The “Skilled Worker Visa Eligibility Requirements (2025)” outlines the steps global talents need to take to work in the UK, spotlighting the evolving immigration landscape. In 2025, key changes like revised RQF Level 6 qualifications, a B2 English proficiency requirement, and shifting salary thresholds affect eligibility. Demand for skilled workers is on the rise, yet new policies present both opportunities and challenges for migrants and employers alike.
As part of the UK Government’s immigration White Paper Restoring Control over the Immigration System, sweeping reforms have reshaped how overseas professionals live and work in Britain. These updates are more than just administrative tweaks — they’re a strategic recalibration of the UK’s labour market, aimed at balancing economic needs with tighter immigration control.
For prospective applicants, the new rules bring both opportunities and challenges. Understanding them is essential if you want your UK work visa application to sail smoothly through Home Office checks.
What’s Driving the 2025 Reforms?
In May 2025, the UK government published the immigration White Paper—Restoring Control over the Immigration System—aiming to reduce net migration, elevate skill requirements, and promote domestic workforce development.
Central to these reforms:
- From July 22, 2025, the minimum skill level for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship has been raised from RQF Level 3 (A-levels) to RQF Level 6 (a degree level or equivalent)
- Jobs below RQF 6 must be listed on the new TSL to be eligible. The TSL is replacing the Immigration Salary List (ISL), which itself was a replacement for the Shortage Occupation List.
- The Immigration Salary List is being phased out and is scheduled to be abolished by 31 December 2026.
- A new eVisa system, which includes electronic identity credentials, is indeed replacing the physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs).
- English language requirements for dependants have been tightened, requiring demonstration of progression over time.
- The route to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) has been extended from 5 years to 10 years, with an “earned settlement” scheme for exceptional contributors.
2025 Skilled Worker Visa Route: Eligibility Criteria
1. Skill Level: Graduate-Level Only (RQF 6+)
From 22 July 2025, only occupations rated at RQF Level 6 or higher qualify for the Skilled Worker route. This excludes approximately 100 + medium- and lower-skilled roles—for instance, hotel management or veterinary nursing—unless they appear on the TSL.
- Existing visa holders: Those already on a Skilled Worker visa are generally exempt from the new RQF Level 6 requirement, allowing them to continue in their roles and renew their visas.
- Prior Applications/Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS): Applications submitted or CoS assigned on or before 21 July 2025 will be assessed under the old rules.
2. Salary Thresholds: Significantly Raised
From 22 July 2025, new applicants must meet one of the following, whichever is higher:
| Category | Minimum Salary |
| General threshold | £41,700 |
| PhD relevant to the job | £37,500 |
| PhD in STEM / new entrant/job on ISL | £33,400 |
For extensions or job changes submitted after this date, the new thresholds apply—even if the original CoS was issued earlier.
Applicants in roles on the (soon-to-be-abolished) Immigration Salary List still must earn at least £33,400 (degree-level) or £23,200 (sub-degree) if relevant.
Hourly minimums also apply: £17.13/hr (Table 1 roles), £12.82/hr (Table 2 roles), capped at 48 hours/week.
3. Temporary Shortage List (TSL)
Roles rated RQF 3-5 may still be eligible if listed on the TSL, which replaces the Immigration Salary List. However, these occupations are time-limited, subject to renewal, and dependents cannot be sponsored under TSL roles.
4. English Language: Enhanced Requirements
Applicants must meet the updated B2 English level, and both main applicants and dependants must demonstrate ongoing language progression over time.
5. Digital eVisa & e-Identity System
As part of modernising immigration controls, the UK has moved to an eVisa system with electronic identity credentials, replacing the older biometric residence permits.
Application Process for the UK Work Visa Application (Skilled Worker Visa)
Here’s your step-by-step guide to a smooth UK work visa application:
Step 1: Job Offer & Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Secure a job in an eligible occupation (RQF 6+) or one listed on the TSL.
- Your employer must be an approved Home Office sponsor and issue a valid CoS.
Step 2: Check Salary & Qualifications
- Verify that your salary meets or exceeds £41,700, or the lower PhD/new-entrant thresholds, if eligible.
- Ensure conformity with hourly rates (e.g. ≥£17.13/hr).
- Confirm your job code and going rate via the GOV.UK skilled-worker going rates list, updated July 2025.
Step 3: English Language Evidence
- Provide proof of B2-level English (e.g., approved test, degree taught in English).
- Prepare documentation showing language progression if you’re applying for an extension or settlement later.
Step 4: Submit Online via eVisa System
- Apply online using the digital eVisa platform.
- Upload required documents.
- Pay the application fee, Immigration Skills Charge (which rose by ~32% in May 2025), and any healthcare surcharge.
Step 5: Await Decision
- You’ll receive an e-Visa and e-identity credential, which serves as your immigration permit.
Step 6: Travel & Compliance
- Travel to the UK using your e-Visa. A physical BRP is no longer issued.
- Adhere to employment terms, report changes, and maintain compliance.
Step 7: Extensions & Settlement
- For visa extensions or changes of employer, the new salary thresholds apply immediately, even if your original CoS was issued before July 2025.
- Aim for 10 years of residence for settlement unless you qualify for accelerated “earned settlement”.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
- Ignoring new thresholds: Applying under old salary or skill requirements may lead to rejection.
- Missing RQF level: Double-check that your role is RQF 6+ (or on TSL if applicable).
- Underestimating hourly rates: Ensure your salary meets both annual and hourly criteria.
- Incomplete English evidence: Include both initial proof and plans for progression for future applications.
- Not utilising transitional rules: Existing visa holders in RQF 3-5 may still extend until 2028 but must apply before then.
- Mismatched CoS timing: Extensions or changes submitted after 22 July 2025 must meet updated thresholds—even if CoS was issued under old rules.
- Poor documentation: Include all standard docs—identity, CoS, salary letters, English proof, TB test (if from a specified country), and dependants’ documents if applicable.
Required Documents Checklist
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Passports/travel documents
- Proof of salary (contract or employer letter)
- Evidence of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, degree)
- TB test result (if required)
- Proof of maintenance funds (if needed)
- Translations (if documents are not in English)
- Dependants’ documents, if applying together
- Employer’s sponsor licence number and any supporting letters
Outlook & Implications in 2025!
These reforms, alongside reductions in lower-skilled work routes (e.g., care worker visas closing by 2028) and expanded high-skill visas like Global Talent, signal a clear pivot in UK immigration policy—toward targeting skilled, graduate-level talent and maintaining control over migration volumes.
What This Means:
- Higher-skilled applicants benefit from clearer, focused pathways.
- Employers must justify hiring decisions and meet higher compliance standards—especially for shortage roles.
- Settlement times are significantly longer, prompting advanced planning.
- Digital platform adoption streamlines processing, but relies on correct submission upfront.
- UK employers and industries facing skill gaps (e.g., defence, nuclear) may rely on these routes—though cost and complexity have increased.
Final Thoughts!
Navigating the UK work visa application process can feel daunting, but with the right preparation and a clear understanding of the steps ahead, it becomes far more manageable. Staying organised, allowing yourself plenty of time, and keeping informed about the latest rules will go a long way towards ensuring a smooth journey. With the right approach, your path to working and building a future in the UK can be both achievable and rewarding, and while every application is unique, having a trusted source of guidance can make all the difference.
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