Introduction
From 22 July 2025, the UK Skilled Worker Visa system is raising the skill standard to RQF Level 6 for most new applicants. This change marks a major shift in immigration rules, affecting both employers and overseas job seekers. But what does RQF Level 6 mean, and how will it affect your application?
What Is RQF Level 6?
The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) is the system used in the UK to define qualification levels.
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RQF Level 6 is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree level qualification.
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It represents jobs that require graduate-level skills, knowledge, and responsibilities.
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Examples include roles in engineering, finance, IT, teaching, and healthcare specialisms.
Why Is the Standard Changing?
The UK government is aiming to:
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Focus Skilled Worker visas on graduate-level professions.
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Reduce reliance on migrant labour in lower-skilled roles.
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Align immigration policy with long-term economic priorities.
What This Means for International Job Seekers
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Fewer eligible jobs: Many roles at RQF Levels 3–5 (such as care workers, support staff, or certain trades) will no longer qualify unless listed on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) or Temporary Shortage List (TSL).
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Higher entry barrier: Applicants must now demonstrate qualifications and skills that match graduate-level roles.
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Salary alignment: Jobs must also meet the new salary threshold of £41,700 or the going rate, whichever is higher.
What Employers Need to Know
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Sponsorship will focus on professional and graduate-level positions.
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Businesses relying on lower-paid international workers may need to recruit domestically.
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Careful planning is required when assigning Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to ensure compliance with the new rules.
Exceptions and Transitional Provisions
Not all roles are affected equally:
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Health and social care roles may continue to qualify under lower thresholds.
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Workers already sponsored in RQF Level 3–5 jobs before July 2025 may still extend their visas under transitional arrangements.
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The ISL and TSL will remain in place temporarily, although they are set to expire by 31 December 2026 unless extended.
Conclusion
The move to RQF Level 6 as the new skill standard reshapes the Skilled Worker Visa system. For international applicants, it means targeting higher-level professional roles. For employers, it requires adjusting recruitment strategies and ensuring compliance. Understanding these changes now will help you prepare for a smoother application process.
