Are you waiting for a decision on your UK Skilled Worker or Health and Care visa? As of January 8, 2026, the UK immigration landscape has undergone a digital and legislative overhaul. While the Home Office targets a 3-week window for overseas applications, thousands of applicants are currently facing unexpected “application pendency” due to new 2026 rules.
From the B2 English language hike to the mandatory eVisa transition, understanding these bottlenecks is the only way to safeguard your job start date. In this guide, we break down exactly why your visa might be stuck and how to navigate the 2026 system.
2026 Service Standards & Processing Times
The Home Office keeps its targets for 2026. But the move to a full digital border makes real times longer than the targets.
Standard Times
- Applications from outside the UK: Target is 3 weeks.
- Applications from inside the UK: Standard is 8 weeks.
Faster Options
- Priority Service: Decision in 5 working days (you pay extra).
- Super Priority: Decision in 24 hours (you pay more).
Digital Changes
- Full move to eVisas in 2026.
- Problems with the UK Immigration: ID Check app.
- Delays from ending old BRP cards.
Tip: If you do not get a decision in the target time, it is a “service standard breach”. But if you get a “Non-Straightforward” email, the targets do not apply anymore.
Policy-Driven Causes of 2026 Delays
Two big changes in January 2026 add new checks. These make the process take weeks longer.
The B2 English Requirement Hike
From January 8, 2026, new applicants for Skilled Worker, High Potential Individual, and Scale-up visas need English at CEFR Level B2. Before, it was B1.
Why It Causes Delay
- Workers check extra if your English certificate really meets B2 level.
- They verify the test provider more carefully.
How to Avoid Problems
- Use a test approved by UKVI for visa use.
- A normal B2 test (not for UKVI) can cause a “Non-Straightforward” mark and delay.
Salary Threshold Scrutiny (£41,700)
Most Skilled Worker jobs now need at least £41,700 per year.
Why It Causes Delay
- Workers check the “going rate” for your job more.
- For “New Entrant” lower pay (now £33,400), they check everything carefully.
- If your salary is close to the limit, they may check if the job is real.
Operational Bottlenecks: “The Non-Straightforward Trap”
If you get an email that says your application is “not straightforward”, it means extra checks are needed. In 2026, this is common for these reasons:
Main Causes
- Missing papers: This is the top reason for delays. No bank statements or wrong police certificates stop everything.
- Biometric problems: Appointments at UKVCAS (in UK) or VFS Global (outside UK) can be hard to get in busy months like January.
- App problems: Many people now use the “UK Immigration: ID Check” app for eVisas. If the scan fails, it can delay your share code by 10 to 14 days.
Important Note: The “Non-Straightforward” email lets the Home Office take longer than 8 weeks. If you paid for priority, you may not get money back.
The 2026 ETA “Ripple Effect”
From February 25, 2026, everyone who does not need a visa (like from EU or US) must have an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
How It Affects Work Visas
- Many people apply for ETA at the same time. This uses a lot of Home Office computer resources.
- If you change from ETA to a work visa inside the UK, your records may take longer to match. This causes more waiting.
How to Track & Escalate Your Delay
In 2026, there is no live tracking website for UK visas. You have to use these ways:
Tracking Options
- Check the TLS or VFS dashboard: This shows where your passport is, not the decision.
- Paid enquiry: Pay £2.74 for an email update from UKVI. This tells you if it is “Awaiting Decision” or ready.
- Ask your MP: If waiting more than 12 weeks on a normal application, contact your UK Member of Parliament. They can ask the Home Office for you.
Many people face these delays right now. The new rules make checks stricter. But good preparation can help. Make sure all papers are complete and correct from the start.
Delays can happen even with perfect applications because of Home Office work load. Do not worry too much if you get the “Non-Straightforward” email. It often just means more time for checks.
If your job start date is soon, talk to your employer. They may help or give more time. Stay calm and check official GOV.UK website for updates. Rules can change.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only. It is based on reports and 2026 rules we know now. Always check the latest from official GOV.UK sites. Talk to a lawyer before you make plans for travel or work.