The United Kingdom is introducing significant updates to its immigration laws starting 22 July 2025, impacting the Skilled Worker Visa route. These changes affect skill level thresholds, income requirements, the ability to bring dependents, and introduce a new Temporary Shortage List (TSL). Employers and prospective foreign workers must act fast to adjust to the new rules.
Table of Contents
Key Changes at a Glance
- Higher skill thresholds for Skilled Worker Visas
- Increased minimum income requirements
- Introduction of the Temporary Shortage List
- New restrictions on bringing dependents
- Additional immigration reforms expected
Higher Skills Threshold: Now Degree-Level Jobs Only
From July 22, 2025, most positions under the Skilled Worker Visa route must meet RQF Level 6 (equivalent to a university degree). Previously, RQF Level 3 (A-levels) was the minimum.
What This Means:
- Only degree-level jobs will qualify for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route
- Exceptions apply to roles listed on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) or the new TSL
- Workers already in RQF Level 3–5 roles before July 22 may extend or change positions—but only for a limited time
Tip: Employers hiring for non-degree-level roles should assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) before July 22, 2025, to stay under current rules
Increased Income Thresholds for Visa Applicants
All visa categories will see higher income thresholds, effective July 2025. While the baseline is rising, actual salary requirements will vary based on SOC codes and job categories.
What Employers Must Do:
- Review and adjust compensation plans for new and existing sponsored employees
- Ensure salary offers meet or exceed updated thresholds
- Plan ahead for extension or switching applications after July 22
Introduction of the Temporary Shortage List (TSL)
The new TSL replaces previous “shortage occupation” discounts. It allows sponsorship of roles at RQF Levels 3 to 5—but with stricter conditions.
TSL Details:
- Includes 52 essential roles in sectors with labor shortages
- Valid until 31 December 2026, unless reviewed earlier
- No salary or visa fee discounts offered
- Employers must show a plan to recruit and train UK residents long term
No Dependents for Lower-Skilled Roles After July 2025
Starting July 22, 2025, foreign workers in lower-skilled positions (RQF 3–5) will no longer be permitted to bring dependents, even if the role is listed under ISL or TSL.
Exception:
- Workers already in these positions before July 22 retain dependent rights
Employers should issue CoS before the deadline to secure dependent eligibility under existing rules.
Action Plan for Employers Before July 22, 2025
To avoid complications, HR teams and employers should:
- Audit current roles supported at RQF Levels 3 to 5
- Assign CoS early to lock in existing rules and dependent eligibility
- Update salary structures to meet new income requirements
- Check if positions qualify under the ISL or TSL
- Begin adjusting recruitment strategies to align with policy changes
More Immigration Changes Ahead
Beyond July’s changes, additional reforms are expected:
- Higher Immigration Skills Charges (ISC)
- Increased English language requirements
- New family visa policies
- Extending ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) eligibility from 5 to 10 years
These are part of broader efforts to reduce net migration and encourage domestic workforce investment.
Conclusion
The UK’s immigration framework is undergoing major restructuring to prioritize high-skilled immigration, limit access for lower-skilled roles, and reduce overall migration levels. These strict updates will reshape employer strategies, hiring timelines, and applicant eligibility. Missing the July 22, 2025 deadline could result in lost opportunities for both employers and skilled workers.
Pro Tip: Early nomination of Certificates of Sponsorship could be the difference between visa approval or refusal. Plan ahead now.
