The UK government has confirmed major changes to the Immigration Rules, set out in Statement of Changes HC 836. These affect key visa categories, including family route applications, long residence, private life, the EU Settlement Scheme, and student dependants. At Lumine Solicitors, a specialist immigration law firm based in London we outline important changes and explain what applicants and sponsors need to do next.

Key Implementation Dates

16 July 2025 – Most changes take effect, including those to Appendix FM, KOLL, FM-SE and Appendix EU.

17 July 2025 – International Armed Forces and Civilian Employees changes.

29 July 2025 – Revisions to Private Life and Long Residence categories come into force.

Applications submitted before these dates will be assessed under the previous rules.

Long Residence Rules tightened

Applicants applying for indefinite leave to remain under the 10-year long residence route must now meet more precise and limited criteria:

• Total absences from the UK must not exceed 548 days, and no single absence can be longer than 184 days. (These absence limits apply cumulatively across the 10-year period).
• Time spent in prison/immigration bail now breaks continuous residence, with limited exceptions.
• The new Appendix Continuous Residence outlines the standards for lawful presence and permitted absences. At Lumine Solicitors, we regularly review long residence timelines and can assess whether your previous immigration history supports a settlement application under the revised rules.

Private Life Route Applicants

Amendments to the Private Life route introduce additional requirements for adults and children:

• Some adult applicants may now qualify after 5 years of continuous residence if their previous grants of leave fall within specified categories.
• Certain children who had discretionary leave before 20 June 2022 may also qualify for early settlement.
• The “half-life test” for young adults remains but now requires stricter documentary support.

If you or your child are applying based on long-term residence in the UK, Lumine Solicitors London can help determine your eligibility under the updated rules.

Partner and Spouse Route Visa Applicants

Applicants under the family route must now:

• Show they previously held leave in the UK (other than as a fiancé(e)) for at least six months, in relevant categories, to qualify under certain transitional provisions
• Satisfy English language requirements using certificates from approved providers or academic qualifications verified by Ecctis.
• Ensure all financial and accommodation documents are compliant with the updated Appendix FM-SE.

Our solicitors at Lumine advise individuals and sponsors across London on partner and spouse visa applications and can ensure your documentation meets the latest legal standard.

EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) Applicants

For EUSS holders:

• To qualify for settled status, pre-settled status holders must not have absences exceeding 30 months in the 5-year qualifying period.
• Any breaks in residence or travel during COVID-19 or for personal reasons must be carefully documented.

Lumine Solicitors can help assess whether you or your family members remain eligible for settled status under Appendix EU.

English Language & Life in the UK Rules updates

The updated Appendix KOLL provides clearer rules for meeting the Life in the UK and English language requirements. Only nationals from specific countries are exempt, and overseas degrees must be verified by Ecctis and confirmed to have been taught in English. In addition, online verification systems for test providers must now be approved by the Home Office. Lumine Solicitors can verify whether your qualification meets these standards before submission.

Dependant Rules for Students and Graduates

Applicants bringing family members under the Student or Graduate route must now provide enhanced evidence of the relationship and ensure both parties apply together or have overlapping periods of leave. We support families and students across the UK with compliant dependant visa applications.

Expanded Grounds for Refusals and Cancellations

Under the revised Part 9, applications may be refused or cancelled if an individual:

• Has previously been excluded under the Refugee Convention
• Is considered a danger to the public or national security
• Has been excluded from humanitarian protection

Lumine Solicitors can advise if you have any previous immigration history that could affect your application under these provisions.

How Lumine Solicitors can help

The immigration rules have changed substantially. Incorrect documentation or misunderstanding eligibility criteria can lead to delays or refusals. At Lumine, our immigration solicitors in London are highly experienced in family, private life, nationality, and EUSS applications. We provide clear legal advice and ensure each application is built on solid legal and evidential foundations.

If you’re concerned about how these changes may affect your immigration journey, speak to Lumine Solicitors London on 020 3950 2246 or Google “Lumine Solicitors London” to learn more about our services and legal updates. You can also fill out our contact form HERE.