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      On 14 October 2025, the U.K. government set out further changes to the Immigration Rules by way of a Statement of Changes, which will increase the level of English required for work routes as well as amend several visa routes aimed at economic migrants and international students. These measures are part of the government’s Immigration White Paper and “Plan for Change,” aimed at reforming the U.K’s immigration system.

      WHY THIS MATTERS

      The measures will directly affect global mobility programs, international recruitment, and the compliance obligations of organizations sponsoring foreign workers.

      Skilled migrants will be subject to tougher English language standards and reduced periods for post-study work. Employers will also face increased costs associated with their mobility programmes.

      Context

      Under the current rules, Skilled Worker visa applicants are required to meet the CEFR B1 English standard, and graduates can remain in the United Kingdom for two years post-study (with longer stays for PhD holders). This will change from 8 January 2026. Under the previous rules, Botswana nationals could enter as visitors without prior approval, and the list of eligible institutions for High Potential Individual (HPI) Route was shorter. The Statement of Changes revises these practices to align with the government’s objectives for a controlled and skills-focused migration system.

      Key Highlights

      The U.K. government’s Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules introduced several substantial changes: 

      English Language & Financial Requirements

      • Migrants applying from 8 January 2026 through economic migration routes, including the Skilled Worker route, must meet a higher level of English Language proficiency (B2 Level under CEFR) in all four components. Those who already have permission in a route where they were required to meet B1 level will not need to meet the higher level if seeking an extension in the same route.

      • International students will need to demonstrate a higher level of funds available for maintenance to qualify for a student visa.

      Changes to Work & Post-Study Routes

      • From 1 January 2027, the post-study stay for international graduates will be reduced to 18 months, down from two years, this will limit time for transition into graduate-level roles.

      • The Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) paid by employers sponsoring skilled foreign workers will increase by 32 percent, with the additional revenue aimed at supporting U.K. workforce training.

      Visa Route Expansions & Enhancements

      • From 4 November 2025, the High Potential Individual (HPI) route has been expanded to include graduates from the world’s top 100 universities, with a cap of 8,000 applications annually.

      • International entrepreneurs and graduates will find it easier to transition to the Innovator Founder route. The Global Talent route will also broaden eligibility for architects and creatives.

      New Visa Requirement

      As of 14 October 2025, nationals of Botswana are now required to obtain a visa before travelling to visit the U.K. Individuals who obtained an Electronic Travel Authorisation prior to 14 October 2025 will be allowed to enter the UK without a visa until 25 November 2025. 

      KPMG LLP (U.K.) INSIGHTS

      Steps to Consider

      In light of the upcoming changes, organisations, entities, and individuals within the scope of the policy reform may wish to consider the following:

      • Organizations may wish to review their sponsorship budgets and recruitment pipelines to account for higher ISC costs and the higher English language standard.

      • Employers may need to update internal processes and communication to support affected staff and applicants.

      • International students and potential migrants should be advised of shorter post-study employment periods and higher financial requirements.
      FOOTNOTE:

      1  See GOV.UK website, “Migrants will be required to pass A Level standard of English,” published on 14 October 2025.

      2  See GOV.UK website, “Statement of changes to the Immigration Rules: HC 1333, 14 October 2025 - GOV.UK.”

      Contacts

      Kelly Whiter
      Kelly Whiter

      Partner

      KPMG in the UK

      Alina Fosh
      Alina Fosh

      Senior Manager

      KPMG in the UK

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      * Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.

      The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in the United Kingdom.

      GMS Flash Alert is a Global Mobility Services publication of the KPMG LLP Washington National Tax practice. The KPMG name and logo are trademarks used under license by the independent member firms of the KPMG global organization. KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee and does not provide services to clients. No member firm has any authority to obligate or bind KPMG International or any other member firm vis-à-vis third parties, nor does KPMG International have any such authority to obligate or bind any member firm. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act on such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

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