to qualify for entry.
The potential rollback of the care worker visa pathway has sparked concern among thousands of Kenyans hoping to take advantage of job opportunities in the UK’s struggling care sector. Advocacy groups and recruitment agencies are urging the UK government to consider bilateral labor mobility frameworks that balance domestic labor needs with global workforce realities.
By Kelly Were
