UK Skilled Worker Visa 2025 Updates: What Tech Talent Needs to Know

In July 2025 the UK government introduced significant changes to the Skilled Worker visa. These updates affect salary thresholds, eligible occupations, and skill level requirements. For international tech talent planning to work in the UK it is essential to understand the new rules before applying.

Higher Salary Thresholds

The general minimum salary requirement has risen to £41,700 per year. This is up from £38,700. Certain exceptions remain, including lower thresholds for PhD-qualified applicants, STEM PhDs, and new entrants, where salaries of around £33,400 may still qualify. Employers must also ensure they meet or exceed the going rate for the specific occupation.

Stricter Skill Level Rules

From 2025 only roles at RQF Level 6 or above (broadly graduate-level jobs) are eligible for the Skilled Worker route in most cases. Some roles at RQF Levels 3 to 5 can still qualify but only if they appear on the newly introduced Temporary Shortage List.

Introduction of the Temporary Shortage List

The government has created a new Temporary Shortage List for roles at mid-skill levels. Occupations placed on this list can still be sponsored under the Skilled Worker route, but with restrictions. For example, applicants sponsored under shortage roles cannot normally bring dependants such as spouses or children. This is a significant shift from previous rules where family applications were more flexible.

Phasing Out of Previous Lists

The Immigration Salary List (ISL), which had replaced the old Shortage Occupation List, is being abolished. The Temporary Shortage List now applies to certain mid-level jobs instead. This change is intended to limit reliance on lower-paid migration while still addressing urgent labour shortages in the short term.

Additional Updates in 2025

• English language standards will be revised by the end of the year, meaning applicants may face updated requirements.
• The Immigration Skills Charge that employers must pay to sponsor overseas workers has increased, raising costs for UK businesses.
• Graduates on post-study work visas will find it harder to switch into the Skilled Worker route unless they meet the new thresholds and role requirements.

Impact on Tech Professionals

For software developers, data scientists, AI specialists and cybersecurity experts, the main points to consider are:

• Is your role listed at RQF Level 6 or above? If not, it must appear on the Temporary Shortage List.
• Does your job offer meet the higher salary threshold or the relevant going rate?
• Is your employer a licensed sponsor under the new system?
• If you plan to bring dependants, check whether your role qualifies. Mid-level shortage roles generally no longer allow family sponsorship.

Opportunities and Challenges

The changes aim to attract highly skilled global talent while reducing lower-paid migration. For UK employers this means higher salary costs and tighter compliance requirements. For tech professionals the door remains open, especially for advanced roles in AI, data and digital engineering, but the eligibility bar is now higher.

Conclusion

The Skilled Worker visa in 2025 is more selective than before. Tech workers with in-demand skills, strong qualifications and competitive job offers will continue to find opportunities. Those in mid-level or borderline roles may face greater barriers, particularly if family sponsorship is important. Understanding the new salary thresholds, skill levels and sponsorship rules is essential before making an application.