Big Changes Ahead: UK Skilled Worker Visa Rules Set to Shift from July 2025

If you’re planning to apply for a Skilled Worker visa or switch jobs within the UK visa system, there are major updates you need to know.
From July 22, 2025, the UK government will implement new immigration rules that will significantly impact Skilled Worker visa eligibility, salary thresholds, and job sponsorship criteria.

Only jobs at RQF level 6 or above will now be eligible under the Skilled Worker route. That means around 180 job roles—mostly at lower skill levels—will no longer qualify, unless they’re on a shortage list.

Salary thresholds are being updated to reflect UK wage trends. This affects the Skilled Worker , Scale-up, and Global Business Mobility routes. There are no transitional protections for salary—employers must meet the new benchmarks.

• A new Temporary Shortage List is being introduced.
• The existing Immigration Salary List will be gradually phased out.
• Only roles on these lists at lower skill levels (RQF 3-5) will remain eligible temporarily—and even then, applicants cannot bring dependants unless already in the UK before the changes take effect.

Overseas recruitment of care workers and senior care workers will stop for new overseas applicants from July 2025. Those already in the UK can still switch into these roles until July 2028, but only if they’ve been employed for at least 3 months by a licensed sponsor.

The Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) will close to new applicants from July 1, 2025, with similar steps taken for the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS).

• Already on a Skilled Worker visa? You’re safe for now—transitional protections will allow you to renew or switch jobs (even at lower skill levels) without being affected by the new rules.
• Planning to apply after July? Make sure your job offer is eligible under the new RQF level 6+ criteria or appears on the revised shortage lists.
• Employers and applicants must also prepare for updated salary thresholds—there are no grace periods.