Changes to UK immigration rules from 22 July 2025: increased skill requirements, salary and new limits for dependants. Find out what you need to know about the new skilled worker visa requirements and how to prepare for the changes

From 22 July 2025, significant changes to immigration policy will come into force in the UK, affecting visas for skilled workers. In particular, the education level requirements are increasing, the minimum wage thresholds are increasing, and restrictions on the arrival of dependents are being introduced.

For foreigners seeking to work in the UK, and employers planning to hire workers from abroad, these changes will be critically important.

Read everything you need to know about the new rules for the UK skilled worker visa in this article.

Choose a reliable health insurance policy from Visit World to travel abroad safely.

New requirements for the UK skilled worker visa in 2025

1. Higher qualifications are mandatory

Instead of the current minimum level of RQF 3 (equivalent to A-levels), applicants must now have a qualification of at least RQF level 6 – that is, a bachelor's degree. This effectively limits visas to jobs at the higher education level.

Exceptions are only for occupations that are on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) or the new Temporary Shortage List (TSL).

Workers who were already sponsored in RQF Level 3-5 positions before 22 July 2025 can still continue or change their position, but this will be time-limited.

2. Salary thresholds are increasing

From July 2025, the UK authorities are increasing the minimum salary requirements for new applicants. Here are the updated figures:

- For a standard skilled worker visa - the minimum annual salary will increase to £41,700 (previously £38,700).

- For workers with a PhD relevant to the position - £37,500 (previously £34,830).

- For employees with a doctorate in STEM, entry-level or health and education – £33,400 (previously £30,960).

- For senior or specialist employees – £52,500 (previously £48,500).

- For graduate trainees – £27,300 (previously £25,410).

Important! In some cases, salary requirements may be even higher – depending on the occupational code defined by British regulations.

3. Introduction of the Temporary Shortage List (TSL)

The new list allows employment in critical positions even with qualifications of RQF 3-5, however:

- It does not entitle to discounts in salary or visa fees.

- It is valid until 31 December 2026.

- Employers must prove that they have a strategy for training local staff.

This new list includes 52 jobs deemed vital to the UK’s industrial strategy.

4. No more dependants for low-skilled jobs

From July 2025, workers in jobs below degree level (RQF 3-5) will no longer be able to bring their families. This rule does not apply to those who have already been sponsored before the effective date.

Recommendation: submit CoS for these workers by 22 July to retain the option to bring their families.

What can employers do to prepare for the new skilled worker visa requirements by 22 July?

Actions to take now:

- Check which of your employees or jobs fall under the old requirements.

- Issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) by the deadline.

- Review salary policies and jobs to ensure they meet the new criteria.

- Understand which positions can be included in the TSL or ISL.

What other changes are expected to the UK’s immigration policy in the future?

Although they have not yet come into force, the UK government is also planning to:

- Increase the Immigration Skills Charge.

- Extend the term of the Right to Permanent Residence (ILR) from 5 to 10 years.

- Increase the English language requirement.

- Review family immigration.

What is a UK Skilled Worker Visa?

The UK Skilled Worker Visa is a work visa that allows foreign workers with the necessary skills to work in the UK for licensed employers.

The Skilled Worker Visa replaced the Tier 2 visa at the end of 2020. The scheme is now open to those who score 70 points for meeting certain requirements, such as skills and salary levels, English language skills and a suitable job offer from a UK employer.

A Skilled Worker Visa is a long-term work visa that is initially issued for a period of up to five years (the exact period depends on the length of your Certificate of Sponsorship). It is important to note that your visa is only valid for as long as you remain in the same position with your sponsoring employer. If you wish to change positions or employers, you will need to apply for a new Skilled Worker Visa.

It is also worth noting that this permit paves the way for British citizenship.

The package of documents for obtaining a skilled worker visa in the UK and the visa application procedure in this article.

The new requirements will make it more difficult for low-skilled workers to enter the UK and significantly increase costs for employers. Anyone planning to apply or hire workers should act quickly and strategically, especially before 22 July 2025.

Tip: Submitting your CoS by this date can significantly affect your ability to move and obtain a visa - don't delay.

Need help with immigration issues?

Changes in UK immigration law can be difficult to understand. Our legal partners can help you correctly complete all the documents, avoid mistakes and ensure a successful visa application. Contact us today!

Reminder! Reform UK proposes to introduce the “Britannia Card” - a new 10-year residence permit in the UK for £250,000 with tax benefits for foreigners. We have already told you about the conditions of the program, its potential consequences for the economy and the reaction of society.

---

---