Key UK Immigration Updates for Employers – Stay Compliant in 2025

1. EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) Automation

From the end of January 2025, holders of pre-settled status will automatically transition to Settled Status, provided government-held records confirm continued UK residency and no evidence of criminal conduct.

The Home Office will prioritize individuals with accessible records, such as National Insurance contributions. Those without such records may still need to actively apply for Settled Status to ensure their continued right to remain in the UK.

Employer Consideration:

• Ensure affected employees are aware of this update.

• Encourage them to check their immigration status and update their records if necessary.

2. Increases in Visa and Travel Fees

Employers should prepare for the following significant fee increases, pending Parliamentary approval:

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Fees:

• Standard worker CoS: Increasing from £239 to £525.

• Temporary worker CoS: Increasing from £25 to £55.

Although no official implementation date has been set, the increase is imminent. Employers should review their records now and consider filing extension applications for skilled workers whose immigration leave might be expiring shortly.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Fees:

• Increasing from £10 to £16, effective January 8, 2025, for EU nationals.

• This 60% increase during early rollout may impact employers with frequent business travellers.

Employer Consideration:

• Assess upcoming visa renewals and travel plans to avoid increased costs.

3. Clawback Clauses and Sponsor Costs

The Home Office has clarified that sponsors are prohibited from passing the following costs to visa applicants, either directly or indirectly:

• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) fees

• Sponsor license application fees

• Associated costs, such as priority processing fees

Employers should review their clawback agreements to ensure these costs are excluded from repayment clauses for new hires from January 1, 2025, the date the new guidance came into effect.

Employer Consideration:

• Seek legal support to review or prepare compliant clawback agreements.

4. 24/7 eVisa Passenger Helpline

To support travellers from December 31, 2024, the Home Office has introduced a 24/7 eVisa passenger helpline to assist with any immigration-related travel issues.

Employees are advised to: 

• Carry their expired Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), even if they now have an eVisa.

• Keep the helpline number readily available in case of any issues when returning to the UK.

Helpline Numbers:

• UK: 0800 876 6921 (toll-free)

• International: +44 203 337 0927 (charges may apply)

Important Note: The helpline staff will not be able to resolve technical issues or liaise directly with airlines.