In her first speech as Home Secretary at the Labour Party Conference, Shabana Mahmood set out sweeping reforms to the UK’s immigration system — putting “contribution” at the heart of whether migrants can remain in Britain permanently.

Under the government’s new plans, migrants will have to demonstrate that they are making a positive contribution to the country if they wish to earn indefinite leave to remain (ILR), the immigration status that allows individuals to live, work, and study in the UK without time restrictions.

In the ever-evolving landscape of UK immigration, uncertainty looms large, especially for those aspiring to secure Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). With upcoming political shifts that could dramatically reshape immigration policy, now is the time for migrants to take decisive action.

The Current Climate

As of now, individuals who have lived in the UK for five years—sometimes less—through various visa routes may apply for ILR, gaining the right to live and work in the UK indefinitely. This status not only affirms a migrant’s place in society but also serves as a vital stepping stone toward British citizenship. However, the political discourse surrounding ILR is shifting.

The UK consistently ranks as one of the world’s premier destinations for international students, and with the significant changes to the UK student visa regulations in 2025, understanding these shifts has never been more critical. From heightened financial requirements to the introduction of digital eVisas, prospective students must stay informed about how these updates will impact their journey. This article delves into the latest changes, offering invaluable insights geared towards successful navigation of the UK student visa landscape, as advised by a knowledgeable UK immigration lawyer.

Divorce or Marriage? How It Affects Your UK Immigration Status

Marriage and divorce are not only personal milestones but also legal turning points that can shape a migrant’s future in the UK. Many people secure their right to live in the UK through their relationship with a British citizen or a settled partner in the UK. But what happens if the marriage ends—or never takes place in the first place?

This article explores how marriage and divorce affect UK immigration status, the legal requirements to marry in the UK, the validity of marriages (UK and overseas), what happens if you divorce before or after Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and the alternatives available if a marriage fails.

The UK government has announced a series of substantial reforms to the UK Skilled Worker visa route, effective from 22 July 2025. These changes are designed to tighten eligibility, raise salary thresholds, and reduce net migration, while better aligning the visa system with the country’s labour market priorities.

Below is an overview of the key changes to the UK Skilled Worker system: