UK Skilled Worker Visa Changes 2025: New Rules & Fees
In a recent live broadcast conducted by the Arabs in Britain platform with legal consultant Lina Mousa, an important topic concerning work visas in the UK was discussed. Consultant Mousa elaborated on the various types of visas available for workers, highlighting the key differences between the “Skilled Worker” visa and the “Health and Care Worker” visa. She also addressed details related to applying for family and partner sponsorships and the requirements for each case.
First: Breakdown of the Two Visas
1. Skilled Worker Visa
This visa targets skilled workers in demand within the UK labor market in fields such as medicine, engineering, programming, and education. As of April 2024, the minimum salary required for obtaining this visa has been raised to £38,700 per year or the “going rate” for the job in the market, whichever is higher.
The visa provides an opportunity for long-term residency, allowing holders to apply for permanent residency after meeting the legal residency requirements for a specified period.
2. Health and Care Worker Visa
This visa is specifically designed for workers in the health and social care sector, such as doctors, nurses, and social care workers. Starting in March 2024, restrictions have been imposed on family sponsorship for certain occupations, such as “Home Care” and “Care Worker” (job codes: 6136 and 6146). However, other categories, like doctors and nurses, can still sponsor their families if they meet the financial and professional requirements.
Key Differences Between the Two Visas
1. Family Sponsorship
- Skilled Worker Visa: Holders can sponsor their partner and children, provided their income meets the required minimum threshold.
- Health and Care Worker Visa: Family sponsorship depends on the job title, with certain healthcare roles now subject to restrictions.
2. Fees
- Skilled Worker Visa:
- £625 for stays under 3 years.
- £1,235 for stays over 3 years.
- Additional NHS surcharge of £624 annually.
- Health and Care Worker Visa:
- Lower fees compared to the Skilled Worker Visa.
- Exemptions from the NHS surcharge for certain professionals.
Procedures for Family and Partner Sponsorship
1. Financial Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support their family members. For instance:
- £285 for a partner.
- £315 for one child.
- £200 for each additional child.
2. Application Process
A separate application must be submitted for each family member, accompanied by documents proving the relationship (e.g., marriage certificates or children’s birth certificates) and valid passports.
Staying Updated on Legal Changes
At the end of the session, consultant Lina Mousa emphasized the importance of staying updated with the latest immigration laws in the UK, as amendments are frequently made to align with labor market needs. She stressed the necessity of full compliance with legal requirements to avoid application rejections, noting that the UK Home Office does not offer exceptions or leniency for applicants who fail to meet the criteria.
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