UK Tightens Visa Rules: New Job & Salary Barriers for Indian Migrants

What’s Changed?

The UK government has announced changes to the UK immigration system. Effective from July 22, 2025, the changes are the first major policy change under the new Labour government in its immigration white paper.

If you are either an Indian professional or an Indian student wanting to work in the UK — or either already based there — you are going to need to meet higher salary, job, and qualification rules. Employers will also need to act quickly to meet the new rules.

Jobs Cut: Fewer Jobs Qualify For Skilled Worker Visas

Under the purposes of awarding a Skilled Worker visa, it only applies to jobs at RQF Level 6 — the equivalent of a UK Bachelor’s degree.

So, in effect, 180 jobs (including chefs, care assistants, and delivery supervisors) are no longer valid for visa sponsorship. This will particularly impact the hospitality, logistics, and social care sectors.

Note: For you, if your employer issued a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) before July 21, the current rules will continue to apply to you.

Salary Thresholds Rise Sharply

• The minimum salary for a Skilled Worker visa is now £41,700 per annum (₹45 lakh), an increase from £38,700 (₹41.8 lakh).
• All categories of visas, such as Global Business Mobility and Scale-up, face high thresholds for salary as well.
• Crucially, even for those who applied earlier, this new threshold applies if you’re applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after July 22.

No exceptions: There is no transitional relief for ILR applicants.

ILR: Permanent Residency Might Take Longer?

One of the most controversial aspects of the proposed new system is the 10-year wait to settle under the new “earned settlement” model. At the current time, Skilled Worker visa holders can apply for ILR after 5 years.

The proposed model will award “Points-Based contributions” – details are still pending.

Those exempt from the 10-year rule include:

• Partners of British citizens
• Victims of domestic abuse
• EU nationals under the EU Settlement Scheme

What Employers Must Do Now

If you are a UK-based employer, you need to act now to comply. Here is a glance preparation list:

• Consider CoS before July 21 for affected roles
• Review roles against new RQF Level 6 requirements
• Confirm salary offer / update HR policies
• Communicate changes clearly with existing employees
• Seek legal advice in an attempt to avoid compliance issues

What’s Next: More Changes Expected in 2025

This is just the first wave. Coming soon:

• Higher Immigration Skills Charges
• Graduate Visa to be reduced from 2 years to 18 months
• Tougher English language requirements
• New family visa rules
• Proposal to make 10 years the new norm for settlement

Stay Informed, Stay Ready

While these changes bring tighter rules, they also offer clarity. By staying updated and acting fast, individuals and employers can still make the most of UK opportunities.

The higher authorities will consult widely before finalising further settlement reforms.

So if you’re planning to work, study, or settle in the UK, now is the time to reassess your plans — and act smart.