News
Keep up to date with the latest Immigration news.
government makes ‘Earned Settlement’ final plans announcement
On 2 November 2026, the Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, announced in Parliament the final plans for ‘Earned Settlement’. The government plans to publish specific legal changes to ILR in December 2026, with implementation throughout 2027. In summary, we know now that...
home secretary speaks on earned settlement, right to work changes come into force and changes made to sponsor management system
We listened with interest to the speech by the Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool for clues on the proposed ILR changes, known as Earned Settlement. She mentioned the need for fairness in the immigration system, but details...
major right to work changes coming soon, global talent visa expanded
Here's a reminder of the major changes to the Right to Work regime taking effect on 1 October 2026: Extended Liability – traditionally, RtW checks have only been required by employers on their workers where there is a direct contractual relationship. From 1 October...
What’s next for ‘Earned Settlement’ under new prime minister, updates to right to work guidance and new global talent design pathway launched
On Monday 20 July 2026, Andy Burnham was formally appointed the new UK Prime Minister. We now know that Shabana Mahmood will stay in post as Home Secretary, with her brief including immigration policy. Ms Mahmood was the principal driving force behind the...
Can I get priority service for work visa applications and what about ilr after 3 years if i’m higher earner?
Can I use UKVI priority services for work visa applications for the main applicant and their dependents? The answer depends on a number of factors, including whether the applicants are applying from inside or outside the UK. Inside the UK: Main applicant –...
Uncertainty over ‘earned settlement’ changes, more updates to sponsor licence guidance and brp cut off point approaches
The government’s proposed changes to the pathways to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR or permanent residence) have been thrown into doubt following political uncertainty within the government. It is not currently clear whether the proposed changes will be implemented...
changes to immigration rules announced and new global talent pathway trailed
On 5 March 2026, the government released a Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules. These changes will have a broad impact across a number of visa routes, with some coming in immediately and the rest being staggered between now and 2027. Here is a summary of...
‘earned settlement’ changes delayed and update to sponsor licence guidance
The government’s proposed changes to the pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR or permanent residence) have reportedly been pushed back from April 2026 to the ‘autumn’. We also note that there are a number of reports that there is significant discomfort within...
ETas now being enforced and UKVI updates EUSS status holders on important points
From 25 February 2026, anyone travelling to the UK as a Visitor who does not need a visa to enter the UK for short stays (non-visa nationals), will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The government introduced ETAs in October 2024 and rolled them out to...
Major ‘Earned Settlement’ Overhaul Hits Path To Indefinite Leave to Remain
Proposed changes to the way people obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR or permanent residence) in the UK represent a major shake-up to the pathway for almost all visa holders. The changes are set out in a recent UK government consultation and introduce an ‘earned...