May 21st, 2025
The UK Government has introduced a sweeping set of immigration reforms aimed at reducing overall migration levels. These changes, announced by the Home Secretary and now confirmed through updates to the Immigration Rules, mark one of the most significant shifts in policy in recent years. The revised rules are expected to take effect in stages throughout the first half of 2024.
One of the most impactful changes affects the Skilled Worker visa route. From 4 April 2024, the minimum general salary threshold for new Skilled Worker applicants will rise sharply from £26,200 to £38,700 per year. This increase is intended to encourage employers to prioritise the domestic workforce.
However, exemptions will apply in specific circumstances:
Health and Care Workers, including those in nursing, senior care, and certain medical roles, will continue to benefit from lower thresholds.
Applicants under the Shortage Occupation List (soon to be replaced by the new Immigration Salary List) may also be eligible for reduced salary requirements, albeit with tighter restrictions.
Existing Skilled Worker visa holders renewing their status will not be subject to the new salary threshold if they remain in the same role and employer.
From 11 March 2024, overseas care workers and senior care workers will no longer be able to bring dependants (partners or children) to the UK. This significant policy shift is aimed at reducing the number of people entering the UK via the health and social care route. Employers in the sector are advised to review their recruitment strategies accordingly.
The Government also plans to raise the minimum income requirement for family visas (for example, spouse or partner visas) in stages:
From 11 April 2024, the minimum income threshold will rise from £18,600 to £29,000.
Further increases to £34,500 and then £38,700 are expected later in 2024 or early 2025, though specific timelines have not yet been confirmed.
This phased approach is intended to ease the transition while aligning the family visa system more closely with the Skilled Worker thresholds.
In line with recommendations from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), the Shortage Occupation List will be replaced by a new Immigration Salary List. This update, taking effect from 4 April 2024, will remove the previous 20% salary discount available for shortage roles. The MAC has also advised reducing the number of eligible job roles on the new list, signalling a stricter approach to labour shortages.
The graduate visa route is under review, with a MAC report expected by May 2024. This could potentially affect the rights of international students post-study.
Reforms to the Visitor visa rules will now allow visitors to engage in a broader range of work-related activities, such as attending internal meetings or delivering training.
These wide-ranging reforms signal a clear shift in the UK’s immigration priorities, with a focus on reducing numbers while preserving access for high-skilled talent. Employers, particularly in the health, care, and hospitality sectors, should take immediate steps to assess how these changes will affect recruitment and sponsorship planning.
