UK Removes 6-Year Stay Limit for Religious Workers

On October 29, 2026, the UK Home Office implemented updated immigration rules, specifically affecting foreign Ministers of Religion. The previous 6-year maximum stay limit for individuals on the T2 Minister of Religion route has been eliminated.

This change allows eligible religious leaders, including priests, imams, rabbis, and missionaries, to apply for indefinite leave to remain after five years of service. The initial permission period remains up to three years, with no cooling-off period between applications.

Additionally, a new financial requirement mandates that sponsoring organizations confirm in writing their commitment to maintain and accommodate the worker and any dependents for the duration of their permission. Only organizations with an A-rated sponsor licence can fulfill this obligation.

Eligible workers must meet an English language requirement and can bring their partner and dependent children, provided they meet the relevant immigration criteria. The changes do not affect the separate Religious Worker route, which remains capped at a maximum stay of 24 months.