Manchester has long been the UK’s "second city" for immigration—a vibrant hub of international students, thriving tech businesses at MediaCityUK, and a bustling airport gateway. But as we move deeper into 2026, the city is facing a unique storm of regulatory changes that are squeezing its international population from both sides:

 London is a global city, but for migrants, it can often feel like a fortress. The path to residency is guarded by a dizzying array of regulations, ever-changing policy guidance, and a Home Office administration that is notoriously difficult to navigate. In this high-stakes environment, the legal market has exploded. A quick search will reveal

 London is a global city, but for migrants, it can often feel like a fortress. The path to residency is guarded by a dizzying array of regulations, ever-changing policy guidance, and a Home Office administration that is notoriously difficult to navigate. In this high-stakes environment, the legal market has exploded. A quick search will reveal

 London is a global city, but for migrants, it can often feel like a fortress. The path to residency is guarded by a dizzying array of regulations, ever-changing policy guidance, and a Home Office administration that is notoriously difficult to navigate. In this high-stakes environment, the legal market has exploded. A quick search will reveal

 London is a global city, but for migrants, it can often feel like a fortress. The path to residency is guarded by a dizzying array of regulations, ever-changing policy guidance, and a Home Office administration that is notoriously difficult to navigate. In this high-stakes environment, the legal market has exploded. A quick search will reveal