July 2025 Statement of Changes: Your Questions Answered

The Statement of Changes (HC 997) has landed, and one of the biggest shifts to the UK immigration system kicks in on 22 July 2025.

To help break this complicated legislation down, we’ve broken down the main questions that’s on everyone’s minds at the moment with our answers below:

Q1: What's the new minimum skill level for Skilled Worker visas?

• A: From 22^nd July 2025, new Skilled Worker visas (Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) assigned on/after this date) must be for jobs at RQF Level 6 or above (i.e. degree-level). The previous RQF Level 3 is generally no longer eligible.

• Impact: Around 112 previously eligible occupations are now excluded for new overseas applicants.

Q2: Have Skilled Worker visa salaries increased?

• A: Yes, significantly. The general minimum annual salary rises from £38,700 to £41,700, based on a 37.5-hour work week. Lower thresholds for PhD holders and 'New Entrants' have also increased (e.g., to £33,400 for new entrants).

• New Rule: All Skilled Workers must also meet a £17.13 per hour minimum, in addition to the annual salary.

• Crucial: These new salary rates apply to all Skilled Worker applications where the CoS is assigned on or after 22^nd July – even for those applying for extensions or changing jobs.

Q3: Can I still bring dependants if my job is on a shortage list?

• A: Generally, NO, for new applications. If your job is on the new Immigration Salary List (ISL) (and is RQF 3-5) or the Temporary Shortage List (TSL), you cannot bring dependants (spouses, partners, or children) if your CoS is assigned on or after July 22, 2025.

• Exception: This restriction does not apply to jobs at RQF Level 6 or above, nor does it affect dependants of existing Skilled Worker visa holders in RQF 3-5 roles (whose visa/CoS was before 22^nd July).

Q4: What's happening to the Care Worker visa route?

• A: The overseas Care Worker (SOC 6135) and Senior Care Worker (SOC 6136) visa route is closing to new entry clearance applications from 22^nd July 22.

• In-country switch: Existing care workers in the UK can still switch to, or extend, their Skilled Worker visa in these codes until July 22, 2028, if they meet specific criteria (e.g., 3+ months employment with current sponsor).

Q5: I'm already on a Skilled Worker visa – how do these changes affect me?

• A: You generally have transitional protection regarding the skill level. If your visa/CoS was assigned before July 22, 2025, you can usually extend and continue in your current RQF 3-5 role.

• However, your salary will need to meet the new, higher salary thresholds when you next apply for an extension or change of employment if your first CoS was assigned post 04 April 2024.

Q6: What about employer costs?

• A: Get ready for more increased immigration fees: a 32% increase in the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) is confirmed and expected later in 2025, meaning higher upfront costs for businesses sponsoring migrants.

Q7: Are there any other big changes coming soon?

• A: Yes, the government has signalled further reforms by end of 2025, including:

• Higher English language requirements across more visa routes.
• A new family policy framework for family visas.
• Discussions are ongoing about potentially extending the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) qualifying period from 5 to 10 years for some routes, with a consultation expected later in the year. 

Q8: What is the Immigration Salary List (ISL) and Temporary Shortage List (TSL)?

• A: They replace the old "Shortage Occupation List."

• The ISL is for a very limited number of RQF Level 3-5 roles still deemed critical shortages.
• The TSL is a new, interim list for specific critical occupations below RQF Level 6, set to expire by 31^st December 2026.

• Restriction: If your job is on the ISL (at RQF 3-5) or TSL, you cannot bring dependants to the UK if your CoS is assigned on or after 22^nd July. 

Q9: Does the new £17.13 hourly floor apply to everyone?

• A: Yes, a £17.13 per hour minimum now applies universally to all Skilled Worker routes. You must meet this in addition to the annual salary threshold.

• Note: Only the first 48 hours worked per week count towards meeting these thresholds; so overtime is not included in the calculation. 

Q11: If I applied for a Skilled Worker visa before July 22, 2025, but it's processed after that date, what rules apply?

• A: Your application will generally be decided under the rules in place at the time your CoS was assigned. So, if your CoS was assigned before 22^nd July, the previous RQF Level 3 skill threshold would typically apply to your application.

Need Help?

Immigration rules are complex and can have significant personal or business consequences. Always seek up-to-date, professional legal advice for your specific situation. Feel free to contact our expert immigration team today for comprehensive guidance at info@migrate-uk.com.