By Abiola Olawale
The United Kingdom is set to hold discussions with Nigeria following the release of its Immigration White Paper on May 12, 2025, which introduces stringent measures that might potentially affect Nigerian travellers, students, and workers, among others.
The New Diplomat reports that the UK’s Immigration White Paper outlines sweeping reforms to curb legal migration, with specific implications for Nigerians, who form a significant portion of the UK’s migrant community.
Among the revisions are an end to the social care work visa, a longer settlement route for migrants, a shorter time limit for the graduate visa route, and mandatory English tests for dependants.
Giving updates on the development, the British High Commission in Nigeria said it will work with relevant Federal agencies on the White paper’s implementation details.
The statement reads in part: “The UK enjoys strong, long-standing people-to-people links with Nigeria. We are proud that the UK is still considered a top destination for Nigerians to work, study, visit and settle – and value the contribution this brings to the UK.
“The UK White Paper sets out reforms to legal migration, including restoring order, control and fairness to the system, bringing down net migration and promoting economic growth.
“Changes to the system will happen over some time, and we will engage with relevant partners in the Federal Government of Nigeria once more information about implementation details are available.
“We have a proud tradition as an outward-looking nation, investing and trading abroad and welcoming the creativity, ideas and diversity of those who come to contribute here.”
