Please note that the changes outlined apply to employers in Northern Ireland.

Key Changes Taking Effect

Starting in July 2025, several updates will reshape how individuals apply for and maintain immigration status in the UK:

• Higher Skill Thresholds: The minimum skill level for the Skilled Worker route is rising from RQF level 3 (A-level equivalent) to RQF level 6 (Bachelor’s degree level).
  
• Salary Increases: Minimum salary requirements are increasing to £41,700 for Skilled Workers and £52,500 for Senior or Specialist Workers.
  
• New Occupational Lists: A temporary expansion of the Immigration Salary List and the launch of a new Temporary Shortage List will guide sponsorship eligibility.
  
• Digital-Only Visas: Entry clearance vignettes (visa labels) will no longer be issued for work and study routes—digital eVisas will replace them.
  
• New Visa Centres: In the US and New Zealand, UK Visa Application Centres (VACs) will replace existing facilities to streamline biometric enrolment.
  

Implementation Timeline

Change                                                          Effective Date
Skill & Salary Thresholds                     22 July 2025
Digital-Only Visas                                15 July 2025
US VAC Transition                                15 July 2025
NZ VAC Transition                                16 July 2025

Skill Level Upgrade for Skilled Workers

From 22 July 2025, UK employers can only sponsor roles at RQF level 6 or higher under the Skilled Worker route. Those already in the UK working in RQF level 3–5 roles can continue under current terms, including applying for settlement (ILR), but these transitional arrangements won’t last forever.

Salary Thresholds Adjusted

New salary benchmarks reflect updated data from the 2024 Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings:

• Skilled Worker: £41,700 (up from £38,700)
  
• Senior/Specialist Worker: £52,500 (up from £48,500)

Workers under transitional arrangements from before April 2024 may still qualify under the lower £31,000 threshold, but others must meet the new figures. Occupation-specific salary rates are also being revised.

Occupational Lists: Temporary Shortage & Expanded Salary List

To address labour market gaps, the UK Government is:

• Expanding the Immigration Salary List to include RQF level 3–5 roles previously flagged as shortage occupations.
  
• Introducing the Temporary Shortage List, which will eventually replace the Salary List and include roles critical to the UK’s industrial strategy.

Note: Sponsored workers in RQF level 3–5 roles under these lists will not be allowed to bring dependants to the UK.

Digital Visas Replace Physical Labels

From 15 July 2025, applicants under work and study routes will receive digital immigration permission (eVisa) instead of a physical vignette in their passport. Dependants will still receive physical visa labels.

New Visa Centres in the US & NZ

• United States: 38 new UK VACs operated by VFS Global will replace over 130 ASCs. Applicants must attend in person for biometrics and passport submission.
  
• New Zealand: Three new VACs will replace existing centres, maintaining similar geographic coverage.
  

What Employers Need to Know

These changes will likely increase the complexity and cost of sponsoring migrant workers. Employers should:

• Review Sponsored Roles: Ensure salaries meet new thresholds and consider advising current workers to apply for ILR early.
  
• Check Occupational Lists: Confirm if future roles are eligible under the new lists and understand any attached conditions.
  
• Prepare for Process Changes: In the US, fewer biometric centres may mean longer travel times and limited appointment slots. In NZ, centre coverage remains stable.
  
• Support Digital Transition: Help applicants register for a UKVI account promptly to verify their eVisa before travel.
  

Why Employers Should Consult UK Immigration Solicitors About These Changes

Given the complexity and scope of these immigration reforms, it's crucial for both employers and individuals to seek guidance from qualified UK immigration solicitors. Legal professionals can help interpret how the changes affect specific circumstances, ensure compliance with evolving sponsorship requirements, and advise on strategic decisions—such as reclassifying job roles or timing applications for settlement. 

With transitional arrangements phasing out and new conditions attached to occupational lists, expert advice can make the difference between a smooth immigration process and costly delays or refusals.

This article was provided by Nick Bennett, Cleaver Fulton Rankin

Tel: 028 9024 3141
www.cleaverfultonrankin.co.uk/

Cleaver Fulton Rankin
50 Bedford Street
Belfast
BT2 7FW