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New visa rules for 2026: The UK immigration changes in the new year - EVENING STANDARD
New immigration rules are set to come into force in 2026, marking one of the most substantial overhauls of the system in years.
Under plans to reduce net migration there will be changes to visas, including significantly increasing English language requirements for foreign workers.
The measures, which build on those set out in the Government's immigration white paper in May, are designed to make it more difficult for some migrants to come to Britain.
Here are the changes set to take place in the new year:
Visas
English language requirements for some major work-related visas will increase.
From January 8, 2026, many migrants will need to speak English to an A-level standard under tougher new rules.
The change will impact graduates and those applying for skilled worker or scale-up visas, which are for those employed by fast-growing businesses.
To be approved, a person will have to demonstrate B2 level English, the equivalent to upper-intermediate or A-level standard, instead of the previous B1 level.
The new rule will apply only to new, first-time applicants. Existing visa holders extending their permission to stay in Britain will not face the higher requirement.
The measure was first announced by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood in October. She said: "If you come to this country, you must learn our language and play your part… It is unacceptable for migrants to come here without learning our language, unable to contribute to our national life."
Settled Status
At the centre of the Government’s immigration reforms is the introduction of a new “earned settlement” model, which will alter the way migrants qualify for permanent residency in Britain.
The Home Office earlier this year announced the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain will be extended from five to 10 years.
But some could be waiting for up to 20 years.
The measures will apply to the estimated 2.6 million people who have arrived in the UK since 2021. People who have already obtained settlement will not be affected.
Settlement or Indefinite Leave to Remain allows someone to live in the UK permanently, work and access public services without restrictions. It is also a key step towards gaining British citizenship.
Legal migrants who claim benefits for less than 12 months will have to wait 15 years for settled status, while those reliant on benefits for longer face a 20-year wait.
People who arrived on post-Brexit health and social care visas could also have to wait 15 years, up from five.
The changes are expected to come in from spring 2026, after a Government consultation ends in February.
