The latest UK work visa updates in 2025 bring significant changes that affect skilled workers, employers, and international job seekers. As the UK continues to refine its immigration system post-Brexit, updates to the Skilled Worker visa route have opened new doors for certain professions while imposing stricter conditions on others. Whether you’re planning to move for work or hiring foreign talent, understanding these changes is crucial to stay compliant and competitive.
This comprehensive guide outlines the new rules, updated job eligibility, and how sponsorship now works under the UK’s revamped work visa system.
Key Changes to UK Work Visas in 2025
In 2025, the UK government, under the Home Office, has rolled out a revised framework for sponsored employment. Here are the major highlights:
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New Shortage Occupation List (SOL) released with additions in health care, education, and engineering.
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Minimum salary threshold raised from £26,200 to £29,000 annually for most roles.
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Removal of certain roles from the eligibility list including junior administrative posts.
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Skilled Worker visa fee updated to £680 (up from £610).
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Visa processing timelines now standardized to 15 working days.
These updates aim to prioritize high-skilled talent and ensure the system meets current labor market demands.
Who Can Apply Under the New Work Visa Rules?
The Skilled Worker visa allows foreign nationals to live and work in the UK if they have a job offer from a licensed sponsor. Applicants must:
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Have a job on the eligible occupations list
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Meet the salary requirement (usually £29,000 or £10.75/hour)
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Show English language proficiency
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Hold a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK employer
New applicants must also pass identity verification either through the UK Immigration app or via a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Updated Job List – 2025 Eligible Roles
Here’s a look at key sectors affected by the new UK work visa updates:
| Sector | Added Roles in 2025 | Removed Roles |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | Paramedics, Senior Care Workers | Support Workers |
| Engineering | Civil Engineers, Rail Engineers | Drafting Assistants |
| Education | Secondary Math & Physics Teachers | Teaching Assistants |
| IT & Tech | Cybersecurity Analysts, DevOps Engineers | Entry-level Support Technicians |
| Hospitality | Head Chefs and Hotel Managers | Waiters, Kitchen Assistants |
This restructuring encourages migration for highly skilled and in-demand roles while restricting entry for lower-wage, low-skilled positions.
Sponsorship Rules for UK Employers
To hire foreign workers, UK businesses must become Home Office-approved sponsors. As of 2025:
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There are over 70,000 licensed sponsors in the UK
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Sponsors must issue a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
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Employers must pay a Health and Immigration Surcharge (IHS) on behalf of employees
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Companies are required to maintain detailed compliance records or risk losing their license
The sponsorship management system (SMS) has also been streamlined to improve application speed and reduce errors.
Salary Thresholds & Tradeable Points in 2025
The Skilled Worker route still operates on a points-based system (PBS). Here’s how the points add up under the new rules:
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Job offer from licensed sponsor – 20 points
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Job at required skill level – 20 points
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English language skills – 10 points
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Salary between £29,000 and £33,000 – 20 points
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Job on Shortage Occupation List – 20 tradeable points
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Education qualification (PhD) – 10-20 points
Applicants must score at least 70 points to qualify.
Application Process Under the New Rules
Here’s a quick step-by-step breakdown:
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Get a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
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Receive your Certificate of Sponsorship
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Apply online on the UK government visa portal
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Pay the visa fee and IHS charge
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Submit biometric data (via app or VAC)
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Receive a decision within 3 weeks
The UK work visa updates have streamlined the application process, but applicants must ensure all documents are accurate and submitted on time.
FAQs
What is the new minimum salary for Skilled Worker visa in 2025?
The minimum salary threshold has increased to £29,000 per year or £10.75 per hour for most roles.
Can I still apply as a junior admin or hospitality worker?
No, entry-level roles like waiters, assistants, and junior clerical jobs have been removed from the eligible occupation list.
How do I find a licensed UK sponsor?
You can search the official Home Office sponsor register, which lists over 70,000 approved employers.
Has the visa fee changed for 2025?
Yes, the Skilled Worker visa fee has increased to £680, excluding the health surcharge.
Can I bring dependents under the 2025 rules?
Yes, spouses and children can be included, but you must show proof of funds to support them.
Click here to know more.