UK visa changes in October and November 2026: what you need to know
What changed in UK visas from October 2026. New student requirements, business visa reliefs and how to protect earlier applications.
VisaProAdviserVisas, migration and life abroad
What changed in UK visas from October 2026. New student requirements, business visa reliefs and how to protect earlier applications.
From 28 August 2026, UK biometrics must be given within 17 working days or the application lapses. Plus fee waiver changes from 8 October and reporting risks.
From October 8, 2026, the UK settlement route for work visas extends from 5 to 10 years (15 for care workers), and fee waiver no longer counts as an extension.
UK relocation guide: Global Talent and Innovator Founder visas, citizenship after 5 years, and the non-dom tax rule letting new residents spend foreign income tax-free for 4 years.
No separate Scottish visa exists — Westminster rejected the proposal. Scammers now charge £25,000–£35,000 for a 'guaranteed' family move to Scotland.
The UK may extend ILR from 5 to 10 years based on a January 2022 entry cutoff. Here's what's confirmed on asylum rules, FLR, and fee waivers as of September 2026.