The UK Government has announced major updates to the Skilled Worker visa route, with changes taking effect from 22 July 2025. The adjustments reflect a shift in immigration policy aimed at tightening eligibility, preventing misuse, and encouraging domestic workforce development.
Key Highlights
- Minimum skill level raised to RQF Level 6 (Bachelor’s degree)
- Salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas increased to £41,700
- Overseas care worker recruitment ends 22 July 2025
Increased Salary and Skills Thresholds
From 22 July 2025, salary and skills thresholds for Skilled Worker visas will increase. New applicants will now require a bachelor’s degree or equivalent RQF Level 6 qualification. According to the explanatory memorandum, this change will eliminate around 180 occupations from the list of eligible roles. However, workers already in these occupations will continue to be able to be sponsored.
Transitional Provisions for Existing Workers
Skilled workers already in the UK will be exempt from the increased skill level requirement. The explanatory memorandum states:
“For now, transitional arrangements in this Statement of Changes exempt workers who are already in the Skilled Worker route (or have been sponsored for an application which is later successful) when the changes come into effect from the increase to the skill threshold. As set out in the Immigration White Paper, this enables existing Skilled Worker visa holders to continue to renew their visas, change employment and take supplementary employment, in occupations below RQF level 6. These transitional arrangements will not be in place indefinitely and will be reviewed in due course
Salary Threshold Update
The salary thresholds are being increased in line with the latest Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) data. While there was a minimal uplift in April 2025, these new figures complete the adjustment process:
- Minimum salary rises from £38,700 to £41,700
- For those with a relevant PhD, the threshold increases from £34,830 to £37,500
There are no transitional provisions for the updated salary thresholds. A review by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) is expected to follow
End of Overseas Recruitment for Social Care Roles
Overseas recruitment for social care worker roles will end on 22 July 2025, in response to concerns about widespread abuse, exploitation, and non-compliance within the sector. While new applications from overseas will no longer be accepted, transitional provisions will allow in-country switching until 22 July 2028 provided workers have been legally employed by their sponsor for at least three months prior to applying.
These safeguards aim to protect existing workers, maintain workforce continuity, and uphold compliance with employment standards.
Final Note
These changes mark a significant shift in the UK’s approach to work-based immigration. Employers, sponsors, and stakeholders should take steps to understand the implications for recruitment planning, workforce compliance, and visa sponsorship going forward. With tighter restrictions and limited transitional arrangements, early preparation is essential.
As the Government signals a stronger emphasis on training local talent and curbing misuse of the system, organisations relying on overseas labour must ensure their practices align with updated immigration standards and policy objectives. Staying informed and responsive will be critical in navigating this evolving landscape.
