Thousands of Nigerians working in the UK on Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) or Skilled Worker visas are gripped by panic following the British government’s announcement of new regulations aimed at controlling immigration.
The changes, effective July 22, 2025, have left many uncertain about their future in the UK.
Changes to CoS Eligibility and Salary Thresholds
The UK government has removed over 100 jobs from CoS eligibility, including skilled worker roles, and increased salary thresholds for other jobs by at least 30%.
The general Skilled Worker salary threshold has been raised to £41,700 or higher, depending on the role, while health and care roles remain at £25,600, with the caveat that employers must show the salary after all deductions.
Affected Job Roles
Delisted jobs include:
Managers and Proprietors: agriculture, forestry, hospitality, and logistics
Health and Community Roles: dispensing opticians, pharmaceutical technicians, youth and community workers, and counsellors
Protective Service Roles: police officers, fire service officers, and prison officers
Creative and Performing Arts Professionals: artists, authors, translators, actors, dancers, photographers, and interior or fashion designers
Impact on Nigerian Workers
Many Nigerians on CoS visas secured with delisted jobs may be stranded at the end of their agreement with their sponsors, usually lasting between one and five years.
According to Kayode Alabi, a UK-based travel agent, employers may struggle to pay the new salary threshold, leaving workers uncertain about their future.
The new regulations have sent jitters down the spine of thousands of Nigerians who will be affected by the changes. Alabi confirmed that many Nigerians are already panicking, fearing they may not be able to renew their visas or meet the new salary requirements.
What This Means for Affected Workers
Visa Renewal Challenges: workers on delisted job roles may not be able to renew their visas
Salary Increases: employers may struggle to pay the new salary threshold, potentially affecting workers’ employment
Uncertainty about Future: workers are uncertain about their fate after the expiration of their sponsorship, sparking fears of returning home.
