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The revised code of practice will update the guidance aimed at helping employers balance the requirement to conduct immigration checks with equality law obligations.

The Government’s latest Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules (HC 1691) introduces several significant updates which will be implemented between 2026 and 2027. The changes will affect businesses, and migrant workers including individuals seeking settlement soon. Below, we explore the changes which are of most relevance to employers, and their practical implications.

The Home Office has recently issued an important warning to sponsor licence holders about a rise in phishing scams targeting the Sponsorship Management System (SMS). These scams are designed to gain unauthorised access to SMS accounts, posing significant risks to your organisation's sponsor licence and the integrity of the UK’s immigration system. 

To help protect your organisation, we’ve summarised the key details of the Home Office's guidance and outlined steps you can take to safeguard your SMS account. 

From 11 November, UKVI will bring into the Immigration Rules a number of safeguards that have been operating as concessions since May. The focus is on clarity and consistency around guardianship, living arrangements and the documentation schools should see before issuing a CAS. Independent schools should review templates, processes and record keeping to ensure visa applications made from 11 November are compliant.

The Home Office has announced a number of immigration changes that will affect international students, graduates and staff recruitment.

On 12 May 2025, the Government published a white paper, Restoring Control over the Immigration System. The paper sets out a comprehensive plan to reduce net migration through a more restrictive and compliance-focused approach which will have far reaching implications for the higher education sector’s international offering.