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2025 UK work visa: what you need to know
In April 2025, the UK government introduced significant changes to the Skilled Worker visa route. These reforms aim to reduce net migration, enhance workforce integration, and ensure fair treatment of migrant workers. This article outlines the key updates, providing clarity for both employers and prospective applicants.
Increased salary thresholds for skilled workers
People applying for a Skilled Worker visa now need a job that pays at least 38700 pounds a year. For jobs on the Immigration Salary List, the minimum pay is 30960 pounds. The job must offer either 30960 pounds or the pay level set for that job, whichever is higher.
People who were already in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa before the new rules were brought in do not need to meet the new higher salary levels when they change job, extend their visa or apply to stay in the UK permanently. But their pay should still go up in line with other workers in the UK. When they next apply, their pay will be checked against updated pay levels based on the latest pay figures.
Jobs with national pay scales, like doctors or teachers, also do not have to meet this rule. These jobs already have set pay levels which are usually higher than the general rule, so being on the Immigration Salary List would not help.
Even though these jobs are not on the Immigration Salary List, that does not mean they are not in shortage or not important. It just means that being on the list would not make it any easier for people in these jobs to use the visa system.
For applicants with relevant PhDs, the salary thresholds are as follows:
- Relevant PhD: £34,830 per year
- STEM-related PhD: £30,960 per year
However, the Immigration Salary List, which had replaced the Shortage Occupation List, has now been removed. This means that the salary discounts that once applied to certain jobs are no longer available. Many roles that previously benefited from these discounts will now need to meet the full salary thresholds.
These adjustments align with the government’s efforts to ensure migrant workers fill genuinely skilled positions and are compensated accordingly.
Enhanced English language requirements
The English language proficiency requirement for Skilled Worker visa applicants has been elevated to the B2 level, equivalent to an A-level in a foreign language.
All adult dependents of people coming to the UK on work or study visas must now show they can speak and understand basic English. They are also expected to improve their English over time.
Applicants can demonstrate their proficiency through:
- Passing an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT)
- Holding a degree-level qualification taught in English
This change ensures that migrants can effectively integrate into UK society and the workplace.
Revised recruitment rules for care workers
People who apply to come to the UK on a Health and Care Worker visa do not need to meet the 38700 pound salary rule for Skilled Workers. This helps the UK bring in healthcare workers for care homes and the NHS.
From April 2025, care providers in England must prioritize recruiting care workers already residing in the UK before seeking candidates from abroad.
Employers are required to:
- Demonstrate efforts to hire locally
- Provide evidence of recruitment attempts within the UK
This policy aims to support the domestic workforce and reduce dependency on international recruitment.
Restrictions on salary deductions and sponsorship costs
Employers are now prohibited from passing sponsorship-related costs, such as the Certificate of Sponsorship fee, onto workers.
Additionally, a loophole allowing applicants to contribute towards their own salary by investing in their sponsor’s business has been closed.
These measures are designed to prevent exploitation and ensure fair treatment of migrant workers.
Changes to new entrant salary discounts
To qualify for reduced salary thresholds as a new entrant, applicants must now be undergoing training that leads to a UK-recognized professional qualification.
This adjustment ensures that salary discounts are appropriately applied to individuals actively engaging in professional development within the UK.
Implications for employers
Employers must:
- Review and adjust salary offers to meet the new thresholds
- Ensure compliance with revised recruitment and sponsorship rules
- Avoid passing prohibited costs onto employees
Failure to adhere to these changes may result in visa application refusals and potential penalties.
Guidance for skilled worker visa applicants
Applicants should:
- Verify that job offers meet the updated salary and English language requirements
- Prepare necessary documentation to demonstrate compliance with the new rules
- Seek guidance or legal advice if uncertain about the application process
Staying informed and proactive is essential for a successful visa application under the revised regulations.
Conclusion
The 2025 reforms to the UK Skilled Worker visa program represent a significant shift in immigration policy, emphasizing the development of the domestic workforce and the fair treatment of migrant workers.
Both employers and applicants must stay informed and adapt to these changes to ensure compliance and success in the evolving immigration landscape.
If you are planning to work in the UK but have not yet secured a job, it is important to understand the process before making the move. To assist you in this journey, we have created a detailed guide on practical tips and strategies to help you successfully land a job in the UK and prepare for a smooth transition. Read the full article here.
