UK: Immigration Rule Changes

The recent Statement of Changes HC 997 to the Immigration Rules comes into effect on 22 July 2025 and introduces notable changes to the Skilled Worker visa route, primarily increasing salary and skill level requirements.

Skill level increase

Previously, skilled workers had to be sponsored in an occupation that was skilled at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) level 3 or above (equivalent to A-Level). The RQF level relates to the skill level of the job, rather than any qualifications held by an applicant. Therefore, workers do not need to hold a degree to obtain a skilled worker visa, rather the job offered must be assessed as requiring that level of skill. 

From 22 July 2025, employers will only be able to sponsor workers in occupations that are RQF level 6 (equivalent to degree level), resulting in a significant reduction of around 180 eligible occupations.

Exemptions apply for existing skilled workers (or pending applications which are later successful), or where a role is listed on the Immigration Salary List or new interim Temporary Shortage List (up until the end of 2026). It is important to bear in mind that these transitional arrangements will not last indefinitely and will be reviewed in the future. 
The revised skill level will narrow the field of eligible occupations for sponsorship and force employers to consider redesigning such roles at RQF level 6, switch to domestic recruitment, or abandon sponsorship altogether.

Salary increase

The higher skill level comes at the same time as an increase to the skilled worker salary threshold. There are two salaries thresholds that an applicant must meet to be granted a skilled worker visa: the general salary threshold and the ‘going rate’ for the specific job role. 

The general salary threshold of £38,700 has risen to £41,700 (or £33,400 for “new entrants”). The increase applies to all applications where a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is assigned from 22 July 2025. There are no transitional arrangements in place for the salary increase and skilled workers extending their visas or applying to settle will also need to meet the new salary threshold.

Roles that previously met the salary threshold may now fall short and employers may need to increase salaries. Employers should take practical steps to ensure all salaries specified in a CoS assigned from 22 July 2025 meet the new general threshold, allowing them to budget for any necessary increases.

The Migration Advisory Committee has been instructed to complete a review of the skilled worker salary requirements, discounts and roles that should be on the Temporary Shortage List, with its findings set to be published in six months.

New salary thresholds from 22 July 2025

By Burness Paull LLP, Scotland, a Transatlantic Law International Affiliated Firm.  

For further information or for any assistance please contact ukscotland@transatlanticlaw.com

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