Major Immigration Rule Changes Affecting Skilled Workers and Graduates

On 14 October, the UK government released a Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules, introducing several updates across various visa routes, including the Skilled Worker route. These updates implement additional measures outlined in the government’s White Paper, published on 12 May 2025.

Key changes include:

·         Skilled Worker route: From 8 January 2026, applicants must meet a higher English language requirement (B2, up from B1).

·         Graduate visa: From 1 January 2027, the visa duration will be reduced from two years to 18 months for most applicants.

·         High Potential Individual (HPI) route: The route will expand to recognise more universities but will be subject to an annual cap of 8,000 places.

·         Visitor visas for Botswana nationals: From 14 October 2025, nationals of Botswana will need a visitor visa to enter the UK, with a six-week transition period.

·         Immigration Skills Charge (ISC): The ISC will rise by 32%, increasing the cost of sponsoring foreign workers for UK employers.

Increased English Language Requirement for Skilled Workers

From 8 January 2026, individuals applying under the Skilled Worker route will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency at level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), an increase from the current level B1. This higher level is broadly equivalent to A-level English, whereas B1 aligns more closely with GCSE standard.

Employers should ensure that this change is factored into recruitment and onboarding processes, as applicants may require additional time to meet the new requirement—particularly if further language testing is needed.

Notably, the Statement does not introduce an English language requirement for dependants applying for entry clearance or permission to remain as dependants of Skilled Workers. However, it is expected that such a requirement may be introduced in future updates to the Immigration Rules later this year.

This change will apply only to new applicants to the Skilled Worker route from 8 January 2026 onwards. It will not affect individuals already in the route as of that date when they apply to extend their permission.

Graduate Visa Route – Reduction in Length of Stay

From 1 January 2027, individuals applying under the Graduate visa route will be granted 18 months of leave, reduced from the current two-year period.

PhD graduates will remain eligible for three years of permission.

This change will apply to all applications submitted on or after 1 January 2027.

Expansion of the High Potential Individual (HPI) Route

The HPI route currently enables graduates from a list of 50 world-leading universities (as defined by the Home Office) to live and work in the UK for up to three years. The government plans to double the number of eligible institutions under this route but will introduce an annual cap of 8,000 places.

As other work visa routes become more restrictive, employers are encouraged to review applicants’ educational backgrounds to determine if the expanded HPI route may present a viable alternative.

The updated list of eligible universities is yet to be published.

Increase in the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC)

The Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) is a mandatory fee that UK employers must pay when sponsoring workers under specific visa routes, such as the Skilled Worker and Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker routes. This cost cannot be passed on to the sponsored worker and must be paid in full for the Certificate of Sponsorship to be valid.

We continue to monitor all immigration updates and proposed legal changes. If you believe you may be affected by a new policy, we’re happy to offer you a consultation to review your situation.

Contact us today for a case assessment:

📞 07523 281 911

📧 info@fcimm.co.uk

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