LET’S DO BUSINESS
The quickest way from A to B is usually a conversation. So, if you want to find out more about how Legend Financial can boost your business, get in touch. We’ll give straight answers so you can make a confident decision, fast.
[ninja_form id=’38’]
Advice for Employers
If you are largely reliant on international talent in the removed roles, it’s high time to review and adapt to new recruitment strategies. You may consider:
- recruiting and training domestic talent (e.g., apprenticeships and graduate schemes)
- developing clear career pathways for existing employees
- supporting current sponsored staff in understanding their visa options
Get Expert Advice from a UK Immigration Lawyer
Need help with exploring other visa options or extending/switching visas? Get your case reviewed by our UK immigration lawyer at Legend Consults. If you are directly affected by the removal of 180 roles, don’t delay. Let’s discuss your next steps!
More than 180 roles stopped qualifying for the UK Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship with the new RQF Level 6 (equivalent to a bachelor’s degree) requirement.
Mid-skilled and technical roles are largely impacted. This is the most dramatic UK immigration overhaul so far, as it leaves a lot of businesses relying on overseas talents scrambling and aspiring applicants reconsidering their career plans in the UK.
Which Careers are Removed?
Here are some of the industries and job roles impacted by the RQF Level 6 threshold hike:
- Emergency Services – ambulance staff (excluding paramedics), police officers (sergeant and below), fire service officers (watch manager and below), and prison service officers (below principal officer)
- Healthcare and Sciences – dental nurses, medical and dental technicians, dispensing opticians, veterinary nurses, and healthcare practice managers
- Education, Childcare, and Well-being – teaching assistants, early years practitioners, youth workers, and childminders
- Hospitality, Leisure, Travel, and Retail – chefs, catering and bar managers, hotel and accommodation managers, and managers in retail and wholesale
- Trades and Manufacturing – butchers, bakers, fishmongers, metal workers, electricians, plumbers, and welders
- Administration and Support – office managers, customer service leaders, administrative officers, finance officers, bookkeepers, and payroll managers
- Agriculture and Horticulture – farmers, horticulturists, and gardeners
- Creative Arts and Design – roles in performing arts and specific design occupations
However, whilst the Skilled Worker visa route is now largely limited to RQF Level 6 roles, certain jobs deemed critical to the UK economy may continue. Check the UK Government’s newly introduced Temporary Shortage List (TSL) in HC 997 Immigration Rules Changes.
The Temporary Shortage List is valid until 31 December 2026 and comes with tough restrictions, such as a strict ban on bringing dependants and no salary discounts.
Advice for Employees
If you already have a Skilled Worker Visa in RQF 3-5 roles or if your job application started before 22 July 2025, the new skill rules do not affect you right away. You may still apply for a visa extension, change jobs, or switch to another visa.
During the transition, you may want to consider upskilling, studying higher qualifications, or switching into eligible roles (if applicable).
