UK Immigration Policy Tightens Sharply: Skilled Worker Salary Threshold Rises to £41,700, Graduate Visa Shortened to 18 Months
The UK government introduced a series of new immigration policies between late 2025 and early 2026. Some say this is the strictest round in decades. These changes will directly affect foreigners who want to go to the UK to work or study, including Chinese applicants.
The main changes are:
The work visa salary threshold has risen. The minimum annual salary for the regular Skilled Worker visa will increase from £38,700 to £41,700, effective in 2026, an increase of nearly 8%.
The graduate visa has been shortened. From January 1, 2027, the PSW visa for bachelor's and master's graduates will be reduced from 2 years to 18 months. For PhD graduates, it remains 3 years, unchanged.
The English language requirement has been raised. From January 8, 2026, the English requirement for visas such as the Skilled Worker and High Potential Individual visas will rise from B1 to B2, roughly IELTS 6.0 to 6.5.
The proof of living costs requirement has increased. From November 2025, students in London must show £1,529 per month for living costs, while those outside London must show £1,171 per month.
The care worker visa has been closed. From July 22, 2025, the UK will no longer recruit overseas care workers through work visas.
Taken together, these policies form the core of the UK's "post-Brexit era" immigration strategy: attract highly skilled talent, block low- and medium-skilled workers, shorten temporary residence, and ultimately bring net migration down to a sustainable level.
