UK Government Unveils Major Immigration Rule Changes Affecting Work and Graduate Routes

New Immigration Rules Published

The UK government officially published a new Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules on October 14, 2025. These significant updates, formally known as Statement of Changes HC 1333, introduce stricter requirements for several visa categories, impacting both skilled workers and international graduates. The changes are part of broader proposals outlined in the government's White Paper, 'Restoring Control over the Immigration System', published on May 12, 2025.

Stricter English Language Requirements for Work Visas

A key change involves an increase in the English language proficiency required for certain work pathways. From January 8, 2026, applicants for the Skilled Worker, Scale-up, and High Potential Individual (HPI) routes will need to demonstrate an English language level of B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This is a notable increase from the previous B1 level, with B2 being described as equivalent to A-level English, compared to B1's GCSE standard. This adjustment aims to ensure that individuals seeking to build their lives in the UK are better able to integrate. Existing visa holders who have already proven B1 level proficiency will continue to be subject to the B1 requirement when extending their permission on the same route. Dependants of these work visa holders are not currently affected by this change, though future amendments may introduce language requirements for them.

Graduate Route Duration Reduced

The duration of the popular Graduate Route visa is set to be reduced for most international students. For applications submitted on or after January 1, 2027, the post-study work period will decrease from two years to 18 months for those who have completed a bachelor's or master's degree. PhD graduates, however, will continue to be eligible for a three-year period of leave. This change, which was first announced in the May 2025 White Paper, is intended to ensure that graduates remaining in the UK transition into graduate-level employment and contribute effectively to the UK economy. The Home Office indicated that data showed 'too many graduates are not progressing into graduate-level employment which the Graduate route was created to facilitate access to'.

Immigration Skills Charge Set to Increase

Employers sponsoring overseas workers will face a substantial increase in the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC). The charge is expected to rise by 32%. While the exact implementation date is yet to be confirmed, it is anticipated in mid-December 2025 or 'likely in 2026'. The current annual ISC rates are £1,000 for large sponsors and £364 for small or charitable sponsors. Under the new rates, these will increase to £1,320 and £480 respectively. The ISC is a mandatory fee paid by UK employers for each skilled worker they sponsor and cannot be passed on to the sponsored employee. The government's rationale behind this increase is to deter unnecessary recruitment of overseas employees and to generate funds for improving the UK's education system and the skills of its domestic workforce.