Major changes to UK immigration rules – June 2025 update
Photo: visaeta
The UK Home Office has introduced a new Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules (HC 836), published on 24 June 2025. These updates affect EU citizens, long-term UK residents, students, families, and international workers. With key changes taking effect throughout July 2025, it’s essential to understand what’s changing and how it may affect you.
1. EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS): more flexibility for absences
From 16 July 2025, the UK is easing the rules for pre-settled EU nationals applying for settled status. Previously, applicants couldn’t spend more than six months abroad in any 12-month period. Now, they only need to show 30 months of UK residence within the 5-year qualifying period.
Why this matters: More realistic for people with family or work commitments abroad, without risking their future status in the UK.
2. Part 9 changes: stricter rules for excluded individuals
Also from 16 July 2025, individuals excluded from protection under the Refugee Convention will be granted “restricted leave” or refused entry altogether. This includes those found guilty of serious crimes or considered national security risks.
Impact: A tougher stance on individuals previously granted some forms of discretionary protection.
3. Fast-track entry for select US workers
Starting 17 July 2025, a limited group of US Department of Energy workers and contractors working on US military equipment can now enter the UK with visa-free 60-day permission granted at the border.
Note: This is highly specific and won’t apply to most applicants — but it reflects deepened UK–US operational cooperation.
4. Private Life route: shorter settlement wait for young adults and children
From 29 July 2025, key changes apply to settlement under the Private Life route:
- Adults (18–25) who’ve lived half their life in the UK and had leave before 20 June 2022 can now settle after 5 years instead of 10.
- Children who’ve lived in the UK for 7 years and held dependant status before 20 June 2022 can also settle after 5 years.
Why this matters: Recognizes long-term UK residents who’ve grown up here and deserve stability sooner.
5. Clarity on continuous and long residence
The rewritten Appendix Continuous Residence adds clearer language about time spent outside the UK and recognizes time in Crown Dependencies (e.g. Jersey, Guernsey). Meanwhile, Long Residence rules now count time spent as a British citizen — unless citizenship was revoked.
Key takeaway: The guidance is now easier to follow, and long-term residents benefit from more inclusive counting rules.
6. Expansion of ETA requirements
From 16 July 2025, more non-visa nationals will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the UK. This applies to:
- Short-term visitors (up to 6 months)
- Creative Workers on short engagements
- Travellers entering via Ireland after their UK permission expires
Tip: Always check ETA requirements before booking your travel.
7. Dependant rule for students and graduates
New procedural rule: dependants of Student or Graduate visa holders must apply either at the same time or after the main applicant — never before. If the main visa is refused, the dependant’s will also be refused automatically.
Effective: 16 July 2025. Plan your applications carefully to avoid delays or automatic refusals.
Final thoughts
The June 2025 immigration update brings a blend of flexibility and new restrictions. While it helps many young people, long-term residents, and EU nationals, it also tightens rules for dependants and individuals with exclusion issues.
Most changes take effect in mid to late July, so now is the time to review your situation or seek legal advice if needed.
Full Link to the policy paper