Following the April 2024 salary threshold increases — the largest in the history of the UK immigration system — the Skilled Worker visa remains the primary route for non-UK nationals to work in Britain. As of 2026, the general minimum salary stands at £38,700 per year, up from £26,200 before the reform. Here is everything you need to know.
The Points-Based System
The UK uses a points-based immigration system. To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, you must score at least 70 points. Points are awarded as follows:
| Requirement | Points | Tradeable? |
|---|---|---|
| Job offer from licensed sponsor | 20 | No |
| Job at required skill level (RQF 3+) | 20 | No |
| English language at required level | 10 | No |
| Salary meets general threshold (£38,700) | 20 | Yes |
| Job is on Shortage Occupation List | 20 | Yes |
| PhD relevant to job | 10 | Yes |
| PhD in STEM field relevant to job | 20 | Yes |
2026 Salary Thresholds
The general threshold is £38,700/year or the "going rate" for the specific occupation code (whichever is higher). Important exceptions apply:
- New entrants (under 26, recent graduates, switching from student visa): 70% of the going rate, minimum £30,960
- Shortage occupations: 80% of going rate (the 20% discount was reduced from the previous 80% that existed before 2024)
- Health and Care visa occupations: NHS-specific pay scales apply; the general £38,700 threshold does not apply to most clinical roles
Finding a Licensed Sponsor
Your employer must hold a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence. You can search the UK government's register of licensed sponsors to verify any employer. Once your employer issues a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), you can apply for the visa. The CoS contains a unique reference number you will need during your application.
English Language Requirement
You must demonstrate English at B1 level on the CEFR scale. Acceptable evidence includes:
- A degree taught in English from an approved country
- IELTS for UKVI (score of at least 4.0 in each component for B1)
- Trinity College London ISE or GESE tests
- Nationality exemption: citizens of majority English-speaking countries do not need to prove English
How to Apply
- Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer
- Check your eligibility using the visa checker
- Apply online at gov.uk (outside the UK) or use the UK Immigration: ID Check app
- Pay the visa fee: £719–£1,639 depending on length and role type, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (currently £1,035/year)
- Provide biometrics at a Visa Application Centre
- Wait for a decision — typically 3 weeks for standard, or 5 working days for priority service (£500 extra)
Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
After 5 years on the Skilled Worker visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), the UK's permanent residency. You must have spent no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period. After ILR, you can apply for British citizenship after 12 additional months.
Bringing Family Members
Dependant partners and children under 18 can join you in the UK. They may work without restriction. Each dependant must pay separate visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Key Changes in 2025–2026
- The Shortage Occupation List was replaced by the Immigration Salary List; fewer occupations now receive a salary discount
- Care workers sponsored by private companies now face stricter rules including restrictions on bringing dependants
- Graduate visa route remains separate and does not count toward Skilled Worker settlement time
Bottom Line
The 2024 salary increases made the Skilled Worker visa significantly more restrictive. For most roles, you now need a salary of at least £38,700. If your offer is below this threshold, check whether your occupation is on the Immigration Salary List or whether you qualify as a new entrant. See the full UK visa guide for occupation-specific salary going rates.