The UK government’s “Restoring control over the immigration system” white paper, published on May 12, 2025, proposes significant reforms to the UK’s immigration system. For those considering a move to the UK through a skilled work visa, it is crucial to understand how these upcoming changes will affect their application. We touch on the key takeaways from the white paper, focusing on the changes most relevant to general skilled workers and healthcare workers.
Key Changes Are Already Underway
While the white paper itself is a statement of policy intent, several of its key proposals have already been enacted. As of July 22, 2025, the government has implemented a reduction to the list of jobs eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship and has closed the Health and Care Worker visa route to new applications from overseas. Other changes, such as the increased English language requirements and the higher Immigration Skills Charge, are expected to be implemented before the end of the year. The proposed increase to the settlement qualifying period, however, is subject to a consultation process and is not yet in effect.
Changes to the General Skilled Worker Visa Route
The new policy introduces several notable updates to the Skilled Worker visa route, aiming to raise the skill level of overseas migrants and encourage domestic workforce development.
The New Approach to Health and Care Workers
In a major change to the visa system, the Health and Care Worker visa route will be closed to new applications from abroad. This is part of the government’s strategy to reduce reliance on overseas workers in the social care sector and to promote domestic recruitment.
While the route is now closed for new applicants, a transitional period will be in place until 2028, allowing current visa holders to renew or switch to a different visa route while in the UK.
