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Latest Immigration Changes and Updates (2024–2025)

The UK immigration system is undergoing significant reform, with a range of new rules and proposals affecting work, family, study, and settlement routes. Below is a summary of the most important changes and what they mean for applicants and sponsors.

Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain):
The standard qualifying period for most work and points-based routes will increase from 5 years to 10 years.

Some applicants may qualify sooner if they can demonstrate significant contributions to the UK economy or society (details to be confirmed).
Spouses/partners of British citizens and victims of domestic abuse will remain eligible for settlement after 5 years.
These changes are not yet in force and will be subject to consultation.
Citizenship:
The qualifying period for naturalisation is expected to increase in line with settlement changes, with possible fast-track options for high contributors.

Skill Level:
The minimum skill level for new Skilled Worker visas will rise from RQF Level 3 (A-level) to RQF Level 6 (graduate degree level).

Many roles previously eligible for sponsorship will no longer qualify unless listed on a new Temporary Shortage List.

Salary Thresholds:
The minimum salary for new Skilled Worker visas has increased to £38,700 (from £26,200), with higher “going rates” for many occupations.

Existing Skilled Workers and those applying to extend or settle before April 2030 are not affected by the new thresholds.

Immigration Skills Charge:
The annual charge paid by employers for each sponsored worker will increase by 32% (to £1,320 for large sponsors, £480 for small sponsors/charities).

Temporary Shortage List:
A new list will allow sponsorship for some roles below RQF 6, but with stricter controls and likely restrictions on bringing dependants.

Social Care Route:
The care worker visa route is closed to new overseas applicants. Existing care workers in the UK can extend or switch visas until 2028.

Main Applicants:
The minimum English language requirement for most work routes will rise from B1 to B2 (independent user level).

Dependants:
All adult dependants of workers and students must now meet a basic English requirement (A1), with progression to A2 for extensions and B2 for settlement.

Minimum Income Requirement:
The minimum income to sponsor a spouse/partner visa has increased from £18,600 to £29,000 (as of April 2024), with further rises planned (to around £38,700 by early 2025).

Transitional arrangements protect those already on the route before the change

Savings:
Savings above £16,000 can still be used to meet the income threshold.

Graduate Route:
The post-study work visa for graduates will be reduced from 2 years to 18 months.

Universities face tougher compliance rules and a possible levy on international student fees.

Student Sponsors:
Stricter requirements for institutions sponsoring international students, including higher course completion and enrolment rates.

Visa Fees:
Most visa application fees increased in April 2025. For example, ILR now costs £3,029 and naturalisation £1,605.

Visit Visas:
Trinidad and Tobago nationals now require a visa for all visits and transits.

EU Settlement Scheme:
Expired biometric residence cards (up to 18 months) can be used for EUSS applications.

Global Talent and High Potential Individual Routes:
Expanded eligibility and streamlined requirements to attract top talent.

Employer Duties:
Employers must not pass on sponsor licence, Certificate of Sponsorship, or Immigration Skills Charge fees to sponsored workers.

Non-compliance can result in licence revocation.

Border Security:
Rollout of eVisas and digital identity checks for all overseas citizens.

Many of these changes are at the proposal or consultation stage and will be phased in over the coming months and years.
Transitional arrangements are expected for those already in the UK under existing routes.
Further details will be published as new rules are finalised.

If you have questions about how these changes may affect your application or your business, please contact us for tailored advice. We monitor all developments and can help you plan ahead in this evolving immigration landscape.

How long does it take to get a Sponsor Licence?

Most sponsor licence applications are decided by the Home Office within 8 weeks of submission. Priority processing (for an additional fee) may be available, reducing the decision time to around 10 working days. Delays can occur if the Home Office requests further information or conducts a compliance visit.

What are the eligibility requirements for a Sponsor Licence?

To be eligible, your business must:

Be a genuine and legally operating organisation in the UK
Have appropriate HR and record-keeping systems in place
Appoint key personnel (Authorising Officer, Key Contact, Level 1 User)
Not have unspent criminal convictions for immigration offences or certain other crimes
Be able to offer genuine employment that meets the skill and salary requirements

What documents are needed for a Sponsor Licence application?

You will typically need to provide:

Proof of business registration (e.g., Companies House certificate)
Evidence of trading (e.g., bank statements, VAT registration, business rates bill)
Employer’s liability insurance certificate
Details of key personnel
Evidence of HR systems and processes

The exact documents required depend on your business type and sector. The Home Office provides a list of acceptable documents.

How long does it take to get a Skilled Worker Visa?

For applicants outside the UK, most Skilled Worker Visa applications are decided within 3 weeks after attending a biometrics appointment. For those applying from within the UK, the process usually takes up to 8 weeks. Priority and super priority services may be available for faster decisions.

What are the eligibility requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa?

Applicants must:

Have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence
Be issued a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) by the employer
Meet the minimum skill level (RQF Level 3 or above)
Meet the minimum salary threshold (usually £26,200 per year or the “going rate” for the role)
Meet the English language requirement
Have sufficient funds to support themselves (unless exempt)

What documents are needed for a Skilled Worker Visa application?

Applicants will usually need:

A valid passport or travel document
Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
Proof of English language ability (e.g., test certificate or degree taught in English)
Evidence of personal savings (if required)
Tuberculosis test results (for certain countries)
Criminal record certificate (for some roles)

Can dependants (family members) join a Skilled Worker in the UK?

Yes. Skilled Worker Visa holders can bring their spouse/partner and children under 18 as dependants. Each dependant must submit a separate application and meet the relevant requirements.

What happens if a Sponsor Licence is refused or revoked?

If your application is refused, you may be able to reapply after addressing the reasons for refusal. If your licence is revoked, you will lose the ability to sponsor workers, and existing sponsored employees may have their visas curtailed. It is important to maintain compliance and seek legal advice if issues arise.

Can a Skilled Worker switch employers or roles?

Yes, but the new employer must also hold a sponsor licence and issue a new Certificate of Sponsorship. A new visa application is required if changing employers or if the new role is in a different occupation code.

What support is available if my application is refused?

If your application is refused, you may be able to request an administrative review or submit a fresh application, depending on the reasons for refusal. Legal advice can help you understand your options and improve your chances of success.

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