The United Kingdom has removed more than 100 occupations from its Skilled Worker visa list in a sweeping reform of the country’s immigration system. The policy, which took effect on 22 July 2025, is expected to block thousands of foreign applicants from seeking work in Britain.
The change follows the release of an 82-page immigration white paper by Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government, which pledged to cut net migration and promote a more skills-focused labour market. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper described the reform as a “complete reset” of the system.
Under the new rules, the minimum skill threshold has been raised from RQF level 3 to RQF level 6, equivalent to degree level. This eliminates several roles from eligibility, including delivery operatives, beauticians, hairdressers, air traffic control assistants, army officers, and construction operatives. In total, between 111 and 121 jobs across different sectors have been struck off the list.
The government has also closed the social care worker route to new international applicants, though transitional arrangements will allow current visa holders to remain until July 2028. In addition, the minimum salary requirement for most Skilled Worker visas has been increased to about £41,700, while health and care roles retain a lower threshold of £25,600.
A new Temporary Shortage List has been introduced to cover certain in-demand roles below the new skill threshold until 31 December 2026. However, migrants filling these posts will not be permitted to bring dependants and will not qualify for salary or visa fee discounts.
The Home Office said the reform is aimed at creating “a fairer, skills-focused system” that will expand opportunities for British workers.
