This week, Sam & Nils discuss ongoing changes to UK immigration law, focusing on the latest Statement of Changes issued on 14th October and related government announcements. Prompted by a recent speech by Master of the Rolls, Sir Geoffrey Vos, on the potential use of AI in the judiciary, Sam discusses implications for access to justice and decision-making.

Key Takeaways:

• Palestine is now recognised in the visa national list.
• From 8th January, Skilled Worker visa applicants must have B2 level English (up from B1). Existing visa holders can continue on B1 when extending.
• High Potential Individual route expanded - eligible institutions doubled but 8,000 annual cap introduced.
• Graduate visas are reduced to 18 months (was 2 years), PhD graduates keep 3-year term.
• Immigration Skills Charge is rising by about 32% from 16th December - Small firms: £480 for first 12 months, £240 each 6 months after. Large firms: £1,320 for first 12 months, £660 each 6 months after.
• Discussion of AI in the judiciary, Vos highlighted 3 concerns - judicial decisions are last resort, AI lacks empathy and AI is limited by its data.
• AI can be used as a support tool (e.g. assessing damages), not a replacement for judges.
• Employment tribunals under severe capacity strain - AI might help speed processes but shouldn’t replace human judgment.

Seminars & Events:

https://www.chadwicklawrence.co.uk/seminars/business-services-seminars/

Contact Us:

BoxHR@chadlaw.co.uk

SamPawson@chadlaw.co.uk

NilsODonoghue@chadlaw.co.uk

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠www.linkedin.com/company/employment-law-chadwick-lawrence-llp/

Chapters:

(⁠⁠00:00⁠⁠) Introduction

(⁠⁠00:26) What's in Your Inbox?

(⁠⁠00:28) October 2025: UK Immigration Law Changes

(⁠⁠04:25) The Use of AI within the Judiciary & the Role on Employment Law

(⁠⁠11:02) Out the Office!