UK Immigration Update | September 2026
Published on 10 September 2026
Global talent pathways, 'earned settlement', visa fees reimbursement, and right-to-work reform
Contents
Global Talent visa opens new pathways for designers, academics and researchers
'Earned settlement' reforms set to extend qualifying period to 10 year for visa holders
Visa fees reimbursement introduced for scale-ups in clean energy, life sciences, and technology
Right-to work reform extends liability along supply chains from 1 October
Global Talent visa opens new pathways for designers, academics and researchers
The UK's Global Talent visa, which attracts talented and promising individuals in the arts, science, and digital technology sectors, is becoming more available to a wider group of high-achieving professionals.
'Earned settlement' reforms set to extend qualifying period to 10 years for visa holders
The UK government proposed "earned settlement" reforms, put forward in November 2025, would significantly extend the qualifying for indefinite leave to remain for most visa holders, if they meet requirements, potentially to as long as 10 or 15 years.
Visa fees reimbursement introduced for scale-ups in clean energy, life sciences, and technology
The UK government has recently launched the Visa Fees Reimbursement Scheme for Scale-Ups to encourage businesses in specific sectors to hire international specialists. The Department for Business and Trade has set aside a limited fund to cover applications made under the scheme, which runs until 1 March 2027 (unless extended).
Right-to-work reform extends liability along supply chains from 1 October
Significant changes to the right to work (RTW) framework come into force soon on 1 October. The RTW reform will extend civil penalty liability to businesses that use contractors, agencies, platform workers and subcontractors, and not just to businesses with direct employees.
If you would like to discuss any of the above matters or require assistance with your compliance arrangements, please contact our Immigration team.
This newsletter is intended as a general overview and does not constitute legal advice. You should seek specific legal advice before taking any action in reliance on its contents.
