
The UK Government has officially rolled out a major update to its Skilled Worker Visa occupation list, and the changes are extensive. Starting April 10, 2025, thousands of professionals from a wide range of industries, including tech, healthcare, construction, education, hospitality, logistics, arts, and skilled trades, are now eligible to apply for a UK work visa.
This update isn’t a minor revision. It’s a significant expansion that opens the door for global talent in areas previously overlooked. The UK Home Office released the updated list of eligible occupation codes on April 9, 2025, introducing opportunities across sectors with fresh clarity and broader inclusivity.
In the IT and digital sector, roles like software developers, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, UI/UX designers, and DevOps engineers are now all approved. Healthcare has also been widely included, with positions such as general practitioners, specialist doctors, nurses, psychologists, and senior care workers all eligible.
Engineering has seen full inclusion, welcoming civil, mechanical, electrical, aerospace, and project engineers. The education field also features prominently, with roles for teachers at all levels, including early childhood, primary, secondary, special education, and ESL.
The creative industries are seeing a boost, too. Artists, musicians, photographers, actors, and even social media influencers have been added to the approved list. Skilled trades such as carpenters, electricians, roofers, welders, chefs, and plumbers are now recognized under the visa route.
In business and finance, professions like chartered accountants, investment analysts, marketing managers, and HR officers are now eligible to apply.
To find your occupation code, applicants are advised to use the CASCOT occupation coding tool, especially if job titles vary internationally. Searching by full keywords or job duties can help match your role accurately with the UK code. The updated Skilled Worker eligibility list is now live and effective from April 10, 2025.
Not every job made it onto the list. Certain roles, especially those considered low-wage or part-time, remain ineligible. These include bar staff, waiters, fast-food workers, taxi drivers, delivery riders, housekeepers, cleaners, postal workers, and general warehouse assistants, unless specifically covered under extension rules.
Applicants should ensure their job is marked as eligible in the Skilled Worker column before submitting a visa application. One of the benefits of this visa pathway is that most approved occupations allow individuals to bring their dependents—spouses and children—with them. These family members can live, work, or study in the UK, making the move a more flexible option for many international professionals.