UK New Visa & Settlement Rules for Immigrants from July 22

In a landmark shift in its immigration policy, the United Kingdom has officially enforced a new set of visa and settlement regulations starting July 22, 2025. These changes, introduced by the Labour government, are part of a broader plan to curb net migration, prioritize skilled professionals, and streamline the country’s immigration system to meet evolving economic and labor market demands.

Key Policy Changes Now in Effect

1. Increased Skill Level for Work Visas

The minimum skill threshold for Skilled Worker visas has risen from RQF Level 3 (A-level) to RQF Level 6 (equivalent to a university degree). This eliminates eligibility for a wide range of previously qualifying mid-skilled jobs unless they appear on the official Immigration Salary List (ISL) or Temporary Shortage List (TSL).

2. Higher Salary Requirements

The salary threshold for most Skilled Worker visa applicants has been raised from £38,700 to £41,700. For specific roles such as senior specialists or those applying through the Scale-up or Global Business Mobility routes, minimum salary levels may exceed £52,000.

3. End of Overseas Sponsorship for Low-Skilled Roles

New applications for adult care and senior care worker roles from overseas are now closed. However, in-country switching is permitted until 2028 for those with ongoing legal employment in the UK.

4. Extended Settlement Timeline

The qualifying residency period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) has been doubled from 5 to 10 years, affecting all new Skilled Worker entrants from July 22 onward. Fast-track exceptions may apply in certain high-demand sectors like healthcare, AI, and advanced engineering.

5. Stricter English Language Criteria

English language requirements are being raised across the board. Main applicants must now demonstrate proficiency at CEFR B2 level, and dependent applicants will also need to meet gradually increasing standards from A1 to B2.

Purpose Behind the Reforms

These changes are driven by the UK’s 2025 Immigration White Paper, which focuses on reducing long-term reliance on lower-paid foreign labor while strengthening the local workforce. The government aims to cut net migration by at least 100,000 annually through tighter visa controls and higher entry barriers.

Impact on Employers and Applicants

• For Indian professionals: Engineers, IT experts, and healthcare workers must now meet higher educational and income standards to qualify under the Skilled Worker route.
• For employers: Sponsor license holders must update salary structures and reassess workforce strategies to remain compliant with the new immigration rules.
• For visa holders: Those already in the UK under previous visa terms may continue under transitional arrangements, but new applications must fully comply with updated criteria.

Official Guidance

The UK Home Office has advised employers and prospective migrants to review the full Statement of Changes (HC 997) and prepare for stricter eligibility assessments. Applications submitted after July 22 will be evaluated exclusively under the new framework.

Conclusion

With these sweeping reforms, the UK is entering a new era of selective immigration designed to attract only the most qualified, high-earning global talent. Aspiring immigrants, especially from countries like India, must act with urgency and ensure they align their qualifications and job offers with the UK’s tightened visa standards.