New Rules in UK Immigration Law
June 16, 2026
The HC 1691 Statement of Changes, published on 5 March 2026, has been laid before Parliament as part of the UK Immigration Rules.
This package of changes demonstrates a clear trend towards higher thresholds, stricter processes, and more detailed regulation across a number of immigration routes.
Below, we examine the main changes and their practical implications.
One of the notable areas affected by the HC 1691 changes is the Global Talent visa route.
The changes reveal two key developments:
Academic and research-based applications have long been possible under the Global Talent route. However, under the previous system, the nature and scope of the research role were sometimes described in more general terms. Following this change, it may no longer be sufficient simply to demonstrate an academic background; applicants will also need to show clearly that the role itself is focused on producing research.
One of the most significant developments within the Global Talent route is the introduction of a new endorsement category for the design industry. Under the previous system, design could in some cases be assessed under broader arts or creative sector categories. However, under HC 1691, the design sector has now been recognised as a separate field.
The English language requirement for settlement has been increased across a number of immigration routes. Under the previous system, B1 level English was sufficient. Under the new system, this has been increased to B2 level.
This change affects the following routes:
The term "relative" used in the previous rules has been replaced with "close relative". While "relative" could be interpreted broadly, "close relative" creates a narrower family relationship framework.
In practical terms, this change narrows the scope of family reunion provisions.
The changes made to the suitability provisions are particularly significant. Not only custodial sentences, but also suspended sentences, will now be expressly taken into account when assessing suitability.
This change expands the range of circumstances that may give rise to refusal.
One of the most notable changes is the reduction in the length of protection leave.
Under the previous system, individuals granted refugee status or humanitarian protection would normally receive at least 5 years' permission to stay.
Under the new system, applications made after 2 March 2026 will generally receive 30 months (2.5 years) permission.
This change will apply equally to both refugee status and humanitarian protection. As a result, individuals granted protection status will face more frequent reassessment of their circumstances.
A new assessment mechanism is being introduced for settlement applications made by individuals holding protection status.
Under the new rule, when applying for settlement, it may be reassessed whether it is now safe for the individual to return to their country of origin.
This assessment is known as a safe return review. While the previous system focused more on general eligibility requirements, the new system will involve a case-by-case assessment.
The right to work for asylum seekers has also been revised.
Under the new system, permission to work will only be granted where:
This change significantly restricts access to employment.
A new rule has been introduced within the Student route. Nationals of the following countries will not be able to apply for entry clearance under the Student visa route:
Salary compliance requirements under the Skilled Worker route have also been revised.
The previous system focused primarily on annual salary levels. The new system requires compliance during each individual pay period. The following factors will now be assessed:
This change creates a significantly stricter compliance regime for sponsors.
One of the clearest changes is the complete removal of the Transit Without Visa Scheme.
Under the previous system, certain passengers could transit through the UK without requiring a visa. The relevant appendix has now been removed entirely.
The visitor route has also been amended for two countries:
These countries have now been removed from the ETA system. Instead, they have been added to the visa national list. This means that nationals of these countries will now require a visa to visit the United Kingdom.
Overall, HC 1691 represents a comprehensive package of reforms aimed at creating a more controlled, more measurable, and more compliance-focused immigration system.
IAA Immigration Advisor
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Lex Legal Limited is an international legal consultancy firm that located in the heart of London. Our areas of expertise and services include legal advice globally as well as immigration consultancy.
Our partner of legal professionals offer considered and comprehensive advice to make an informed decision. We resolve all complex immigration issues and Golden visa programs and work with clients from the initial stages throughout the process which could take up to three months.
Meridien House
42 Upper Berkeley Street
W1H 5PW
London, England
+44 7739 699 968
+44 20 3988 0575
contact@lexlegal.com