UK Cracks Down on Migration—But These 5 Secret Routes Still Let You Work There!
The United Kingdom is undergoing a significant shift in its Skilled Worker visa system starting from 22 July 2025. As part of broader immigration reforms aimed at reducing net migration and focusing on higher-skilled roles, these changes bring both new challenges and fresh opportunities. In this article, we will detail the key updates to the Skilled Worker route, explain their implications, and highlight viable pathways for individuals who still dream of living and working in the UK. Despite the changes, there is still reason to be optimistic for prospective skilled migrants.
Key Changes to the Skilled Worker Visa System (Effective 22 July 2025)
Higher Skill Threshold: RQF Level 6 Requirement
Previously, roles at RQF level 3 (equivalent to A-levels) and above qualified for the Skilled Worker visa. From 22 July 2025, only roles at RQF level 6 (degree level) or higher will be eligible for new applicants.
This means certain jobs in healthcare, social care, hospitality, and support roles will no longer be eligible unless they meet the new skills requirement.
Increased Salary Thresholds
The general salary threshold for most jobs has increased from £38,700 to £41,700 per annum.
Some reduced thresholds apply for specific exceptions:
PhD-level jobs: £37,500
STEM PhD roles: £33,400
New entrants and shortage occupations: £33,400
Introduction of Temporary Shortage and Salary Lists
The government has introduced two interim lists:
Immigration Salary List (ISL)
Temporary Shortage List (TSL)
These lists cover certain RQF level 3–5 roles that remain temporarily eligible until the end of 2026. However, these roles have restricted rights, including no dependants allowed for new applicants.
Closure of the Care Worker Route for Overseas Recruitment
The care worker and senior care worker visa routes (SOC codes 6135 and 6136) are closed to new overseas applicants.
In-country switching (from another UK visa route) into these roles will be allowed until 22 July 2028, subject to certain requirements.
No Transition for New Applicants
The new rules apply fully to all applicants from 22 July 2025. There is no transitional period for new Skilled Worker applications submitted after this date.
However, existing Skilled Workers (sponsored before 22 July) can continue to extend, change sponsors, or apply for settlement under previous criteria.
Remaining Pathways to Come to the UK as a Skilled Worker
While these changes appear restrictive at first glance, there are still many practical and optimistic routes available for skilled individuals hoping to move to the UK:
1. High-Skilled Roles (RQF Level 6+) Still Eligible
Roles such as engineers, IT professionals, architects, teachers, medical doctors, and many finance and managerial positions remain eligible under the Skilled Worker route. If your occupation meets RQF level 6 and the new salary threshold, the route remains open and viable.
2. PhD Route and STEM Incentives
Applicants with a PhD, especially in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields, benefit from significantly reduced salary thresholds. This opens doors for researchers, data scientists, and tech talent.
Encouragement: The UK government continues to support its innovation economy and actively encourages global STEM talent.
3. New Entrant Route
Graduates or younger applicants starting their careers can still apply as new entrants, subject to a lower salary threshold (£33,400). This is an opportunity for early-career professionals with UK job offers.
Optimistic Note: If you are under 26 or switching from a UK student visa, this could be your ideal path.
4. Jobs on the ISL/TSL
While the long-term eligibility of lower-skilled roles is being phased out, temporary roles on the ISL and TSL provide a bridge to employment in the UK for the next 18 months (until the end of 2026).
Realistic Planning: Although dependant rights are restricted, these routes can help individuals gain UK work experience and possibly switch into other eligible roles.
Understanding the ISL and TSL: Your Temporary Gateway to the UK
As part of the July 2025 Skilled Worker reforms, the UK government has introduced two transitional tools: the Immigration Salary List (ISL) and the Temporary Shortage List (TSL). These lists allow certain lower-skilled roles—previously eligible under the RQF 3–5 bracket—to remain temporarily viable for overseas recruitment until the end of 2026.
What is the Immigration Salary List (ISL)?
The ISL replaces the former Shortage Occupation List and focuses on critical but lower-paid roles where labour shortages persist despite domestic recruitment efforts. While these roles do not meet the new RQF 6 threshold, they are still deemed essential in sectors such as construction, logistics, and certain trades.
Key Features of ISL Roles:
Still eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route post-22 July 2025.
Lower salary threshold (£33,400 or 80% of going rate, whichever is higher).
Typically includes roles like:
Bricklayers
Welders
Pipefitters
Roofers
Fishmongers
Butchers
Designed to support specific industries that face immediate shortages despite efforts to train UK-based workers.
Tip: Use this route as a stepping stone—consider upskilling into an RQF 6+ role during your stay to qualify for long-term residency or visa extensions.
Limitations for ISL Roles:
No dependants allowed for new applicants.
Temporary validity – roles will be reassessed by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) in 2026.
Must meet slightly revised salary levels and job specifications to qualify.
What is the Temporary Shortage List (TSL)?
The TSL addresses acute, short-term shortages where government intervention is seen as necessary—but only for a limited window. These roles may not be economically sustainable for long-term migration, but they fill critical gaps for now.
Examples of Possible TSL Roles:
Fish processors
HGV drivers (certain types)
Care assistants (but only for in-country switches, not new overseas hires)
Seasonal logistics roles
TSL Characteristics:
Focused on temporary relief, not permanent migration.
Subject to regular review and may be removed without notice.
Must still meet salary and working hours thresholds.
Important: TSL is a stopgap measure. Applicants should plan for progression or switching to more permanent routes before the list phases out in late 2026.
What You Can’t Do on ISL/TSL Roles
Bring dependants: Family members (spouse, children) cannot apply under your visa.
Expect long-term residence: These routes do not guarantee settlement unless you later switch to an eligible RQF 6+ role.
Apply after 2026: Both lists are temporary and are expected to close by December 2026.
Strategic Advice for ISL/TSL Applicants
Use this time wisely – Get UK experience, improve your qualifications, and aim to transition to a higher-skilled role.
Plan for the long term – Think about your career trajectory and how you can meet RQF 6+ requirements by 2026.
Track the MAC reviews – These will determine which roles stay or get removed from the lists.
Optimism Through Adaptability
While these lists are not permanent solutions, they do represent a critical window of opportunity. For many skilled tradespeople, early-career workers, and those willing to upskill, the ISL and TSL act as a bridge into the UK workforce. With smart planning, temporary can turn into permanent—and your UK journey can still begin in 2025.
5. Alternative Routes to the UK
Besides the Skilled Worker route, there are other immigration options:
Graduate Route (for international students graduating in the UK)
Global Talent Visa (for leaders in academia, arts, and tech)
Health and Care Visa (remains open for eligible roles like doctors and nurses)
Innovator Founder Route (for entrepreneurs)
Youth Mobility Scheme (for young people from partner countries)
Proactive Strategy: Explore alternative routes based on your personal qualifications, professional background, or country of origin.
Final Thoughts: Stay Prepared, Stay Hopeful
Yes, the UK immigration landscape is becoming more selective, but it still offers structured, fair, and attainable pathways for skilled migrants who bring value to the economy. These reforms are not a door closing, but a recalibration of the system to prioritise long-term economic contribution.
If you’re planning to apply:
Start early and consult with our dedicated team of experts.
Make sure your job offer meets the skill and salary criteria.
Look into graduate, STEM, or shortage roles as stepping stones.
The UK continues to welcome global talent. With determination, strategy, and the right qualifications, your goal to live and work in the UK is still very much within reach. Contact us now at info@uvslaw.co.uk
