On 22 July 2025, the UK Government introduced significant changes to the immigration system following the publication of the Immigration White Paper (gov.uk) and formal legislation outlined in the Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules (HC 997) (gov.uk). These changes are now in effect and impact the Skilled Worker visa, care sector recruitment, salary thresholds, and occupational eligibility.
Background
In May 2025, the UK Government announced its intention to reform the immigration system to reduce net migration, prioritise UK-based workers, and re-focus visa routes on higher-skilled occupations. These changes have now been implemented. They are the most substantial update to the Skilled Worker route in several years.
Scotland’s Migration Service was established by the Scottish Government to support international workers and their families to move to and settle in Scotland. These changes may make it more challenging for some workers and employers - particularly in sectors such as care and hospitality - to access the Skilled Worker route.
Despite the new restrictions, Scotland remains a place of welcome. The Scottish Government will continue to support affected individuals and employers through Scotland’s Migration Service, which offers impartial advice and resources to help navigate the new immigration system.
If you need help understanding how these changes may affect your workforce or visa strategy, you can book a free appointment with Scotland’s Migration Service.
Summary of Changes (Effective from 22 July 2025)
UK Work Visas
Skilled Worker Route:
The minimum skill threshold has increased from RQF Level 3 (A-Level) to RQF Level 6 (undergraduate degree level). As a result, many medium- and lower-skilled occupations previously eligible for sponsorship no longer qualify. The minimum salary threshold has also risen to £41,700 per year, or the job’s “going rate” – whichever is higher. The new entrant salary discount remains available, but now only applies to a narrower range of roles and must still meet the new floor of £30,960 per year.
View the list of occupations that no longer qualify under the Skilled Worker route (gov.uk).
Health and Care Visa:
Overseas recruitment of care workers and senior care workers under the Health and Care Visa has now ended. A transition period remains in place until 22 July 2028 for in-country switching and extensions by current visa holders.
High-Skilled Talent
The UK Government has reaffirmed its commitment to attracting global talent. Enhanced pathways for highly skilled migrants remain available, including accelerated settlement and flexible sponsorship options for researchers, academics, and innovators.
Implications for Employers
These changes will affect a wide range of employers - particularly those in care, hospitality, food processing, and construction, where many previously eligible roles no longer qualify.
The removal of care workers from the Skilled Worker route may create additional workforce pressure in Scotland, where demographic needs and rural recruitment challenges are acute.
Conversely, employers in STEM, digital, finance, and advanced manufacturing sectors may benefit from more targeted policies aimed at attracting high-skilled talent.
If you’re unsure how these changes affect your organisation or recruitment plans, Scotland’s Migration Service offers free one-to-one advice appointments with legal lawyers from Seraphus. These sessions are open to employers and investors seeking tailored support.