The UK government has announced its first phase of sweeping immigration reforms, set to take effect on July 22, 2025. These new rules, unveiled by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, aim to tighten the skilled worker visa process, raise salary thresholds, and stop the care worker visa route. The move is part of the UK’s efforts to reduce reliance on foreign labor and invest more in domestic workforce development.
- UK government unveils major immigration reforms aimed at tightening skilled worker visas.
- Care visa route closed; new care worker visa applications halted from July 2025.
- Skilled Worker visa applicants will need a Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification.
- Salary thresholds for work visas raised, aligning with the latest Office for National Statistics data.
- The shortage occupation list will be reduced, with more than 100 roles removed.
- A temporary "critical roles" list will remain, but without salary discounts or dependent rights.
- A full review of salary levels and discounts will be conducted by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC).
The UK’s new immigration rules reflect a shift towards strengthening domestic skills and reducing migration. The closure of the care visa route and the increase in salary and qualification requirements for skilled workers signal a move to reinstate order and control.
