Big changes have arrived in the UK’s immigration system as of June 2025. Whether you’re an international professional looking to move, a UK employer hiring overseas talent, or just keeping up with policy shifts, the new UK work visa rules affect you. These updates reshape who can work in the UK, how much they need to earn, and what businesses must do to stay compliant.
Here’s a clear, practical breakdown of the changes, their purpose, and what to do next.
Overview
The government is tightening its grip on work visas, shifting toward a high-wage, high-skill model. These new rules impact visa fees, salary thresholds, and sponsorship requirements. While some sectors like tech may sail through, others—like hospitality—face rough waters.
| Change | Details | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker Salary Threshold | Raised from £26,200 to £38,700 annually | April 9, 2025 |
| Minimum Salary for Shortage Roles | Increased from £23,200 to £25,000 annually | April 9, 2025 |
| Visa Application Fees | Raised by 5–10%; short-term visa now £127 | April 9, 2025 |
| Youth Mobility Scheme | Proposed UK-EU 12-month youth visa (ages 18–30) | Under negotiation |
| Salary Deduction Rule | Loans and fees now deducted from salary calculations | April 2025 |
| Employer Sponsorship Rules | Stricter compliance and documentation required | April 2025 |
Reason
After Brexit, the UK gained full control of its borders and visa systems. Now, with net migration over 670,000 in 2024, the government wants to reduce reliance on low-paid labor and ensure fair wages. These changes aim to:
- Attract high-skilled professionals
- Protect domestic wages
- Increase public confidence in the system
Changes
The biggest shift: the salary requirement for Skilled Worker visas is now £38,700 per year. That’s a major jump from the old £26,200. Only higher-paying jobs will now qualify, and this change could block many from sectors like hospitality and retail.
Minimum Salary
Even roles on the Shortage Occupation List now require at least £25,000, up from £23,200. This affects healthcare assistants, construction workers, and technicians. Employers must adjust salaries or risk losing access to migrant talent.
Higher Visa Fees
Fees are up across the board. A six-month visitor visa now costs £127, and Skilled Worker visa fees range from £719 to over £1,500, depending on job and duration. Be ready to budget more when applying.
Youth Mobility Scheme (Proposed)
The UK is negotiating a deal with the EU to let 18–30-year-olds work and travel for up to a year without sponsorship. This mirrors deals already in place with Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Though not active yet, it could offer more flexible work options in the future.
Salary Deduction Rules
Employers can no longer count inflated salaries that include loan repayments or deductions. This ensures workers meet real take-home minimums—closing loopholes some companies used to bypass rules.
Tougher Employer Sponsorship
If your business sponsors overseas workers, prepare for more audits, stricter documentation rules, and potential license penalties. The Home Office is cracking down on compliance gaps.
Impact
Still on the Shortage List, so it gets some leniency. But employers must now meet the £25,000 floor. Roles like nurses and care assistants are still eligible, but with tighter pay checks.
IT and Tech
Largely unaffected since tech salaries tend to exceed the new limits. But startups may find it harder to bring in junior staff without hitting the new pay bar.
Hospitality and Retail
These sectors are hardest hit. Many lower-paying roles no longer meet the visa threshold. Employers may need to boost wages or turn to local talent instead.
Advice
- Make sure your job offer meets the £38,700 salary rule
- Expect visa costs to be 5–10% higher than last year
- If you’re 18–30, track progress on the Youth Mobility Scheme
For Employers:
- Audit salaries to ensure they meet new thresholds
- Review sponsorship systems for compliance
- Work with immigration specialists to avoid delays or penalties
Tips
- Stay Updated: Subscribe to Home Office alerts or legal bulletins
- Balance Hiring: Invest in training domestic talent alongside global hires
- Get Help: Immigration law is tricky—don’t wing it. Legal advice pays off
These changes signal a major shift in the UK’s immigration landscape. With higher pay expectations and tighter controls, it’s more important than ever to plan ahead. Whether you’re hiring or applying, staying proactive is the best way to navigate this new system successfully.
FAQs
What is the new salary for Skilled Worker visa?
It has increased to £38,700 per year from April 2025.
Are visa application fees going up?
Yes, fees have increased by 5–10% across most categories.
Will the Youth Mobility Scheme include the EU?
It’s under negotiation; nothing confirmed yet.
How do salary deductions affect eligibility?
Deductions like loans are now excluded from salary totals.
What happens if employers break sponsor rules?
They risk fines, audits, or losing sponsor licenses.
