The UK government is rolling out some major updates to its immigration system this summer, and the Skilled Worker visa is at the center of it. Starting 22 July 2025, stricter rules will apply to who can live and work in the UK under this route.

If you’re an employer who relies on international talent or someone planning to move to the UK for work, these changes could have a big impact.

What’s Changing in the Skilled Worker Visa Route?

These updates follow the UK’s long-term goal to reduce net migration, especially after record-high figures in recent years. The latest immigration rule changes, published in July 2025, bring two main shifts:

1. Salary Thresholds Are Going Up

From 22 July 2025, the minimum salary required to qualify for a Skilled Worker visa is increasing:

• The general threshold is rising from £38,700 to £41,700

• For new entrants and jobs on the shortage list, it’s going from £30,960 to £33,400

These new figures are based on the latest wage data and are part of a broader push to make sure visa holders meet higher economic criteria.

2. Jobs Must Be Graduate-Level or Higher

One of the biggest updates is about job eligibility. Currently, roles at RQF Level 3 (which is like A-level or college-level) are allowed. But from July, only RQF Level 6 and above (think university-level or graduate roles) will qualify for sponsorship.

This change alone is expected to remove more than 100 occupations from the list of jobs eligible for a UK work visa.

What Happens If You’re Already Sponsored?

The good news: if you’re already in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa in one of the affected roles, you won’t be forced to leave.

• You’ll still be able to renew your visa or switch employers under the old criteria.

• And if your employer assigns you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) before 22 July, your application can still be processed under the current rules—even if you apply later.

What Employers Should Be Doing Now

If you’re a UK business that sponsors international workers, now is the time to act. Here’s what you should focus on:

• Review your current roles: Some may no longer be eligible after July.

• Plan your hiring strategy: Future jobs need to meet the new salary and skill requirements.

• Support your current workers: Help eligible staff extend their visas or switch roles while transitional rules apply.

Don’t leave it to the last minute—CoS must be assigned before 21 July 2025 to use the current rules.

More Changes Are on the Way

This isn’t the end. The government has confirmed more updates to UK immigration rules coming later in 2025, including:

• Tighter English language requirements

• A higher immigration skills charge for sponsors

• New rules for family visa applications

These reforms signal a clear shift in how the UK is managing its visa system. If your business depends on mid-skilled or lower-salaried international workers, you could face disruption unless you act now.

Need help navigating the new rules? Our expert team is here to guide you through the changes, assess your risk areas, and keep your workforce strategy on track.

Reach out today for advice on how to prepare before the 22 July 2025 deadline.