Higher English language requirements imposed
From 8 January 2026, first-time applicants for the Skilled Worker, High Potential Individual, and Scale-up visa routes must now meet a higher English language standard of B2 under the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Who is affected?
- This change applies only to new applicants under these routes.
- Those already on these visas before 8 January remain unaffected.
Meeting the requirement
Secure English Language Tests (SELT) taken through a Home Office approved provider at an authorised test centre.
Evidence that does not meet the route requirements in effect at the time of application will not be accepted.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) – mandatory from 25 February 2026
Starting 25 February 2026, the UK will fully enforce its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. Visitors from 85 visa-free countries must obtain an ETA – a digital pre-travel permission – before travelling. The Government describes this as a “no permission, no travel” policy. Airlines, ferry operators, and train companies will check ETA status at boarding and deny travel without valid authorisation.
Who needs an ETA?
Countries affected include the USA, Canada, Australia, most of Europe, Japan, South Korea, and several Gulf States. British and Irish citizens and existing visa holders remain exempt, but dual British nationals should travel with a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement to avoid boarding issues.
Key details
- Cost: £16
- Validity: Two years or until passport expiry
- ETA is linked to a specific passport, so renewing your passport means reapplying
- Every traveller, including children and infants, needs their own ETA
- Apply at least three working days before departure (most decisions are quicker)
Individuals and organisations should therefore ensure that they plan ahead well and apply for an ETA in good time.
If you have any questions about obtaining an ETA please get in touch with our team.
eVisas to replace visa vignettes (stickers) in 2026
Starting 12 January, most individuals granted a UK visit visa — and certain other visa types — will now receive an eVisa in addition to the traditional visa vignette endorsed into their passport.
Individuals who already have a visa vignette endorsement issued before 12 January will also be able to access their eVisa through their UKVI account.
The UKVI has confirmed their intention to stop issuing visa vignettes altogether by ‘late 2026’. Further updates are expected in due course.
Earned settlement
The Government has yet to conclude its position on the proposed changes to the current settlement system and how these reforms may be delivered in practice.
The consultation is ongoing and closes for submission at 11:59pm on 12 February 2026, with further details on the reforms and those impacted anticipated following its conclusion.
Reminder for British citizens travelling to the UK
As the UK continues its move towards a fully digital immigration system, the UKVI has sent out alerts to remind British citizens of the documents required to enter the UK.
To travel to the UK as a British citizen, you must hold and travel with either:
- a valid British citizen passport, or
- a valid Certificate of Entitlement (CoE) to the Right of Abode contained in a foreign passport.
Please note that naturalisation or registration certificates are not valid travel documents and will not permit entry to the UK. Travelling without a British passport or CoE may result in being denied boarding or encountering difficulties at the UK border.
If you do not currently hold one of these documents, it is essential to apply before travelling. A valid British passport or CoE allows multiple entries to the UK, provided the document remains valid.
Children and dependants
Parents and guardians should ensure that any children or dependants travelling also have the correct documentation in place.
If you already hold a British passport or CoE
Please remember to carry it when travelling to the UK and encourage friends or family members who are British citizens to do the same.
Key Contacts
The content of this article is for general information only. It is not, and should not be taken as, legal advice. If you require any further information in relation to this article please contact the author in the first instance. Law covered as at January 2026.