Skilled Worker Visa Rules in 2025: What Changed on 22 July

From 22 July 2025, the UK drastically changed its Skilled Worker visa system—raising both the required skill level and salary thresholds, closing certain routes, and introducing new transitional arrangements. Here's what you need to know.

1. Skill Threshold Rises to RQF Level 6 (Degree Level)

From 22 July 2025, the minimum required skill level for most new Skilled Worker visa applications has increased to RQF Level 6—equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree. Previously eligible lower-skilled roles (RQF 3–5) can no longer be filled from abroad, significantly narrowing the pool of eligible occupations.

2. Transitional Arrangements for Existing Skilled Workers

Those already on a Skilled Worker visa before the change can continue working in roles at RQF Levels 3–5. They may still:

• Apply for extensions,
• Change employers, and
• Switch roles—but only temporarily, and subject to review.

3. Salary Thresholds Increase Substantially

All new sponsorships assigned on or after 22 July must meet significantly higher salary thresholds:

Additionally, a minimum hourly wage of £17.13 (assuming up to 48 hours per week) now applies across most categories.

4. Temporary Shortage List (TSL)

To retain flexibility, the government introduced a Temporary Shortage List—a time-limited list (through end 2026) of RQF Level 3–5 roles still open to sponsorship due to labour shortages. However:

• These roles cannot include dependants (except dependent children born in the UK or where the worker has sole responsibility).

5. Care Worker Route Closed

The visa route for adult social care workers (occupations 6135, 6136) has been closed to new entrants from abroad as of 22 July 2025. Those already in the UK under this route may continue until 22 July 2028, during which they may extend, switch employers, or apply for settlement.

6. Why These Changes?

The reforms stem from the Labour government’s May 2025 “Restoring Control over the Immigration System” White Paper. Its aims include:

• Reducing net migration,
• Refocusing skilled visas on genuinely graduate-level occupations,
• Encouraging domestic hiring, especially in sectors like social care,
• And paving the way for a more digital, streamlined immigration system.

What This Means for Applicants and Employers

• For new applicants and employers: Only RQF Level 6 roles now qualify unless on the Temporary Shortage List. You must meet the higher salary thresholds and hourly wage floors.
• For existing visa holders in lower-skilled roles: You're in a transitional phase—access remains for now, but these concessions may not be long-term.
• For care-sector employers: International recruitment is effectively closed—focus must shift to local workers or existing visa-holders until 2028.
• Immediate action: If you're planning sponsorship, ensure your job meets both the updated skill and pay requirements, or act before 22 July if possible.

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