Decline in UK Visa Applications Continues - Smith Stone Walters

The number of foreign nationals applying for work and study visas in the UK continues to decline, following established trends.

Recent figures reveal a significant drop in entry clearance applications for Health and Care Worker, Skilled Worker, and Student visas, falling from approximately 15,800 in October 2024 to just 11,300 in October 2025. This marks a 30% reduction compared to the same month last year, underscoring the ongoing downward trend observed over the past year.

In October 2025, applications for Skilled Worker visas fell to 2,400. Recent regulatory changes are likely contributing to this decline. To qualify for this category, jobs must now be at RQF level 6 or higher, with some exceptions for roles listed on the Immigration Salary List or Shortage Occupation List. Additionally, the minimum salary requirement for the Skilled Worker route has increased from £38,700 to £41,700.

Applications for dependants of Skilled Workers have mirrored the trend of main applicants, with only 3,000 applications submitted in October 2025.

A continued sharp decline in applications for Health and Care Worker visas has been noted, following the decision to restrict new international applicants from seeking care jobs in the UK under the current visa route. Only 600 applications were submitted in October 2025 for this category.

Moreover, there were 3,000 applications for dependants under this route during the same month. This decrease is largely attributed to policy changes implemented in March 2024, which ceased the allowance for overseas social care workers to bring their dependants (partners and children) with them.

Applications for Sponsored study visas typically follow seasonal patterns, peaking in August with the start of the academic year, and experiencing a smaller spike in December. For the year ending October 2025, applications from main applicants for study visas reached 434,000, a 7% increase from the previous year but a 13% decrease compared to the year ending October 2023.

In the same period, there were 22,400 applications from student dependants, representing an 85% decrease from the year ending December 2023. This decline follows rule changes that took effect in January 2024, which restrict most students from bringing dependants unless they are enrolled in postgraduate research courses or courses funded by government scholarships.

For a comprehensive overview of these figures, download the latest Home Office statistics available here. Monthly entry clearance visa data provides insights into UK visa applications for work, study, and family reasons. These statistics will be updated monthly as the Home Office assesses the ongoing need for updates. Additionally, quarterly immigration system statistics offer detailed information on visa applications and their outcomes.

If you need assistance with any aspect of UK immigration or visa sponsorship, please reach out to Smith Stone Walters today.