Article Overview
Salary is one of the most technical parts of the UK Skilled Worker visa. A role can be eligible and the employer can be licensed, but the application will still fail if the salary does not meet the right figure, calculated the right way. This guide explains how the rules fit together.
The basic rule: the higher of two figures
Your salary must meet the higher of:
- The general salary threshold: £41,700 a year for most new applicants.
- The going rate: a salary level set for each occupation code.
For example, if your occupation's going rate is £45,000, you must be paid at least £45,000, even though the general threshold is lower. If the going rate is £36,000, you must still be paid at least £41,700, unless a discount applies.
What is the going rate?
Each eligible occupation has a four-digit SOC 2020 code with a published going rate, based on UK pay data. The going rate is usually based on a 37.5-hour week, and it is adjusted pro rata if your contracted hours are different. Choosing the correct occupation code is therefore crucial; it must match the real duties of the job, not the one with the lowest rate.
Lower thresholds for some applicants
New entrants
New entrants can be paid less than the standard figures. You may count as a new entrant if, for example, you are under 26, switching from a Student or Graduate visa, a recent graduate, or working towards a recognised professional qualification. New entrant status is time-limited.
Immigration Salary List
Some roles on the Immigration Salary List benefit from a lower general threshold. The list is reviewed regularly and has been reduced in recent years, so check whether your occupation is currently on it.
Health and education roles
Certain roles in health and education are assessed against national pay scales rather than the standard going rates.
Which pay counts?
- Counts: basic contracted salary for up to 48 hours a week.
- Usually does not count: overtime, bonuses, commission, most allowances such as accommodation or travel, and benefits in kind.
If your package includes large allowances, the basic salary alone must still meet the requirement.
Extensions and transitional rules
Workers who were first sponsored before major rule changes may continue under the salary levels that applied to them for extensions and settlement, under transitional arrangements. Check which rules apply to your case before extending or changing jobs.
Salary for settlement
When applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain on the Skilled Worker route, your sponsor must confirm that you are paid at least the salary required for settlement at that time. Pay rises and job changes should be planned with this in mind.
Common salary mistakes
- Choosing an occupation code that does not match the job.
- Counting allowances that do not qualify.
- Hours that do not match the salary calculation.
- Assuming new entrant status applies after it has expired.
How ZANS Consultants can help
We check the occupation code, salary and hours on your Certificate of Sponsorship before you apply. Learn more about our UK Skilled Worker visa service, read our Certificate of Sponsorship guide, or book a consultation.
General information only: salary thresholds, going rates and lists change. Check the current GOV.UK guidance before you apply. The Home Office makes the final decision on every application.
