UK Skilled Worker Visa 2025: Full List of Eligible & Ineligible Jobs | UK Immigration Changes

Summary

In this video, the UK government's recent changes to the skilled worker visa system are explained, including updates to the portal and the list of eligible jobs. Key points include an increase in the skill level requirement to RQ Level 6, the removal of 111 job roles from eligibility, and the introduction of a temporary shortage occupation list. The video clarifies the categories of 'higher skilled', 'medium skill', and 'ineligible', along with the corresponding salary thresholds. It also discusses specific details on visa renewals, job sponsorship, and dependent rules, providing essential guidance for those navigating the updated system.

Takeaways

• 😀 The UK government's portal has been updated to reflect recent changes to the Skilled Worker Visa requirements.
• 😀 The skill level required to sponsor a new Skilled Worker Visa has been increased to RQ level 6, affecting the eligibility of certain jobs.
• 😀 111 jobs have been removed from the Skilled Worker Visa eligibility list, although individuals already on the visa can still extend it or take supplementary employment.
• 😀 Jobs no longer qualifying for the Skilled Worker Visa may be added to the Temporary Shortage Occupation List for limited periods.
• 😀 The UK government's categorization of jobs includes three levels: Higher Skilled, Medium Skilled, and Ineligible.
• 😀 Medium-skilled jobs, such as data analysts, can still be renewed or sponsored until 2026, as they are part of the Temporary Shortage Occupation List.
• 😀 Many previously eligible jobs, including roles in clerical, administrative, and retail occupations, are now ineligible for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship.
• 😀 Certain jobs, like chefs and caretakers, have a special rule where they can only renew their visa but cannot apply for new visas.
• 😀 The minimum salary requirement for the Skilled Worker Visa has been set at £41,700, but applicants must meet the higher going rate for their job role if it exceeds this threshold.
• 😀 For applicants renewing their visa, there is a lower going rate that applies, which is different from the standard rate for new applicants.
• 😀 The Temporary Shortage Occupation List includes a variety of job roles such as engineering technicians, IT professionals, and construction workers, allowing sponsorship under specific conditions.

Q & A

What are the key updates to the UK Skilled Worker visa system as of July 22nd?

The main updates include an increase in the skill level requirement for sponsorship to RQ level 6, the removal of 111 jobs from the eligibility list for Skilled Worker visas, and the introduction of a new Temporary Shortage Occupation List. Jobs that no longer meet the skill threshold can still qualify for sponsorship under this list, but only until 2026.

What categories are jobs now classified into under the updated UK Skilled Worker visa system?

Jobs are categorized into three groups: Higher Skilled (eligible for sponsorship), Medium Skilled (eligible for visa extension or new sponsorship, but only for jobs on the Temporary Shortage Occupation List until 2026), and Ineligible (jobs that no longer qualify for sponsorship).

What is the new skill level requirement for the Skilled Worker visa?

The new skill level requirement for sponsorship is RQ level 6, which corresponds to graduate-level jobs.

Can I still apply for a Skilled Worker visa for a job that is now considered ineligible?

No, you can no longer apply for a Skilled Worker visa for jobs that are categorized as ineligible. However, if you were already on a visa for such a job, you may still be able to extend your visa or work in supplementary employment.

How does the Temporary Shortage Occupation List affect visa sponsorship?

Jobs on the Temporary Shortage Occupation List are eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa, but only until 2026. People in these roles can still renew their visas or receive new sponsorship under certain conditions.

How does the salary threshold affect Skilled Worker visa applications?

The minimum salary threshold for new applicants is £41,700, or the 'going rate' for the job, whichever is higher. For those renewing their visa, they may be subject to a lower salary threshold based on the 'lower going rate' for their job.

What is the difference between the standard and lower going rate for salaries in the Skilled Worker visa system?

The standard going rate applies to new applicants, and they must meet the higher salary threshold. The lower going rate applies to those renewing their visas or transitioning from a previous visa, and it may be a lower salary than the standard rate.

What jobs are considered 'higher skilled' and eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship?

Higher-skilled jobs are those that meet the new skill level requirement of RQ level 6. These jobs are still eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, regardless of whether the visa was issued before or after the update.

What changes have been made regarding dependents for Skilled Worker visa holders?

Dependents are allowed for Skilled Worker visa holders, but only for jobs that are RQ level 6 or above. For jobs below this level, dependents cannot accompany the visa holder.

How does the new entrant route affect salary thresholds for Skilled Worker visa applicants?

The new entrant route offers a lower salary threshold of £33,400 for applicants switching from a graduate visa or student visa to a Skilled Worker visa. This lower threshold is applicable for up to two years for graduate visa holders and up to four years for student visa holders transitioning to a Skilled Worker visa.