Skilled Worker

Home Office Sponsor Guidance updated for HC 997, new cooling-off periods and eVisa transformation

The Home Office has issued updated Sponsor Guidance on 22 July 2025, further to the changes to sponsored work routes that come into force on that date under Statement of Changes in Immigration Rules HC 997. There are not extensive changes to the three primary guidance documents, or Appendix D, beyond those consequential to the Statement, other than the imposition of new 24-month cooling-off periods for licence applications in certain circumstances, and revised information relating to the eVisa transformation. Also issued are various revised occupation lists/guidance relating to the Skilled Worker route, which may assist with navigating the HC 997 changes. For details, see below.

EU provides updated EES and ETIAS implementation timelines

The EU has provided updated information on the implementation timelines for both the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). The EES will become operational gradually, with a phased implementation starting in October 2025 which will last until 9 April 2026. During this period European countries will progressively integrate components of the system, including biometric data collection. During the transition phase, not all travellers will have their biometric data collected, nor will their personal information necessarily be registered in the system. In addition, passports will continue to be stamped as usual during this period. For details on data collection at border crossings, individuals are advised to contact the border authorities of the respective European country using ESS. Starting from 10 April 2026, the EES will be fully operational at all external border crossings of participating European countries. The ETIAS is planned to start operations in the last quarter of 2026.

UKRI announces Global Talent Fund to support international research recruitment

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has announced the launch of a £54m Global Talent Fund, funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), to support the recruitment and relocation of international researchers to the UK. Grants will be awarded equally to 12 selected research organisations.

Home Office launches call for evidence on modern slavery victim identification reforms

The Home Office has launched a call for evidence to reform the UK's National Referral Mechanism (NRM) for identifying victims of modern slavery. The evidence gathered aims to create a more effective identification system where victims are recognised early and accurately so they can be protected and provided with appropriate assistance and support towards recovery from exploitation. The consultation will focus on three key areas: