UK Immigration Rule Changes

1. High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa Expansion – from 4 November 2025

The HPI visa will now recognise graduates from the top 100 international universities, doubling the previous scope of eligible institutions. The annual cap for this visa is set at 8,000 applications.

Who benefits: International graduates seeking flexible post-study work routes in the UK..

2. Global Talent Visa Enhancements – from 11 November 2025

The Global Talent route continues to reward world-class professionals. Upcoming changes include an expanded “prestigious prizes” list and simplified evidence requirements for architects.

Impact: Streamlined recognition for highly skilled individuals and creative professionals.

3. Student Transition to Innovator Founder Visa – from 25 November 2025 

Students who complete their degree will be able to establish and run businesses in the UK while switching to the Innovator Founder route.

Impact: Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation among international graduates. 

4. Graduate Visa Reform – applies to applications from 1 January 2027

The Graduate route duration will reduce from two years to 18 months for most applicants, while PhD graduates will retain a three-year stay. The Home Office aims to encourage graduates to transition more quickly into employment-based routes.

Consider: Future graduates should plan ahead for timely sponsorship or alternative visa options.

5.  English Language Requirement Raised to Level B2 – from 8 January 2026 

Applicants for the Skilled Worker, HPI, and Scale-Up visas will need to demonstrate a B2 level of English proficiency. This higher standard will require some applicants to re-sit tests such as IELTS or SELT.

Employers should: Review recruitment criteria and timelines to avoid delays once the new threshold applies.

What’s Still on the Horizon

The Home Office has also flagged several changes expected later in 2025 and beyond:

• Immigration Skills Charge increase: Up by 32 per cent to encourage investment in UK workers.

• Earned Settlement and Citizenship consultation: Exploring a points-based settlement framework.

• Right-to-Work checks: Public consultation on expanding digital checks to more working arrangements.

• eVisa transition: Next phase to include dependants and non-work/study routes. 

Preparing for Change

Both employers and visa holders should review their current immigration plans in line with these timelines.

• Check language test validity and prepare for B2 standards.

• Align graduate recruitment cycles with the 18-month rule.

• Budget for higher Immigration Skills Charge rates.

• Ensure digital Right-to-Work systems are up to date.