From 1st January 2027, ordinary unfair dismissal is set to change significantly. The qualifying period will reduce from two years to six months, with retrospective effect, and compensation caps will be removed. This guide for UK employers explains what the proposals mean, why July 2026 is the key cut-off for risk, and how to update probation, disciplinary and dismissal processes. You get a clear timeline, practical checklists, and links to Acas, the Employment Rights Act 1996, and Specialised HR services.