UK Immigration Salary Thresholds: MAC Review to Shape Future Work Visa Policies

The UK government has commissioned the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to review UK Immigration Salary Thresholds and the Temporary Shortage List (TSL). This critical assessment, announced in July 2025, will influence work visa policies, addressing skills shortages while preventing worker exploitation. Below, we break down the key aspects of this review and its potential impact.

Background: Why Are UK Immigration Salary Thresholds Under Review?

Recent UK immigration reforms have focused on reducing net migration and prioritizing high-skilled workers. Key changes include:

• Replacing the Shortage Occupation List (SOL) with the Immigration Salary List (ISL) in April 2024.

• Introducing a general Skilled Worker visa threshold of £38,700, with a 20% discount (£30,960) for shortage roles.

• Maintaining a lower threshold (£29,000) for Health and Care Worker visas.

• Phasing out the ISL and interim TSL by December 31, 2026.

The government’s Immigration White Paper (GOV.UK) outlines plans to restrict low-skilled migration, emphasizing domestic workforce development.

MAC Review Scope: Key Focus Areas

1. Salary Threshold Assessment (Due January 2026)

The MAC will evaluate:

• Whether the £29,000 threshold for Health and Care visas remains appropriate.

• Global Business Mobility (GBM) and Scale-up visa thresholds (currently £52,500).

• The 20% salary discount for shortage roles and new entrant discounts.

• How often thresholds should be updated (e.g., using ASHE data).

2. Temporary Shortage List Review (Due July 2026)

The MAC will determine:

• Which occupations should be included in the TSL.

• How the TSL aligns with the UK’s Industrial Strategy.

• Measures to prevent exploitation (e.g., visa time limits, dependant restrictions).

Current Rules (July 2025) & Transitional Measures

Until the MAC’s review is finalized:

• Skilled Worker visas require a minimum salary of £38,700 (or £30,960 for ISL roles).

• Care worker recruitment from overseas ended on July 22, 2025.

• Dependants are barred for RQF 3–5 roles (except for existing visa holders).

• Pre-April 2024 visa holders are exempt from the new thresholds until April 2030.

For the latest updates, visit VisasUpdate.com.

Implications for Employers & Migrants

• Employers may face higher hiring costs and need to invest in UK workforce training.

• Migrants in lower-skilled roles could see fewer opportunities, especially with dependant bans.

• Key sectors like healthcare, tech, and engineering may retain priority status.

Next Steps & How to Engage

• The MAC will publish its salary threshold recommendations by January 2026.

• A Call for Evidence will open for the TSL review—employers should participate.

• The government typically adopts MAC advice, so stakeholders must prepare for changes.

Conclusion

The UK Immigration Salary Thresholds review is a pivotal shift in work visa policy. Employers and migrants must stay informed to navigate upcoming changes. For expert insights, follow updates on VisasUpdate.com.