The UK immigration landscape has undergone its most significant transformation in years, with sweeping changes that took effect on July 22, 2025. As IAA-regulated immigration advisers, we’re here to help you understand what these reforms mean for your UK immigration journey.
The Big Picture: A New Direction for UK Immigration
The government’s Immigration White Paper, “Restoring Control over the Immigration System,” has begun reshaping how people can come to and remain in the UK. These aren’t just minor adjustments – they represent a fundamental shift toward higher skills, stricter requirements, and longer pathways to settlement.
Skilled Worker Visa: Higher Barriers to Entry
What’s Changed:
- The minimum skill level has risen from RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) to RQF Level 6 (graduate level)
- Over 100 occupations are no longer eligible for sponsorship
- Salary thresholds have increased to £41,700 (up from £38,700)
- Workers in certain lower-skilled roles can no longer bring dependants
Who’s Affected: If you’re planning to apply for a Skilled Worker visa in a role that previously qualified at RQF 3-5 level, you may no longer be eligible unless your occupation appears on the new Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List.
Existing Visa Holders: Good news – if you already hold a Skilled Worker visa, you can continue to extend and change employers within your current occupation level. However, these protections won’t last indefinitely.
Care Worker Route: A Significant Closure
One of the most dramatic changes affects healthcare workers. The overseas recruitment route for care workers (occupation codes 6135 and 6136) closed entirely on July 22, 2025. While existing care workers can remain and extend their visas, no new overseas workers can be sponsored for these roles.
This change reflects growing concerns about exploitation and abuse within the sector, but it also means alternative immigration routes must be considered for healthcare professionals.
Settlement and Citizenship: Longer Waits Ahead
Perhaps the most impactful long-term change is the proposed extension of the settlement qualifying period from 5 to 10 years. While this hasn’t been implemented yet, it’s under consultation and could affect anyone planning long-term residence in the UK.
Current Position:
- Most work visa holders can currently apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years
- Family visa holders maintain their 5-year pathway (expected to remain unchanged)
- The “earned settlement” concept may provide shorter routes for high contributors
What This Means for Your Immigration Plans
If You’re Planning to Apply:
- Consider applying before further restrictions take effect
- Ensure your occupation qualifies under the new RQF6 requirement
- Budget for higher salary requirements and increased fees
- Explore alternative routes if your preferred path has closed
If You’re Already in the UK:
- Review your current visa conditions and expiry dates
- Plan your settlement application timeline carefully
- Consider professional advice before making major career changes
- Stay informed about transitional arrangements
English Language Requirements: Getting Stricter
New English language requirements are coming “by the end of 2025,” affecting both main applicants and dependants. Expect higher standards across all visa categories, potentially requiring B2 level proficiency instead of current B1 requirements.
The Financial Impact
Immigration has become significantly more expensive:
- Certificate of Sponsorship fees increased from £239 to £525 (120% increase)
- Immigration Skills Charge will rise by 32%
- Visa application fees have increased substantially across all categories
Looking Ahead: More Changes Coming
This is just the first wave of reforms. Additional changes expected by the end of 2025 include:
- Further English language requirement increases
- New family visa framework
- Potential Graduate visa duration reduction
- Enhanced university compliance rules
Our Advice: Act Now, Plan Ahead
The immigration landscape is changing rapidly, and windows of opportunity are closing. If you’re considering UK immigration, now is the time to:
- Get Professional Assessment: Understanding your options under both current and future rules is crucial
- Apply Strategically: Some applications may benefit from being submitted before further changes take effect
- Plan Long-term: Consider how these changes affect your 5-10 year immigration strategy
- Stay Informed: Subscribe to updates from IAA-regulated advisers who monitor rule changes daily
How We Can Help
At Javed Immigration Associates, we’re closely monitoring these developments and helping clients navigate the changing landscape. Our IAA-regulated advisers provide:
- Comprehensive eligibility assessments under new rules
- Strategic application timing advice
- Alternative route analysis when preferred paths close
- Ongoing compliance support for existing visa holders
The UK immigration system is entering a new era. While these changes create challenges, they also highlight the importance of professional guidance from qualified immigration advisers who understand both current requirements and future trends.
Contact our team today for a consultation on how these changes affect your specific circumstances. As IAA-regulated immigration advisers, we’re here to help you navigate these complex new requirements successfully.