Immigration Rules changes 17 July 2023, skilled workers and students
By David Robinson · · Updated 8 July 2026
The Home Office has today published its intention to amend the immigration rules from 17 July 2023 – we have highlighted the changes to workers and students.
We can of course provide immigration assistance.
Students
As announced on 23 May 2023 to:
- not permit students to bring their dependants to the UK unless the main applicant is studying for a postgraduate course (research programme)*
- preventing students ‘switching’ into a working visa before their course has completed.
* this will not affect students currently in the UK and for those on postgraduate courses whose courses begin before 1 November 2023.
Skilled Worker visa
The following types of jobs are being added to the Shortage Occupation list (SOL):
Building sector
- bricklayers and masons
- roofers
- roof tilers and slaters
- carpenters and joiners
- plasterers (including dryliners)
- other construction and building trades. **
Fishing sector
- agriculture and fishing trades
- fishing and other elementary agriculture occupations**.
** this means a broad range of jobs may be able to be sponsored.
The significance of being added to the SOL is:
- minimum salaries are 20% less
- the visa application fees are £479 instead of £625 for a 3 year visa – although, the Home Office separately announced increases in visa application fees across the board.
We can be contacted by completing our online form, sending an email to info@rlegal.com or by telephoning us on +44 207 038 3980 and our immigration lawyers will revert to you.
Immigration rules change often. This article was accurate when written and is kept for reference. Check the current position with us before you rely on it.