In May 2025, the UK Government published the Immigration White Paper titled “Restoring Control Over the Immigration System”, with the objective of reasserting control over the immigration process. Following the publication of the White Paper, a number of significant changes were implemented by the end of the year. Building on these developments, further reforms are expected to come into effect in 2026. Below is an overview of the key updates scheduled to be implemented by the UK Government in 2026.
UK Immigration Rules to be Take Place in 2026
Updating the Level of English Language Requirement – 8 January 2026
One of the key changes introduced at the start of 2026 is the increase in the English language requirement from B1 to B2 on the CEFR scale for the Skilled Worker and High Potential Individual (HPI) visa routes. This change came into effect on 8 January 2026 and requires new applicants to demonstrate a higher level of English language proficiency.
The updated requirement applies only to new applications. Individuals already in the UK on a Skilled Worker or HPI visa may extend their permission without needing to meet the B2 English language standard.
eVisas Replacing UK Visa Stickers- 12 January 2026
As part of the UK government’s digital transformation of the immigration system, eVisas will fully replace physical visa stickers in 2026, marking a significant change in how immigration status is issued and evidenced. From 12 January, most individuals granted a visit visa, along with certain other visa categories, have been informed that they will receive an eVisa in addition to a visa sticker, reflecting the transitional phase of the rollout. Importantly, most holders of a valid UK visa sticker issued before 12 January can already access their digital immigration status by creating or logging into a UKVI account, allowing them to view their eVisa online.
However, some individuals are not currently required to hold an eVisa, and UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has published guidance outlining these exceptions. Later in 2026, UK Visas and Immigration will cease issuing visa stickers entirely, meaning that all successful applicants will be granted immigration permission exclusively in digital form via an eVisa, reinforcing the move towards a fully digital, secure, and streamlined immigration system.
Enforcement of Electronic Travel Authorisation- 25 February 2026
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital entry requirement, similar to the United States’ ESTA and Canada’s eTA. It is not a visa but a mandatory online travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers visiting the UK for short-term purposes.
The UK government has confirmed that the ETA will become a mandatory requirement from 25 February 2025. Travellers from visa-exempt countries, including EU/EEA member states, the United States, Canada, Australia, and others, will be required to obtain an ETA before travelling to the UK. However, British and Irish citizens, holders of a valid UK visa, individuals with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and certain other exempt categories will not be subject to the ETA requirement.
Possible UK Immigration Rules in 2026-2027
Earned Settlement
The UK Government has proposed a significant reform to the settlement system through its consultation paper A Fairer Pathway to Settlement. The proposals would extend the standard qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from five to ten years and move eligibility away from a purely time-based model towards an assessment based on character, integration, contribution, and length of residence. Under the proposed framework, settlement timelines would become more personalised, offering accelerated routes for high earners, key public-sector workers, and individuals on innovation-focused visas.
Conversely, lower-paid workers, those reliant on public funds, and individuals with UK immigration rules breache could face substantially longer pathways, potentially extending to 20 or 30 years. Dependants may also be assessed independently, rather than qualifying automatically alongside the main applicant. These proposals do not yet have the force of law and remain subject to public consultation until 12 February 2026. Following this period, the Government will determine whether and how to legislate, with possible implementation from April 2026, marking a fundamental shift in how long-term residence in the UK may be attained.
Temporary Shortage List and Dependants
Possible changes to the UK’s Temporary Shortage List (TSL) and dependant rules in 2026 are closely tied to the Migration Advisory Committee’s (MAC) review and the government’s wider objective of controlling net migration. Introduced in July 2025, the TSL permits certain lower-skilled roles at RQF levels 3–5 to access the Skilled Worker route on a temporary basis and is currently scheduled to expire on 31 December 2026, unless extended or replaced.
During 2026, the MAC is expected to publish its final recommendations on whether specific occupations should remain on the list, be removed, or be subject to revised conditions, such as higher salary thresholds, enhanced English language requirements, or shortened visa durations. In parallel, the existing restriction preventing newly sponsored TSL workers from bringing dependants is expected to remain in force throughout 2026, with only limited transitional exceptions for current visa holders who had dependants prior to the rule change.
English Language Requirement for Adult Dependants
As of 2026, adult dependants on UK work routes, including partners and adult children of Skilled Worker and other sponsored visa holders, are not yet subject to a mandatory English language requirement under the UK Immigration Rules. While main applicants are required to meet a higher English language threshold of CEFR Level B2 for new work visa applications, dependants remain exempt at present.
However, the UK government has signalled its intention to introduce a staged English language requirement for adult dependants later in 2026, following proposals outlined in the May 2025 Immigration White Paper. Under the proposed framework, dependants would be required to demonstrate basic English at CEFR Level A1 at the initial application stage, progress to A2 at extension, and meet B2 level prior to settlement. These measures are intended to support integration objectives but will only take effect once formally incorporated into the UK Immigration Rules.
Shorter Duration for Graduate Visa (From 1 January 2027)
As of 2026, adult dependants on UK work routes, including partners and adult children of Skilled Worker and other sponsored visa holders, are not subject to a mandatory English language requirement under the UK Immigration Rules. While main applicants must meet a higher English language threshold of CEFR Level B2 for new work visa applications, dependants currently remain exempt.
However, the UK government has signalled its intention to introduce a phased English language requirement for adult dependants later in 2026, in line with proposals set out in the May 2025 Immigration White Paper. Under the proposed framework, dependants would be required to demonstrate basic English at CEFR Level A1 at the initial application stage, progress to A2 at the extension stage, and meet B2 level prior to settlement. These measures are intended to support integration objectives and will take effect only once formally incorporated into the UK Immigration Rules.
What Employers and Employees Need to Do?
In light of ongoing developments within the UK immigration system, both employers and migrant workers should take proactive steps to ensure continued compliance and strategic readiness.
For employers, it is essential to review workforce planning and sponsorship strategies in anticipation of higher compliance expectations and potential changes affecting settlement, English language requirements, and occupation eligibility. Sponsors should ensure that HR systems, right-to-work checks, and record-keeping processes are robust and fully aligned with current Home Office guidance. Ongoing monitoring of policy developments, particularly those relating to the Temporary Shortage List, dependant restrictions, and earned settlement proposals, will be critical to managing risk and minimising disruption to sponsored roles.
For employees and prospective applicants, early preparation is equally important. Individuals should assess how upcoming changes may affect their visa status, settlement timelines, and family arrangements, including future English language requirements for dependants. Where possible, applicants should plan extensions, settlement applications, or route switches well in advance and seek professional advice where uncertainty arises. Remaining informed and maintaining continuous compliance with immigration conditions will be key to navigating an increasingly structured and merit-based immigration system.
How can City Legal help?
In a period of sustained and far-reaching reform to the UK immigration system, obtaining clear, accurate, and strategic legal advice is essential. City Legal Solicitors, an SRA-regulated UK immigration law firm based in London, provides specialist guidance to individuals, families, and businesses navigating both current and forthcoming changes to the UK Immigration Rules.
Our team advises on the practical and legal implications of policy developments, including changes to work routes, settlement pathways, dependant requirements, and digital immigration status. We support clients with forward planning, compliance, and risk management, ensuring applications are prepared in line with the latest Home Office guidance while anticipating future reforms.
Through a combination of technical expertise and a proactive advisory approach, City Legal Solicitors helps clients make informed decisions, safeguard their immigration status, and adapt effectively to an evolving regulatory environment.
Conclusion
The United Kingdom’s immigration system is entering a period of heightened regulation and structural reform, with changes in 2026 and beyond reshaping work routes, settlement pathways, and compliance expectations. From increased English language requirements and the transition to digital immigration status to proposed earned settlement models and revised dependant rules, these developments require careful planning and informed decision-making. Employers and individuals who remain proactive, compliant, and well advised will be best placed to navigate this evolving landscape. As the system becomes increasingly structured and merit based, timely professional guidance will be essential to managing risk and achieving long-term immigration objectives in the UK.
