Overview

• The Home Office has tabled the inaugural legislative changes from its May Immigration White Paper in Parliament, with measures set to take effect from July 22 if approved.
• Overseas recruitment for care workers will end under the new rules, with in-country visa switching allowed until July 2028 for those already in the sector.
• Skilled worker visas will require a minimum salary of £41,700 and degree-level skills, rendering 111 occupations ineligible for recruitment from abroad.
• A temporary shortage list for below-degree roles will operate through December 2026, barring dependents and fee or salary discounts for new entrants.
• Home Office estimates suggest the reforms could cut net migration by up to 100,000 annually, as the care sector warns of a potential crisis facing 130,000 vacancies.