For employers trying to recruit staff — and migrants hoping to build a future in Britain — salary figures have suddenly become the centre of attention. Over the past year, the UK government has pushed through some of the most significant immigration rule changes in a decade, with higher visa salary thresholds reshaping who can come, stay, and work in the country.
The changes are already affecting families, businesses, and entire sectors of the economy.
Here’s a clear, detailed explanation of what’s changed, why it matters, and who is most affected.
What Has Changed in UK Immigration Rules
The government has raised minimum salary thresholds for several major work and family visas, tightening eligibility and reducing overall migration numbers.
These changes are overseen by the Home Office, with implementation supported by the Department for Work and Pensions and economic analysis feeding into the policy.
The reforms focus on ensuring migrants are “financially self-sufficient” and reducing reliance on public services.
Skilled Worker Visa: The Biggest Change
The Skilled Worker visa has seen the most dramatic shift.
New salary threshold
- Minimum general salary threshold increased to £38,700
- Replaces the previous threshold of £26,200
- Applies to most new Skilled Worker visa applicants
This change alone removes eligibility for thousands of roles that previously qualified, particularly in care, hospitality, and entry-level professional jobs.
Occupation-based pay
While some roles still use occupation-specific rates, the general threshold now overrides many lower-paid positions, making sponsorship far more difficult.
Health and Care Worker Visa: Partial Protection
The Health and Care Worker visa remains somewhat protected due to workforce shortages.
Key points:
- Doctors, nurses, and certain allied health professionals remain eligible
- Care workers have lost the right to bring dependants
- Lower-paid care roles face tighter scrutiny and fewer sponsorship options
Health leaders warn the changes could worsen staffing shortages in social care.
Family Visas: Income Threshold Rise
The Family visa route has also changed significantly.
New minimum income requirement
- Threshold increased to £29,000, with plans to rise further
- Applies to UK citizens and settled residents sponsoring a partner
- Does not include savings unless they exceed high thresholds
Many couples now find themselves legally married but unable to live together in the UK due to income limits.
Student and Graduate Visa Changes
While student visas remain open, new restrictions apply:
- International students (except postgraduates) can no longer bring dependants
- The Graduate visa route remains available but under review
- Post-study work is facing tighter monitoring
Universities warn that uncertainty could affect future international enrolments.
Why the Government Raised Salary Thresholds
Ministers argue the changes are necessary to:
- Reduce net migration figures
- Encourage employers to raise wages
- Prioritise domestic workforce training
- Protect public services and housing supply
A Home Office spokesperson said the reforms “restore control and fairness” to the immigration system.
Real Stories Behind the Numbers
Anita, a software tester offered £35,000 in Manchester, lost her Skilled Worker eligibility overnight.
“I met every requirement except the new salary. Nothing about my skills changed — only the number.”
James, a British citizen earning £27,000, can no longer sponsor his wife.
“We did everything by the rules. Now we’re stuck choosing between countries.”
Expert and Industry Reaction
Business groups, universities, and care providers have raised serious concerns.
Key warnings include:
- Labour shortages in lower-paid but essential roles
- Reduced regional growth outside London
- Disproportionate impact on young workers and families
- Risk of pushing work into informal or short-term arrangements
Economists note that salary thresholds do not reflect regional wage differences, making the impact uneven across the UK.
What Has Not Changed
To avoid confusion:
- The points-based immigration system remains in place
- Sponsorship requirements still apply
- English language rules are unchanged
- Visa application fees remain separate from salary rules
- Settlement routes still exist for eligible migrants
The changes are about eligibility, not abolishing visa routes entirely.
What Applicants and Employers Should Know
- Salary thresholds are now a critical eligibility test
- Job offers below the threshold usually disqualify applicants
- Existing visa holders may have transitional protections
- Employers must reassess sponsorship strategies
- Families should check income rules before applying
Professional advice is increasingly important for borderline cases.
Common Questions About the New Rules
1. Are the new salary thresholds already in force?
Yes, they apply to new applications.
2. Do they affect existing visa holders?
Some transitional protections apply, but renewals may be affected.
3. Can regional salaries be considered?
No, thresholds are national.
4. Are care workers still eligible?
Limited roles are, but rules are stricter.
5. Can savings replace income for family visas?
Only at high levels.
6. Is the £38,700 threshold likely to rise again?
No further rise is confirmed.
7. Do students face new salary rules?
No, but dependant rules have changed.
8. Does this reduce net migration?
That is the government’s stated aim.
9. Can rules change again?
Yes — immigration policy is regularly reviewed.
10. Where should people get accurate updates?
Official government communications and qualified advisers.
Bottom Line
The UK’s new immigration rules mark a decisive shift toward higher salary thresholds and stricter eligibility. While the changes aim to reduce migration and raise wages, they are already reshaping the workforce, separating families, and narrowing pathways into the UK.
For anyone affected, understanding the numbers — not the headlines — is now more important than ever.
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