Important Changes to the Skilled Worker Visa Route: July 2025 Update
The UK government has announced substantial updates to the Skilled Worker visa system, coming into effect from 22 July 2025.
These reforms are part of a broader immigration changes aimed at tightening entry requirements, increasing salary thresholds, and restricting eligibility for many previously permitted roles.
If you employ or plan to sponsor overseas talent, these changes could directly impact your hiring plans.
Key Highlights of the Changes
1. Raising the Skills Threshold
The minimum skill level for new Skilled Worker visa applicants is increasing from RQF level 3 (A-level equivalent) to RQF level 6 (graduate level). As a result, more than 100 occupations will no longer qualify for sponsorship. This includes many technician, administrative, and support roles.
NB: Workers who already hold valid Skilled Worker visas (or have had a Certificate of Sponsorship issued before 22 July 2025) will not be affected by the new skill level rule.
2. Salary Thresholds Are Going Up
From 22 July 2025, the general salary threshold for Skilled Worker visa applicants will rise from £38,700 to £41,700. Other salary levels will also increase:
- New Entrants: from £30,960 to £33,400
- Roles on the Immigration Salary List (ISL): from £30,960 to £33,400
- Transitional rate (pre-April 2024 entrants): from £29,000 to £31,300
- Hourly minimum: £17.13 (unless the occupation has a higher going rate)
3. End of Recruitment for Care Workers from Overseas
The Social Care Worker visa route is being closed for new international applicants. Care workers (SOC 6135) and senior care workers (SOC 6136) will no longer be eligible for sponsorship unless they already hold valid visas or switch from another visa type before 22 July 2028.
4. New Temporary Shortage List (TSL) Introduced
The government is replacing the existing Shortage Occupation List with a Temporary Shortage List, allowing limited sponsorship for certain roles below graduate level. This list is set to expire by December 2026, unless extended based on advice from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC)
Occupations on the list include Laboratory technicians, IT support technicians, Bookkeepers and payroll clerks, Construction and engineering technicians, Authors, translators, and photographers.
5. Impact on Existing Visa Holders
Those already in the Skilled Worker route before the new rules take effect can continue to:
- Extend their visa
- Change employers or job roles (if permitted)
- Bring dependants (as per the previous rules)
What Employers Should Do Now
- Audit your workforce: Identify staff or vacancies that may be affected by the changes.
- Act quickly: If you intend to hire or renew a visa for someone under the current rules, ensure their Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is issued before 22 July 2025.
- Plan for recruitment changes: Review your roles against the new eligibility criteria and explore domestic hiring or upskilling options.
For tailored advice, please consult our team of immigration specialists to assess how these changes affect your immigration strategy and compliance requirements.
It is also a great time to review and update your Right to Work checks to ensure full compliance with the latest Home Office rules.
If you would like extra peace of mind, we can assist with a mock audit to help identify any potential risks before a formal inspection, giving you confidence that your processes are secure and up to standard.
