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Skilled Worker Visa
UK Skilled Worker Visa
The UK immigration system has seen significant changes in recent years, altering the situation for both employers and skilled professionals. If you are a business looking to hire international talent or an individual planning your career in the UK, you likely realize that the process has become more challenging.
Starting in late 2025, obtaining a Skilled Worker visa demands meeting higher salary thresholds, tougher eligibility criteria, and more thorough skill verification. Many previous sponsorship routes have tightened up, making it difficult to find the right path without expert help. However, clear immigration options still exist, especially for those who understand the new rules and how to effectively use other visa categories.
At Bekenbey Solicitors, we keep up with every legislative change and know how confusing these reforms can be. We aim to help you clearly understand the new system, find the best visa options for your situation, and guide you towards a safe route for long-term settlement in the UK.
Navigating the UK system today often requires a mix of short-term and long-term approaches. This involves not just Skilled Worker sponsorship but also promising paths like the HPI, Graduate, Scale-up, or Global Talent routes. Each of these can play an important role in creating a solid immigration plan.
At Bekenbey Solicitors, under the guidance of Dr. Ergul Celiksoy, we recognize that the HPI visa marks the start of your immigration journey, not the end. Its flexibility is its greatest advantage, but it needs to be used thoughtfully. This visa is meant as a stepping stone toward a long-term future in the UK. Our immigration experts offer full support, helping you not only to get the visa but also to use it effectively to build a secure and permanent life in the UK.
1. The Return to "Graduate Level" Jobs (RQF Level 6)
Major Change: RQF Level 6 Requirement (July 2025)
The biggest change introduced in July 2025 is the skill level requirement. For new applicants, the job role must now generally be at RQF Level 6 or above. This means the role must be considered "graduate level" by the Home Office.
This is a major shift from the rules we saw between 2020 and 2024, which allowed sponsorship for A-Level (RQF 3) roles.
What this means for you: Jobs like Office Managers, Hotel Managers, and many administrative positions are generally no longer eligible for the standard Skilled Worker route.
The Exception: Some lower-skilled roles are still available through the Temporary Shortage List (TSL). However, there is a catch. Workers sponsored under the TSL in these lower-skilled roles are currently not allowed to bring their partners or children to the UK.
2. The New Salary Threshold: £41,700
Critical Financial Requirement: £41,700 Threshold (July 2025)
The government has raised the financial bar for sponsorship significantly. If you are assigned a Certificate of Sponsorship on or after 22 July 2025, the general salary threshold is now £41,700 per year.
It is not enough to just meet that total figure. You must meet the highest of three specific criteria:
1. £41,700 per year.
2. The Going Rate for your specific job (which is now based on the median earnings of UK workers).
3. £17.13 per hour.
Can You Be Paid Less?
Yes, in certain situations. The "Tradeable Points" system allows for a lower salary if you fit specific categories.
- New Entrants: If you are under 26, a recent graduate, or in postdoctoral research, you can be paid 70% of the job's going rate. However, your salary must still be at least £33,400 per year.
- Ph.D. Holders: If you hold a relevant PhD, the general threshold drops to £37,500 (or £33,400 for STEM subjects).
- Immigration Salary List (ISL): If your job is on the ISL, the general threshold is £33,400. It is important to note that being on this list does not reduce the "going rate" requirement for your specific job.
3. Transitional Rules: Protecting Existing Workers
If you were already in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa before 4 April 2024, you likely fall under "Transitional Arrangements." This is a critical area where proper legal advice can make a huge difference.
Transitional applicants benefit from:
- A lower general threshold of £31,300.
- Going rates based on the 25th percentile of earnings, which is lower than the median rate used for new applicants.
- Continued eligibility for lower-skilled roles (RQF Level 3-5), provided you maintain continuous residence.
4. Urgent Changes Coming in Late 2025 and 2026
The rules are moving fast, and you need to prepare for what is coming next.
Urgent Changes Coming in Late 2025 and 2026:
• December 2025: The Immigration Skills Charge that employers pay is set to increase by approximately 32% on 16 December 2025. We advise employers to assign Certificates of Sponsorship before this date to save on costs.
• January 2026: From 8 January 2026, the English Language requirement for new applicants will rise from Level B1 to Level B2 (Upper Intermediate).
• Settlement Changes: The government is currently consulting on reforms to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). There are proposals to extend the standard qualifying period from 5 years to 10 years. If you are approaching your 5-year anniversary, we strongly recommend reviewing your position immediately.
How Bekenbey Solicitors Can Help
Immigration law is about more than just filling in forms. It is about strategy. Whether you are an employer trying to retain key staff despite rising costs, or a professional navigating these complex salary rules, you need an expert in your corner.
Dr Ergul Celiksoy and the team at Bekenbey Solicitors specialize in complex corporate and individual immigration cases. We can help you:
- Audit your job roles to ensure they meet the new RQF Level 6 or TSL criteria.
- Calculate the correct salary package so you satisfy the Home Office without overpaying.
- Manage Sponsor Licence compliance to protect your business from government audits.
Do not risk your opportunity and take the first step toward your future in the UK with confidence. Contact Dr. Ergul Celiksoy at Bekenbey Solicitors today to book your consultation and secure your place.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules change frequently. Please contact Bekenbey Solicitors for advice specific to your circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the RQF Level 6 requirement for Skilled Worker visas?
Starting in July 2025, new Skilled Worker visa applicants must generally have a job at RQF Level 6 or above, which means the role must be considered "graduate level" by the Home Office. This is a major shift from the 2020-2024 rules which allowed sponsorship for A-Level (RQF 3) roles. Jobs like Office Managers, Hotel Managers, and many administrative positions are generally no longer eligible for the standard Skilled Worker route, though some lower-skilled roles remain available through the Temporary Shortage List.
What is the new salary threshold for the Skilled Worker visa?
If you are assigned a Certificate of Sponsorship on or after 22 July 2025, the general salary threshold is £41,700 per year. However, you must meet the highest of three criteria: £41,700 per year, the Going Rate for your specific job (based on median UK earnings), or £17.13 per hour. Lower thresholds apply in certain situations through the "Tradeable Points" system, such as for New Entrants (£33,400), Ph.D. holders (£37,500, or £33,400 for STEM), and jobs on the Immigration Salary List (£33,400).
What are the Transitional Rules for existing Skilled Worker visa holders?
If you were already in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa before 4 April 2024, you fall under "Transitional Arrangements." Transitional applicants benefit from a lower general threshold of £31,300, going rates based on the 25th percentile of earnings (lower than the median rate for new applicants), and continued eligibility for lower-skilled roles (RQF Level 3-5), provided you maintain continuous residence. This is a critical area where proper legal advice can make a huge difference.
What changes are coming to the Skilled Worker visa in late 2025 and 2026?
Several urgent changes are coming: In December 2025, the Immigration Skills Charge will increase by approximately 32% on 16 December 2025 (employers should assign Certificates of Sponsorship before this date to save costs). From 8 January 2026, the English Language requirement for new applicants will rise from Level B1 to Level B2 (Upper Intermediate). Additionally, the government is consulting on extending the Indefinite Leave to Remain qualifying period from 5 years to 10 years. If you are approaching your 5-year anniversary, we strongly recommend reviewing your position immediately.
Can I bring family members under the Skilled Worker visa?
The ability to bring family members depends on your specific circumstances. For standard Skilled Worker visa holders, dependants are typically allowed. However, workers sponsored under the Temporary Shortage List (TSL) in lower-skilled roles are currently not allowed to bring their partners or children to the UK. It is essential to understand which category applies to your situation, and our solicitors can provide tailored advice based on your specific case.
How can Bekenbey Solicitors help with my Skilled Worker visa application?
Dr Ergul Celiksoy and the team at Bekenbey Solicitors specialize in complex corporate and individual immigration cases. We can audit your job roles to ensure they meet the new RQF Level 6 or TSL criteria, calculate the correct salary package to satisfy the Home Office without overpaying, and manage Sponsor Licence compliance to protect your business from government audits. Immigration law is about strategy, not just filling forms. Whether you are an employer or a professional, we provide expert guidance tailored to your specific situation.
How We Work on Your Case
Step 1 Free Consultation (within 24 hours)
We review your goals and eligibility, explain your best routes, outline risks, and give you a clear roadmap, fees, and timeline.
Step 2 Onboarding & Checklist (same day)
Engagement confirmed, ID/KYC completed, and you receive a tailored document checklist and templates.
Step 3 Evidence & Application Preparation (1-8 weeks)
We gather evidence, complete forms, and draft detailed legal representations aligned to the Immigration Rules.
Step 4 Quality Review & Sign-off (2-5 days)
Our solicitors conduct a line-by-line check for accuracy, completeness, and rule compliance. You approve the final pack.
Step 5 Decision & Next Steps (Home Office times vary)
We monitor your case, respond to any further information requests, and update you promptly.
