Immigration Legislation

Legislative framework for immigration control, visa policies, citizenship, asylum procedures, and border security.

The Immigration Skills Charge (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 15th Dec 25

These Regulations amend the Immigration Skills Charge Regulations 2017 by updating the list of occupations exempt from the charge to align with version 12 of the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) 2020 Index and simultaneously increase the ISC charges payable by sponsors by 32%.

The power to make these regulations is exercised by the Secretary of State with the consent of HM Treasury, and they come into force on December 16th, 2025, extending across the entire United Kingdom.

The Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Act 2025 (Commencement No. 1) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 15th Dec 25

The Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Act 2025 (Commencement No. 1) Regulations 2025 bring into force on 5th January 2026 several key provisions of the parent Act, including the establishment and functions of the statutory Border Security Commander, new criminal offences related to supplying articles for immigration crime and endangering others during sea crossings, provisions for searching electronic devices, and amendments allowing stricter conditions on leave and bail for national security or public safety threats.

The Immigration (Passenger Transit Visa) (Amendment) (No. 4) Order 2025

Published: Tue 9th Dec 25

This Order, enacted under the powers of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, amends the Immigration (Passenger Transit Visa) Order 2014 to require nationals or citizens of Nauru to obtain a transit visa when passing through the United Kingdom while remaining airside. The legislation comes into force on December 10, 2025, and includes a transitional clause exempting those who arrived on or before January 20, 2026, provided they had a booking made before the Order’s enactment.

The Criminal Justice Act 2003 (Removal of Prisoners for Deportation) Order 2025

Published: Thu 13th Nov 25

This Order amends Section 260 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003, changing the criteria under which foreign national offenders serving a determinate sentence in England and Wales can be removed from prison for deportation purposes.

Specifically, it revises the minimum custodial period that must be served before removal and the maximum period permitted prior to the automatic release date, modifying the threshold percentage from one half to 30% and the time period from 545 days to 4 years.

The National Health Service (Help with Health Costs) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 6th Nov 25

The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care enacts these Regulations under the National Health Service Act 2006 to amend existing NHS charging and remission rules, specifically granting eligibility for full NHS charge remission and travel expense reimbursement to individuals medically evacuated from conflict zones.

Furthermore, the Regulations introduce free prescription charges for drugs supplying treatment for tuberculosis and its effects, correct previous amendments concerning automatic prepayment certificate cancellations for cancer patients gaining exemptions, and update the monetary values for prescription prepayment certificate refunds to align with current pricing structures.

The Immigration (Guernsey) Order 2025

Published: Thu 30th Oct 25

This Order, issued by His Majesty in Council on October 15, 2025, extends specific modified provisions of the UK's Nationality and Borders Act 2022 to the Bailiwick of Guernsey, effective upon commencement regulations made by the States of Guernsey Committee for Home Affairs.

The extension primarily covers visa penalty provisions (Section 70, establishing the application of UK rules locally), the introduction of Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) within the Guernsey immigration context (Section 75, amending the Immigration Act 1971), and amendments to carrier liability rules under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (Section 76).

The modifications ensure that the application of these UK provisions is tailored to Guernsey, substituting references to the UK with 'the Bailiwick' or 'the Committee' where appropriate, although fines collected remain payable to the UK's Consolidated Fund.

The Immigration (Electronic Travel Authorisations) (Jersey) Order 2025

Published: Wed 22nd Oct 25

This Order, made by His Majesty in Council, extends Section 75 of the UK's Nationality and Borders Act 2022 to the Bailiwick of Jersey, thereby establishing the requirement for individuals to possess an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for travel to Jersey, subject to specific modifications detailed in Schedule 1.

The legislation grants the Jersey Minister for Justice and Home Affairs powers to make subordinate orders concerning the effects of ETAs granted elsewhere (e.g., by the UK), and to arrange for the UK Secretary of State to perform administrative functions related to ETA granting in Jersey.

The Immigration and Nationality (Fees) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 21st Oct 25

The Immigration and Nationality (Fees) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2025, made under powers in the Immigration Act 2014 and with Treasury consent, amend the 2018 Regulations governing immigration and nationality fees, effective from 11th November 2025 across the UK. These amendments specifically remove certain fee exceptions relating to Afghan citizens, introduce new fee exemptions for certain stateless persons and applicants under the UK/European Applicant Transfer Scheme, alter fees for sponsor licence services including fee increases for priority processing, and establish a fee exemption for the review of previously fee-exempted nationality applications.

The Immigration (Isle of Man) (Amendment) Order 2025

Published: Tue 21st Oct 25

This Order, made by His Majesty in Council, formally amends the Immigration (Isle of Man) Order 2008 to extend relevant parts of the Nationality and Borders Act 2022, including provisions for Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) and carrier liability, to the Isle of Man, specifying modifications necessary to ensure consistency with or necessary divergence from UK immigration law, and grants the Isle of Man's Minister for the Treasury powers to arrange for UK functions related to ETAs.

The Global Irregular Migration and Trafficking in Persons Sanctions (Overseas Territories) Order 2025

Published: Thu 16th Oct 25

This Order in Council extends the Global Irregular Migration and Trafficking in Persons Sanctions Regulations 2025, along with relevant provisions of the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018, to eleven specified British overseas territories starting on October 16, 2025.

The extension applies with specific modifications detailed in Schedule 2, which primarily substitute references from UK bodies like the Treasury or Secretary of State with the respective Territory's Governor for the administration of sanctions, including designating persons, issuing licences, and enforcing immigration and financial restrictions related to combating people smuggling and trafficking.

The Immigration (Passenger Transit Visa) (Amendment) (No. 3) Order 2025

Published: Tue 14th Oct 25

This Order, made under powers granted by the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, amends the Immigration (Passenger Transit Visa) Order 2014, changing the official designation for transit visa requirements from “Palestinian Territories” to “Palestine” in Schedule 1.

The amendment takes effect on 11th November 2025 and applies across the United Kingdom, with the Secretary of State for the Home Office confirming no significant impact assessment was required for the private or voluntary sectors.

The Immigration (Passenger Transit Visa) (Amendment) (No. 2) Order 2025

Published: Tue 14th Oct 25

This Order, made under the powers conferred by the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, amends the Immigration (Passenger Transit Visa) Order 2014 to mandate that nationals or citizens of Botswana must now obtain a transit visa when passing through the United Kingdom without entering the country.

The amending Order cites the amendment comes into force on 15th October 2025, though a transitional provision exempts Botswana nationals who have pre-booked travel arriving on or before 25th November 2025.

The Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019 and the Terrorism Act 2000 (Port Examination Codes of Practice) Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 24th Sept 25

These regulations implement revised codes of practice for examining officers under the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019 and the Terrorism Act 2000.

The Secretary of State revised the codes, published drafts for consultation, considered feedback, and laid the final versions before Parliament.

The updated codes govern the exercise of powers at UK ports and the Northern Ireland border related to combating terrorism and hostile state activity, aiming for better clarity, training, and adherence to legal frameworks.

The Allocation of Housing and Homelessness (Eligibility) (England) and Persons Subject to Immigration Control (Housing Authority Accommodation and Homelessness) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Fri 18th Jul 25

These regulations amend existing UK legislation to ensure that British nationals returning from government-advised evacuations are eligible for housing and homelessness assistance in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

The amendments waive the habitual residence test for a six-month period following evacuation, allowing immediate access to housing for those who meet specific criteria defined by the regulations.

These criteria include possessing leave to enter or remain in the UK, not being subject to a 'no recourse to public funds' condition, and not being sponsored under certain visa schemes

The Driving Licences (Exchangeable Licences) Order 2025

Published: Thu 10th Jul 25

This Order, effective July 31, 2025, designates the Republic of Moldova's driving licenses as exchangeable with UK licenses under the Road Traffic Act 1988.

The order specifies that exchangeable Moldovan licenses authorize driving category B vehicles and details conditions regarding automatic transmission.

It extends to England, Wales, and Scotland, and includes a Schedule listing other countries with exchangeable licenses.

The order allows for smoother transitions for drivers and simplifies administrative processes, relying on pre-existing legal frameworks.

The British Nationality (Irish Citizens) Act 2024 (Commencement) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 1st Jul 25

The British Nationality (Irish Citizens) Act 2024 (Commencement) Regulations 2025 establish July 22, 2025, as the effective date for the British Nationality (Irish Citizens) Act 2024.

This Act introduces a distinct route to British citizenship for Irish citizens residing in the UK for five years, offering a simpler application process than traditional naturalization.

The regulations apply to the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, and British overseas territories.

The Immigration and Nationality (Fees) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 1st Jul 25

These regulations, effective July 22, 2025, amend the 2018 Immigration and Nationality (Fees) Regulations.

Key changes introduce new fees for applications of British citizenship under section 4AA of the 1981 Act (for Irish citizens), with different amounts for adults (£723) and children (£607).

The amendments incorporate these new fees into relevant schedules, including those addressing exceptions and affordability waivers.

The Private Security Industry Act 2001 (Exemption) (Aviation Security) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 10th Jun 25

These regulations amend the 2010 Private Security Industry Act exemptions concerning aviation security.

They clarify licensing requirements for individuals involved in airport security (screening, access control) and update references.

The changes exempt certain persons from licensing under the 2001 Act due to alternative arrangements being deemed sufficient for maintaining aviation security.

The regulations also revoke the 2012 amendment regulations.

The Immigration (Citizens’ Rights Appeals) (EU Exit) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 4th Jun 25

The Immigration (Citizens’ Rights Appeals) (EU Exit) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 amend the 2020 Regulations to modify the right of appeal against deportation decisions.

The amendment ensures that the right of appeal only arises after an individual has been given the opportunity to make representations to the Secretary of State and the decision to deport has been finalized, aligning it with the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002.

This change aims to improve procedural fairness and potentially streamline the appeals process.

The Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (Legal Aid: Domestic Abuse) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Order 2025

Published: Wed 21st May 25

This Order modifies the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 to expand legal aid access for domestic abuse cases.

It broadens the definition of 'domestic abuse,' replaces outdated terms like 'domestic violence' with the modern terminology, and extends coverage to encompass numerous procedures connected to domestic abuse protection orders.

Furthermore, the Order adjusts related civil and criminal legal aid regulations to ensure consistency and effectiveness in providing aid.

The Tribunal Procedure (Amendment) Rules 2025

Published: Fri 9th May 25

The Tribunal Procedure (Amendment) Rules 2025, effective May 30th, 2025, amend several sets of tribunal procedure rules.

Key changes include clarifying that tribunals can set aside decisions on their own initiative or applications by parties, and mandating written notification to all parties when a decision is set aside. Additionally, a specific amendment restores community patient rights regarding hearings in health-related cases.

These amendments improve procedural fairness and address issues identified in past legislation and case law.

The Consular Fees (Amendment) Order 2025

Published: Thu 3rd Apr 25

The Consular Fees (Amendment) Order 2025, effective April 9th, 2025, amends the Consular Fees Order 2012.

It increases the fees for Emergency Travel Documents and Emergency Passports from £100 and £75 respectively to £125.

The Order applies to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, and no significant impact on the public, private or voluntary sectors is anticipated.

The Immigration (Biometric Information etc.) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 25th Mar 25

These regulations amend existing UK immigration legislation concerning the collection, use, and retention of biometric information.

Key changes include expanding biometric data requirements to include entrants to the UK, allowing for electronic submission of data, clarifying the process for issuing biometric immigration documents, and updating data retention periods.

The amendments affect multiple regulations dating back to 2006, and incorporate the use of the new 'eVisa' system.

The Immigration, Nationality and Passport (Fees) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 19th Mar 25

The Immigration, Nationality and Passport (Fees) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 increase fees for various immigration, nationality, and passport services across multiple schedules.

These amendments, effective April and May 2025, adjust numerous fees in the Immigration and Nationality (Fees) Regulations 2018 and the Passport (Fees) Regulations 2022.

Amendments also clarify references to updated appendices within Immigration Rules.

Furthermore, regulations remove fee entries for assessment of overseas qualifications not operational from 1 May 2025.

The Immigration (Passenger Transit Visa) (Amendment) Order 2025

Published: Wed 12th Mar 25

The Immigration (Passenger Transit Visa) (Amendment) Order 2025, effective March 13, 2025, adds Trinidad and Tobago to the list of countries whose citizens require a transit visa to pass through the UK without entering.

A transitional provision exempts those who already had bookings for arrival before April 23, 2025, and arrived by that date.

The Order is supported by Sections 41 and 166(3) of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.

The Immigration and Nationality (Fees) (Amendment) Order 2025

Published: Thu 6th Mar 25

This Order amends the 2016 and 2018 Immigration and Nationality (Fees) legislation by increasing several fees related to immigration and nationality matters and removing references to obsolete Electronic Visa Waivers.

The amendments were approved by Parliament and increase fees for various services, ranging from £1 to several hundred pounds, to reflect increased costs and maintain the system's financial viability.

The changes came into effect the following day after the Order was made.

The Immigration (Biometric Registration) (Civil Penalty Code of Practice) Order 2025

Published: Thu 6th Mar 25

The Immigration (Biometric Registration) (Civil Penalty Code of Practice) Order 2025 establishes a revised code of practice for sanctions related to non-compliance with biometric registration regulations, effective March 27, 2025.

The revision facilitates a transition from physical to digital immigration documents and was preceded by public consultation.

The order applies across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

The Recognition of Overseas Qualifications (Charges) (England and Wales and Northern Ireland) Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 5th Mar 25

These regulations establish the fee structure for services related to recognizing overseas qualifications in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

They detail charges for statements of comparability, qualification reference statements, bundle services (standard and refugee-focused), and subscription packages to a qualification database.

Payment is made to the Secretary of State or a designated organization, with provisions for refunds.

These regulations replace the 2024 regulations, addressing drafting errors and incorporating feedback from devolved governments.

The Council Tax (Discount Disregards and Exempt Dwellings) (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 4th Mar 25

These regulations, effective March 25th, 2025, modify existing council tax legislation in England.

They expand the categories of individuals eligible for council tax discounts and exempt dwellings to include those participating in the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme and those entitled to a government thank you payment under associated guidance.

The changes apply to both discount disregards and exempt dwelling definitions, ensuring consistent treatment of Ukrainian arrivals within the council tax system.

The Child Benefit and Guardian's Allowance (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 25th Feb 25

These regulations, effective April 7, 2025, amend the Child Benefit and Guardian's Allowance (Administration) Regulations 2003, the Guardian's Allowance (General) Regulations 2003, and the Child Benefit (General) Regulations 2006.

Key changes include removing outdated provisions related to refugee status and marital status in eligibility for benefits, updating approved training programs, and adjusting National Insurance number requirements for younger parents claiming child benefit.

The amendments aim to streamline administration, improve clarity, and modernize the benefit system.

The Statutory Neonatal Care Pay (Persons Abroad and Mariners) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 24th Feb 25

These regulations, effective April 6, 2025, extend statutory neonatal care pay eligibility under the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992 to individuals working abroad, mariners, and those employed on the continental shelf.

The regulations specify conditions for eligibility, including employment location, employer liability for national insurance contributions, and periods of employment in the EEA. They also clarify the treatment of individuals under existing UK and EU social security legislation and establish procedures for compliance with time limits, particularly for those temporarily outside of the UK.

The Education (Student Fees, Awards and Support) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 13th Feb 25

The regulations modify multiple aspects of student financial support in England, updating payment rates and loan amounts for the 2025/26 academic year.

Key changes include introducing lower fees for foundation years, extending support to bereaved partners of Gurkha and Hong Kong military unit veterans, enhancing disabled student allowances, and revising overseas territory definitions.

The amendments affect various existing regulations including student support, postgraduate loans, and fee limit conditions.

The Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 10th Feb 25

These regulations amend the 1999 Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) Regulations to extend driving privileges for Ukrainian nationals in Great Britain holding specific leave types under the Homes for Ukraine, Ukraine Extension, and Ukraine Family Schemes.

The amendments specify different durations of driving permissions based on application dates and whether further leave extensions have been sought, ranging from one to four and a half years.

The regulations clarify definitions and provide multiple scenarios addressing different application timelines.