The ever changing world of immigration

Yesterday was the ILPA (Immigration Law Practitioners Association) AGM. I have been a Trustee of ILPA for many years, and have been re-elected  (24 November). ILPA always gets excellent speakers to the AGM, and this year's keynote speaker was Philippa Rouse, Migration & Citizenship Director, SRO Future Border & Immigration System Programme at the Home Office. 

This was followed by a panel session on the the Future of UK Immigration Policy: Pathways, Rights and System Reform.

As you would expect, a number of challenging questions were asked of Ms Rouse. The Immigration White paper has created confusion and concern for so many migrants, employers, and Immigration lawyers. Over 100 occupations have been cut from the possibility of sponsorship, a point discussed by the panel.

Employers are concerned for their organisations; whether salary thresholds will be increased beyond reason for their budgets; whether the changes to settlement (ILR) will mean sponsorship costs will become untenable; and whether these changes will simply mean migrants will no longer want to move to the UK.

These are uncertain times, and there are some reviews of various aspects of the changes, to which we are feeding in. Stone King acts for a large number of Education providers, Charities, Faith based organisations, Businesses, and Individuals. We are making sure our clients interests are heard.

For now, the most immediate change will be on 16 December 2025, when the Immigration Skills Charge will once again increase. If you are planning on making an application in the next few weeks, it would be cheaper to submit before this date!

PLUS - a note for next year on the 25 February 2026 Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) will be needed if you are travelling to Europe.