Some changes which will affect the fishing industry include a rise in the English language threshold for migrant workers in the UK, and their partners.
Seafish – the public body supporting the UK’s fishing industry – has issued updated guidance to help employers understand upcoming changes to UK immigration rules and how they will affect recruitment from overseas.
The move follows UK Government announcements in October 2025 that set out major reforms to the Skilled Worker Visa system. The new rules will roll out during 2026 and will change how fishing businesses hire and retain migrant workers.
The changes include an increased English language threshold for migrant workers and their partners. The Temporary Shortage List concession will end in December 2026 and fishing roles will not feature on future shortage occupation lists.
There is no confirmation yet on whether existing visa holders will be able to renew their Skilled Worker Visa under the same SOC code after December 31, 2026.
The briefing warns that a new regulation will stop overseas hiring for fishing roles entirely from the end of 2026, raising particular concerns for coastal regions that depend on migrant crews.
Seafish Head of Industry Workforce Issues, Neil McAleese, said: “These changes will have far-reaching consequences for the UK fishing industry.
“Our new guidance is designed to equip employers with clear, practical information to support workforce planning and ensure continued compliance.
“Acting now is crucial for businesses that rely on foreign labour.”
The new briefing note is available on the Seafish website.
Seafish has also published a series of Skilled Worker Visa guides, first released in 2024, which remain available online for employers seeking further support.
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