We stand together for justice: A fair immigration system would reflect the UK’s true values
We believe the UK is an island of welcoming communities. As migrants, we are family, friends and neighbours. And we all agree the immigration system is broken. But immigration changes announced today will only sow more division and erode people’s rights.
👉 Making it more difficult for people to obtain settlement and citizenship will only lead to more people falling into precarious states. People are pushed into poverty, in many cases get into debt and fall victim to exploitation. If people can’t pay visa fees every few years, that’s when they become undocumented.
👉 Citizenship should be a personal choice which is not reserved to a privileged few. Being British should not be only for the wealthy and well off. Ignoring that people build their whole lives here and have deep community links will only alienate more and more people.
How changes may affect EU citizens
We don’t believe the white paper announcement on extending the route to settlement to 10 years will affect EU citizens with status under the EU Settlement Scheme. The UK cannot unilaterally change the rules set through the Withdrawal Agreement (WA). We are seeking clarity on this, but we think it is highly unlikely.
We also need more information on whether EU citizens with rights under the WA will only be able to apply for British citizenship after 10 years of residence.
The new rules will apply to EU citizens who are on other routes such as Skilled Worker visas, family migration routes, care worker visas - including those who want to come to the UK now.
Together, we belong
We stand in solidarity with all other migrants who will be harshly affected by these changes. A fair, compassionate and just immigration system protects migrants’ rights. Punishing people who have made a home in the UK, pushing families and children into poverty and exploitation is not a solution. We need to work together across our differences for an immigration system based on compassion, justice and fairness.
This statement is in response to the government's white paper on immigration released on 12th May 2025. It will be updated accordingly with more information once this is released.
If you want to stand up for a fair immigration system, please join our Mass Lobby on 19th May and have your voice heard.
