From 2026, Jobs Below RQF Level 6 Will Lose Eligibility for Sponsorship

Introduction
The UK government has announced that from 2026, most jobs below RQF Level 6 will no longer qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa. This is part of wider immigration reforms aimed at focusing sponsorship on graduate-level and higher-skilled roles. The change will affect both new applicants and employers who rely on international workers in lower or mid-level positions.

What Is RQF Level 6?

The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) defines the skill level required for a job.

• RQF Level 6 is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree level qualification.

• Jobs at RQF Levels 3 to 5, such as care workers, support staff, and certain trades, are considered lower-skilled roles and will gradually lose eligibility.

What Is Changing in 2026

• From January 2026, new sponsorships will be restricted to jobs at RQF Level 6 or above.

• Roles at RQF Levels 3 to 5 will only remain eligible if they appear on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) or the Temporary Shortage List (TSL).

• The TSL will expire by 31 December 2026, removing transitional access for lower-level roles.

👉 Check the official list of eligible roles and occupation codes here: Skilled Worker Visa: Eligible Occupations and Codes

Why the UK Is Making This Change

The new policy is designed to:

• Focus Skilled Worker visas on graduate and professional occupations

• Encourage employers to train and recruit from the local workforce

• Limit long-term migration through lower-wage jobs

• Support a sustainable and skills-driven immigration system

Who Will Be Affected

International Applicants:

• Workers in sectors such as hospitality, retail, and care may no longer qualify unless the job appears on the ISL or is reclassified as higher-skilled.

• Applicants planning to come to the UK in 2026 or later must check that their job meets the new level and salary criteria.

Employers:

• Companies sponsoring lower-skilled roles will need to adjust recruitment plans and focus on upskilling the local workforce.

• Businesses that rely heavily on sponsorship for RQF Level 3–5 roles should prepare for these changes now.

Transitional Arrangements

Existing Skilled Worker visa holders in lower-level roles can continue under transitional provisions, meaning they may extend or renew their visas for a limited period. However, new applicants for these roles after 2026 will not qualify for sponsorship.

Take the Next Step

If you are unsure whether your role will still qualify for sponsorship after 2026, speak with our advisors at UK Job Hunters. We can help you check your occupation code, salary eligibility, and alternative visa options.

👉 Book a video call with us today

Conclusion

From 2026, the UK Skilled Worker Visa will become a graduate-level route focused on RQF Level 6 and above roles. Jobs below this level will lose sponsorship eligibility, except for those temporarily listed on the ISL or TSL. Both employers and applicants should prepare now to stay compliant and plan ahead.