This note summarises some recent updates to the UK's immigration rules. These changes might affect students, workers, and their families. Here is a summary of the key points: For Students: Starting from 17 July 2023, students can only switch to work routes in the UK under certain conditions: 1. They must finish their sponsored course of study. 2. If studying at a degree level or higher, their Certificate of Sponsorship should have a start date no earlier than their course completion date. 3. If studying for a PhD, their Certificate of Sponsorship should have a start date no earlier than 24 months after starting the PhD course. 4. Students must also meet similar requirements if they wish to switch to being a dependent partner of someone already on a work route. 5. Students on postgraduate courses starting from 1 January 2024 can only bring dependants if they are on a PhD or other doctoral course or a research-based higher degree. For Skilled Workers:

• The Shortage Occupation List (SOL) now includes more occupations in the construction and fishing industries. This applies to applications submitted on or after 7 August 2023.
• General Practitioners (GPs) in speciality training will get immigration permission for four months after the end of their Certificate of Sponsorship, giving them time to obtain further immigration permission as a GP with a licensed sponsor.

For EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) Applicants:

•  From 9 August 2023, individuals with pre-settled status may receive an automatic two-year extension without having to apply for it separately. This extension will be granted directly, and their digital status will be updated.
• If eligible, individuals with pre-settled status will be automatically converted to settled status in the future.
•  Late applications to the EUSS will now be assessed at a validation stage, and some applications may not proceed to full assessment if the grounds for the late application are not accepted.

Increase in Immigration Health Surcharge and Visa Fees:

• On 13 July 2023, the UK Government announced that the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) would increase by 66%, from £624 to £1,035 per person per year for most main applicants.
• Work and visit visa fees will be increased by 15%.
• Other visas, extensions, settlement and citizenship application fees will be increased by 20%. This will include visa renewals for leave to remain on the 10-year route.
• Please note that the exact date for these fee increases has not been officially announced, but it is likely to happen in the Autumn or even earlier.

We understand that these changes may raise questions and concerns. If you have any queries about these changes, please do not hesitate to contact a member of Lexpert Solicitors LLP’s Immigration Team.   -By Shuvagata Dey Managing Partner, Lexpert Solicitors LLP