Morning, Thursday, 12th February 2026
Online
This conference will consider next steps for legal migration policy in the UK.
It will be an opportunity to examine reform that has been announced by the Government on settlement policy, as well as key themes in responses to the recently published consultation on the new earned settlement framework, and issues around implementation of proposals in the Government’s Restoring control over the immigration system White Paper published in May 2025.
The conference will bring stakeholders and policymakers together to discuss initial implementation practicalities and longer‑term strategy for proposed extension of the standard qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain to ten years. We expect sessions to look at early thinking on contribution‑based accelerated routes, as well as the broad approach to longer requirements for those reliant on public funds.
With the House of Commons Home Affairs Committee considering the impact of proposed changes in their Routes to Settlement inquiry, delegates will consider how these can operate in practice, what transitional arrangements may be required as the new system is implemented, and implications for migrant households, employers, education providers, and local services.
Settlement policy, measuring contribution & wider impact
Looking at the design of the earned settlement model, sessions will also consider how contribution might best be measured in a way that is transparent and fair. Options for weighting of income, profession, or community service will be assessed, as well as how the creation of a two-tier system could be avoided, with concern from some that reform may privilege high earners while creating instability for lower income households and essential workers.
Sessions will look at questions around spousal and family rules, as well as how transitional arrangements might operate for individuals close to qualifying under the previous five-year route. As the House of Lords Justice and Home Affairs Committee takes evidence for their Settlement, Citizenship and Integration inquiry, implications for integration and community cohesion will be examined, and how settlement rules can align with human rights obligations while maintaining public confidence in the system.
The way forward for collaboration between education providers, local authorities, and community organisations to support integration under the new framework will also be discussed, including the extent of guidance and resources that will be needed to enable this role effectively.
Skilled Worker route, business involvement & workforce planning
Recent changes to the Skilled Worker route will be discussed, with the announcement of accelerated settlement routes and new salary thresholds. Sessions will explore the attractiveness of the UK labour market for global talent, strategies for mitigating the risk of deterring skilled workers, and the support needed for businesses to comply with new proposals.
With the increase in Immigration Skills Charge and raising of English language requirements, delegates will consider the effect on recruitment strategies, workforce planning, and integration outcomes in sectors such as construction and hospitality - as well as social care, following the end of overseas recruitment in July 2025.
Stage two of the Migration Advisory Committee’s Temporary Shortage List review will also be discussed, looking at the development of effective frameworks for enabling businesses to inform future adjustments to shortage designations and workforce planning.
International students, global talent strategy & implementation
Further sessions will consider reform affecting students and universities, and possible implications of changes to the Graduate Route, with discussion on progression from study to skilled employment, and a proposed international student levy for institutional budgets and research capacity.
Delegates will also assess proposals for strengthening the UK’s global talent offer through streamlined visa processes and possible fee reductions under the Government’s Global Talent Drive, aligned with wider Industrial Strategy objectives. Sessions will look at issues around implementation capacity and user experience, including the eVisa transition and digital access, and what will be required across the Home Office and partner bodies to deliver changes effectively and fairly.
All delegates will be able to contribute to the output of the conference, which will be shared with parliamentary, ministerial, departmental and regulatory offices, and more widely. This includes the full proceedings and additional articles submitted by delegates.
