The UK government has officially launched the first stage of a sweeping immigration overhaul, announcing major changes that include scrapping overseas care worker visas and raising salary and qualification requirements for skilled workers.
The new policies will come into effect on July 22, 2025.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper unveiled the reforms in Parliament, describing them as a “complete reset” of the immigration system. She said the changes aim to reduce reliance on low-paid foreign labour and rebuild domestic skills and workforce capacity.
Key Policy Changes:
Care Worker Visas Halted: The overseas recruitment route for social care workers will be closed.
From July 22, no new visa applications will be accepted for these roles. However, those already in the UK on care visas can switch visa categories internally until July 2028.
Higher Salary & Skill Requirements: The minimum salary and skill thresholds for Skilled Worker visas are being raised.
New applicants must now possess at least a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Existing skilled workers already in the UK are exempt from this requirement.
Shrinkage of Shortage Occupation List: Over 100 job roles—such as chefs and plasterers—are being removed from the shortage occupation list, which previously allowed more flexible visa terms.
A smaller, temporary list of “critical” roles will remain, but without salary discounts, visa fee reductions, or dependants’ rights.
Migration Minister Seema Malhotra noted that salary thresholds are being adjusted based on data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has been asked to review both the revised salary levels and the remaining shortage list, with recommendations due before 2026.
The Home Office says these changes are intended to curb misuse of the care visa system, address labour exploitation concerns, and reduce overall migration figures.
“These new rules represent stronger controls to reduce migration and reinvest in skills training here in the UK,” Cooper told Parliament, blaming the previous government for allowing net migration to quadruple over four years.
Further measures are expected later in the year, including a hike in the Immigration Skills Charge paid by employers and tougher English language requirements for visa applicants.
