Private wealth: what does the UK Immigration and Asylum Bill tell us (and not tell us)?

Further to the King's Speech 2026, the long-awaited Immigration and Asylum Bill was published on 30 June 2026, and it contains 82 pages.  There are also 60 pages of Explanatory Notes.  Despite all these pages, what might be relevant to private wealth and economic immigration is not necessarily what is in the Bill, but what is not in the Bill.

Aims of the Bill

According to the Explanatory Notes, the "aims of the Bill are:

1. the creation of a new Independent Immigration Appeals Authority;
2. tightening of the application of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights;
3. reforming the modern slavery legislative framework to set out the Government’s obligations;
4. create new law enforcement measures to tackle exploitation and provide for the identification of and support for children;
5. replace asylum/refugee and humanitarian protection claims and grants of leave with a single ‘core protection’ model; and
6. establishing a mechanism to require asylum seekers receiving publicly-funded accommodation and other support to contribute once they are able to do so."

Relevant points for employers/businesses/and HNW individuals

Despite the strong focus on the new Appeal Authority and asylum system, there are a few references in the Bill that are relevant to business and private wealth migration: 

• “The Bill also includes measures to strengthen expectations on businesses and public bodies to address modern slavery in their supply chains and creates tougher penalties for those who do not comply with these enhanced transparency measures.”
• “The reforms will clarify that, in most cases, family life is to be understood as existing between spouses, partners, and parents with their minor children, with a stronger emphasis on cohabitation and demonstrable ongoing relationships.”
• “Protection ‘Work and Study’ route: The Government is working on the implementation of this policy which will be delivered shortly through Immigration Rules changes.”
• “Settlement: The government consultation on earned settlement closed on 12 February 2026. The final earned settlement system will be based on these responses.”

Now that the Bill has been published, hopefully, we will hear soon about “earned settlement” and how study and work routes might be updated in more detail.  These are particularly important to those who are already in the UK and those who are thinking about moving to the UK. 

How can we help?

Burges Salmon's specialists have substantial experience in immigration, tax, trusts, and estate planning for international clients.  If you wish to discuss any of the matters raised in this article, please do get in touch with Suzanna Harvey, Myra Leung, Megan Thomas or your usual contact within the team.

Legislation will be introduced to increase confidence in the security of the immigration and asylum systems [Immigration and Asylum Bill]

https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/the-kings-speech-2026