On 14 October 2025, the Home Office has published Statement of Changes HC 1333, introducing a wide-ranging package of immigration reforms under the Government’s Plan for Change. These amendments affect several key visa routes, English language requirements and the Graduate route stay period. Employers and migrants alike should prepare for a staged implementation over the coming months.
Higher English Language Requirements for Work Routes
From 8 January 2026, applicants to the Skilled Worker, High Potential Individual and Scale-up visa routes will face a higher English language requirement. The minimum proficiency level will rise from B1 to B2 under the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Applicants must demonstrate A-level equivalent English proficiency in all four components: speaking, listening, reading and writing. This must be proven through a Secure English Language Test from a Home Office-approved provider.
This higher threshold applies only to new applicants from the date of implementation. Individuals extending their stay on the same route will remain subject to the existing B1 level requirement.
Announcing the change, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasised the importance of language integration: “It is unacceptable for migrants to come here without learning our language, unable to contribute to our national life. If you come to this country, you must learn our language and play your part.”
Expansion of the High Potential Individual Route
The High Potential Individual (HPI) route will undergo significant reform, including a doubling of eligible global institutions, subject to exclusions where necessary to protect UK national security or foreign policy interests.
A cap of 8,000 applications per year will also be introduced. This change fulfils the commitments made in the Immigration White Paper published in May 2025.
It ensures the route remains targeted and sustainable. The reform also aims to attract exceptional international talent.
Graduate Route Stay Period Reduced to 18 Months
The Government has confirmed its plan to reduce the duration of stay under the Graduate route from two years to 18 months. This change will apply to applications submitted on or after 1 January 2027.
PhD graduates will continue to receive three years of leave.
The adjustment follows evidence that many graduates remaining in the UK are not progressing into graduate-level employment. UK Home Office has stated that the reform aims to encourage meaningful contribution to the UK economy. It also ensures the route continues to meet its intended objectives.
New Flexibility for Students Transitioning to the Innovator Founder Route
Student visa holders who have completed their course will now be permitted to establish a business in the UK by switching into the Innovator Founder route.
This replaces the previous provision allowing such switches into the now-closed Start-up route, thereby maintaining continuity for international graduates wishing to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities.
Amendments to the Seasonal Worker Route
Changes have also been introduced to Appendix Temporary Work – Seasonal Worker.
Seasonal workers will now be permitted to spend no more than six months working in the UK within any rolling 10-month period, compared to the previous 12-month framework.
This amendment aims to enhance operational predictability for employers while maintaining appropriate controls on short-term migration.
Summary
The Statement of Changes HC 1333 marks a major overhaul of the UK’s immigration system. It introduces higher English language standards and key adjustments to the Graduate and Seasonal Worker routes. New structural provisions have also been added. Employers and visa applicants should act quickly to prepare for these upcoming reforms.
Get Expert Advice
To discuss these latest changes and how they may impact you or your organisation, get in touch with our UK immigration specialists. Our experienced team can provide strategic guidance, compliance advice, and practical support to help you manage the evolving immigration framework with clarity and confidence.
With over 20 years of experience and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Morgan Smith Immigration is your trusted partner for all UK immigration matters. If you are ready to turn your innovative idea into a successful UK-based enterprise, contact our team today for tailored advice and end-to-end application support. For any enquiries or assistance, call us at 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected].
