Major UK Immigration Changes in 2026: Higher English Requirements, Earned Settlement, and What It Means for Applicants

2026 has brought significant updates to the UK's immigration system, including a higher English language requirement (B2 level) for Skilled Worker and other routes effective from January 2026, stricter enforcement of Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), and proposals for an "earned settlement" system that could extend the standard wait for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from 5 to 10 years in many cases.

Key points:

• Increased salary thresholds and skill requirements for sponsored work visas

• Phasing out of physical visa vignettes in favour of eVisas

• Tighter rules on dependants and Graduate visa durations (reduced to 18 months in some cases)

• Potential impact on applicants from non-EEA countries, including those from Africa

These reforms aim to reduce net migration but create more complexity. At Kace Law Solicitors, our immigration specialists help clients navigate refusals, appeals, and new applications successfully. Contact us for personalised advice before these changes affect your status.