The UK government has announced a major overhaul of the Skilled Worker visa route, with changes taking effect from 22 July 2025. These reforms are part of a broader strategy to reduce net migration, raise the skill level of incoming workers, and ensure the immigration system better aligns with the UK’s economic needs.
Whether you’re an employer, a current visa holder, or a prospective applicant, these changes are significant and could impact your plans. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s changing and what it means for you.
Skill Threshold Raised to RQF Level 6
One of the most impactful changes is the increase in the minimum skill level required for a Skilled Worker visa. Previously, roles at RQF Level 3 (equivalent to A-levels) were eligible. Now, only roles at RQF Level 6 (graduate level) or higher qualify—unless they appear on specific shortage lists.
This change effectively removes a wide range of roles from eligibility, including:
- Hospitality: Chefs, restaurant managers
- Construction: Bricklayers, carpenters, roofers
- Retail & Logistics: Warehouse managers, delivery drivers
- Personal Services: Hairdressers, beauticians
This shift is designed to prioritise high-skilled migration, but it also creates challenges for industries that have historically relied on overseas workers to fill mid-skilled roles.
Salary Thresholds Increased for Skilled Worker Visa Application
In line with the skill level increase, the salary thresholds have also been raised:
- General threshold: Now £41,700 (up from £38,700)
- New entrant threshold: Now £33,400 (up from £30,960)
Additionally, occupation-specific salary rates have been updated to reflect current market conditions and inflation. These new thresholds apply to all new applications from 22 July 2025 onward. There are no transitional arrangements, meaning even those switching employers or extending their stay must meet the new criteria.
Closure of the Care Worker Route
In a controversial move, the Skilled Worker route has been closed to new care workers and senior care workers from overseas. This decision follows concerns about exploitation and abuse within the sector, as well as a push to encourage domestic recruitment and training.
While existing visa holders can remain under current conditions, no new applications will be accepted for these roles. This is expected to have a significant impact on the care sector, which has faced chronic staffing shortages in recent years.
Introduction of New Shortage Occupation Lists
To manage temporary labour shortages more effectively, the government has introduced two new lists:
Immigration Salary List (ISL)
This list includes roles that are in short supply but still meet the new skill and salary thresholds. These roles may benefit from slightly reduced salary requirements or faster processing.
Temporary Shortage List (TSL)
This is a more restrictive list for roles that are urgently needed but do not meet the new RQF Level 6 requirement. Key features include:
- No dependants allowed
- No salary or visa fee discounts
- Time-limited: Valid only until 31 December 2026
The TSL is intended as a short-term fix and will be reviewed regularly.
Settlement Period Extended
Another major change is the extension of the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Skilled Workers will now need to complete 10 years of continuous residence (up from 5 years) before becoming eligible for settlement.
This change is likely to affect long-term planning for many migrants and may influence decisions about whether to remain in the UK long-term.
What Employers Need to Do
These changes place a greater burden on employers to ensure compliance and strategic workforce planning. Here are some immediate steps to consider:
- Review job roles: Identify which positions still qualify under the new rules.
- Adjust salary offers: Ensure they meet or exceed the new thresholds.
- Update recruitment strategies: Focus on roles that meet RQF Level 6 or appear on the ISL.
- Support existing staff: Help current visa holders understand how the changes affect them.
How we can help?
Our experienced immigration solicitors at Fisher Jones Greenwood LLP can assist businesses dealing with a skilled worker visa to ensure that their compliance is up to date. We can offer mock Home Office audits to ensure all records held relating to their employees are compliant. Please contact the team on 08082 587 319 or fill out our online contact form.