Starting 22 July 2025, major changes to the UK's Skilled Worker visa route will come into effect. This comes following the publication of a recent White Paper and Statement of changes to the Immigration Rules: HC 997.

The new reforms look to restrict immigration routes to the UK, while also trying to address genuine skill gaps in the UK job market that require sponsoring skilled workers.

In this blog, we at A2Z Immigration break down the critical changes that sponsors, their HR personnel and prospective skilled worker candidates must keep in mind, particularly the shift to RQF Level 6, the Temporary Shortage Occupation List (TSL), and urgent actions sponsors should take before the deadline of 22 July 2025.

What is RQF, and why does Level 6 matter?

The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) is the system used in the UK to define the level of a qualification or job role. It ranges from Level 1 (GCSE D to G) to Level 8 (PhD-level qualifications).

Previously, RQF Level 3 roles (A-level equivalent) could be sponsored under the Skilled Worker route. However, from 22 July 2025 onwards, the minimum skill threshold will be raised to RQF Level 6, equivalent to a Bachelor's degree or graduate-level occupation.

Note: However, jobs below RQF Level 6 and listed in the Temporary Shortage Occupation List will still be eligible to apply for a Skilled Worker visa.

How to check the list of eligible jobs?

Go to this document

Navigate to Page 13 to see Table 1

Keep scrolling to find Table 2 and 3

Note: Appendix Skilled Occupations has been restructured, so that it now presents the eligible occupations and updated going rates in separate tables for occupations at RQF level 6+ (Tables 1, 2 and 3) and occupations at RQF levels 3-5 (Tables 1a, 2aa and 3a). Corrections are also being made to Agenda for Change salary rates in Scotland (Table 4).

Immigration Salary List vs Temporary Shortage Occupation List (TSL)

With the immigration reforms effective 22 July 2025, employers must now understand the distinct roles of the two separate lists (Immigration Salary List and Temporary Shortage Occupation List).

While the new Temporary Shortage Occupation List (TSL) is a short-term measure introduced by the UK government, the Immigration Salary List (ISL), which replaced the old Shortage Occupation List in April 2024, will continue to operate until at least 31 December 2026.

What Is the Immigration Salary List?

The Immigration Salary List (ISL) identifies occupations where there is a recognised skills shortage in the UK.

Starting 22 July 2025, inclusion on the ISL no longer grants a 20% salary discount. Instead, it imposes fixed minimum salary floors, along with a requirement to pay 100% of the going rate for the role.

Important Points to Note

• Occupations with RQF Level 6 and above must be paid at least £33,400 annually.
• Occupations under RQF Level c3-5 must be paid at least £23,200 annually.
• Both the above thresholds must meet the £17.13/hour rule, based on no more than 48 hours per week.
• All ISL entries will expire on 31 December 2026 unless renewed or removed earlier by the Home Office or based on reviews made by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC).

What Is the Temporary Shortage Occupation List?

The Temporary Shortage Occupation List (TSL) is a new and flexible list introduced alongside the ISL to address urgent short-term labour shortages. Unlike the ISL, which sets salary floors, the TSL is expected to be narrower in scope and subject to frequent reviews.

How should employers use the ISL and TSL after 22 July 2025?

From 22 July 2025, employers should follow these steps:

1. Find the correct SOC code for the job opening they are looking to fill through the skilled worker route.

2. Check if the role is labelled ISL.

3. If yes, ensure that both the ISL salary floor (£33,400 or £23,200) and the full going rate for the SOC code are met.

4. Ensure hourly pay is at least £17.13, based on a 48-hour week or less.

6. Keep evidence of compliance in contracts, job advertisements, and CoS documentation.

7. Follow updates from the Migration Advisory Committee, as both the ISL and TSL are under active review by the committee.

Note: As the rules are yet to go into effect, employers should continuously monitor updates from the Home Office or follow A2Z Immigration's blogs and social media to see what changes will be applicable for them.

Transitional Protections for Workers Already Sponsored

The Home Office has provided transitional protections for migrants sponsored before 22 July 2025. These include:

• Skilled workers already granted visas will continue to be governed by the old RQF Level 3 eligibility rules for extensions or ILR applications.
• Sponsors do not need to withdraw or amend existing CoS if it was assigned before the deadline (22 July 2025).
• However, if a worker changes their role after 22 July, the new role must meet RQF Level 6.

Note: It is absolutely crucial for sponsors to review their HR records and employment plans as soon as possible to safeguard both existing employees and prospective recruits that are already in the pipeline.

Last-Minute Checklist for Sponsors

With the deadline just days away, sponsors must take immediate action to remain compliant:

1. Review and update SOC Codes and ensure all job roles match eligible SOC codes.

2. Recalculate Salaries using the updated salary floor and the new going rates

3. Revise Job Advertisements

4. Update qualification/experience requirements reflecting RQF Level 6

5. Issue CoS before 22 July 2025

Note: Defined and Undefined Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) must be assigned before 9:00 AM on 22 July 2025 to fall under the old rules. Assign CoS only if ready to sponsor immediately and meet all pre-July criteria.

Need Help?

If you're unsure about your job roles, SOC codes, or how to adapt to the new RQF Level 6 rules, A2Z Immigration is here to provide you with assistance.