The UK Skilled Worker Visa remains a crucial route for businesses looking to hire international talent and for professionals seeking employment in the UK. However, with frequent updates to salary thresholds, eligibility criteria, and immigration rules, staying informed is essential.

At NA Law Solicitors, we provide expert legal guidance to businesses and individuals navigating the UK immigration system. Whether you’re an employer seeking to sponsor workers or a professional applying for a visa, our team can ensure you meet the latest requirements and submit a successful application.

Key Changes to the Skilled Worker Visa in 2025

The UK government has introduced significant changes that impact both employers and applicants. These include:

Increased Salary Thresholds

• General Skilled Worker Visa Salary: Increased from £26,200 to £38,700 per year
• Healthcare and Care Workers: Increased from £26,200 to £29,000 per year
• New Entrant Salary: Increased to £30,960 per year or 70% of the going rate

What This Means for Employers:

Employers must reassess salary offers to ensure compliance with the higher salary thresholds, and applicants must ensure their job offer meets the minimum salary criteria before applying.

Shortage Occupation List Replaced

• The Shortage Occupation List (SOL) has been abolished and replaced by the Immigration Salary List (ISL).
• Some roles previously listed as shortage occupations may no longer qualify for lower salary thresholds.

What This Means for Employers

Employers and visa applicants must check the latest Immigration Salary List (ISL) to confirm if their job role qualifies for salary discounts or other exemptions.

Stricter Sponsorship Compliance for Employers

• The Home Office is placing greater scrutiny on sponsor licence holders.
• Employers must ensure they meet compliance obligations, including record-keeping, right-to-work checks, and reporting duties.

What This Means for Employers

Businesses must proactively manage their sponsorship licence to avoid penalties, revocation, or refusal to sponsor new employees.

Restriction on Dependants for Some Visa Holders

• Some Skilled Worker visa categories now have restrictions on bringing dependants (partners and children).
• This change primarily affects care workers and other specific job roles.

What This Means for Applicants

Prospective applicants should confirm whether they are eligible to bring family members under their visa before proceeding with their application.

How NA Law Solicitors Can Help

Navigating UK immigration law can be complex, especially with frequent regulatory changes. Our expert solicitors at NA Law Solicitors offer tailored legal advice to ensure:

✅ Employers remain compliant with sponsorship regulations and can continue hiring global talent.
✅ Applicants understand their eligibility, salary requirements, and visa conditions before applying.
✅ Families of visa applicants receive guidance on bringing dependants to the UK.

Contact Us for Expert Immigration Advice

If you’re an employer seeking to hire skilled workers or a professional looking to secure a Skilled Worker visa, our team at NA Law Solicitors is here to help.