UK Makes It Harder for Nigerians to Get Work Visas: 5 Major Changes Coming July 22

The UK government is tightening immigration rules from July 22, 2025, making it more difficult and expensive for Nigerians to get work visas. Here’s what every Nigerian professional needs to know.

The United Kingdom has announced sweeping changes to its immigration system that will significantly impact Nigerian professionals seeking to work in the UK. Starting July 22, 2025, the new rules will require higher qualifications, increase salary thresholds, and restrict family reunification options.

For the millions of Nigerians who view the UK as a destination for career advancement and better opportunities, these changes represent a major shift that could affect future migration plans.

What’s Changing: The 5 Key Updates

• University Degree Now Mandatory for Most Jobs
• Higher Salary Requirements Across All Categories
• New Temporary Shortage List with Limited Benefits
• Families Can No longer Accompany Workers in Certain Roles
• More Restrictions Expected in the Coming Months

1. No More UK Jobs Without a University Degree

From July 2025, most Skilled Worker visas will require university-level qualifications (degree level), up from the current A-level equivalent requirement.

What this means for Nigerians:

• Your HND, Bachelor’s degree, or higher qualification will be essential for most UK work opportunities
• Only jobs on special government lists (Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List) will accept lower qualifications
• Nigerians already working in non-degree roles before July 22, 2025, can still extend their visas, but this window is limited

💡 Action Point: If you’re planning to work in the UK in a role that doesn’t require a degree, you must secure your job offer and visa sponsorship before July 22, 2025.

2. Salary Requirements Are Going Up Significantly

The UK is raising the minimum salary requirements for Nigerian workers across all visa categories:

Based on current exchange rates and subject to fluctuation

Impact for Nigerians:

• UK employers will need to pay higher salaries to sponsor Nigerian workers
• Some companies may reduce their hiring of foreign workers due to increased costs
• Nigerians must negotiate salaries that meet these new thresholds

3. New Shortage List Offers Limited Relief

The UK is introducing a Temporary Shortage List (TSL) with 52 critical job roles that will accept lower qualifications. However, unlike previous shortage occupation benefits, this list:

• Does NOT offer salary discounts or reduced visa fees
• Only runs until December 31, 2026
• Requires employers to show they’re training UK workers for these roles

Key point: This is not the same as the old shortage occupation list that offered significant benefits to Nigerian workers.

4. Families Can No Longer Join Workers in Certain Roles

Starting July 2025, Nigerian workers in lower-skilled positions (even those on the special lists) cannot bring their spouses and children to the UK.

Exception: Nigerians already sponsored for these roles before July 22, 2025 can still bring their families.

Impact: This change will particularly affect Nigerian families who planned to relocate together for better opportunities and education for their children.

5. Critical Deadlines for Nigerian Professionals

Before July 22, 2025, you should:

• Secure job offers for roles that don’t require degrees if that’s your target
• Ensure salary offers meet the new thresholds
• Apply for visa sponsorship if you want to bring family members
• Review whether your intended role falls under the new Shortage List

What’s Coming Next: More Restrictions Ahead

The UK government is planning additional changes that will further impact Nigerian migration:

• Longer path to permanent residence: Instead of 5 years, Nigerians may need to wait 10 years for permanent status
• Higher English language requirements
• Increased immigration fees
• Stricter family visa rules

What This Means for Nigeria’s Brain Drain

These changes come at a time when Nigeria is already experiencing significant brain drain, with professionals leaving for better opportunities abroad. The new UK rules may:

• Redirect Nigerian talent to other countries like Canada, Australia, or European nations with more flexible immigration policies
• Limit opportunities for skilled Nigerians without university degrees
• Increase competition among degree-holders for fewer available positions

Practical Advice for Nigerian Professionals

If you’re planning to work in the UK:

1. Act quickly if you’re targeting roles below degree level
2. Ensure your qualifications are recognized UK equivalents
3. Research salary levels in your field to confirm they meet new thresholds
4. Consider alternative destinations if UK requirements become too restrictive
5. Improve your English proficiency ahead of expected higher requirements

For employers hiring Nigerians:

1. Review current salary structures to ensure compliance
2. Fast-track sponsorship for pending applications before July 22
3. Budget for higher immigration costs in hiring decisions

The Bottom Line

The UK’s new immigration rules represent a significant tightening of opportunities for Nigerian professionals. While the country remains attractive for its career prospects and quality of life, the higher barriers mean only the most qualified and well-compensated Nigerian workers will find it accessible.

The message is clear: if you’re serious about working in the UK, the time to act is now – before these restrictions take full effect.

Remember: These changes take effect on July 22, 2025. Don’t wait until the last minute to secure your opportunity.