The United Kingdom will change its Religious Worker visa rules from 29 October 2026 under the Statement of Changes HC 584, published on 3 September 2026. The update alters how sponsors and applicants demonstrate that a religious role is genuine, while leaving the wider eligibility framework in place.

What changes on 29 October

From that date, Religious Worker sponsors will no longer have to advertise the role. Instead, unless the worker is supernumerary or within a religious order, the applicant must show a genuine connection to the faith-based work. That means the worker must have performed religious duties outside the United Kingdom for the same faith-based organisation that the sponsor is affiliated with, for at least six months immediately before applying. A letter from the overseas organisation will be required as evidence.

Unpaid workers and existing eligibility

The changes also set out new rules for unpaid workers. If a worker is not entitled to the National Minimum Wage, no personal funds will be needed. However, the A-rated sponsor must confirm on the Certificate of Sponsorship that it will maintain and accommodate the worker, and any dependants, for the whole period. Applications made on or before 28 October 2026 will be decided under the old rules. General eligibility still includes being aged 18 or over, holding a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed sponsor, undertaking work relating to the sponsor's religious work, and receiving at least the National Minimum Wage unless exempt, within working-time rules. Immigration rules change frequently, so readers should check the official GOV.UK page before acting. This article gives no personal immigration advice.

Sources: GOV.UK