United Kingdom Schedule for Immigration Rule Amendments

Key Points 

• The UK will roll out updates to multiple immigration procedures beginning 16 July 2025, affecting how applications are assessed and processed across several categories 

Immigration Rule Changes HC 836 

The United Kingdom (UK) released its implementation plan for the latest changes to the Immigration Rules outlined in Statement of Changes HC 836, dated 24 June 2025. Rather than listing specific rule references, the update impacts a broad set of immigration pathways and technical requirements. 

Beginning 16 July 2025, updated policies will take effect in areas including applications for family life visas, EU settlement and administrative processes such as document submission standards and eligibility checks. UK authorities now review and assess entry and stay permissions under updated operational procedures.

Further changes coming into force on 17 and 29 July 2025 will affect student-related procedures, electronic travel authorizations (ETAs) and criteria around long residence and private life-based routes. Importantly, any application submitted before the respective effective date will continue to be processed under the Immigration Rules that were in place at the time of submission. 

The UK government also reaffirmed its commitment to routinely reviewing these rules. Regulators will evaluate each affected provision to confirm it achieves its intended objectives and does not place unnecessary burdens on applicants or affiliated organizations.

Additional Highlights from HC 836: 

• EU Settlement Scheme: Pre-settled status holders can now qualify for settled status by spending 30 months in the UK within a 60-month period, offering more flexibility for those with overseas absences. 
• Private Life Route: Under updated criteria, children and young adults granted leave before June 2022 may now qualify for a five-year settlement. 
• Crown Dependencies: Time spent in Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man on equivalent immigration routes will count toward UK settlement. 
• Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): ETA requirements expand to include Creative Workers and certain travelers entering via Ireland. 
• English Language Evidence: Applicants may reuse Secure English Language Tests (SELTs) from previous applications and new documentation options are available for overseas degrees.