Major UK immigration reforms are now officially in motion as the government rolls out its second Statement of Changes within two weeks—an unusual move that underlines the seriousness of these updates. From raising the skill level requirements to phasing out the overseas care worker visa, the 2025 White Paper has reshaped the landscape for skilled migrants.
00:00Sad end of UK visa, dependents restrictions and more, as white paper kicks off big immigration.
00:08In this video, we break down the changes to the skilled worker visa, including new skill level requirements, revised salary thresholds, tighter restrictions on dependents, the closure of the overseas care worker route and important transition period dates.
00:25Watch till the end to ensure you understand all the timeline shifts and how to adapt your application strategy.
00:45Major UK immigration reforms are now officially in motion as the government rolls out its second statement of changes within two weeks,
00:53an unusual move that underlines the seriousness of these updates.
00:59From raising the skill level requirements to phasing out the overseas care worker visa,
01:05the 2025 white paper has reshaped the landscape for skilled migrants.
01:12Don't forget to read the full version of this update on our website, link mentioned in the description below.
01:18You can also support us by sharing our updates with your friends and family on Facebook, WhatsApp and X.
01:29At number one, we have skill level changes for skilled worker visa.
01:33The UK is tightening job eligibility by redefining what qualifies as skilled work.
01:39Effective from July 22, 2025, the minimum required occupation level has been raised from RQF level 3 to level 6.
01:51This adjustment eliminates over 180 occupations from visa eligibility, significantly narrowing the skilled worker route.
01:59However, transitional provisions allow current visa holders to extend or switch within the UK.
02:13Coming in at number two, it's the salary threshold revisions,
02:17with major hikes that could block thousands of applicants under the new rules.
02:21The general salary threshold is being increased from £38,700 to £41,700,
02:31based on the Office for National Statistics' 2024 earnings data.
02:36Updated salary tables have been introduced, distinguishing jobs based on skill levels, RQF 6 plus versus 3 to 5.
02:45Number three is restrictions on dependents, a controversial move aimed at reducing migration numbers by limiting family entries.
02:56Applicants in occupations below RQF level 6 can no longer bring dependents,
03:03unless they were already granted sponsorship before the rule change.
03:07This follows existing rules applied to care workers and certain other lower skilled roles.
03:13Number four, the closure of the overseas care worker route,
03:20a drastic shift that ends a major pathway for health and care workers abroad.
03:26The UK will stop accepting entry clearance applications for care workers and senior care workers.
03:33However, in-country switching will be permitted until July 22nd,
03:382028, provided the applicant has worked for the sponsoring employer for at least three months.
03:47And at number five, we cover the transition period and key dates,
03:53when these changes take effect and what applicants must prepare for.
03:56Effective from July 22nd, 2025, the new policy introduces significant changes with a final grace period extending until July 22nd, 2028.
04:11During this transitional phase, current visa holders will benefit from limited protections, including the ability to renew their visas and maintain a degree of employment flexibility, offering them some stability as the new rules come into full effect.
04:28Before we end, let's do the conclusion of today's video update.
04:37These sweeping immigration changes reflect the UK government's intent to tighten work visa access and focus on higher skilled roles.
04:45With skill and salary thresholds rising, only genuinely qualified candidates may find success under the new rules.
04:54Explore our full blog post on the website to understand the complete details and implications of these changes.
05:02And that's the close. Got thoughts? Let's talk in the comments.
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