1. Introduction
The UK immigration landscape is once again undergoing significant transformation. From 22 July 2025, sweeping changes to the Skilled Worker visa system will come into force, including new salary thresholds and updated skill level requirements. These changes have left many current Skilled Worker visa holders unsure of their position—especially those in roles below RQF Level 6 or concerned about bringing dependants.
This blog explains what existing Skilled Workers need to know, including who is affected, what transitional protections are in place, and how to stay compliant.
2. What Are the Key Changes from 22 July 2025?
From 22 July 2025, the following changes will apply to the Skilled Worker route:
Change | Details |
| Minimum Salary Threshold | Standard threshold rises to £41,700 (from £38,700) |
| Skill Level Requirement | Eligibility raised to RQF Level 6 (degree level) for new applications |
| Closure of Care Worker Route | Overseas care worker sponsorship ends |
| No Dependants for TSO Roles | Those applying under the new Temporary Shortage Occupation List cannot bring dependants |
| Transitional Protections | Existing Skilled Workers can continue working under previous criteria |
These reforms are designed to prioritise higher-skilled roles and reduce dependency on overseas labour for lower-skilled positions.
3. Will Existing Skilled Workers Be Affected?
If you are already on a Skilled Worker visa or have been issued a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) before 22 July 2025, transitional protections apply.
You can continue:
⧁ Working in your current role (even if below RQF Level 6)
⧁ Extending your visa
⧁ Changing employers
⧁ Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), subject to salary compliance
However, one major requirement applies:
Your salary must meet the new minimum threshold applicable from 22 July 2025.
Updated Transitional Salary Thresholds
Category | New Salary (Annual) |
| General Threshold (standard cases) | £41,700 |
| Existing Skilled Worker (Absolute Floor) | £31,300 |
| Universal hourly floor | £17.13/hour |
4. Existing Care Worker Salary Requirement
If you are an existing Care Worker or Senior Care Worker (SOC codes 6135 or 6136) already in the UK and planning to extend your visa under transitional arrangements, you can do so until 22 July 2028. However, you must ensure your salary is at least £25,000 per year. Employers must adjust your hourly pay rate to meet this annual threshold, especially for part-time roles. Failing to meet this requirement may result in visa extension refusals under the new rules.
5. Can I Continue in a Role Below RQF Level 6?
Yes. If your Skilled Worker visa or CoS was issued before 22 July 2025, you are allowed to:
⧁ Remain in your current job
⧁ Extend your visa
⧁ Switch employers
Even if your role is below RQF Level 6, transitional rules allow you to continue—as long as you meet the new salary threshold.
6. Can I Still Bring My Dependants?
Yes—with exceptions.
If you were granted your Skilled Worker visa before 22 July 2025, you can still bring dependants (even if below RQF Level 6 roles).
Exception:
Care Workers (SOC 6135) and Senior Care Workers (SOC 6136) who were granted a visa on or after 11 March 2024 cannot bring dependants. This policy remains in place, regardless of the July 2025 reforms.
7. How Can WorkPermitCloud Help?
WorkPermitCloud Ltd UK specialises in helping Skilled Workers and employers stay compliant with the latest Home Office rules.
We can help you:
✔ Review if your current salary meets the new requirements
✔ Assist with CoS
✔ Apply for extensions or ILR
✔ Clarify your eligibility to bring dependants
📞 Call us: +44 020 8087 2343
📧 Email: info@workpermitcloud.co.uk
📅 Book a free consultation: calendly.com/lutfur-workpermitcloud
🚨 Apply before 22 July 2025?
Fast-track your application with our Priority Service today.
8. Conclusion
If you're an existing Skilled Worker in the UK, you can breathe a little easier—most of the changes from 22 July 2025 will not affect your visa eligibility, as long as your salary meets the new thresholds. You can still extend your visa, switch jobs, or apply for settlement under transitional protections.
However, act quickly if you need to adjust your salary or apply before the deadline. With increasing audits and stricter compliance rules, being proactive is the best way to protect your immigration status.
For tailored help and peace of mind, WorkPermitCloud is here to support you.
9. Glossary
Term | Definition |
| Skilled Worker Visa | A UK visa allowing employers to sponsor overseas workers for eligible roles. |
| Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) | An official document assigned by a licensed sponsor to support a Skilled Worker visa application. |
| RQF Level 6 | Regulated Qualifications Framework Level 6 is equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree. |
| Transitional Protection | Temporary rules that allow existing Skilled Worker visa holders to remain eligible despite new thresholds. |
| Salary Threshold | The minimum annual salary required to qualify for a Skilled Worker visa. |
| SOC Code | Standard Occupational Classification code used to identify job roles under UK immigration rules. |
| Temporary Shortage List (TSL) | A time-limited list of occupations experiencing skill shortages, offering lower entry thresholds under certain conditions. |
| Dependants | Partners or children who can accompany or join a Skilled Worker visa holder in the UK. |
| Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) | A form of permanent residence in the UK allowing individuals to live and work without restriction. |
