The UK Home Office has implemented changes to the Immigration Rules effective from 22 July 2025. The new rules raise the skill and salary requirements for work visas and address concerns about immigration levels.
In this newsletter, we discuss the key changes and what they mean for employers and visa applicants.
What are the new skill requirements for sponsored workers?
From 22 July 2025, new Skilled Worker visa applicants must be sponsored in roles at or above RQF Level 6 (graduate-level or managerial roles). This is a change from the previous skill threshold of RQF Level 3 (A-level), and it means around 180 previously eligible occupations no longer qualify for work visas. Workers already on the Skilled Worker route before this date are covered by transitional arrangements, allowing them to extend or change jobs even if their role is below the new skill level.
How have salary thresholds changed?
Alongside the skill changes, the Home Office increased the salary requirements for sponsored work visas. The general minimum salary for new Skilled Workers rose from £38,700 to £41,700, and other pay thresholds were raised by similar margins. These higher salary rules apply to any applications made on or after 22 July 2025, with only limited exceptions. Employers should review salaries for all sponsored roles to ensure they meet the new minimum levels (or the job’s specific going rate, if higher) to avoid refusals.
What is the Temporary Shortage List?
The Home Office introduced a Temporary Shortage List (TSL) of 52 occupations below RQF 6 that can still be sponsored. However, jobs on the TSL do not get any salary reduction; they must meet the full Skilled Worker visa pay thresholds. The TSL is only in effect until the end of 2026, after which the government plans to replace it with a permanent list.
How are existing visa holders affected?
Transitional arrangements mean that those already on a Skilled Worker visa (or who applied before 22 July 2025) can still extend or change jobs even if their role is below RQF 6. However, with limited exceptions, extensions and other new Certificates of Sponsorship from 22 July must meet the higher salary thresholds.
Another change affects the care sector: from 22 July 2025, overseas applicants can no longer be sponsored as Care Workers or Senior Care Workers. These roles can only be filled by workers already in the UK (switching from another visa), and only until 2028 under strict conditions.
Are more immigration changes expected after July 2025?
Further reforms are planned for late 2025, including a higher Immigration Skills Charge for sponsors (about a 32% increase) and stricter English language requirements for adult dependants.
How 3CS can help
Adapting to these immigration changes can be challenging, but 3CS’s immigration team can help you navigate the new rules. We can review your sponsored workforce, advise on roles that may qualify under the TSL, and guide you through visa extensions or new applications. If you have any questions or need support with UK immigration, contact our team today.
