UK Immigration Shake-Up Throws Nigerians Into Crisis as Over 100 Skilled Jobs Get Axed
The UK government has rolled out sweeping immigration changes that are now threatening the legal status and livelihoods of thousands of Nigerians living and working in the country.
As of July 22, 2025, the UK Home Office removed over 100 previously eligible skilled jobs from its Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) system, while simultaneously hiking the minimum salary threshold for remaining roles.
The result? Widespread panic and confusion among migrant workers—especially Nigerians—who now face immediate job insecurity and possible deportation.
“This is not just policy—this is people’s lives being upended,” said Kayode Alabi, CEO of Phika Travels and Tours in the UK.
What’s Been Cut in UK?
Jobs across healthcare, logistics, hospitality, law enforcement, creative industries, and agriculture have been stripped of sponsorship eligibility. The affected roles include:
- Hospitality and logistics managers
- Youth workers and counsellors
- Police and prison officers
- Artists, photographers, translators, and designers
Unless these jobs appear on a new Temporary Shortage Occupation List, they’re no longer valid grounds for visa sponsorship.
–The minimum salary for most Skilled Worker visas has jumped from £26,000 to £41,700
–Health and care workers must earn at least £25,600, excluding accommodation or transport costs
This sharp increase means that even if a job remains eligible, many employers simply can’t afford to keep migrant staff.
“My employer told me straight—he can’t meet the new salary level,” said Banjo Fola, a Nigerian professional with months left on his visa. “I have no idea what happens next.”
According to Sulaimon Okewole, CEO of Cardinal E-School and Edu Services, over 10,000 Nigerians may be forced to return home or seek alternatives in countries with more flexible immigration systems.
“The UK’s message is loud and clear,” Okewole said. “Only those in the highest-paid roles are welcome now. Everyone else is being shown the door.”
Back in Nigeria, families are already feeling the ripple effects. Eniola, a student in Ibadan, says her mother, a caregiver in the UK, is facing the end of her job—and possibly her stay.
“She’s scared. She said her role is no longer on the list. She doesn’t know what comes next.”
The UK granted over 26,000 Skilled Worker visas to Nigerians in 2023, up from just 8,000 in 2022.
But with visa approvals plummeting in 2024 and new rules now in place, the once open door to opportunity has slammed shut for many.
