From 22 July 2025, Skilled Worker visa holders sponsored in roles below RQF Level 6 will generally not be permitted to bring dependants, including spouses or children. This restriction is already in place for new care worker applications as of March 2024 and will now extend across other lower-skilled roles.

This marks a significant departure from previous policy and is expected to reduce the attractiveness of the UK for overseas applicants in mid-skilled or lower-paid jobs.