If you are in the UK on a Skilled Worker or Health and Care Worker visa (sponsored by an employer with a Certificate of Sponsorship), several Immigration Rules changes this year may affect you or your family. Here is a short summary of what has changed and what is coming.
This is general information, not legal advice. Rules can change, and every case is different. For advice on your own situation, speak to a regulated immigration adviser or solicitor.
Higher English level for new Skilled Worker applications
Since 8 January 2026, people applying for a Skilled Worker visa need to show English at level B2 (upper intermediate) in reading, writing, speaking and listening. It was previously B1.
If you already had a Skilled Worker visa before 8 January 2026 and you are extending or updating it, you still need level B1.
Higher English standard for settlement, from March 2027
The government has announced that most people applying for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) will need to meet a higher English standard, equivalent to A-level rather than GCSE level. This takes effect in March 2027. The Home Office estimates it takes around 200 hours of learning to move up a level, so if you plan to settle, it is worth starting early.
New protections from 8 October 2026
From 8 October 2026:
- Modern slavery: Skilled Workers who are confirmed victims of modern slavery will be able to work for any employer for the rest of their permission, instead of only in their sponsored job.
- Domestic abuse: the settlement route for victims of domestic abuse will also cover adult dependent children whose relationship with their visa sponsor broke down because of domestic abuse.
Planned changes to settlement
The government has also announced plans to double the standard qualifying period for settlement to 10 years for most people, with reductions for those who meet certain conditions. Check the latest GOV.UK guidance before making plans, as details may change.
How Dinas can help
We run sessions on recent immigration changes for sponsored workers. See What’s On for the next one, or contact us. If you, or someone you know, is being exploited at work or experiencing abuse, you can talk to us in confidence.
Sources: GOV.UK, Skilled Worker visa: knowledge of English; Higher standard of English now required to settle in the UK (5 March 2026); Statement of changes HC 584 (3 September 2026).