The Home Office has today unveiled significant changes to the UK immigration system, set to take effect from 22 July 2025, subject to Parliamentary approval. These reforms represent a fundamental shift in the Skilled Worker visa regime and wider immigration landscape.
Key Changes to Take Effect from 22 July 2025:
Skilled Worker Route Significantly Tightened
- 111 occupations previously eligible under the Skilled Worker route will be removed from the list of sponsorable roles.
- The minimum skill threshold is being raised from RQF 3 (A-level equivalent) to RQF 6 (graduate level).
- Salary thresholds are increasing, with a new general minimum salary of £25,000 per year.
- “Going rate” salaries for individual occupations will also be realigned to reflect labour market changes.
Increase to Salary Thresholds
The general salary threshold increases are as follows:-
- £38,700 to £41,700 – New Applicants for Skilled Worker
- £45,800 to £52,500 – Global Business Mobility
- £34,830 to £37,500 – PhD STEM / Immigration Salary List
- £30,960 to £33,400 – New Entrant route
- £29,000 to £31,300 – Pre-April 2024 extensions
Closure of Social Care Visa Route
- Overseas recruitment for adult social care roles will cease entirely.
- Transitional allowances will apply for those currently in the UK under this route.
Introduction of the Temporary Shortage List (TSL)
- A new Temporary Shortage List (TSL) replaces the current Shortage Occupation List.
- Some sub-degree level roles (RQF 3–5) may remain eligible on a temporary basis, but with strict new conditions:
- Workers in newly ineligible roles can extend visas or switch employers under transitional provisions.
Greater Employer Accountability
- Employers must now demonstrate robust domestic recruitment strategies and commitment to upskilling the UK workforce.
- Failure to do so could result in loss of sponsorship privileges.
What’s Next?
The government has signalled that further changes are on the horizon before the end of 2025, including:
- Increased Immigration Skills Charge
- Higher English language requirements
- A new family migration policy framework
- Tougher measures around asylum, border security, and immigration enforcement
These changes mark one of the most substantial tightening of UK immigration rules in recent years and will require strategic reassessment for businesses that rely on international talent.
More detailed guidance is expected in the coming weeks.
For more information: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/major-immigration-reforms-delivered-to-restore-order-and-control