The UK is implementing the most extensive immigration reforms in years through 2025–2026, reshaping settlement timelines, English language standards, student routes, and employer sponsorship duties. Below is a practical guide for individuals seeking immigration advice and for businesses that sponsor workers, grounded in authoritative sources.
1) “Earned Settlement”: Longer Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain
What’s changing:
The government is moving from a largely 5‑year ILR route to a 10‑year standard for most categories, embedding an “earned settlement” model. Public reporting indicates some groups could qualify faster or slower depending on contribution and benefit use, with waits potentially stretching to 15–20 years in certain circumstances (e.g., extended reliance on public funds).
Why this matters:
Longer settlement horizons affect career planning, family stability and long‑term compliance. Employers should anticipate longer sponsorship arcs and better retention strategies to maintain skilled talent.
2) English Language Tightened to B2 from 8 January 2026
Headline rule:
From 8 January 2026, first‑time applicants under major work routes (e.g., Skilled Worker, Scale‑up) must demonstrate B2 English (upper‑intermediate / A‑level equivalent). Existing visa holders extending in‑country are generally not subject to the higher threshold.
- Official guidance update: GOV.UK – Sponsor a Skilled Worker (changes section SK3.4).
Employer actions:
Verify language evidence (approved tests, degree taught in English verified by ECCTIS, or nationality exemptions) before assigning Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS). Update recruitment packs and compliance SOPs.
3) Skilled Worker Route: Higher Skills & Salaries
Skill level:
Eligibility has shifted back towards RQF 6 (degree‑level) roles, with many medium‑skilled occupations removed from sponsorship lists in 2025 and carried forward into 2026 realities.
Salary floors:
Across SOC codes, “going rates” rose, and the general minimum increased (e.g., £41,700 for new Skilled Worker applications highlighted in 2025 changes). Transitional protections may apply for workers sponsored before 22 July 2025, but sponsors must check the specific appendix rates for renewals.
Sponsorship costs:
The Immigration Skills Charge rose in late 2025, so budgeting for higher per‑head costs is now essential.
4) Student & Graduate Route: Funding, Dependants, Duration
Financial requirements:
UKVI has increased the required monthly maintenance. For January 2026 intakes, guidance commonly cites ~£1,529/month in London and £1,136–£1,171/month outside London (held for 28 days). Always cross‑check the current amounts on GOV.UK before applying.
Dependants:
Dependants are now largely restricted to PhD/government‑funded research students; most taught master’s cohorts cannot bring family.
Graduate Route duration:
For most new cohorts, the Graduate Route is due to reduce to 18 months from 1 January 2027; students completing before 31 December 2026 are expected to retain the 2‑year post‑study period (3 years for PhD).
5) Digital Travel & ETA: Mandatory Roll‑Out in 2026
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) becomes mandatory across more visa‑exempt nationalities through 2026, typically £16 per ETA, required before travel. Carriers may deny boarding without a valid ETA.
6) EU Settlement Scheme & Private Life: Targeted Flexibilities
EUSS residence counting:
For pre‑settled status holders, residence counting is now more flexible (e.g., any 30 months within the last five years, not necessarily consecutive) to qualify for settled status via automation or application.
Private & Family Life routes:
Adults who’ve lived half their lives in the UK and children with 7 years’ residence may reach settlement sooner under updated rules.
Action Plan: Individuals & Businesses
For Individuals
- Check route‑specific requirements (English B2, funding, dependants) before applying.
- Map your settlement timeline under the earned model; plan for 10 years unless your route
- Prepare for ETA if travelling visa‑free in 2026.
For Employers (Sponsor Licence Holders)
- Audit roles & SOC codes against RQF 6 and salary tables; stop using outdated codes.
- Embed B2 English checks into recruitment processes before CoS assignment.
- Budget for higher sponsorship costs (Immigration Skills Charge, salary uplifts); maintain clean compliance records to protect your licence.
FAQs (Quick Answers)
- Will all ILR routes be 10 years? Most work‑related routes are shifting to 10 years, with faster/slower tracks under consultation; family routes may retain 5 years in specific cases.
- Does B2 apply to extensions? The B2 requirement is for first‑time applications from 8 Jan 2026; extensions of existing status generally keep prior thresholds.
Do I need an ETA to visit the UK? Many visa‑exempt nationals will require ETA in 2026 and must apply pre‑travel.
Need tailored immigration advice or a compliance audit?
Whether you’re planning your UK visa, mapping settlement timelines, or running a Sponsor Licence, we can help you navigate 2026’s new rules with confidence.
👉 Book a consultation today to:
- Assess eligibility under the earned settlement model.
- Strengthen English and funding evidence for applications.
- Audit sponsor processes (SOC codes, salaries, CoS, record‑keeping).
Disclaimer: Immigration policy is dynamic. Always cross‑check the latest official rules on GOV.UK and consider specialist advice before making decisions.
Primary authoritative sources for this article: