UK employers must prepare for care worker immigration changes

Shara Pledger, immigration law expert at Pinsent Masons, was commenting after the UK government confirmed new immigration rules, applicable from 22 July, that will close entry clearance (visa) applications for overseas care workers and senior care workers under the skilled worker route.

The change is part of a sweeping package of immigration reforms set out in the government’s Immigration White Paper (80 pages/2.3 MB PDF). It is a significant departure from previous policies that had facilitated international recruitment in the social care sector, and instead aims to encourage domestic workforce development. In line with the changes, employers are being urged to review their sponsorship strategies and workforce planning.

“The government will continue to closely monitor compliance, including sponsor licence revocations and the number of displaced workers, meaning employers should expect continued scrutiny and risk licence losses if they fail to comply with updated obligations,” said Pledger.

While new overseas applications will be barred from 22 July, in-country switching to the skilled worker route will remain possible until 22 July 2028. This applies to individuals already in the UK on other visa types, provided they have been employed by a sponsoring care provider for at least three months before the certificate of sponsorship is issued. 

The closure of the care visa route is part of the broader strategy to raise the skill threshold for skilled worker visas to RQF level 6 – degree level. This change will eliminate over 100 occupations from the eligibility list – including roles in hospitality, retail and construction. Additionally, the requirements for sponsors to prioritise skilled workers in the UK is being removed, giving employers more flexibility in managing their workforce. However, the government has made it clear that transitional protections will apply to those already in the skilled worker route or who switch before the 2028 deadline, ensuring they are not adversely affected by the new restrictions.

“These changes reflect the government’s broader strategy for the social care sector, aiming to promote sustainable employment and reduce exploitation and over-reliance on overseas recruitment. Further regulatory changes are expected, including updates to right to work checks for agency and contract workers later this year,” said Pledger.