Latest Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules

The Immigration Rules, which outline the requirements for each visa route, are amended regularly. These amendments are made via a ‘Statement of Changes’. The latest Statement of Changes, which was laid on 3 September 2026, contained amendments which largely, but not entirely, took effect on 8 October 2026. 

One of the changes that took effect from 8 October is the addition of a new provision to Part Suitability, meaning that an applicant is also treated as having been in breach of immigration laws if they have previously acted to frustrate immigration controls. Previously this discretionary ground of refusal only applied to applications for entry clearance, with it now extending to in-country applications. 

Another change that took effect from 8 October is that dependent children on the Hong King British National (Overseas) route no longer have to complete a five-year period of continuous residence before being eligible to apply for settlement. This ought to mean that children can now settle alongside a parent who meets the settlement requirements. 

The Statement of Changes contained several other changes that came into effect from 8 October, and these are outlined here. 

As part of this Statement, further changes are due to come into effect later in 2026. On 29 October, changes are being made to Appendix T2 Minister of Religion and Appendix Temporary Work - Religious Worker, followed by changes to Appendix Student, in relation to changes to the maintenance amounts, on 30 November. On 9 December, changes will come into effect relating to Appendix EU removing the option to prove identity using an expired biometric residence permit.

If you would like any further advice or assistance in this regard then please do not hesitate to contact one of the experienced solicitors in our immigration team.