UK Implements Stricter Work Visa Rules: 100+ Jobs Removed from Skilled Worker List

Big changes are coming to the UK’s immigration system starting July 2025. The government plans to remove over 100 jobs from the Skilled Worker visa list and end the care worker route. These new rules aim to reduce migration, raise skill thresholds, and prioritize the domestic workforce.

On July 1, 2025, the UK announced a major overhaul of its immigration policies, which aims to cut net migration. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper described these changes as “a complete reset” of the immigration system. The reforms will be implemented on July 22, 2025, pending parliamentary approval, and are part of a broader strategy to tighten border control and labor market access.

Occupations Cut from Skilled Worker Visa List

In a significant policy shift, the UK will remove 111 occupations from the Skilled Worker visa route. These roles were previously on the Shortage Occupation List, which provided salary concessions and simplified application processes for foreign workers.

By eliminating these jobs, the government seeks to reduce reliance on foreign labor and promote local workforce development. Key changes include:

• Ending the Skilled Worker visa for social care workers
• Raising salary and skill requirements for all eligible jobs
• Phasing out sub-degree level roles unless they are on a new shortage list
• Blocking dependents from accompanying workers under temporary shortage schemes

Overseas Recruitment for Care Workers to End

A notable change is the closure of the care worker visa route to new overseas applicants. While current care workers in the UK can continue working, new applications will be barred starting July 22, 2025. This decision could significantly impact the health and social care sectors, which have historically relied on foreign workers to fill staffing shortages.

Temporary Shortage List Introduced — With Strict Conditions

Instead of the traditional Shortage Occupation List, a Temporary Shortage List will be introduced through 2026. This list will include only roles deemed critical to national interests, such as those in healthcare and infrastructure.

Employers must present clear strategies for upskilling and hiring UK workers, or they risk losing access to this recruitment pathway. Conditions for workers on this temporary list will include:

• No dependents allowed
• No visa fee discounts
• No salary concessions
• Eligibility limited to roles approved by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC)
• The MAC will conduct a review of pay, benefits, and shortage roles later this year to finalize this list.

Other Changes

Additional reforms expected soon include:

• Increased Immigration Skills Charge for employers
• Stricter English language requirements across visa categories
• A new family migration framework impacting spouse and partner visas
• These proposals aim to “restore control and order” to immigration after net migration figures surged over the last four years.

Who Will Be Affected?

These changes will greatly impact:

• Foreign skilled workers seeking UK jobs
• Employers relying on international recruitment
• Care providers hiring from abroad
• Recruiters managing visa sponsorship processes
• Family members planning to join skilled migrants

What Employers and Migrants Should Do Now

With less than a year before implementation, consider these steps:

• Review current visa sponsorship plans.
• Identify UK-based training opportunities to reduce reliance on international hires.
• Stay updated on the MAC’s shortage list review.
• Prepare for tighter language tests and financial requirements.

Final Thoughts

The UK’s immigration reset signals a shift toward investing in domestic skills rather than low-wage foreign labor. While the government argues these steps are essential for long-term sustainability, many employers, especially in care and construction, may face challenges in filling vacancies.

Travelers, workers, and employers should monitor updates closely and consult with immigration experts to navigate the upcoming changes effectively.