Supporting information
Published 23 September 2026
© Crown copyright 2026
This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: psi@nationalarchives.gov.uk.
Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.
This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/competence-assessment-changes-supporting-information/supporting-information
1. Why is the assessment process changing?
The new changes provide an opportunity to improve assessment arrangements, simplify processes, enhance the candidate experience, and strengthen the assessment of ethics and understanding of the Code of Standards.
2. When will the changes take effect?
Timelines and implementation plans are currently being finalised. Subject to the completion of the necessary arrangements and a number of dependencies outside of the IAA’s control, assessments are anticipated to resume from November 2026.
We recognise how important this information is and are working at pace to finalise the arrangements and confirm details as soon as possible.
3. Will anyone be disadvantaged by the transition?
The IAA is progressing the new contract to help ensure a smooth transition and minimise disruption. Advance notice of any changes will be provided, along with guidance and support to help candidates and advisers prepare.
Candidates who have already submitted an application will be contacted directly about the options available to them.
4. Where can I find the latest information?
Updates will be published on the IAA’s website. Candidates, advisers and organisations are encouraged to check the website and email communication regularly for the latest information.
5. I’m planning to submit an application soon. Do I need to delay submitting my application until the new arrangements are in place?
No, applications can continue to be submitted. However, applications submitted during this period will be required to undertake the new competence assessment based on the new syllabuses. For the time being they will continue to follow the existing application process. We will advise shortly when that will change.
6. Do I need to be part of an organisation before taking the competence assessment?
Individuals need to identify and engage with a prospective organisation before taking the competence assessment. This ensures there is a realistic prospect of joining an organisation, as the assessment is intended to support progression into a specific organisation.
7. How often will competence assessments be available under the new arrangements?
We expect the Level 1 assessments to take place every two weeks instead of every four weeks, and Level 2 and Level 3 assessments to take place every eight weeks instead of every twelve weeks.
Further information on assessment dates will be published on the IAA website.
8. Will I need to apply for a competence assessment or exemption under the new process?
Yes. Individuals will need to either apply to sit the competence assessment or apply for an exemption where they meet the relevant eligibility criteria.
9. Is the structure of the competence assessment changing?
The structure of the technical assessment will remain broadly the same as under the previous arrangements, with the addition of an enhanced assessment that includes an additional component covering the Code of Standards, ethics and professional behaviours.
To ensure the overall assessment remains manageable, we expect there to be a break between the technical assessment and the ethics and professional behaviours component.
Candidates will be required to pass all sections of the assessment, including the Code of Standards and ethics and professional behaviours section, in order to achieve an overall pass.
10. If I pass the competence assessment, can I start practising immediately?
No. Passing the competence assessment is only one part of how the IAA assesses an individual’s fitness and competence.
To practise, an individual must also be included within an organisation’s application to the IAA and successfully complete both the individual and organisation approval process. They cannot provide immigration advice and/or immigration services until that process has been completed and the organisation has been authorised.
11. Does passing the competence assessment mean I am authorised to provide immigration advice?
No. Passing the competence assessment does not, by itself, authorise an individual to provide immigration advice or immigration services.
Individuals may only provide immigration advice or immigration services once they have been formally approved to work on behalf of an organisation regulated by the IAA. Providing immigration advice or immigration services without the necessary approval is a criminal offence.
12. What other requirements must be met before I can begin practising as an immigration adviser?
To provide immigration advice and/or immigration services to the public, you must be regulated by the IAA.
After successfully completing the IAA’s competence assessment, you may submit an application for registration, either as part of an organisation’s application, if you intend to join an organisation regulated by the IAA, or as part of an application to establish your own immigration advice organisation.
You can only begin practising as an immigration adviser once your application has been assessed and you have received confirmation from the IAA that the relevant approval has been granted.