On July 1, 2025, the UK government enacted a major reform of its Skilled‑Worker visa route, marking a decisive shift in policy that could impact hundreds of thousands of applicants. With changes taking full effect on July 22, it’s critical to understand how these reforms affect both prospective migrants and sponsoring employers.

What Changed & Why It Matters

1. Strictly Graduate-Level Jobs Now Required
   Under the new rules, only roles that meet RQF Level 6 (bachelor’s degree level) are eligible, meaning many diplomas and certificate-based roles no longer qualify.
2. Salary Threshold Upped
   The minimum qualifying salary has risen sharply 
   
3. Higher thresholds apply for certain sectors (e.g., STEM, finance, healthcare)
4. Transitional Window until July 22
   If your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) was issued before 3:00 PM BST on July 1 or your visa application is submitted before July 22, you can still use the old criteria, including lower skill and salary levels.
5. Temporary “Shortage Occupation List” Exemptions
   Certain job titles, like HR officers, IT technicians, administrative staff, and creative roles, remain eligible until December 31, 2026. However, dependents are excluded under this exemption.
6. Migration Strategy Reset
   These reforms underline a policy pivot, migrants are now expected to bring graduate-level skills and higher salaries, reinforcing the UK’s focus on attracting high-value talent and reducing net migration.

What It Means for You

• Applicants in-process: Act fast! Submit applications before July 22 to use the original criteria.
• New applicants and employers: Align job roles and remuneration with the new eligibility standards, only RQF 6+ roles starting at a stipulated salary amount are accepted, or check if your role makes the Shortage List.
• Dependents planning travel with shortage roles? Unfortunately, that won’t be possible under the current concession.
• Employers should revisit sponsorship policies, salary structures, and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) application timing to accommodate these changes.

MJC Take: Don’t Wait to Adapt

• Apply under old rules before the July 22 deadline if possible
• Reassess all job descriptions to ensure RQF 6 level, and adjust compensation accordingly
• Confirm shortage-list eligibility to retain flexibility, albeit without dependents
• Seek expert help from Michelle Jay Consulting to reclassify roles, tweak salaries, or manage dependents

In Summary

These reforms represent one of the most significant shifts seen in the UK’s Skilled‑Worker visa policy. By tightening qualifications and raising thresholds, the government clearly signals its intent to attract higher-skilled migrants while scaling back on lower-skilled routes.

Key Dates:

• July 1 – Policy announced
• July 22 – New rules become mandatory

Whether you're a skilled professional or an employer, understanding these changes, and acting fast is crucial. Michelle Jay Consulting is ready to guide you in navigating this evolving visa landscape.

Want detailed role evaluations, salary benchmarking, or application support?

Reach out at info@mjcservice.com or visit mjcservice.com to schedule your consultation.