United Kingdom Unveils New Visa Policy, Restrictions on Sponsorship

The UK government has announced significant changes to its immigration policies, particularly affecting health and social care workers.

As of today Monday May 12, 2025, the United Kingdom government announces;

End of Overseas Recruitment for Care Workers

The UK will cease international recruitment for care workers under the Health and Care Worker visa. This decision follows concerns over exploitation and abuse of migrant workers, with over 470 care providers having their sponsorship licenses suspended since 2022. The new policy mandates that care providers in England must first attempt to recruit domestically before seeking overseas candidates.  

📈 Increased Salary Thresholds

Effective April 2025, the minimum salary threshold for Skilled Worker visa applicants has risen to £38,700 per year, or the going rate for the role, whichever is higher. For the Health and Care visa sub-route, the minimum salary has increased to £25,000. These changes aim to ensure that migrant workers are fairly compensated and to encourage the hiring of domestic workers. 

🗓️ Extended Residency Requirement for Settlement

The qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) has been extended from five to ten years for most migrants. However, a contributions-based model may allow for earlier settlement for individuals demonstrating significant contributions to the UK economy and society. 

🗣️ Stricter English Language Requirements

All adult dependents of visa applicants are now required to meet higher English language proficiency standards. This change is part of the government’s efforts to promote integration and ensure that migrants can fully participate in UK society.  

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Restrictions on Dependents for Care Workers

Since March 2024, care workers and senior care workers applying under the Health and Care Worker visa are no longer permitted to bring family members as dependents. This policy does not apply retrospectively; those already in the UK under this visa route prior to the change can still have their immediate family members join them. 

💷 Increased Visa and Sponsorship Fees

From April 9, 2025, the Certificate of Sponsorship fee has increased from £239 to £525. Additionally, immigration and visa fees have risen by 7%. These increased costs are intended to cover the administrative expenses of the immigration system. 

These reforms reflect the UK government’s shift towards a more controlled and selective immigration system, emphasizing the recruitment of high-skilled workers and reducing reliance on low-paid migrant labor. While aimed at reducing net migration, these changes have raised concerns among employers and unions about potential staffing shortages in critical sectors like health and social care.