What is Happening?
The UK government has announced a series of important changes to the immigration system in 2025. These changes affect people coming to the UK for work, family life, study, and other reasons.
The aim of these updates is to:
- Control net migration (number of people moving to the UK).
- Encourage skilled workers in priority sectors.
- Encourage skilled workers in priority sectors.
- Reduce misuse of the immigration system.
What Are the Main Changes?
- Salary Threshold Increase for Workers
– If you are coming to the UK for a job (Skilled Worker visa), the minimum salary is now higher. In most cases, you now need to earn at least £38,700 per year (previously around £26,200).
– Some exceptions still apply for specific jobs that are in shortage or where lower salary rates are permitted (e.g., new entrants, PhD roles).
– The Shortage Occupation List (SOL) is being replaced by the Immigration Salary List (ISL), with fewer roles eligible for salary discounts. This change reduces the number of jobs that allow for lower salary thresholds.
- Health and Care Workers: Exemptions
– Care workers, nurses, and some health professionals can still apply for visas at lower salary levels under the Health and Care Worker route.
– However, care workers and senior care workers can no longer bring dependants (family members), unless they are in senior managerial roles.
– Senior managerial roles include those classified under (Residential, Day, and Domiciliary Care Managers and Proprietors), where dependant family members are still allowed.
- Family Visa Income Requirement Going Up
– For British citizens or settled persons sponsoring a spouse or partner, the financial requirement is increasing in stages.
– From April 2024, the minimum was set at £29,000.
– By early 2026, it will rise to £38,700.
– This means sponsors must show they earn more to bring a partner or family member to the UK.
- Student Visa Restrictions
–International students can no longer bring dependents unless they are studying a postgraduate research degree (PhD or equivalent).
-Students must also prove they have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living costs, as before.
- Changes to Visitor Rules
-More countries now need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before visiting the UK.
-The ETA is like a pre-entry online permission for short stays, even if you are coming for tourism or business.
-The scheme started in 2023 and is expanding throughout 2024–2025.
Who Will These Changes Affect?
–Workers: Anyone planning to come to the UK for a job will need to meet the new salary requirements. Make sure your job is eligible under the latest Immigration Salary List (ISL).
–Families: British citizens or residents bringing a spouse or partner must meet higher income thresholds.
–Care Sector: Health and Care Workers can still apply, but bringing family members is now restricted for junior roles.
–Students: International students face tighter rules on bringing dependents.
–Tourists: People from certain countries must apply for an ETA before travelling to the UK.
Why Is This Happening?
The UK government says these changes are intended to:
–Reduce overall immigration numbers.
-Focus on skilled workers and reduce low-wage migration.
-Protect the NHS and care system from over-reliance on migrant labour.
-Prevent misuse of the visa system.
What Should You Do?
If you are planning to apply for a UK visa or extend your stay:
-Check the latest salary and financial requirements before applying.
–Employers: Review and update your knowledge of sponsorship licence duties, especially regarding salary levels and job roles.
–Family visa applicants: Plan early to meet the new financial rules.
Visitors: Find out if you need an ETA before booking travel.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you are thinking about:
-Moving to the UK
-Bringing your family
-Working or studying in the UK
-Visiting the UK
It’s essential to stay informed. The immigration system is changing quickly.
Before making any plans:
Understand the new rules.
-Check if you’re still eligible under the updated requirements.
–Plan ahead to avoid issues like income limits, visa refusals, or last-minute surprises.
-Seek advice if you’re unsure it’s better to ask questions early than face problems later.
Conclusion
UK immigration rules are changing significantly, particularly around salary thresholds, family sponsorship requirements, and student or worker dependants. These changes do not mean you cannot apply but you will need to prepare carefully and understand the new conditions before starting any application.