Immigration Statement of Changes HC 1333 October 2025

immigration statement of changes

The Home Office has published Statement of Changes HC 1333, laid before Parliament on 14 October 2025. The update delivers a wide package of reforms under the government’s Plan for Change. For employers, the key measures are the higher English language requirement for key work visa routes, a shorter Graduate route and structural rule changes […]

Higher English Language Requirement for UK Work Visas

b1 english test

The Home Office has confirmed that the English language requirement for certain work visa routes will be increased to B2 (A-Level equivalent) standard of English from 1 January 2026. Alongside the language shift, the government also confirmed other tied measures in its latest Immigration Statement of Changes HC 1333, including the post-study stay period for […]

Stage 1 Report into Temporary Shortage List Published

temporary shortage list

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has published its Stage 1 report on the Temporary Shortage List (TSL). Stage 1 sets out the proposed framework for how the TSL should work and lists 82 RQF 3–5 occupations that the MAC believes are potentially crucial to the Industrial Strategy or critical infrastructure. These roles will move to […]

UK Digital ID Card: Impact on Right to Work Checks

Digital id card right to work right to rent

The UK Government has announced plans to introduce a national digital ID system with mandatory use for right to work checks, expected before the end of this Parliament. Although right to rent has not yet been confirmed as part of the mandatory rollout, ministers have indicated that tenancy checks are also under review. News of […]

Home Secretary Announces Tougher ILR Requirements

indefinite leave to remain

The Home Secretary has confirmed that the Government intends to tighten the rules for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). The key changes under consideration include tougher English language standards, a requirement for a clean criminal record and a greater emphasis on economic contribution such as proof of employment and payment of National Insurance. Ministers are […]

Entry/Exit System (EES) Guide for UK Travellers

ees entry/exit system

  Section A: What Is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?   The Entry/Exit System, commonly referred to as EES, is a new EU border management scheme that will replace the stamping of passports for travellers from outside the European Union and Schengen Area. Instead of relying on manual stamps, the system will electronically record when a […]

Govt Considers Reductions in UK Work Visa Fees

uk visa news

The Labour government is reported to be exploring a reduction in UK work visa fees. The news comes at a time when the United States has sharply increased H-1B visa charges, opening up an opportunity for the UK to present itself as a more competitive destination for global talent. The newly established Global Talent Taskforce […]

UK Immigration Statistics 2025

uk immigration statistics 2025

The Home Office has published the UK immigration statistics for the year ending June 2025. In broad terms, the UK saw a slowdown in new arrivals across most legal routes, particularly in work, study and family categories, but an increase in progression to settlement and citizenship. Sponsor licence numbers also reveal a marked change, with […]

UK Expansion Worker Sponsor Licence

uk expansion worker sponsor licence

  Section A: UK Expansion Worker Sponsor Licence Overview   If you are looking to expand your overseas business by establishing a branch or subsidiary in the UK, you may need a UK Expansion Worker sponsor licence. It’s a specific type of sponsor licence that allows overseas entities to sponsor a senior company representative under […]

Changes to Global Talent Application Process

uk visa news

The Global Talent route has undergone important procedural updates in August 2025, particularly for digital technology applicants. These changes follow a Home Office procurement process that confirmed Tech Nation as the endorsing body for the digital technology pathway for at least the next three years.   Key Changes to the Global Talent Visa   The […]