Country Update 2026: UNITED KINGDOM

Contributed by: Kingsley Napley

May 2026

1. Legislative Changes

Earned settlement

In May 2025 the government published proposals to reduce net migration. The biggest proposed change was “earned settlement”. This involves increasing the standard qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain (permanent residence) from 5 years to 10 years.

The new 10-year qualifying period will be reduced or increased depending on the applicant’s circumstances. The intention is to apply the rules not just to new applicants but also to existing visa holders, in the hope that many will leave the UK.

A public consultation closed in February 2026. Around 130,000 people responded. New rules were expected in April 2026 but have been postponed to the autumn. There has been a lot of resistance to the proposals from Labour MPs. Some of the proposals may be watered down.

Digital border

Last year a rule was introduced requiring non-visa national visitors to get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before boarding a plane (or train or ferry) to the UK. This has been strictly enforced since 25 February 2026. Almost everyone travelling to the UK who does not have a British or Irish passport needs either an electronic visa (eVisa) or an ETA.

2. Business Immigration

Minimum skill level

In July 2025 the minimum skill level for a Skilled Worker visa was increased to higher-skilled occupations (roughly speaking, occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree). There is a temporary shortage list of medium-skilled occupations which can still be sponsored – this list will be reviewed at the end of 2026.

Visa fees

In December 2025 the Immigration Skills Charge (one of the fees for a work visa which employers have to pay) was increased by 32%. The government fees for a 5-year Skilled Worker visa come to a total of nearly £15,000.

English language

In January 2026 the English language requirement for a Skilled Worker visa was increased from level B1 to B2.

Entrepreneurs and investors

There are still no effective visa routes for entrepreneurs or investors. Unless you work in tech, getting a visa to set up a business in the UK is extremely difficult.

3. Family based immigration

The minimum income requirement for a partner/spouse visa is £29,000 per year. It was due to rise to £38,700 per year but this has been paused on the advice of the government’s Migration Advisory Committee.   

4. Asylum

Family reunion

In September 2025 the refugee family reunion route was closed to new applicants. Family members of refugees now have to apply under the standard family visa route, which includes the minimum income requirement and an English language requirement.

Temporary refugee status

On 2 March 2026 the government announced that refugee status would be temporary for anyone claiming asylum from that date. Their status is subject to review every 30 months. If their country is deemed safe they will be expected to return.

5. Deportation

No changes.

7. Citizenship

No changes – yet.