The reforms will have a particularly significant impact on the adult social care sector, which has relied heavily on international recruitment under SOC codes 6135 (care workers) and 6136 (senior care workers).

From 22 July 2025, no new Skilled Worker applications will be accepted from overseas applicants in these roles. Transitional measures will remain in place until 22 July 2028, allowing in-country applicants to switch into the Skilled Worker route. However, they must have worked for their sponsor for at least three months before the CoS is issued.

To prevent attempts to bypass the new restrictions, the Home Office has clarified that SOC code 6131 (nursing auxiliaries and assistants) should only be used for roles in regulated healthcare environments, where registered nurses are also employed.

Care sector sponsors must also meet additional criteria, including Care Quality Commission (CQC) registration and operation within a recognised national or regional framework agreement.