The UK government introduced major immigration rule changes effective July 2025. These updates reshape the Skilled Worker visa route, end overseas care worker access, and close new applications under the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP). Whether you’re a student, professional, employer, or care sector recruiter—these changes affect you directly.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s changed, who’s impacted, and what to do next.
Big Shifts in the Skilled Worker Route
One of the most substantial reforms is a raise in the skill level for eligible jobs under the Skilled Worker visa:
- ✅ Roles must now meet RQF Level 6 (equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree)
- ✅ The salary threshold has been increased to £41,700/year
- ❌ Over 100 occupations previously eligible at lower skill levels have now been removed
If you’re already in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa, you’re not immediately affected—but that protection isn’t permanent. If you change jobs or employers, you may need to reapply under the updated UK immigration rule changes.
No More Overseas Care Worker Visas
The Care Worker route is closing to new overseas applicants:
- 🛑 No new Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) for care workers can be issued after 22 July 2025
- 🔄 In-country switching is allowed until July 2028 only if you’ve worked with the same UK sponsor for 3+ months
- 🔚 This marks a hard stop to international care sector recruitment from outside the UK
Care sector employers must now restructure their workforce planning and look for in-country talent or alternative pathways.
Temporary Job Lists Introduced
To help ease the transition, the UK has launched two temporary routes:
- Immigration Salary List
- Shortage Occupation List
These roles will remain visa-eligible until 31 December 2026—but come with one major catch:
❌ No dependants are allowed on these visa routes.
These are seen as stopgap measures, not long-term solutions, and may be reassessed by the government at any point.
Afghan ARAP Route Closed
As of 3 PM BST on 1 July 2025, the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) is closed to new principal applicants.
- ✅ Those who applied before the deadline are still eligible to bring family members
- ❌ New applications will no longer be considered
This abrupt closure was justified as a move to prevent a surge in late or speculative submissions.
Who Is Affected?
➤ Employers
You need to review all job roles and update your sponsorship practices immediately.
➤ Skilled Workers
Check whether your salary and job title still qualify under the new criteria. Consider legal advice before switching roles.
➤ Care Sector
Prepare for a shift away from international recruitment. Understand the 2028 in-country switch deadline and make contingency plans.
➤ Afghan Nationals
Confirm the status of any ARAP application made before 1 July 2025 to avoid complications.
Key Dates to Watch
| Date | Change |
|---|---|
| 1 July 2025 | ARAP route closed to new applicants |
| 22 July 2025 | Skilled Worker & care role changes take effect |
| 31 Dec 2026 | Temporary job list expires |
| 22 July 2028 | Final switch deadline for in-country care workers |
What This Means for You
These UK immigration rule changes mark a shift toward a high-skilled, lower-volume immigration system. Whether you’re a student planning a career in the UK or an employer navigating these shifts, here’s what you should do:
✅ Stay informed and track rule updates
✅ Plan ahead based on skill level and job role
✅ Seek professional legal or visa advice if you’re unsure
Whether you’re a student planning a career in the UK or an employer navigating these shifts.
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