Major Change to the UK Work Visa Sponsorship Guidelines

The UK government has recently updated its guidance for work sponsors. The changes focus particularly on the practice of employers passing certain costs onto employees. With millions of foreign workers in the UK, the changes are set to have a significant impact on work visa sponsorship.

What do employers have to pay for?

When employers sponsor foreign workers, they incur various costs, including:

Employer sponsorship licence application fees and associated administrative costs
Certificate of Sponsorship fee
Immigration Skills Charge
Skilled worker visa application fee
Immigration Health Surcharge

Employers must now cover the following costs themselves

Previously, due to the high costs involved, many employers required employees to cover these expenses or to recoup some of these costs if they left their job before their sponsorship period ended. This practice led to worker exploitation, particularly in the care sector, where employees felt financially trapped in poor working conditions.

On November 28, 2024, the UK Immigration Minister announced stricter rules to prevent this issue. From December 31, 2024, employers must cover the following costs themselves and cannot require employees to pay or reimburse them:

Employer sponsorship licence application fees and associated administrative costs
Certificate of Sponsorship fee
Immigration Skills Charge

Some expenses must still be paid by employees

While employers are no longer allowed to pass on the above three costs, some expenses may still be reasonably paid by employees, including:

Skilled worker visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (as these directly benefit the employee)
Associated administrative costs on assignment of a Certificate of Sponsorship or visa application (such as priority service or legal costs, depending on the specific situation)

Employers must also follow employment law when seeking reimbursement from employees. Any clawback agreement must be fair, and employers cannot unreasonably demand repayment—especially if the worker loses their job due to company-wide layoffs. Employers must ensure they comply with the new rules. Any violation could result in revocation of their sponsor licence.

Employees should be aware of their rights and should not be forced to pay costs that employers are required to cover.

Have questions? Get in touch today!

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Sumit Singh

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University withdraws student sponsorship over false bank statements

We have recently reviewed the High Court’s decision in R (on the application of Prabhjot Kaur and another) v Birmingham City University [2024] EWHC 3185 (Admin). The case sheds light on the responsibilities of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) as licensed student sponsors and highlights how allegations of fraudulent documentation can lead to the withdrawal of student sponsorship, often resulting in visa cancellations by the Home Office.

In this matter, two claimants, Ms. Prabhjot Kaur and Ms. Amandeep Kaur, both Indian nationals, had secured places at Birmingham City University (“the Defendant”). Despite having initially been assigned Confirmations of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), issues arose when the University discovered that certain bank statements used to evidence their financial status were not genuine.

As a result, the University withdrew the student sponsorship, prompting the Home Office to cancel both claimants’ student visas. Both individuals challenged this withdrawal and the subsequent decision, ultimately seeking judicial review.

Grounds for Judicial Review

Both claimants sought judicial review, relying on five principal grounds to challenge the University’s decision:

1. Fraud

They argued there was no proper basis to accuse them personally of fraud or dishonesty.

2. Bad Faith / Improper Motive

The claimants suggested the University acted in bad faith, allegedly to protect its own sponsor status and deflect blame for poor oversight of its agents

3. Irrationality

They contended that withdrawing sponsorship was an irrational step because, in their view, not every use of a false document automatically proves the student’s complicity.

4. Procedural Fairness

The claimants argued that they were not given a proper opportunity to respond to the allegations before sponsorship was withdrawn.

5. Article 8 (Right to Private Life)

High Court’s Decision

At a renewed permission hearing, the High Court again refused permission for judicial review. In short, the Judge held:

1. Withdrawing Sponsorship Was Lawful: The University acted within its rights and in line with the Home Office’s Student Sponsor Guidance, which demands scrupulous vigilance against misuse of the immigration system. When credible evidence of fraudulent documents emerged, the University was justified in withdrawing the CAS.

2. No finding of dishonesty against the claimants was required: The rules allow for permission to be refused or cancelled if fraudulent documents are provided, irrespective of whether the applicant personally knew about the falsity. Since the sponsor duties are strict, it was not necessary for the Defendant to establish the students’ direct complicity.

3. Procedural Fairness was not breached: The claimants had enough notice that the verification process was taking place and were explicitly asked not to travel. They nonetheless entered the UK and were given opportunities to explain themselves during campus meetings. The Court also noted that any further representations would not have changed the fact that the bank statements were false.

4. No arguable Article 8 Claim: Neither claimant provided a viable argument as to why they had a private or family life claim that should override the University’s decision or the Home Office’s subsequent action.

5. Claimants’ own duty of candour: The Court highlighted that the claimants had not produced full disclosure, particularly regarding their communications with the alleged agent/sub-agent who submitted the fraudulent documents. This further undermined their position.

Overall, the Court concluded that the University’s actions were legally sound, and the Secretary of State was similarly within her powers to cancel the claimants’ permission to enter.

Our Comments

This case clearly demonstrates how the High Court balances the duty of educational institutions to uphold immigration control against the need for fairness to individual students. When suspicious documents surface, especially on a large scale involving the same bank or agent, universities have little choice but to alert the Home Office and withdraw their support.

In the face of strict sponsor obligations, it is vital that students take every step to verify the authenticity of their financial proofs. Moreover, a thorough trail of communication with any educational agent should be maintained, ensuring that students themselves understand every part of the documentation being submitted on their behalf.

For those faced with sponsorship withdrawal, it is crucial to seek prompt legal advice. As seen in this case, once a CAS is cancelled and the Home Office is notified of suspected fraud, the path to overturning visa revocations can be extremely challenging.

Ultimately, R (on the application of Prabhjot Kaur and another) v Birmingham City University serves as an important reminder: ensuring accuracy and transparency in all visa-related documentation is not merely a formality, but an absolute necessity to safeguard both the student’s status and the sponsor’s licence.

Have questions? Get in touch today!

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Sumit Singh

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Richard Hammond’s costly divorce – who gets the family home when a marriage breaks down?

The cost of divorce in the UK is quite high. In fact, many people joke that divorce is so unaffordable these days that no one dares to get married. In today’s article, we look at a high-profile celebrity case involving the division of a family home, as well as what happens to a family home in the event of a divorce.

While rich celebrities might not receive the pity of the public when it comes to headline divorces, they can often be financially crippling for those involved. Recently, the world-famous British TV host, Richard Hammond, of Top Gear fame announced on social media that he was going through a painful divorce with his wife Mindy.

After their marriage, the couple moved to Weston-under-Penyard, Herefordshire, where they live in the luxurious Bolete Castle, an estate worth £7million.

The castle is a Grade II listed building in the UK and was built in the 18th century. It has six bedrooms, a swimming pool and 20 acres of land.

After a long marriage, which deteriorated over time, Richard Hammond moved out and was forced to rent a house nearby. Now, Mindy has also stated that she will propose to keep the family home in the divorce settlement.

How it will be divided in the end depends on how they reach an agreement.

How is the house divided during a divorce in the UK?

Many people will probably encounter the situation described in this article when they are getting divorced. The family home is an important asset for both parties to meet their housing needs in the future. But who gets to keep the house? You have many options when deciding how to divide the family home, including:

Buy out your spouse’s share of the property;
Selling the house (this also depends on the specific circumstances of the loan);
Put off selling until your children are grown (if you have any, until they are 18).
Depending on the value of the other assets, it may also be possible to use one person’s equity in the home to offset another asset. For example, perhaps one of you keeps the family home while the other keeps a pension fund or holiday home.

There are many reasons why one party may want to keep the property outright, but the extent to which this is possible depends entirely on the individual case. In England and Wales, there is no fixed formula for asset division, and the courts have wide discretion to make orders based on the specific circumstances of each case.

Generally speaking, the division of assets (including the family home) is usually based on what is considered fair and reasonable in each case, for example, taking into account factors such as the duration of the marriage, the financial contribution of each spouse, and the needs of the children involved.

Assets acquired will be considered marital property

In general, there are other assets that need to be considered in any divorce financial settlement, such as inherited property, buy-to-let property, or holiday homes. Therefore, you must disclose any property that you own, own in your own name, or own jointly with your spouse. You must also disclose interests in assets that you own jointly with people outside of your marriage. Once both parties have made full and candid disclosures, your solicitor will let you know which assets will be included in the division.

Generally speaking, any assets you acquire or accumulate during your marriage will be considered “marital property” and considered for division. If a property is jointly owned by someone other than you and your spouse, only your share of that asset will be considered. A house that you and your spouse use as your primary residence will definitely be considered “marital property” because it is the family home, regardless of who paid the deposit or mortgage.

If you have a prenuptial agreement, it is important to give this document to your solicitor. Generally, we will check that it covers all property and that no significant changes have occurred since the prenuptial agreement was signed. If there is no prenuptial agreement, our family law solicitors will advise clients on the composition of their property.

Who can stay in the home during a divorce?

If you are a legal co-owner of the property, both parties have the right to continue to live in the property during the divorce, until the court approves a financial order. This means that you cannot be forced to move out of the property unless there is a court order (or, in the case of domestic violence allegations, police bail conditions restricting you to a specified distance from the property; or you voluntarily want to move out).

In many cases, the parent who is the primary caregiver of the child has the right to live in the family home after a divorce, so who gets the house is closely tied to child custody.

How to divide the house in a divorce with children?

There is no general rule as to who gets to keep the family home. The court must consider several factors when deciding this, including:

children’s needs and arrangements;
The couple’s age, health, and earning ability;
assets and available resources;
what each spouse needs;
the length of the marriage and the contributions made by each spouse;
The standard of living of each spouse; and
Any negative behaviour would be unfair if ignored by the court.

If I move out of my home, will I lose my rights?

No. If you decide you no longer want to live in your previous home, you can rest assured that moving out now will not deprive you of your rights to the property. In some cases, it may be a wise choice to protect your mental health. It may even benefit relationships in the long run, especially when children are involved, as you can protect them from witnessing your parents’ arguments.

If you leave your home, we recommend that you take your personal belongings and financial records with you. Although you still have a legal interest in the home, we recommend that you do not return without notice. If you must return for any reason, it is best to make arrangements with your spouse. If you have experienced domestic violence, you may need to move out to prevent further harm. In this case, you should seek urgent legal advice as you may be able to get a court order.

Have questions? Get in touch today!

Call us on 020 7928 0276, we will be taking calls from 9:30am to 6:00pm.

Email us on info@lisaslaw.co.uk.

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Sumit Singh

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What reasons can landlords use to dispute a lease extension?

We have recently received many enquiries about commercial lease renewal procedure, as well as issues around a lease extension not being granted. This can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety for business owners regarding their future.

But what reasons can a landlord use to dispute a lease extension? Keep reading to find out more.

Granting of a new lease

In English law, there are two primary processes for extending the term of a commercial lease: granting a new lease and lease renewal by reference.

For the process of granting a new lease, the parties negotiate and agree upon the terms of the lease and security of tenure afresh. The new lease often incorporates provisions for rent reviews, allowing the rent to be adjusted periodically during the term based on agreed-upon mechanisms (e.g., market value, fixed percentage increase).

Lease renewal by reference

Lease renewal by reference refers to the process of renewing an existing lease by incorporating the terms of the original lease, as varied and updated with statutory provisions.

However, it may be the case that neither extension or renewal appeals to the landlord, and they seek to gain vacant possession. If the lease falls under sections 24-28 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, which is the case for many leases, the tenant has an automatic right to extend. This right can only be challenged if the landlord successfully presents one of the statutory exemptions.

Section 30(1) Landlord and Tenant Act 1954

This section provides the grounds for evicting a tenant based on tenant fault and no-fault grounds.

1. Tenant fault grounds (A-C):

A: Property in disrepair
B: Persistent delays in rent payment
C: Breach of other lease obligations by the tenant

2. On the other hand, no-fault grounds (D-G) allow landlords to reclaim possession for reasons unrelated to tenant misconduct:

D: Suitable alternative accommodation available
E: Sub-letting issues where the superior landlord needs possession
F:Landlord plans to redevelop the property, making tenant occupation impossible
G: Landlord intends to use the property for themselves

Each ground has specific evidentiary requirements. If a no-fault ground is used, the tenant may be entitled to compensation based on the property’s ratable value and their duration of occupancy.

That said, we would highlight a precedent case for opposing a lease extension. Gill (as trustee of the Gillcrest UK Pension Scheme) v Lees News Ltd, was a case in which the tenant sought a new tenancy under section 26 of the Act.

However, the landlord opposed, citing multiple grounds (A, B, and C). The tenant challenged this opposition, initiating court proceedings to secure the new lease. Prior to the hearing, the tenant made good on the disrepair issues raised by the landlord. On appeal, the judge emphasised that the timing of the tenant’s remediation is crucial, but the overall history of the tenant’s performance throughout the tenancy should also be considered.

What factors determine whether a tenant should be granted a new lease

The court highlighted three key factors in determining whether the tenant should be granted a new lease:

1. Breaches should be assessed collectively rather than individually, as multiple smaller breaches can collectively justify opposition.

2. The fairness to the landlord in having to grant a new lease is essential, alongside consideration of the tenant’s potential hardship.

3. The tenant’s conduct during litigation can be a significant factor in extreme cases.

The tenant’s current compliance and their historical conduct in tenancy disputes are to be considered as a whole when opposing the extension.

We would be happy to provide relevant legal advice to navigate the complexities of such a procedure to suit your specific circumstances.

Have questions? Get in touch today!

Call us on 020 7928 0276, we will be taking calls from 9:30am to 6:00pm.

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Sumit Singh

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Automatic Upgrades for Pre-Settled Status Holders to Settled Status: A Policy Update

The Home Office is set to introduce a significant policy change aimed at streamlining the transition of eligible pre-settled status holders towards settled status under Immigration Rules Appendix EU.

This new approach seeks to finalize the implementation of the judgment in R (Independent Monitoring Authority for the Citizens’ Rights Agreements) v Secretary of State for the Home Department [2022] EWHC 3274 (Admin), which clarified the government’s obligations under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).

Key Features of the Policy

Starting from late January 2025, the Home Office will begin issuing automatic upgrades from pre-settled to settled status for those who meet the eligibility criteria. This automated process represents a significant administrative shift designed to ensure compliance with legal requirements while simplifying the pathway for eligible individuals.

Notification and Timeline

Pre-settled status holders nearing the expiry of their status will receive email notifications informing them of their potential eligibility for an automated conversion to settled status. Importantly, individuals will not be required to take any action; the Home Office will handle the upgrade process on their behalf. If, for any reason, an individual cannot be granted settled status, they will be informed accordingly.

Automated Eligibility Checks for Settled Status eligibility

The Home Office will rely on existing government-held data to assess whether pre-settled status holders are eligible for settled status. This includes verifying that individuals have maintained continuous residence in the UK and reviewing records for evidence of criminal conduct. These checks will mirror the processes undertaken during initial applications to the EUSS, ensuring consistency and fairness in determining eligibility.

Expanding the Scope of Automation

In the latter part of 2025, the Home Office plans to broaden the scope of this initiative, allowing a larger number of eligible pre-settled status holders to benefit from automatic upgrades. This expansion will further enhance the efficiency of the EUSS and ensure that individuals who meet the requirements for settled status can transition seamlessly.

Addressing Non-Compliance with Conditions

For pre-settled status holders who no longer meet the conditions of their status—such as those who have not maintained continuous residence in the UK—the Home Office is considering appropriate next steps. Further guidance on how these cases will be handled is expected to be released in due course.

Ensuring Legal Compliance and Simplification

This policy marks an important step in fulfilling the Home Office’s legal obligations under the EUSS and ensuring the rights of individuals covered by the Citizens’ Rights Agreements are respected. By automating the upgrade process, the Home Office seeks to reduce the administrative burden on applicants and ensure timely and accurate decisions.

What This Means for Pre-Settled Status Holders

1. No Action Required: Eligible pre-settled status holders will be automatically considered for settled status without needing to submit a new application.

2. Transparency: Individuals will be notified of their status upgrade or informed if they do not meet the criteria for settled status.

3. Future Updates: Further information will be provided on handling cases where individuals no longer meet the conditions of their pre-settled status.

Our thoughts

This proactive approach underscores the government’s commitment to simplifying the EUSS process while safeguarding the rights of individuals. Pre-settled status holders are encouraged to monitor communications from the Home Office and remain informed about future developments as this policy continues to be implemented.

Have questions? Get in touch today!

Call us on 020 7928 0276, we will be taking calls from 9:30am to 6:00pm.

Email us on info@lisaslaw.co.uk.

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Sumit Singh

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UK Government Proposes Increases to Home Office Fees and Temporary Transit Exemption for Airports

The UK government has revealed plans to raise certain Home Office fees. However, the implementation date remains undecided, as the draft regulations must undergo debate and approval in both Houses of Parliament. Additionally, a temporary exemption from electronic travel authorisation (ETA) requirements have been granted for specific airport transit passengers.

Temporary Transit Exemption

In response to feedback from the aviation industry, the government has introduced a temporary exemption from ETA requirements for passengers transiting airside without passing through UK border control. This exemption primarily applies to Heathrow and Manchester airports, the only UK airports currently offering transit facilities. The policy will be subject to ongoing review.

Proposed Fee Increases

The draft regulations, titled The Immigration and Nationality (Fees) (Amendment) Order 2025, set out the maximum allowable increases for various immigration and nationality fees. Actual charges may be lower than the specified maximums. Key changes include:

Electronic Travel Authorisation

Fee increases from £10 to £16 (maximum fee previously set at £15).
Provision for Guernsey, Jersey, and the Isle of Man to implement similar charges when their schemes are introduced.

Nationality Fees

Naturalisation as a British Citizen: Increase from £1,500 to £1,605.
Naturalisation as a British Overseas Territories Citizen: Increase from £1,000 to £1,070.
Reconsideration of Naturalisation/Registration Applications: Increase from £450 to £482.
Renunciation of British Citizenship: Increase from £450 to £482.
Amendment of Certificates of Registration or Naturalisation: Increase from £400 to £428.
Right of Abode Document: Increase from £550 to £589.
Duplicate Certificates: Increase from £400 to £428.

Sponsorship Fees

Certificate of Sponsorship: Increase from £239 to £525; the £25 fee rises to £55.
‘Sponsor a Worker’ Approval: Maximum fee increase from £300 to £525, reflecting the phased rollout of the new process.

Next Steps

We will provide updates once the implementation date for these changes is confirmed. In the meantime, passengers and applicants should prepare for the increased costs and check the latest guidance on eligibility and exemptions.

Have questions? Get in touch today!

Call us on 020 7928 0276, we will be taking calls from 9:30am to 6:00pm.

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Sumit Singh

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Unlawful payments made by an accountant – tort of conversion or a breach of the duty of fidelity?

In today’s case, Mr. Edward Hamish Millar, a former accountant and employee of 108 Medical Limited (the Claimant), was accused of making unlawful payments to himself totalling £127,370. This was an amount which exceeded what he was entitled to under his employment contract.

The Defendant argued that the payments were either salary sacrifices or agreed with the majority shareholder, however, no documentary evidence supported this claim.

So, what conclusion did the court arrive to? Let’s take a look at the case in more detail.

Judgement

The court found that the payments made through the payroll had no legitimate purpose or authorization and ruled that the Defendant had made unauthorized payments beyond his agreed salary.

Additionally, the court found the Defendant liable for conversion, a legal term for the unauthorized taking or misappropriation of property, as his actions had deprived the Claimant of money rightfully belonging to them.

The court concluded that the Defendant had violated his duty of fidelity, which requires employees to act in good faith and not undermine the trust of their employer. As an accountant, the Defendant had a fiduciary duty to act responsibly, which he breached by misappropriating the company’s funds.

Ultimately, the Defendant’s actions were both a breach of his contractual duties and a violation of legal principles concerning the misappropriation of assets, and he was ordered to repay the excessive payments.

Final thoughts

This case highlights the importance of maintaining integrity and transparency, especially for individuals in positions of trust such as accountants.

Have questions? Get in touch today!

Call us on 020 7928 0276, we will be taking calls from 9:30am to 6:00pm.

Email us on info@lisaslaw.co.uk.

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Sumit Singh

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Title Deeds – what are they, and why are they important?

When purchasing or selling a property, the Title Deeds will inevitably come to your attention. But what exactly are they and why are they important?

Let’s investigate.

What are title deeds?

Title deeds consist of various records that establish and track the ownership of a property over time. These may include documents related to mortgages, leases, agreements, and legal matters like wills or property transfers. From these records, we can see some basic information related to the specific property, e.g. who was the owner of the property during different periods, what is the boundary of the property, etc. We can also, from the title deeds, obtain information such as what kind of benefits can be enjoyed by the owner of the property and what kind of restrictions are attached to the property.

Why are title deeds important?

First of all, a title deed shows the current owner’s name and address of the property. By matching the owner’s information recorded in the title deed with the identity information provided to us by the seller, we will be able to know whether the seller we are contracting has the right to dispose of the property and we may avoid property fraud.

Secondly, a title deed with a title plan will clearly show the property’s boundary. By comparing the title plan with the actual site of the property, we can realise which part of the property is included in our purchase and which is not. Sometimes the title deed will also mention that our neighbour or other third party has a right to use a specific part of the property subject to some conditions. We will need to be aware of these third-party rights and protect our interest (i.e. who is responsible for any damages or who is responsible for maintenance?)

Thirdly, a title deed may contain restrictive covenants, which will affect how the property will be used or developed. These restrictive covenants are promises given by the seller or previous owners of the property to third parties, announcing that the owner of the property will not do things prohibited by the third parties. For example, a title deed may contain such a clause:

‘The Purchasers their successors and assigns would not carry on or permit to be carried on in or upon the said plot of land thereby conveyed any business for the sale of ale beer wine or spirituous liquors.’

How can you request a record of title deeds?

It’s a good idea to have a record of the title deeds, as these are crucial when you come to sell a property. However, you do not need the original deeds, a copy of them will be enough. This is something which your solicitor will be able to order for you in order to prove to the buyer that you are the legal owner.

Importance of restrictive covenants

Such restrictive covenants are registered in the title deed. They will restrict how the property can be used and/or developed. They sometimes cannot be removed or varied. Therefore, before purchasing a property with restrictive covenants, you need to first find out what the restrictive covenants are and whether they can be removed or varied, so that they will not affect your intended use and/or development. Otherwise, if you breach such covenants, the covenantee may take legal actions against you and you may face financial consequences.

Final thoughts

Title deeds should always be one of the most important documents we need to pay attention to. Only when all potential problems revealed in the title deed have been resolved or understood, we can proceed with the transaction with manageable risk.

Have questions? Get in touch today!

Call us on 020 7928 0276, we will be taking calls from 9:30am to 6:00pm.

Email us on info@lisaslaw.co.uk.

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Sumit Singh

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Conveyancing in 2025: What to Expect

With the year still in its infancy, Lisa’s Law would like to use this article to outline some of the major upcoming changes to conveyancing in 2025. We will also take a look at how these major changes will affect buyers, sellers and conveyancing solicitors involved.

Purchase cost increases

The following three changes will not be liked by buyers, as they are likely to increase purchase costs:

Change of stamp duty and land tax (SDLT)

From 1^st April 2025, the zero rate band for residential properties will drop from current £250,000 to £125,000. It means that buyers will have to pay £2,500 more SDLT on their purchases. For first time buyers, the exemption will drop from current £425,000 to £300,000, an additional SDLT payment of £6,250. Please refer to our article for more details of the changes.

It will clearly be another busy season for conveyancing solicitors until 31^st March 2025, when buyers try to benefit from the current SDLT rates and press their solicitors to complete transactions prior to the changes.

Reduction in right to buy discount

In order to increase the social housing stock of local councils, the Labour government has substantially reduced the discount offered to council tenants when they exercise their right to buy the properties they have been renting. From 21^st November 2024, the maximum discount has been capped at between £16,000 and £38,000, which used to be as high as £102,400 across England or £136,400 in London boroughs.

In addition, the government is also considering increasing the number of years it takes for a tenant to be eligible from 5 years to 10 years. They are also considering requesting a repayment of the discount if they sell the properties within 10 years, instead of five years.

Without a doubt, this will mean that fewer and fewer social tenants can afford such purchases.

Higher Charges for Information Services

HM Land Registry has raised its fees for information services by £4 since 9^th December 2024, which appears to be a minor change, but can easily squeeze buyers’ pockets by dozens of pounds.

Delay in conveyancing process

Anyone with some conveyancing experience is likely to know how painfully slow the process can be. It can be delayed by many factors. Lenders can raise too many requirements at the last moment before lending. Search results may not be received when a deadline is approaching. More frequently, in case of leasehold transactions, when everything hangs on the provision of management pack, landlords or their management agents are nowhere to be found. Will the overall situation be improved in 2025?

To answer this question, the 5^th edition of the Law Society’s property information form TA6 is set to roll out this year. The form will require sellers to provide more additional information about their properties, which include many additional questions about council tax, construction materials, erosion risk, building safety and other issues. The Law Society has claimed that it intends to use the form to make the conveyancing process more transparent. The idea is for sellers to disclose as much information about their properties as early as possible, so that buyers can decide whether to proceed with the transactions at a very early stage. It is predicted that once in use, Form TA6 should help speed up the transaction process and reduce the number of aborted cases.

In 2024, the government also passed the Freehold and Leasehold Reform Act 2024. Section 67 of the act means that landlords or their management agents must provide the relevant sales information within a specified period of time after receiving such request from leasehold sellers. Section 76 also limits the amount they can charge for providing such information. Such provisions will clearly reduce the delays which currently blockade many transactions. Unfortunately, neither section has been brought into force. It remains to be seen whether this will happen in 2025.

Tenants’ rights

There are two pieces of legislations which will affect tenants’ rights in 2025.

The Renters’ Rights Bill is likely to become law this year. At the time of writing, it has passed the first reading at the House of Lords. This bill intends to offer more protection to tenants, including abolishing the so-called no-fault section21 notice, turning all tenancies into periodic, prohibiting landlords from evicting tenants without fair grounds and improving the regulation of the private renting market by creating a private renting landlord ombudsman and increasing the local authorities’ power of enforcement. Please refer to our article for more information on the bill.

Once coming into force, the Renters’ Rights Bill or Act by then will clearly reshape the private renting market. Although there is no doubt that it will offer tenants more rights, landlords also have legitimate reasons to worry whether they will have any control over their own properties any longer. Such concern will inevitably influence potential landlords’ intention to enter the market. Combined with the effect of the additional 5% SDLT imposed on purchases of additional properties, it is likely to affect buy-to-let purchases.

In the meantime, section 27 of the Freehold and Leasehold Reform Act 2024 is expected to be brought into force this year. This will allow leaseholders to extend their leases or franchise the relevant freehold, irrespective of how long they have owned the property. This will effectively take away some concerns buyers normally have about leasehold properties.

Environment-related issues

Climate change will continue to have an impact on conveyancing in 2025. Under the Law Society’s guidance, based on property locality, peculiar physical features and client’s objectives, conveyancing solicitors are expected to advise their clients what environmental searches should be carried out and enquiries raised and the implication of an environmental risk to the use, insurability, costs and marketability of a property. Many solicitors may need to review their title to report to include or expand their report on environmental risks.

Lenders are also taking action on climate change. Halifax has recently linked its lending to property EPC rating. The higher the rating is, the more a borrower is allowed to borrow. This will inevitably increase the marketability of properties with high energy efficiency.

Our thoughts

In general, with the SDLT threshold dropping to the pre-covid £125,000 level, the majority of buyers in 2025 will see their purchase costs increased by at least £2,500. Environmental risks will further increase such costs, as it will mean more searches and more reports. Social housing tenants looking to buy their council house will see the biggest impact. With the substantial discount reduction, it is a real question whether the right to buy has any attraction at all.

Have questions? Get in touch today!

Call us on 020 7928 0276, we will be taking calls from 9:30am to 6:00pm.

Email us on info@lisaslaw.co.uk.

Use the Ask Lisa function on our website. Simply enter your details and leave a message, we will get right back to you: https://lisaslaw.co.uk/ask-question/

For more updates, follow us on our social media platforms! You can find them all on our Linktree right here.

Sumit Singh

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Ballot Announcement for the Youth Mobility Scheme 2025 – those from Hong Kong and Taiwan eligible

The UK’s Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) is a visa route designed to enable young people from select countries and territories to experience life and work in the UK for up to two years. Under this scheme, successful applicants can work, study, and live in the UK, gaining valuable international exposure and professional development. The scheme offers a unique opportunity for young individuals to immerse themselves in British culture and build global networks.

Who Can Apply?

This particular route is open to nationals or citizens of specific countries and territories that have agreed YMS arrangements with the UK. Hong Kong and Taiwan are among those that participate. Applicants generally need to be aged between 18 and 30 and meet the relevant eligibility criteria, such as having sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.

2025 First Ballot Details

The Home Office has officially published the details of the first ballot of 2025 for Hong Kong and Taiwan applicants. The main points are as follows:

Application Window

The ballot opens on Tuesday, 4 February 2025 at 00.01 am (local time) and closes on Thursday, 6 February 2025 at 00.01 am (local time).

Applicants must email the relevant address within this 48-hour window, following the precise guidelines and including the required personal information.

Ballot Entry Format

Each applicant can only submit one email per ballot. The email must conform to the specified format, which will require details such as your full name, date of birth, and passport number.

Allocation of Places

In 2024, each participating territory was granted 1,000 places. While the Home Office has not confirmed whether the same number of slots will be allocated for 2025, it is anticipated that the figure will remain consistent.

Notification of Results

Applicants who are successful in the ballot will receive an email on Tuesday, 11^th February 2025. Those who are unsuccessful will be informed within two weeks after the ballot closes.

Next Steps for Successful Applicants

Successful individuals have 90 days from the date of the results email to submit their full Youth Mobility Scheme application, pay the required visa fee, and provide biometric information at a local Visa Application Centre (VAC).

Failure to apply within that 90-day window will typically result in forfeiture of the opportunity, requiring re-entry into a future ballot (if applicable).

Practical Tips for Applicants

Monitor the Official Guidance – Keep a close eye on the UK Government’s official channels for any updates regarding the YMS and the ballot process.

Follow the Email Format Carefully – The Home Office’s instructions on how to structure the ballot entry email can be very specific, ensure you include all the requested personal details. Minor errors or omissions could lead to disqualification.

Prepare Your Documents in Advance – If you are chosen in the ballot, you will only have a 90-day window to finalise your full visa application. Start gathering necessary paperwork.

Plan Your Budget – The YMS visa fee, Immigration Health Surcharge (if applicable), and potential travel expenses all add up. Make sure you have sufficient funds readily available to cover these costs within the 90-day timeframe.

Seek Professional Advice Where Needed – While the ballot itself might be straightforward, completing the formal YMS visa application can involve meeting multiple requirements. If you are uncertain about your eligibility or how to complete the application process, contact us and our immigration team will advise you on your eligibility for the scheme.

Final thoughts

The Youth Mobility Scheme continues to provide a fantastic opportunity for young people from Hong Kong and Taiwan to come to the UK, gain valuable work experience, and build international networks.

With the first ballot of 2025 rapidly approaching, prospective applicants should be prepared to submit their entries precisely as instructed and keep track of all relevant deadlines. A well-organised application significantly improves your chances of making the most of this exciting scheme.

Have questions? Get in touch today!

Call us on 020 7928 0276, we will be taking calls from 9:30am to 6:00pm.

Email us on info@lisaslaw.co.uk.

Use the Ask Lisa function on our website. Simply enter your details and leave a message, we will get right back to you: https://lisaslaw.co.uk/ask-question/

For more updates, follow us on our social media platforms! You can find them all on our Linktree right here.

Sumit Singh

See Full Bio

News and Insights

What do employers have to pay for?

Employers must now cover the following costs themselves

Some expenses must still be paid by employees

Have questions? Get in touch today!

Grounds for Judicial Review

High Court’s Decision

Our Comments

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How is the house divided during a divorce in the UK?

Assets acquired will be considered marital property

Who can stay in the home during a divorce?

How to divide the house in a divorce with children?

If I move out of my home, will I lose my rights?

Have questions? Get in touch today!

Granting of a new lease

Lease renewal by reference

Section 30(1) Landlord and Tenant Act 1954

What factors determine whether a tenant should be granted a new lease

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Key Features of the Policy

Notification and Timeline

Automated Eligibility Checks for Settled Status eligibility

Expanding the Scope of Automation

Addressing Non-Compliance with Conditions

Ensuring Legal Compliance and Simplification

What This Means for Pre-Settled Status Holders

Our thoughts

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Temporary Transit Exemption

Proposed Fee Increases

Electronic Travel Authorisation

Nationality Fees

Sponsorship Fees

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Judgement

Final thoughts

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What are title deeds?

Why are title deeds important?

How can you request a record of title deeds?

Importance of restrictive covenants

Final thoughts

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Purchase cost increases

Change of stamp duty and land tax (SDLT)

Reduction in right to buy discount

Higher Charges for Information Services

Delay in conveyancing process

Tenants’ rights

Environment-related issues

Our thoughts

Have questions? Get in touch today!

Who Can Apply?

2025 First Ballot Details

Application Window

Ballot Entry Format

Allocation of Places

Notification of Results

Next Steps for Successful Applicants

Practical Tips for Applicants

Final thoughts

Have questions? Get in touch today!

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