The UK government is set to implement significant changes to its immigration rules on July 22, 2025. These reforms aim to streamline the immigration process while prioritizing high-skilled workers to meet the needs of the UK economy. Below, we outline the key changes and their implications for employers and prospective immigrants.
Overview of the Changes
The upcoming changes to the UK immigration system will include:
- Reduction of Eligible Occupations: The list of jobs qualifying for the Skilled Worker visa will be reduced, with over 100 occupations being removed. This change is intended to focus on higher-skilled roles that are essential for the UK economy.
- Increased Skill and Salary Thresholds: The minimum skill level for sponsorship will revert to RQF level 6, meaning that only those with university-level qualifications will be eligible. Additionally, the general salary threshold for sponsorship will increase from £38,700 to £41,700 per year.
- Suspension of Care Worker Visas: New entrants will no longer be able to apply for sponsorship as care workers. This decision reflects concerns about the exploitation of workers in this sector, although existing care workers will be subject to transitional arrangements.
Transitional Arrangements
To ease the transition for current visa holders, the government has introduced several key measures:
- Visa Extensions: Current Skilled Worker visa holders will be allowed to extend their visas and change employers without being affected by the new skill and salary thresholds, provided they were already in the route before the changes.
- Bringing Dependants: Existing visa holders will still be able to bring dependants, which will not apply to new entrants in occupations below RQF level 6.
Implications for Employers
Employers will need to adapt to these changes by:
- Reviewing Workforce Compliance: Companies must assess their current workforce to determine how these changes will impact their ability to sponsor employees. This includes understanding job codes and ensuring compliance with the new thresholds.
- Adjusting Recruitment Strategies: Businesses may need to revise their talent acquisition strategies to align with the new rules, focusing on attracting higher-skilled workers and exploring alternative visa routes.
The changes set to take effect on July 22, 2025, will significantly reshape the landscape of UK immigration, particularly for skilled workers and employers. It is essential for individuals and businesses to stay informed and adapt to these new regulations to ensure compliance and continued access to the talent needed for growth and success.
At Kash Legal Services, we are committed to providing expert guidance and support to help you navigate these changes effectively. If you have questions or need assistance with immigration matters, please reach out to us for personalized advice.