As UK immigration practitioners, staying ahead of policy shifts is key to serving clients effectively. The Home Office’s latest Skilled Worker Caseworker Guidance (Version 15), published on 22 July 2025, introduces some significant changes. At GigaLegal Solicitors, we’ve distilled the most relevant updates for employers, sponsors, and skilled workers. Here’s what you need to know:                              

Key changes introduced:    

Skills Threshold Raised to RQF Level 6: Only roles at RQF 6 or higher (bachelor’s degree level) are now eligible for new Skilled Worker visas, unless the job appears on the Temporary Shortage List or Immigration Salary List.    

Entry Clearance Closed for Care Workers: Care workers and senior care workers can no longer apply for Entry Clearance (visa applications made from outside the UK). Existing visa holders can still extend or switch under transitional arrangements, but employers must now be CQC-registered.    

‍New Temporary Shortage List (TSL): A new list allows limited roles (not at RQF 6) to qualify temporarily. Employers and sponsors must refer to this list in conjunction with the Immigration Salary List when assigning Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS).

Salary Thresholds & Tradeable Points Revised: The minimum general salary threshold has increased, with new bandings ranging from £25,000 to £41,700 depending on role, experience, and sector. Health and Care visa applicants benefit from transitional rules and lower salary thresholds.    

Dependants Restrictions: From 22 July 2025, dependants are no longer permitted for medium-skilled roles (below RQF 6). This is a major change affecting care and support roles.    

Neonatal Care Added to Allowed Absences for ILR: Absences due to neonatal care now count as permitted time away when calculating continuous residence for settlement.    

What this means for you    

For Employers/Sponsors:    

• Recheck occupation codes and ensure RQF 6 compliance.
• Confirm CQC registration if sponsoring care roles.
• Update your HR and recruitment processes to reflect the new shortage lists and salary thresholds.

For Migrant Workers:    

• If you're currently on a Skilled Worker visa, transitional protections may still apply.
• Be proactive: ensure your application meets the new skill and salary criteria.

For Legal Representatives:    

• The representative must be regulated by the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) or other approved bodies. Sponsors offering free advice to their sponsored workers are exempt under limited circumstances.

We have already helped clients in explaining these new rules and are preparing detailed checklists for employers and HR teams. If you’re unsure about how these changes affect you or your business, get in touch for a compliance review or tailored immigration strategy.