The Skilled Worker Visa is one of the most common routes for people who want to live and work in the UK. However, it comes with specific requirements, including the need to meet a minimum salary threshold.
This rule is designed to ensure that visa holders are filling skilled roles that match the UK’s labour and pay standards.
In this article, we explain what the current Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold is, how it works, who sets it and what exceptions might apply in certain circumstances.
The purpose of the salary threshold
The salary threshold is part of the UK government’s points-based immigration system. It ensures that workers entering the UK are being paid fairly and that employers do not use overseas recruitment to undercut local wages.
To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must have a valid job offer from a UK employer who holds a sponsor licence. The role must also meet the appropriate skill level and salary requirements for that occupation.
The current minimum salary threshold
As of 2025, the general salary threshold for most Skilled Worker Visa applicants is £38,700 per year or the going rate for the specific job type, whichever is higher. This represents a significant increase from the previous threshold of £26,200.
The change was introduced by the Home Office as part of broader immigration reforms aimed at reducing overall net migration and encouraging employers to prioritise local recruitment where possible.
In practical terms, this means an applicant must be offered a job with a salary that meets or exceeds the national threshold or the published going rate for their occupation code under the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) list.
The going rate for each occupation
Each eligible job under the Skilled Worker route has its own going rate set by the Home Office. For example, roles in IT, engineering or finance tend to have higher salary levels than those in healthcare or education. Employers must refer to the government’s official list of eligible occupations to determine the appropriate rate.
If the going rate for your job is higher than £38,700, your employer must pay at least that amount. However, if the going rate is lower, you will still need to meet the minimum threshold unless an exception applies.
Salary exceptions and reductions
Certain applicants may qualify for a lower salary threshold. Common exceptions include:
Shortage occupation roles
Some roles that face ongoing labour shortages may allow a salary reduction of up to 20% below the standard threshold.
Health and care workers
The Health and Care Worker Visa has its own salary requirements, which are generally lower than the standard Skilled Worker route. This category is open to NHS employees and those working in eligible medical or social care roles.
New entrants to the labour market
Applicants under 26 years old, recent graduates or those switching from student visas may be considered new entrants. They can often qualify with a lower salary as they are at an early stage in their career.
PhD-qualified workers
Applicants with a relevant PhD may also qualify for a lower salary threshold, particularly if their field of study directly relates to their job role.
Related reading: How to Work in the UK After Completing Studies
It’s important to note that these exceptions only apply when all other eligibility requirements are met and the job remains at the required skill level.
How the salary is calculated
The salary must reflect guaranteed basic pay and cannot include overtime, bonuses or other temporary payments. Employers must ensure that the job offer and employment contract clearly show that the salary meets the minimum requirement.
If the Home Office finds that the salary falls short of the threshold, the visa application will be refused and the employer’s sponsor licence could be at risk.
Why the threshold matters for employers
For employers, the Skilled Worker Visa salary rules are not just about compliance but also about maintaining a valid sponsor licence. Failing to meet salary obligations can lead to penalties, licence suspension or revocation.
Employers must also retain accurate records of salaries, job descriptions and employment contracts for all sponsored workers. These details may be checked during compliance visits by the Home Office.
Getting expert advice
With salary thresholds and eligibility rules constantly changing, it is vital for both employers and applicants to seek professional immigration advice. Whether you are applying for a Skilled Worker Visa or managing sponsored employees, ensuring compliance from the outset can save time, money and stress.
Please note that this article is solely for informational purposes. It’s not a substitute for legal advice. We encourage readers to contact Osbourne Pinner for case-specific guidance.
Our immigration solicitors can assess your case, explain your options and guide you through every stage of the process. That starts with a free 30-minute consultation at our offices or remotely. We have offices in Harrow, Canary Wharf, Piccadilly Circus and Manchester or you can speak to us on a video call. Arrange your consultation by calling 0203 983 5080, emailing [email protected] or filling out the form below.
