VisaVault

Immigration Policy · 8 min read

UK Immigration White Paper 2025: What Changed and What Is Still Pending

A clear timeline separating confirmed Immigration White Paper changes already in force from proposals still awaiting legislation. Updated May 2026.

The UK Immigration White Paper was published in June 2025 and introduced the most significant changes to the UK immigration system since the points-based system launched in 2020. Some changes are now in force. Others are still proposals awaiting legislation. This post separates the two clearly.

Changes now in force

RQF level requirement — from 22 July 2025

Only roles rated at RQF Level 6 or above are eligible for the Skilled Worker visa. Previously, roles at RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) qualified. This significantly reduced the number of occupations eligible for sponsorship.

Exception: the Temporary Shortage List (TSL) preserves access for certain shortage occupations at RQF Level 3–5 where genuine labour market need is demonstrated. See our Temporary Shortage List guide.

Health and Care Worker visa — care worker closure

The Health and Care Worker visa route closed to new overseas care workers and senior care workers from 22 July 2025. Applicants already in the UK can switch to other routes until 22 July 2028. Doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals are not affected by this closure. See our Health and Care Worker visa closure guide.

English language requirement — from 8 January 2026

New Skilled Worker applicants must demonstrate English at B2 CEFR level. This is an increase from the previous B1 requirement. Existing Skilled Worker visa holders extending their visa still require only B1.

Pay period compliance — from 8 April 2026

Sponsors must demonstrate that salary thresholds are met in every individual pay period, not just on an annualised basis. This affects variable pay structures, commission roles, and overtime-heavy employment. See our salary threshold guide for the full detail.

Visa fee increases — from 8 April 2026

Application fees increased across most visa categories. See our complete fee breakdown.

Changes proposed but not yet law

ILR qualifying period — proposed 10 years

The government has proposed extending the ILR qualifying period from 5 years to 10 years. This has not been implemented in law. The current 5-year qualifying period remains in force. See our ILR qualifying period guide.

Immigration Salary List expiry — December 2026

The Immigration Salary List (which allows some roles to be sponsored at a reduced salary threshold) is due to expire on 31 December 2026. It will be replaced by the Temporary Shortage List. Employers currently relying on ISL roles should review their position before that date.

Dependant restrictions for TSL roles

Applicants on the Temporary Shortage List in RQF Level 3–5 roles will not be able to bring dependants to the UK. This is in force for new TSL applications but the full scope of dependant restrictions across routes is still being defined.

What has not changed

  • The general Skilled Worker salary threshold: £41,700
  • The IHS rate: £1,035 per year
  • Priority and super-priority service fees
  • The Certificate of Sponsorship fee
  • The 5-year ILR qualifying period (despite the proposal)

Last verified: May 2026. Immigration rules change frequently. Verify the current position on GOV.UK before making any application decisions.

Get your complete visa document pack

VisaVault generates a personalised document checklist, AI-drafted covering letter, week-by-week application timeline, GOV.UK form reference guide, and pre-submission checklist in minutes. One fixed fee of £299 — no hourly rates, no hidden costs.

VisaVault is a document preparation service, not an immigration adviser or solicitor. This article is based on current UKVI published guidance and is intended for general information only. Requirements change without notice. Always verify current requirements on GOV.UK before submitting your application.