UK Immigration Rules Change – Skilled Worker Visa 2025 [Update]

The UK Immigration Rules Change effective from 22 July 2025 introduces some of the most significant updates in recent years. These changes affect Skilled Worker visa eligibility, salary thresholds, and shortage occupation roles, with further implications for employers, applicants, and dependants.

Here’s a breakdown of the key updates.

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🔑 Summary of July 2025 UK Immigration Rule Changes

What are the new changes in UK immigration rules?

Area of Change	Key Update
Skilled Worker visa	Roles must now meet RQF Level 6 (graduate-level) requirements
Salary thresholds	Standard salary threshold increased to £41,700
Social Care Worker route	Closed to new overseas applicants
Graduate visa	Duration reduced from 2 years to 18 months
English language	Dependants must meet basic English requirements
Settlement eligibility	Minimum qualifying period increased from 5 to 10 years
Student sponsorship	Tighter compliance rules for universities; potential fee levy considered

🎓 Skilled Worker Visa New Rules

New UK immigration rules for skilled workers through the Skilled Worker Visa.

From 22 July 2025, only jobs at RQF Level 6 or higher are eligible for Skilled Worker visas. This excludes most roles previously accepted under RQF 3–5, such as senior care workers and technicians.

Employers must prove that roles meet degree-level criteria or secure exceptions via the new Temporary Shortage List, which includes limited, high-need occupations.

💷 Skilled Worker Visa UK Salary

To align with the new skills criteria, salary thresholds have also risen.

What is the minimum salary for Skilled Worker visa UK 2025?

Standard threshold: £41,700 (up from £38,700)

• New entrants: £33,400
• PhD and specialist routes: Updated based on occupation
• Pre-April 2024 Skilled Workers: £31,300 threshold for extensions

These changes impact both new applicants and those extending or switching their visas.

🏥 Social Care Route Closed

The Social Care Worker route under the Health and Care visa has been closed to new applicants. While current visa holders can extend or switch employers, new overseas recruitment into care roles is no longer permitted — placing added pressure on domestic workforce development.

🎓 Graduate Visa Duration Cut

The Graduate Visa route, which allows international students to stay and work after graduation, has been shortened from 2 years to 18 months. This change may influence student decision-making and job search timelines.

🗣️ Language Requirements for Dependants

From July 2025, dependants of work visa holders must now meet minimum English language standards. This includes spouses, partners, and children aged 18 or over. This marks a shift toward ensuring better integration and communication within UK society.

🏡 Longer Path to Settlement – ILR Now 10 Years

What is the 10 year rule for immigration in the UK? The period required to qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) has been extended from 5 years to 10 years across most visa categories. However, the government plans to consult on a new “earned settlement” model, which may allow early settlement based on contributions to the UK.

🏫 Stricter Oversight of Student Sponsorship

UK new immigration rules for international students on the Student Visa.

Universities and colleges will face tighter compliance requirements to maintain their student sponsor licences. Additionally, a levy on income from international students is under government review, intended to ensure institutions support integration and long-term success.

📌 What This Means for You

For employers:

• Review all job roles to ensure they meet RQF Level 6 and salary thresholds
• Update sponsorship and recruitment processes to reflect the new rules
• Prepare for potential skill shortages due to reduced visa routes

For migrants:

• Confirm your job or course meets updated visa criteria
• Be aware of new language requirements for dependants
• Plan for longer settlement timelines and limited post-study work options

UK Immigration Rules Change

The UK immigration rules change on 22 July 2025 represents a pivotal moment in the country’s approach to overseas workers. With higher qualification and salary demands, plus stricter family restrictions, the emphasis is firmly on attracting highly skilled migrants. Applicants and sponsors alike should act swiftly to adapt to the new requirements.

✅ Most Common Questions About UK Immigration Rules Change

Q1: What changed in UK immigration rules in July 2025?
From 22 July 2025, the UK tightened its Skilled Worker visa requirements, raised salary thresholds, and replaced the Shortage Occupation List with the Temporary Shortage List.

Q2: Can Skilled Worker visa holders still bring dependants?
Only those on eligible visa routes can bring dependants. Workers under the Temporary Shortage List route can no longer bring family members with them.

Q3: What is the new salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa in 2025?
The standard salary threshold rose to £41,700. New entrants must now earn at least £33,400, and other categories have also seen increases.

Q4: Is the Social Care Worker visa route still open?
No. The Social Care Worker sub-route has been closed to new applicants. Existing visa holders can still extend or switch employers under certain conditions.

Have questions or want help choosing the right visa? Subscribe or explore more articles on UK visas and immigration tips.

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