Global Visa & Immigration Updates – 07/05/2026

World Visa Academy – Daily Global Visa & Immigration Update Date: 07 May 2026

Honest Note Before We Start: No single major global visa announcement was released specifically on May 7, 2026 (Wednesday). However, there are important currently active updates directly affecting your clients today.

🇬🇧 United Kingdom Big Alert – UK Earned Settlement Consultation Now Live — Could Double Wait Time from 5 to 10 Years

What it means: The UK government is actively consulting on changing the settlement (permanent residency) qualifying period from 5 years to 10 years for most visa holders. This is called "Earned Settlement." If passed, anyone who arrives in the UK from a certain date onwards may have to wait 10 years instead of 5 to apply for ILR. The UK Temporary Shortage List (TSL) — which allows sponsorship of below-degree-level jobs — also expires December 31, 2026. After that, many of those roles may no longer qualify for a work visa.

Impact: Clients currently in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa and approaching their 5-year mark should apply for ILR as soon as they are eligible — do not wait. Employer clients sponsoring roles on the TSL should act before December 2026 or those roles may disappear from the eligible list. Also reminder: UK visit visa fees have increased, English requirement is now B2 for Skilled Worker route, and payroll compliance is being strictly enforced every month.