The Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) used its quarterly newsletter, released on 27 January 2026, to brief practitioners on a raft of upcoming policy changes. Highlights include confirmation that higher English-language standards—already applied to skilled-worker entrants since 8 January—will be extended to adult dependants at the extension stage, with settlement eventually requiring B2 proficiency across most routes.
The newsletter also previews the government’s consultation on a ‘contribution-based’ earned-settlement regime. Under draft proposals, migrants would need at least ten years’ lawful residence, a clean compliance record and evidence of community contribution, but could shave time off the wait by meeting earnings or integration benchmarks. The IAA promises new guidance for advisers once the consultation opens.
![Regulator newsletter flags English-language and earned-settlement reforms]()
Employers and individuals navigating these shifting requirements can simplify visa and settlement applications through VisaHQ’s United Kingdom service portal (https://www.visahq.com/united-kingdom/). The platform provides tailored checklists, access to accredited language-testing appointments and responsive support, helping users meet evolving compliance standards with confidence.
Separately, the bulletin notes that the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Act has received Royal Assent, paving the way for expanded carrier-liability penalties when ETAs become mandatory on 25 February 2026. Carriers failing to check passengers’ digital permissions could face fines of up to £50,000 per flight.
For in-house mobility teams, the key takeaway is the need to track language-testing providers and factor in extra preparation time—and cost—for dependants planning extensions from 2027. The earned-settlement consultation could also reshape long-term assignment planning, especially for senior executives eyeing indefinite leave to remain.
The newsletter also previews the government’s consultation on a ‘contribution-based’ earned-settlement regime. Under draft proposals, migrants would need at least ten years’ lawful residence, a clean compliance record and evidence of community contribution, but could shave time off the wait by meeting earnings or integration benchmarks. The IAA promises new guidance for advisers once the consultation opens.
Employers and individuals navigating these shifting requirements can simplify visa and settlement applications through VisaHQ’s United Kingdom service portal (https://www.visahq.com/united-kingdom/). The platform provides tailored checklists, access to accredited language-testing appointments and responsive support, helping users meet evolving compliance standards with confidence.
Separately, the bulletin notes that the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Act has received Royal Assent, paving the way for expanded carrier-liability penalties when ETAs become mandatory on 25 February 2026. Carriers failing to check passengers’ digital permissions could face fines of up to £50,000 per flight.
For in-house mobility teams, the key takeaway is the need to track language-testing providers and factor in extra preparation time—and cost—for dependants planning extensions from 2027. The earned-settlement consultation could also reshape long-term assignment planning, especially for senior executives eyeing indefinite leave to remain.
