The UK immigration system is constantly evolving, and one of the most significant updates in 2025 affects the Skilled Worker visa route. If you are planning to live and work in the UK, it’s essential to understand the new salary thresholds and job eligibility rules that came into effect on 22 July 2025.
At UK Visa Immigration Hub, our role is to help individuals, families, and employers navigate these changes smoothly. Below, we’ll break down the latest requirements and explain how they might impact your plans.
What is the Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker visa allows overseas applicants to come to the UK to take up employment in roles where there is a shortage of local workers. To qualify, you need a formal job offer from a UK‑based employer who holds a valid sponsorship licence.
Traditionally, the visa has been one of the main routes for recruiting professionals in healthcare, IT, engineering, and other key sectors.
What Has Changed in 2025?
The updated rules, effective from 22 July 2025, introduced two key changes:
🔹 1. Higher Salary Thresholds
- Minimum annual salary for most jobs: £41,700 (up significantly from the previous threshold).
- Minimum salary for new graduates or younger workers: £33,400.
This means applicants and employers will need to ensure that job offers meet these financial requirements before applying.
🔹 2. Stricter Job Eligibility
- Only roles classed as RQF Level 6 (graduate-level or higher) are eligible under the new rules.
- Many hospitality jobs, such as restaurant managers, chefs, and lower‑skilled service roles, have now been removed from the eligible list.
- Sectors like healthcare, tech, and engineering continue to remain priority areas.
Who Will Be Affected?
- Applicants: Workers in lower‑skilled or lower‑paid roles may no longer qualify under the Skilled Worker visa.
- Employers: Businesses must review job roles and salaries to ensure compliance with the new criteria before sponsoring overseas staff.
- Students/Graduates: Those moving from a UK Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa must make sure job offers meet the updated salary thresholds.
How to Apply Under the New Rules
- Secure a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor.
- Confirm your job role is on the updated eligible job list.
- Ensure your salary meets the minimum requirement (£41,700 or £33,400 for graduates).
- Prepare supporting documents (passport, certificate of sponsorship, proof of English language ability, etc.).
- Submit your visa application online.
How We Can Help
At UK Visa Immigration Hub, we specialise in Skilled Worker visa applications. Our team works with both applicants and UK employers to:
✅ Check eligibility for roles under the new rules
✅ Ensure salary and legal compliance with Home Office updates
✅ Prepare and submit strong applications with the right documentation
✅ Handle appeals or refusals if necessary
Final Thoughts
The 2025 changes to the Skilled Worker visa make the process more competitive, with higher salaries and stricter job eligibility rules. While this may present challenges for some applicants and employers, with the right guidance, you can still achieve a successful Skilled Worker visa application.
👉 Ready to apply or unsure if you qualify? Book a free consultation with UK Visa Immigration Hub today and let our experienced team guide your next steps.