On 22 July 2025, the UK will implement major reforms to the Skilled worker route, following the government’s White Paper announcement.
Changes to salary thresholds
All occupation-specific salary benchmarks will be aligned with the 2024 Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE). The new minimum salaries are:
| Category | Current salary | New salary |
| Standard Skilled Worker route | £38,700 | £41,700 |
| Skilled Worker with job-related PhD (10% discount) | £34,830 | £37,500 |
| Skilled Worker with PhD in STEM/Shortage/New Entrant (20% discount) | £30,960 | £33,400 |
| Extensions (applications pre-April 2024) | £29,000 | £31,300 |
| Global Business Mobility route | £45,800 | £52,500 |
Rising skill requirements
From 22 July, sponsorship will be limited to jobs at RQF Level 6 and above — the equivalent of a university degree. This reverses the 2021 policy that allowed RQF level 3 roles (A-level equivalent).
Roles below this threshold will only remain eligible under a Temporary Shortage List, subject to Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) approval and evidence of domestic recruitment efforts.
Lower-skilled visa holders already in the UK may still renew in their current roles until further notice
Health & care visa
Overseas applications for care worker roles (SOC 6135/6136) will close on 22 July 2025, but in-country extensions and visa switching remain possible until 22 July 2028, provided the individual has already worked for three months with their sponsor.
Shortage list
Alongside the current Immigration Salary List a newly announced Temporary Shortage List will be in place until the end of this year. Both lists identify occupations that are considered either to be in shortage or critically important to the UK labour market. Many of the roles featured fall within RQF Levels 3 to 5.
It is important to note that any one issued with a CoS from 22 July 2025 undertaking a role listed on either the Immigration Salary List or the Temporary Shortage List will no longer be permitted to bring dependants (family members) to the UK as part of their visa.
Upcoming changes
Please note that additional changes are expected in the near future. The most recent Statement of Changes does not include the anticipated amendments to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) eligibility — specifically, the potential extension of the qualifying period from 5 to 10 years — nor does it cover the proposed 32% increase in the Immigration Skills Charge. Further updates are likely in upcoming announcements.
If you are making an application for a Skilled Worker visa and are concerned about the upcoming changes then speak with one of our lawyers today. Book a consultation.