UK Immigration Reform Threatens Mobility

• • Higher Skill Levels Required
    The minimum skill level required for the Skilled Worker route has increased from Level 3 of the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) to Level 6 (equivalent to a bachelor’s degree). This change removes around 180 eligible occupations, particularly affecting the construction, healthcare and hospitality sectors.
  • Substantial increase in salary thresholds
    The new salary thresholds have increased employer costs by 7.7% on average. Companies should review their mobility plans and incorporate these increases into their 2025-2026 budgets. Since sector rates have also increased, some occupation codes may require salaries even higher than the general thresholds.
  • Restrictions on Dependents
    Workers sponsored in RQF level 3-5 occupations may no longer bring their dependents. This restriction may significantly reduce the attractiveness of these positions to international candidates.
  • Temporary List of Shortage Occupations
    A temporary list of shortage occupations is being introduced until December 31, 2026, covering 52 RQF level 3-5 occupation codes. However, this measure does not permit salary or fee reductions, prohibits dependents, demands a local workforce training strategy, and is subject to periodic review by the Migration Advisory Committee.

These changes, which form part of the government’s plans to reduce net immigration and encourage domestic skills development, have serious implications for international talent management.

AGS UK’s immigration partners caution that the higher costs and greater administrative complexity – with different rules for different categories of workers – make it more challenging for employers to plug genuine talent gaps. Certain positions may also become less attractive to eligible foreign workers, particularly those with families.