UK Skilled Worker Visa Explained:The UK Skilled Worker visa is a vital route for international professionals aiming to live and work in the United Kingdom. Significant changes have come into effect from 22 July 2025, reshaping the eligibility criteria, skill levels, salary thresholds, and visa conditions.
This comprehensive guide breaks down these updates in clear, straightforward language, helping prospective applicants and employers navigate the new framework effectively.
Whether you’re an experienced worker, a recent graduate, or an employer sponsoring overseas talent, understanding the 2025 Skilled Worker visa rules is essential for successful applications.
UK Skilled Worker Visa Key Changes in 2025
| Aspect | New 2025 Rules Summary |
| Skill Level Requirement | Raised to RQF Level 6 (degree level or equivalent) |
| Minimum Annual Salary Threshold | Increased to £41,700 or the going rate (whichever is higher) |
| New Entrant Salary Threshold | £33,400 or 70% of the going rate |
| PhD Salary Thresholds | £37,500 or 90% of the going rate (relevant PhD), £33,400 for STEM PhD (80%) |
| Immigration Salary List | Phasing out by 31 Dec 2026; replaced by Temporary Shortage List (TSL) covering limited lower-skilled roles |
| Temporary Shortage List (TSL) | Introduced from July 2025, with strict limits and employer workforce strategies |
| English Language Requirement | Proposed increase from B1 to B2 (subject to consultation) |
| Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) | An extension from 5 to 10 years is currently proposed |
What Is the UK Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa and enables foreign nationals to work in eligible skilled jobs within the UK. The visa is points-based, with requirements including:
- A valid job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
- Meeting the skill and salary thresholds for the offered occupation
- Satisfying English language proficiency levels
- Having a certificate of sponsorship issued by the employer
New Skill Level Requirement: Graduate-Level or Higher
Before 22 July 2025, eligible roles included occupations with skill levels equivalent to RQF Level 3 (A-level). Following the reforms effective from 22 July, only positions at RQF Level 6 or above (degree level) automatically qualify. This means:
- Roles at supervisor, technician, or some traditional intermediate skill levels no longer qualify unless they appear on the Temporary Shortage List (TSL).
- This change narrows the range of eligible jobs significantly, focusing on higher-skilled positions primarily requiring a university degree or equivalent professional skill level.
Salary Thresholds for Skilled Worker Visa in 2025
In July 2025, the UK government raised salary thresholds for all new applications. The new baseline salary is £41,700 per year (or the going rate for the job if higher). Applicants must meet the greater of these two.
| Category | Minimum Annual Salary Required |
| General Skilled Worker | £41,700 or higher going rate |
| Relevant PhD Holders | £37,500 or 90% of the going rate |
| STEM PhD Graduates | £33,400 or 80% of the going rate |
| New Entrants (fresh graduates or switching visa type) | £33,400 or 70% of going rate |
| Roles on Immigration Salary List (degree level) | £33,400 or going rate |
| Roles on Immigration Salary List (sub-degree level RQF 3–5) | £23,200 or going rate |
Additionally, a minimum hourly pay of £17.13 applies, assuming no more than 48 working hours per week are counted.
Temporary Shortage List (TSL) and End of Immigration Salary List
By 31 December 2026, the permanent Immigration Salary List (ISL) will be phased out. It previously allowed some lower-paid skilled jobs to qualify.
It is replaced by the Temporary Shortage List (TSL), effective from July 2025, which permits limited sponsorship of sub-degree roles for a strictly limited time. Employers using TSL must submit workforce plans detailing efforts to hire domestic workers and show timelines for reducing reliance on overseas employees.
Examples of jobs potentially remaining on TSL include specific nursing, social work, and engineering support roles.
Impact on Existing Skilled Worker Visa Holders
Applicants and visa holders sponsored before 22 July 2025 benefit from transitional protections:
- Existing visa holders can generally renew or extend their visas under older thresholds for a limited time.
- However, all new sponsorships after 22 July must adhere to the updated higher skill and salary requirements.
English Language and Residency Requirements
The Home Office has proposed raising the English language test requirement from CEFR B1 to B2 level starting January 2026. This would apply to primary applicants and adult dependents but remains under consultation and is not yet in effect.
Additionally, the government plans to extend the requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from the current 5-year period to 10 years, significantly affecting long-term settlement prospects, but this is pending parliamentary approval.
How To Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa Under New Rules?
- Secure a job offer from an approved UK employer who can sponsor you.
- Employer issues a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reflecting your role, salary, and start date.
- Confirm you meet the updated skill and salary thresholds for your occupation code (SOC code).
- Gather necessary supporting documents, including proof of English proficiency and maintenance funds.
- Submit your visa application online up to 3 months before your start date.
- Await decision, typically around 3 weeks for overseas applications.
Summary
These changes represent the UK’s most significant Skilled Worker visa reforms in recent years. They aim to streamline migration towards higher-skilled and better-paid jobs while balancing the demand for talent with domestic job market protections.
If you plan to apply for a Skilled Worker visa in 2025 or hire overseas professionals, staying informed about these rules is crucial. Keep monitoring official Home Office and gov.uk updates to ensure compliance and a smooth application process.
FAQs about UK Skilled Worker Visa 2025
From 22 July 2025, jobs must meet RQF Level 6 (equivalent to a bachelor’s degree) or above.
Applicants must earn at least £41,700 annually or the “going rate” for the job, whichever is higher.
Yes, relevant PhD holders may qualify with £37,500, and STEM PhD holders with £33,400.
Some sub-degree roles remain eligible only temporarily through the Temporary Shortage List with strict limits.
Existing holders have transitional protections and can generally extend under previous rules.
A rise from CEFR B1 to B2 level is proposed for 2026 but is still under government consultation.