Sector workforce plans now mandatory to access Skilled Visas
From July 2025, employers in the UK must now demonstrate they are part of a sector workforce plan in order to sponsor foreign workers under the Skilled Worker route.
This major reform, announced in the 01 July 2025 Statement of Changes (HC 997), is part of the Home Office’s broader strategy to tighten immigration controls and reduce long-term dependence on overseas recruitment.
What does this mean?
A sector workforce plan is a strategy coordinated between the government and specific industries to:
- Identify current and future labour needs,
- Develop training pathways for UK workers, and
- Reduce reliance on international recruitment over time.
From now on, if your business wants to sponsor a foreign national under the Skilled Worker visa:
- Your job role must be part of an approved sector plan, and
- You must show efforts to recruit and train UK-based workers as well.
Why the change?
According to the Home Office:
“Employers seeking to recruit from abroad must play their part in increasing recruitment from the domestic workforce.”
This reflects the government’s focus on:
- Investing in UK-based skills development,
- Reducing net migration,
- And ensuring that immigration supports, rather than replaces, domestic workforce growth.
Key impact for employers
No workforce plan = no sponsorship: You cannot simply sponsor a Skilled Worker without showing sector alignment.
Labour shortages are no longer enough: Businesses must also show active participation in local training or upskilling efforts.
MAC reviews will apply: The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) will review which occupations remain eligible based on workforce planning and compliance.
The introduction of mandatory sector workforce plans marks a significant shift in how Skilled Worker visas are granted. The UK government is prioritizing domestic labour market investment over immigration.
If you are a business planning to sponsor a worker, or an applicant considering the Skilled Worker route — speak to our team today. These changes could directly impact your eligibility or hiring process.
Since 2018, BS Immigration has helped businesses and sponsors navigate evolving UK immigration laws. As an officially IAA-certified firm, we’re authorised to advise on strategy, compliance, and sponsorship matters.
We’re here to support your growth — responsibly and compliantly.