What to expect in Immigration law in

Effective from April 9, 2025, care providers in England must demonstrate that they have made genuine efforts to recruit from the existing pool of care workers within the UK before seeking to sponsor new overseas workers. This measure aims to reduce reliance on international recruitment and ensure that individuals already in the UK have opportunities for employment in the adult social care sector. 

The minimum salary floor for Skilled Worker visa applicants has been raised from £23,200 to £25,000 per year (£12.82 per hour). This adjustment reflects the latest data from the Office for National Statistics and applies to various roles, including care workers, new entrants to the job market, and certain health and education positions. ​

Previously, care workers on the Shortage Occupation List benefited from a 20% salary discount. As of April 9, 2025, this discount has been removed, and care workers must now meet the standard salary threshold of £12.82 per hour. This change applies to all new visa applicants and those renewing their visas

New rules have been introduced to prevent employers from passing on sponsorship costs to workers, ensuring fair pay and preventing exploitation. Additionally, a loophole that allowed applicants to contribute towards their own salary by investing in their sponsor’s business has been closed. 

 5. Restrictions on 'New Entrant' Salary Discounts

Workers claiming a reduced salary threshold based on training towards a recognised professional qualification must now ensure that the qualification is obtained from a UK institution to be eligible for the salary reduction.

 6. Statement of Changes in Immigration Rules

The UK Home Office has published the Statement of Changes in Immigration Rules (HC 733) on March 12, 2025, detailing these updates. Employers and visa applicants should review this document to understand the full scope of changes and ensure compliance. ​

 7. Potential Economic Impacts

The government's crackdown on international students and overseas skilled workers is estimated to cost UK businesses over £40 billion, with no overall societal benefit, according to official assessments. The changes to visa sponsorship rules for skilled workers will necessitate higher salaries, incurring a £37.4 billion cost to businesses over ten years, resulting in a net societal cost of £26.5 billion. Additionally, the ban on international students bringing family members will lead to nearly £5 billion in lost tuition and £15 billion in lost tax revenues, carrying a net societal cost of about £500 million over ten years. 

These changes reflect the UK government's efforts to align immigration policies with domestic workforce needs and to ensure fair treatment of workers. Employers and potential applicants should stay informed and consult with immigration professionals to navigate these updates effectively.

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