The UK government has announced major changes to the Immigration Rules, coming into effect from 22 July 2025. These reforms will greatly limit access to the Skilled Worker visa, particularly for roles below degree level, and introduce new restrictions on sponsorship.
If your organization relies on international recruitment, particularly for mid-skilled roles, it’s essential to act now.
What’s Changing?
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Skilled Worker Route Limited to Degree-Level Roles
Only occupations classified at RQF Level 6 or above (i.e. degree level) will qualify for the Skilled Worker visa.
This means many current roles at RQF Levels 3–5, including care workers, technicians, and administrative staff, will no longer be eligible unless they fall under new exception lists.
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Tighter Rules for Lower-Skilled Roles
Access to roles below degree level will be time-limited and sector-specific, allowed only through:
- The Immigration Salary List
- A new Temporary Shortage List (TSL)
These roles will face strict eligibility conditions and will be approved only where there is clear evidence of labour market need.
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No Dependants or Discounts on the Temporary Shortage List
Workers sponsored in TSL roles will:
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Not be allowed to bring dependants
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Not benefit from salary or visa fee discounts
This marks a significant policy shift aimed at reducing long-term migration for lower-paid roles.
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Ongoing Review of the Temporary Shortage List
The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) will be commissioned to regularly review the TSL, including which roles appear on it, what salaries are appropriate, and whether benefits should be adjusted.
This means the list will likely remain fluid and reactive to labour market changes.
What Employers Should Do Now
If you plan to sponsor workers in RQF Level 3–5 roles, time is running out to act under current rules.
Assign Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) before July 22, 2025
Doing so allows your applications to fall under today’s more flexible system — including:
- Permission to bring dependants
- Access to visa fee and salary discounts (where applicable)
- Longer-term job security for recruits
Final Thoughts
These changes reflect a clear policy direction: the UK is narrowing work visa access to higher-skilled, higher-paid roles and limiting migration for lower-paid jobs. Employers in sectors like social care, hospitality, manufacturing, and construction will need to rethink recruitment strategies.
Need support preparing for the new rules?
Contact us now to protect your workforce plans before the July 2025 deadline.
