The UK’s Skilled Worker visa system has just undergone one of the biggest shake-ups. From 22 July 2025, there are new regulations for the skill level and salary thresholds, meaning that thousands of jobs that were previously qualified will no longer be eligible.
If you’re planning to work in the UK—or already hold an offer—these changes could decide whether your visa is approved or refused.
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What’s Changing in 2025
The Home Office has raised the skill threshold for the majority of Skilled Worker occupations to RQF 6 (degree level). Under the previous system, occupations at RQF 3–5 (A-level or diploma level) were acceptable. Many mid-skilled occupations—such as supervisors, assistants, and coordinators—will no longer qualify unless they appear on a Temporary Shortage List.
At the same time, the minimum salary has gone up to £41,700 per year or the “going rate” for the occupation, whichever is higher. This is quite an increase on previous thresholds and has caught some employers and applicants off guard.
There are a few discounts still on offer:
• PhD discount: receive at least 90 % of the going rate if your job and degree are closely connected.
- STEM PhD discount: some science and technology occupations can provide 80 %.
- New entrant discount: graduates entering for the first time can qualify for lower salaries, but only for their initial visa period.
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Who Is Affected
The new rules impact mainly new applications and Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) that are granted after 22 July 2025.
Those who already hold a Skilled Worker visa or were issued their CoS before that date can settle or extend under the old terms.
If your role is below RQF 6, check whether it appears on the Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List—these lists temporarily keep some key roles eligible.
Care workers are especially affected: from July 2025, new overseas recruitment to care and senior-care roles is shut, though some in-country switching remains available.
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How the New Thresholds Affect Job Offers
The job offer must now pass both the skill level and the salary test. Even if you’re being paid over £41,700, your visa can be refused if the going rate for that SOC code is higher.
Employers are required to guarantee:
- Correct SOC code for the job.
- Job is at RQF 6 or above.
- Salary is at or above the going rate (after any allowed discount).
If uncertain, check the Skilled Occupations List on GOV.UK or seek the advice of a regulated adviser before you apply.
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What You Can Do Now
- Review your offer
Check the SOC code, skill level, and salary with your employer. If your occupation doesn’t qualify, negotiate a promotion or seek alternative visa options. - Make use of transitional protection
If your CoS is already approved, apply before 22 July 2025 to be under old rules. - Check discount eligibility
PhD, STEM, and new-entrant concessions can make borderline applications eligible. - Seek alternative pathways If your job no longer qualifies, explore Graduate Route, Global Talent, or Innovator Founder pathways.
- Seek professional advice
A Level 1 OISC-regulated adviser can assess your eligibility and help prepare compliant documentation.
- Seek professional advice
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⚠️ Common Pitfalls to Avoid
• Assuming £41,700 alone guarantees approval—always check the occupation’s going rate.
• Counting allowances or bonuses toward salary—they rarely qualify.
• Ignoring transition rules—CoS date determines which policy applies.
• Over-claiming discounts—using one you’re not entitled to can cause refusal.⸻
✳️ In Summary
The Skilled Worker changes are designed to prefer higher-skilled, better-paid work but also risk locking out genuine talent for mid-skill roles.
Act quickly if your offer is close to the threshold: assess eligibility, amend salary where possible, or file under transitional provisions before the new regulations bite.
At Kingster Immigration Consultants Ltd, we monitor all of the updates so you don’t have to. Book a consultation today so your Skilled Worker application meets the July 2025 requirements and stays on track for approval.