International Recruitment Update from The Home Office

The government has published guidance for a £12.5 m regional fund to support migrant care workers impacted by sponsor non-compliance or unethical practice.

This is the 2025/26 version of the International Recruitment Fund which is aimed at reducing reliance on overseas recruitment by care organisations, instead pushing them to employ those already in the UK. It also seeks to stamp out exploitation.

Immigration Rule Changes

This fund comes at the same time as the government is making it more difficult to recruit international workers. The following came into effect on 9th April.

Increase to Minimum Salary Requirements:

• New minimum hourly pay and salary rates: £12.82/hour and £25,000/year
• Existing workers must be paid at least £12.21/hour
• If an existing worker extends their visa after 9 April 2025, they must meet the updated hourly rate and salary thresholds.

Priority for International Workers already in the UK

• Providers must prioritise UK-based displaced care workers for new sponsorships before they look abroad.

Fee Increases 

• Immigration and nationality fees have risen 7%, with the cost of a Certificate of Sponsorship from £239 to £525
• No change to the Immigration Skills Charge or premium services

Full list of fees here.