The UK government has recently announced significant changes to the Skilled Worker visa route, impacting both employers and applicants. From updated salary thresholds to new eligibility criteria, these reforms are set to reshape how overseas professionals enter and work in the UK. Whether you’re a business looking to hire international talent or an individual planning to apply, it’s essential to understand what’s changing, when the new rules take effect, and how they could affect your immigration plans.

1. Skill Threshold Raised to Graduate Level (RQF 6+)

From 22 July 2025, only roles considered to be at graduate level (RQF 6 or above) will normally qualify for Skilled Worker sponsorship. This means that most jobs will need to appear in Table 1, 2 or 3 of Appendix Skilled Occupations to be eligible.

Importantly, applicants are not required to hold a graduate-level qualification themselves. Rather, the job role must be classed as skilled to that level.

There are a few exceptions to this rule. Employers may still sponsor workers for roles below RQF 6 if:

• The role is on the Immigration Salary List
• The role is on the Temporary Shortage List
• A transitional provision applies

This change raises the skill bar for overseas workers and makes it essential for both employers and applicants to check whether a role meets the new threshold before applying.

2. Salary Thresholds Significantly Increased

All new Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) must meet the updated minimum salary requirements under the Skilled Worker route. Unlike previous reforms, there will be no transitional exemptions for new applicants. Thus, every new sponsorship after this date must comply with the higher thresholds in full.

This represents a major shift for both employers and overseas workers, as the increased salary levels will reduce the number of roles that qualify for sponsorship. Businesses planning to hire international staff should review their workforce needs and budget carefully to ensure compliance with the new rules.

3. Dependants Restricted for Lower-Skilled Roles

Skilled Worker applicants sponsored in lower-skilled roles (RQF 3–5) listed on the Immigration Salary List or the Temporary Shortage List will no longer be able to bring dependants to the UK.

The only exceptions are:

• Children born in the UK, or
• Children for whom the applicant has sole parental responsibility

This change is designed to limit family migration in lower-skilled categories. Therefore, applicants and sponsors should carefully plan ahead if dependants are involved.

4. Closure of the Overseas Care Worker Route

The Health & Care Worker visa route for care workers (SOC 6135) and senior care workers (SOC 6136) closed to new overseas applicants on 22 July 2025. After this date, applications for these roles from outside the UK will no longer be accepted.

However, there are limited in-country switching rights. Workers already in the UK can continue to switch into these roles until 22 July 2028. This is provided they have been legally employed for at least 3 months by the same sponsor before their Certificate of Sponsorship is assigned.

5. Transitional Protections for Current Skilled Workers

If you already hold a Skilled Worker visa before 22 July 2025, certain transitional protections apply:

• Skill level: Workers in RQF 3–5 roles can continue to extend their visas or switch employers under transitional arrangements.
• Salary: There are no transitional exemptions for salary. Anyone applying to extend their visa or change sponsor with a new CoS from 22 July 2025 onwards must meet the updated, higher salary thresholds.

This means current lower-skilled workers retain some flexibility to remain in the UK. However, will still face the financial impact of the new salary rules.

Need Help with the New Rules?

The changes to the Skilled Worker route are some of the most significant in recent years. They will affect employers, workers, and their families in different ways.

Our team provides clear, honest advice tailored to your circumstances, helping you navigate the new rules with confidence.

Contact us today and make sure you get it right the first time.