The UK is implementing significant changes to its Skilled Worker visa route, effective July 22, 2025. These changes include raising the minimum skill level for eligible occupations to the equivalent of a UK bachelor’s degree (RQF Level 6), and increasing salary thresholds for new applicants. These changes will impact the types of jobs eligible for sponsorship and the salary requirements for those jobs
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
1. Increased Skill Threshold:
Around 180 occupations previously eligible under the Skilled Worker route are expected to be removed.
The minimum skill level for Skilled Worker visa roles will increase from RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) to RQF Level 6 (bachelor’s degree equivalent).
This means many roles previously eligible for sponsorship, such as those in technical, administrative, care, trade, and frontline services, may no longer qualify.
The government aims to ensure that “skilled must mean skilled” by raising the skill requirements.
2. Increased Salary Thresholds:
- The general salary threshold for Skilled Worker applicants will increase from £38,700 to £41,700 per annum.
- Increases will also apply to the Global Business Mobility and Scale-up routes.
- There are transitional arrangements for those already holding a Skilled Worker visa or those with a CoS issued before the changes take effect.
3. Exceptions and Temporary Shortage List:
- Roles below RQF Level 6 may still be sponsored if they appear on the Immigration Salary List or the new Temporary Shortage List (TSL).
- However, these roles may have additional restrictions, such as limitations on bringing dependents.
- The government will continue to review the list of shortage occupations.
