Major UK visa changes in 2025, driven by the government’s “Restoring Control over the Immigration System” white paper, focus on reducing net migration and moving to a fully digital immigration status.

1. Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) Overhaul

• Qualifying Period Extension: The standard wait for settlement is proposed to increase from 5 to 10 years for many categories, including Skilled Worker visas.
• “Earned Settlement” Model: New rules proposed for 2026 will link settlement timing to salary. High earners (over £50,270) may qualify in 5 years, while others could wait significantly longer.
• Restricted Public Funds: Even after receiving settlement, migrants may face ongoing restrictions on accessing the welfare system, with full benefit rights potentially reserved for British citizens.

2. Skilled Worker & Work Visa Changes

• Job Eligibility: As of July 22, 2025, approximately 120 medium-skilled occupations were removed from the sponsorship list. Sponsorship is now primarily reserved for degree-level roles.
• Higher English Standards: Starting January 8, 2026, applicants for Skilled Worker and High Potential Individual visas must meet a B2 English level (an increase from the previous B1 requirement).
• Social Care: Recruitment of overseas social care workers was phased out in mid-2025.
• Increased Employer Costs: The Immigration Skills Charge for employers increased by 32% in late 2025, making sponsorship more expensive.

3. Student & Graduate Visa Updates

• Graduate Visa Reduction: For applications made on or after January 1, 2027, the Graduate visa duration will be reduced from 2 years to 18 months (though PhD graduates remain at 3 years).
• Increased Maintenance Funds: Since November 2025, the monthly financial requirement for students has increased to £1,529 for those in London and £1,136 for those outside London.

4. Digital Transition & Travel (eVisas & ETA)

• End of Physical Documents: The UK has moved to a digital-only “eVisa” system. Physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) have been phased out, and migrants must now view and prove their status through a digital UKVI account.
• Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): The ETA scheme is expanding to include EU and EEA nationals. By early 2026, all non-visa national visitors will require an advance digital authorization to travel to the UK.

5. Family & Spouse Visas

• Settlement Timing: Unlike work routes, the wait for settlement for partners of British citizens is expected to remain at 5 years.
• Salary Threshold: The minimum income requirement to sponsor a partner currently remains at £29,000.

How Sincere Immigration Can Help

In an era of shifting salary thresholds, digital eVisa transitions, and extended timelines for settlement, Sincere Immigration provides the expert oversight needed to navigate the UK’s increasingly complex immigration landscape. Their team simplifies these regulatory hurdles by offering tailored advice that aligns with the latest 2025 Home Office requirements, ensuring both individuals and corporate sponsors remain compliant. To help you get started with confidence, Sincere Immigration provides a free initial consultation and hands-on, practical support throughout the entire application management process, from document verification to the final submission.