The UK immigration landscape has shifted dramatically. With the government’s aim to cut net migration, strict new rules were introduced in April 2024 that define the current playing field for 2025.
1. The £38,700 Salary Jump
The biggest hurdle is the increase in the general salary threshold for Skilled Workers. It jumped nearly 50% from £26,200 to £38,700 per year.
Employers now face a tougher challenge: the role must pay a premium wage to be eligible for sponsorship. This effectively makes junior roles in low-paying sectors ineligible for sponsorship.
2. Higher “Going Rates”
Use SponsorReady to check your CV, find focused sponsor-match jobs, and prepare your next application.
It’s not just the general threshold. The “going rate” for specific jobs (SOC codes) was raised from the 25th percentile to the 50th percentile (median) of UK earnings. This means verified overseas talent must be paid as much as the average UK worker in that role.
3. Health & Care Dependants Ban
Care workers and Senior Care workers can no longer bring their partners or children to the UK. This major change was aimed at reducing numbers in the social care visa route.
4. Shortage Occupation List is Dead
The old “20% salary discount” for shortage occupations has been abolished. The new Immigration Salary List (ISL) replaced the Shortage Occupation List (SOL). Being on the ISL offers a lower salary floor, but crucially, no 20% discount on the going rate.
To check if a specific job meets these new criteria, use our Salary Eligibility Calculator.
