Introduction
Understanding the Skilled Worker visa salary requirements is essential for both UK employers and overseas job seekers. With the 2025 policy updates implemented by the UK Home Office, the minimum salary thresholds for sponsored employment have significantly increased, impacting eligibility for many roles across different industries.
In this guide, we at UKBloom break down the latest Skilled Worker visa salary rules, including exceptions, job-specific rates, shortage occupations, and updated thresholds as of July 2025. This guide is designed to help applicants and employers navigate the new requirements with clarity and confidence.
Table of Contents
What Is the Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker visa allows overseas nationals to live and work in the UK for an approved employer that holds a Sponsor Licence. The visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) route and is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Work for a licensed sponsor
- Be offered a job on the eligible occupation list
- Meet the English language requirement
- Earn at least the required salary threshold
Skilled Worker Visa Salary Thresholds – July 2025
As of 22 July 2025, the salary threshold has been significantly increased. Here’s a breakdown of the new minimum salary rules:
| Category | Minimum Annual Salary | Minimum Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| General Threshold | £38,700 | £15.88 |
| New Entrants | £30,960 | £12.78 |
| Shortage Occupation | £30,960 | £12.78 |
| Health and Care Roles | £23,200 | £10.75 |
| PhD-Level Jobs (STEM) | £30,960 | £12.78 |
| Education Roles (Secondary, Maths, Physics, etc.) | £23,200 | £10.75 |
⚠️ Important: The higher salary threshold of £38,700 applies to most standard Skilled Worker jobs unless exemptions apply.
Exceptions to the Salary Threshold
Some applicants may qualify under lower thresholds due to special conditions:
1. New Entrants
Applicants aged under 26, recent UK graduates, or those switching from Student or Graduate visas can qualify for a reduced salary threshold.
2. Shortage Occupation List (SOL)
Jobs on the Shortage Occupation List allow for a lower salary threshold. These include:
- Secondary school teachers in specific subjects
- Civil engineers
- Social workers
- Certain health professionals
3. Health and Care Worker Visa
Specific roles within the NHS and care sector have a reduced salary requirement to encourage recruitment.
Occupation Code-Based Salary Requirements
Instead of a one-size-fits-all threshold, the UK now uses occupation-specific going rates. This means your job must pay the higher of:
- The general salary threshold; or
- The ‘going rate’ for the specific job
Here are some examples:
| Occupation | Code | Going Rate (Annual) | Going Rate (Hourly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineers | 21200 | £41,800 | £16.50 |
| IT Business Analysts | 21305 | £45,000 | £17.30 |
| Software Developers | 21306 | £44,800 | £17.22 |
| Secondary School Teachers | 23140 | £30,000 | £11.80 |
| Registered Nurses | 22310 | £26,200 | £10.30 |
| Care Workers | 61450 | No longer eligible from July 2025 | – |
List of Skilled Occupation Codes (Updated) →
How to Check If Your Salary Meets the Threshold
To qualify under the Skilled Worker visa, your offered salary must meet:
- The minimum salary threshold (e.g., £38,700), and
- The ‘going rate’ for your occupation code
Example:
If you’re offered a software developer job with a salary of £42,000:
- General threshold = £38,700 ✔️
- Going rate = £44,800 ❌
Result: Not eligible unless under new entrant or shortage occupation route.
Skilled Worker Visa Points System (2025)
| Requirement | Points |
|---|---|
| Job offer from licensed sponsor | 20 |
| Job at appropriate skill level | 20 |
| English language B1 | 10 |
| Salary between £38,700 and £45,799 | 20 |
| Salary over £45,800 | 30 |
| Shortage occupation | +20 |
| PhD in STEM related to job | +20 |
Check Skilled Worker Visa Points Calculator →
Changes from July 2025
- Salary thresholds increased from £26,200 to £38,700
- Care workers and senior care workers removed from eligible list
- No more dependants for shortage occupation jobs
- Employers must meet higher compliance standards
- Student/graduate switchers still allowed with reduced thresholds
Read our in-depth article:
Skilled Worker Visa Changes – 22 July 2025
Employer Responsibilities
Employers must:
- Offer a compliant salary meeting updated thresholds
- Assign a valid Certificate of Sponsorship
- Be listed on the Register of Licensed Sponsors
- Ensure role is genuine and meets eligibility
Tips for Applicants
- Use correct job title and occupation code
- Check if you’re a new entrant or applying from within the UK
- Confirm job description matches official job codes
- Negotiate a salary that meets both the general and going rate thresholds
Download our free templates:
UK CV Format for Skilled Worker Visa
FAQs – Skilled Worker Visa Salary
What is the minimum salary for Skilled Worker visa in 2025?
From 22 July 2025, the standard minimum is £38,700 unless exempt under a lower threshold.
Do care workers still qualify?
No. From July 2025, care workers and senior care workers are no longer eligible under the Skilled Worker route.
Can I switch from student visa with a lower salary?
Yes. If you’re a recent graduate or under 26, you may qualify as a new entrant, which has a lower salary threshold of £30,960.
Does my salary include bonuses?
No. Only guaranteed gross basic pay counts toward the salary requirement. Bonuses, overtime, and allowances are excluded.
Final Thoughts
The new Skilled Worker visa salary rules are more stringent, but understanding them is key to a successful UK immigration application. Whether you’re an applicant preparing your documents or an employer planning to hire international talent, compliance with the updated salary thresholds is non-negotiable.
At UKBloom, we offer the latest guides, job tools, and immigration updates to help you stay informed.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For official information and application guidance, please refer to gov.uk or consult a qualified UK immigration advisor.
