The UK Government has announced a series of immigration rule changes in 2025 that affect international workers – including care workers – under the Skilled Worker visa.

These updates are part of the Immigration White Paper: Restoring Control Over the Immigration System.

In Summary

  • From January 2026, new Skilled Worker visa applicants must meet B2 English level.
  • Current international care workers already in the UK can renew at B1 level without taking a new test.
  • 2025 brought major updates to salary thresholds, sponsorship rules, and visa categories.
  • Watch for digital eVisa updates and the upcoming settlement consultation later this year.

 

English Language Requirements

  • From 8 January 2026, new applicants to the Skilled Worker route will need to meet B2 English level under the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
  • B2 means upper-intermediate English– showing that you can use English confidently at work and in everyday situations.
    Learn more about accepted tests on UK.
  • Care workers already in the UK who are renewing or extending their Skilled Worker visas can continue at the current B1 level and do not need to take a new English test.

 

English Language Support

While the new requirement only affects new overseas applicants, we recognise that improving English can support both professional development and integration. Some available support includes:

 

  • Local ESOL Courses (English for Speakers of Other Languages) esolcourses.com

Many community centres, colleges, and local authorities offer free or subsidised ESOL courses to help improve English for work and everyday life.

 

Free online grammar, vocabulary, and speaking practice at your own pace.

 

Connects migrants and refugees with free English classes and local learning opportunities.

 

Key Immigration Updates in 2025

Throughout 2025, the Home Office made several changes to the Immigration Rules. Here are the main updates and where to find more information.

  • March (HC 733) – Salary threshold increases and new Immigration Salary List
    Minimum salary levels for Skilled Worker visas increased, with some care roles remaining on the Immigration Salary List.
  • June (HC 836) – Youth Mobility, Long Residence, and Visitor Updates
    Adjustments to youth mobility partnerships, long residence rules, and visitor visa permissions.
  • July (HC 997) – Skilled Worker Follow-up Adjustments
    Clarified salary calculation methods and updated guidance for sponsored roles in health and care.
  • August (CP 1373) – Graduate and Innovator Routes
    Graduate visa reduced to 18 months (3 years for PhD graduates). Added flexibility for Innovator and business visa routes.
  • September (HC 1298) – Sponsorship and Care Sector Updates
    Simplified sponsor licence processes and strengthened checks for employers in the care sector.
  • October (HC 1333) – English Language Level and Student Visa Reforms
    Introduced the new B2 English requirement for Skilled Worker applicants and updated rules for student routes.

Digital eVisas

The UK is replacing paper visa stickers with digital eVisas.
This rollout will expand through 2025–26 to include most visa categories, including Skilled Workers and dependants.
Click here for more information: Updates on the move to eVisas – GOV.UK

 

Future Settlement and Citizenship

Later in 2025, the Home Office will launch a public consultation on how people can earn settlement and citizenship through work and residence.