The UK government has unveiled a new set of immigration reforms designed to reduce net migration, boost productivity, and attract top international talent across key sectors including research, design, and the creative industries.
Announced on 14 October 2025, the latest changes align with the Immigration White Paper introduced earlier this year. Further updates to high-skilled routes, including the Global Talent visa, are expected in 2026.
From 4 November 2025, eligibility for the High Potential Individual visa will expand to include graduates from international universities ranked within the top 100 globally. However, the number of applications will be capped at 8,000 per year. The reform supports the UK’s goal of attracting the world’s brightest and most promising talent.
Starting 11 November 2025, the Global Talent visa will see an expanded list of recognised prizes and new evidential requirements for architects, reflecting the UK’s continued commitment to rewarding excellence and innovation.
From 25 November 2025, international students who have completed their studies will be able to establish their businesses in the UK by transitioning directly from the Student visa to the Innovator Founder route, streamlining the process for entrepreneurial graduates.
From 1 January 2027, the standard Graduate visa will be shortened from two years to 18 months, although PhD graduates will retain the existing three-year validity.
Effective 8 January 2026, the English language requirement for Skilled Worker, HPI, and Scale Up visa applicants will increase from level B1 to B2. Those already on these routes will continue to meet the B1 requirement when applying for extensions.
From 11 November 2025, the government will apply higher standards to good character assessments for applicants under the family and private life routes.
As of 14 October 2025, nationals of Botswana must obtain a visit visa before travelling to the UK, replacing the previous Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) eligibility. From 11 November 2025, Palestine will be added to the visa national list, requiring Palestinian nationals to apply for a visa prior to travel.
From 11 November 2025, German students under 19 can enter the UK without a visa or ETA if part of a verified school group of five or more. Additionally, EU, EEA, and Swiss students aged 19 and under will be permitted to travel using their national ID cards instead of passports.
Amendments to Appendix Child Student include clarifying the definition of a ‘nominated guardian’ (limited to less than 28 continuous days) and introducing a ‘guardianship organisation’ definition, with improved safety and vetting procedures for co-residents and guardians.
In December 2025, the Immigration Skills Charge for sponsoring employers will rise by 32 percent. The annual fee for large sponsors will increase from £1,000 to £1,320, while small sponsors will see a rise from £364 to £480.
Employers sponsoring short-term work (under six months), certain occupations such as scientists and researchers, or EU nationals under the Global Business Mobility route may be exempt.
The Home Office has also announced a forthcoming consultation on earned settlement and citizenship pathways, as well as a six-week public consultation on expanding right-to-work checks to new employment arrangements. The next phase of the UK’s eVisa transition will include dependents and non-work or study visa routes.
These sweeping reforms mark one of the most significant updates to the UK immigration system in recent years, as the government seeks to balance economic growth with tighter migration controls.
