--- title: "UK Immigration Rules Update: Key Changes Affecting Families" description: The Home Office Statement of Changes (HC 1691) introduces updates affecting settlement English requirements, suitability rules and children joining family members in the UK. image: https://www.paragonlaw.co.uk/hubfs/UK%20Immigration%20Rules%20Update%20Key%20Changes%20Affecting%20Families%20(1).png --- ![UK Immigration Rules Statement of Changes document on desk with UK flag background](https://www.paragonlaw.co.uk/hubfs/UK%20Immigration%20Rules%20Update%20Key%20Changes%20Affecting%20Families%20(1).png) # UK Immigration Rules Update: Key Changes Affecting Families The Home Office Statement of Changes (HC 1691) introduces updates affecting settlement English requirements, suitability rules and children joining family members in the UK. [![](https://www.paragonlaw.co.uk/hubfs/EO-1.webp) Emma Okenyi ](https://www.paragonlaw.co.uk/resources/author/emma-okenyi) ![white clock icon](https://www.paragonlaw.co.uk/hubfs/Website%20Icons/clock-white.svg) 2 min read On 5 March 2026, the Home Office published a new Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules (HC 1691), introducing several amendments that will take effect during 2026 and beyond. While many of the changes focus on asylum and work routes, several developments may also affect individuals and families applying for visas or settlement in the United Kingdom. The Statement of Changes (HC 1691) also introduces several technical amendments affecting family immigration provisions.  Below are some of the key updates that may be relevant for those on family and personal immigration routes. --- ## Higher English Language Requirement for UK Settlement (B2 from 2027) One of the most notable developments is a planned increase to the English language requirement for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain). Currently, most applicants must demonstrate English language ability at **B1 level** on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). From **26 March 2027**, the English language requirement will increase to **B2 level** for several immigration routes. Although the rule change appears primarily within provisions governing work routes, it may affect many individuals who later apply for settlement after living in the UK for several years. This could include those with family members in the UK or individuals who later move into family-based routes. For individuals planning long-term residence in the UK, it will be important to consider how this higher English language threshold may affect future settlement applications. --- ## Changes to Immigration Suitability Provisions The Immigration Rules relating to suitability and criminality have also been clarified. The Home Office has expanded these provisions so that **suspended custodial sentences can now be considered alongside custodial sentences** when assessing whether an applicant meets the suitability requirements. This means that certain criminal convictions, even where a sentence has been suspended, may have implications for immigration applications. Applicants with any criminal history should therefore seek legal advice before submitting an immigration application. --- ## Changes to Rules for Children Joining Family Members in the UK The Statement of Changes also includes amendments to the rules governing children applying to join family members in the United Kingdom. In certain provisions of the Immigration Rules, the wording has been changed from **“relative”** to **“close relative.”** This change may lead to greater scrutiny in cases where a child is applying to join someone in the UK who is not their parent. Applications in these circumstances often rely on demonstrating **serious and compelling family considerations**, and applicants may need to provide detailed evidence explaining why the child should be permitted to join their family member in the UK. --- ## Changes to Qualification Recognition and English Language Assessments The Immigration Rules have also been updated to replace references to **Ecctis** with the broader term **“qualification and language assessments provider.”** Ecctis is the organisation previously used by the Home Office to assess overseas qualifications and confirm whether a degree taught in English meets immigration English language requirements. Many visa applicants have relied on Ecctis certificates to demonstrate that their degree is equivalent to a UK qualification and that the course was taught in English. The new wording reflects the Home Office’s approach of referring more generally to whichever approved provider is contracted to assess overseas qualifications and English language ability. In most cases, this change is administrative and is unlikely to significantly alter the evidence required for applications.   --- ## What These Immigration Rule Changes Mean for Families ![](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7) Although many of these changes are technical in nature, they highlight the importance of long-term immigration planning, particularly for individuals and families who intend to settle in the United Kingdom. If you are currently on a family visa, planning to apply for settlement, or considering bringing family members to the UK, it is important to understand how changes to the Immigration Rules may affect your options. At Paragon Law, our Personal and Family Immigration team regularly advises on partner visas, parent visas, settlement applications and complex family immigration matters. 📩 If you would like advice on your circumstances, [please contact our team](https://www.paragonlaw.co.uk/contact-us).   [![Contact Us](https://hubspot-no-cache-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/25043466/8da6cca2-5e21-4626-bb9f-7b0f7ffc8998.png)](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/25043466/8da6cca2-5e21-4626-bb9f-7b0f7ffc8998)     🛑 *The law applicable in this article is correct as of 5 March 2026. Immigration rules frequently change, and the information here may not reflect the latest legal position. For advice tailored to your specific circumstances, please contact us to arrange a consultation with our legal team.* Share this article ## Subscribe for updates ![Question marks in bubbles-1](https://www.paragonlaw.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Question%20marks%20in%20bubbles-1.webp?width=400&height=300&name=Question%20marks%20in%20bubbles-1.webp) ### Got a question about the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)? If you would like to know more about the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), then get in touch with us today to speak to an expert immigration lawyer. 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