The UK has seen a noticeable dip in visa applications for skilled workers and health and care workers between April 2024 and January 2025. As the UK government continues to adjust immigration policies, these changes are reshaping the trends of foreign workers coming into the country. This article delves into the reasons behind the decline, the impact of new immigration rules, and the broader effects on the UK’s labor market and healthcare sector.
By understanding these shifts, both potential applicants and industry stakeholders can better navigate the evolving landscape of UK immigration.
Declining Applications for Skilled Worker Visas
The Skilled Worker visa has long been a vital route for international talent to work in the UK. However, applications have shown a decline over the past year. Between April 2024 and January 2025, there were 54,900 main applicant applications—a 10% decrease from the same period in 2023. In January 2025 alone, 4,000 applications were received, which is significantly lower compared to previous months.
Several factors contribute to this decline:
- Increased Minimum Salary Requirements: From April 2024, the baseline salary required for sponsoring a Skilled Worker visa was raised from £26,200 to £38,700, making it harder for both employers and workers to meet the new threshold.
- Job List Reductions: The government reduced the number of occupations eligible for a Skilled Worker visa at a lower salary, limiting opportunities for workers in certain sectors.
Monthly Applications for Skilled Worker Visas: April 2024 – January 2025
| Month | Applications | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| April 2024 | 10,100 | +68% |
| January 2025 | 4,000 | – 20% |
Despite a spike in April 2024, the trend quickly returned to average levels. The lower number of monthly applications, combined with the strict salary and occupation requirements, paints a clearer picture of how UK immigration policy is influencing these trends.
Health and Care Worker Visa Decline
The Health and Care Worker visa was initially one of the more popular routes for migrants, especially aftercare workers were added to the Shortage Occupation List in 2022. Monthly applications for health and care worker visas surged from 4,100 to 18,300 between February 2022 and August 2023. However, from March 2024, applications for these visas began to fall significantly, with only 1,900 applications recorded in January 2025.
Key Changes Leading to the Decline:
- Policy Changes for Family Members: In March 2024, new policies restricted the ability of care workers to bring their dependants (partners and children) into the UK, further limiting the number of applicants.
- Increased Scrutiny: The Home Office imposed more stringent checks on employers in the health and social care sectors, leading to compliance issues and further delays in applications.
Monthly Applications for Health and Care Worker Visas: April 2024 – January 2025
| Month | Applications | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| April 2024 | 23,200 | – 81% |
| January 2025 | 1,900 | – 91% |
The drastic reduction in applications highlights the impact of policy changes and external factors that have made it more challenging for health and care workers to migrate to the UK.
Impact of UK Immigration Rules 2024
Several UK immigration rules introduced in 2024 have had a profound effect on visa trends, particularly for skilled and healthcare workers.
Key Immigration Changes:
- Dependants Restrictions:
- As of January 2024, international students, except those in certain postgraduate research programs, can no longer bring dependents with them.
- From March 2024, social care workers are prohibited from bringing dependants on their visas, reducing family migration within this sector.
- Salary Thresholds:
- As of April 2024, the salary for sponsoring a Skilled Worker visa was raised to £38,700, a steep increase from the previous threshold of £26,200, narrowing the applicant pool.
- The minimum income required for sponsoring a spouse or partner visa also increased to £29,000.
How These Changes Are Affecting Skilled Workers and Care Workers
These policy shifts, especially the salary increases and the removal of dependant rights for care workers, have discouraged many workers from applying. The government intends to limit migration for low-skilled roles, but it also has the effect of deterring skilled workers who might struggle to meet the new requirements.
The Path Ahead for UK Visa Applications
The UK’s skilled worker and health and care worker visa applications have seen a steady decline, influenced by policy changes, salary thresholds, and restrictions on dependants. While the country continues to adjust its immigration framework, potential applicants should stay informed about the shifting rules and consider their eligibility carefully.
The trends suggest that employers and workers will need to adapt to these changes to remain competitive in the UK labor market.
