Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold 2026: What You Need to Earn to Work in the UK

The Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold 2026 UK continues to shape the future of international recruitment in Britain. If you’re planning to work in the United Kingdom or your employer wants to sponsor you, understanding these salary requirements is absolutely crucial to your application’s success. The landscape has changed dramatically over the past two years, and knowing exactly what you need to earn can mean the difference between approval and refusal.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about the current and upcoming salary thresholds, explain who qualifies for discounts, clarify the going rates system, and help you understand whether your job offer meets the requirements. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, tech specialist, engineer, or working in any other eligible occupation, this article will empower you to navigate the UK immigration system with confidence.

Understanding the Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold 2026 UK

The Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold 2026 UK stands at £41,700 per year for most new applicants. This represents the baseline salary requirement that came into effect in July 2025, marking a substantial increase from previous thresholds and reflecting the UK government’s ongoing efforts to align immigration salaries with domestic wage levels.

This isn’t just a number plucked from thin air. The £41,700 threshold reflects the Office for National Statistics’ Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) data, specifically the 50th percentile for graduate-level roles. The government reviews and adjusts these figures regularly, typically aligned with the latest ASHE data releases.

Why the Increase?

The UK government has implemented these changes as part of broader immigration reforms aimed at reducing net migration whilst ensuring businesses can still access the skilled talent they need. The salary increases serve multiple purposes:

• Encouraging employers to invest in domestic workforce training and development
• Ensuring migrant workers receive fair wages comparable to UK residents
• Reducing overall immigration numbers through stricter financial requirements
• Protecting lower-skilled roles for the domestic labour market

The Dual Requirement System

Here’s where it gets important: you don’t just need to meet the general £41,700 threshold. The Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold 2026 UK operates on a dual requirement system. Your salary must meet the higher of:

1. The general threshold: £41,700 per year
2. The going rate: The specific salary benchmark for your occupation code

This means that even if your employer offers you £42,000, if your occupation’s going rate is £45,000, you won’t qualify under the standard route. You must meet whichever figure is higher.

Hourly Rate Requirement

Additionally, most graduate-level roles (RQF Level 6 and above) must also meet an hourly rate of £17.13, calculated on a maximum of 48 hours per week. This prevents employers from inflating salaries through excessive working hours whilst paying below minimum acceptable hourly rates.

What Are Skilled Worker Visa Going Rates?

The concept of going rates forms a critical part of the Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold 2026 UK framework. Every eligible occupation has a Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code, and each SOC code carries its own specific going rate.

How Going Rates Work

Going rates represent the median salary for each occupation according to ONS data. These figures are calculated based on a standard 37.5-hour working week and must be pro-rated if your contract specifies different hours.

For example:

• Software developers (SOC 2136): Going rate of approximately £42,500
• Civil engineers (SOC 2121): Going rate of approximately £41,700
• Marketing managers (SOC 1132): Going rate of approximately £44,000
• Secondary education teachers (SOC 2314): Going rate based on national pay scales

Finding Your Occupation’s Going Rate

To determine your specific going rate:

1. Identify your 4-digit SOC code using the CASCOT occupation coding tool on GOV.UK
2. Check the official “Skilled Worker visa: going rates for eligible occupations” document
3. Ensure you’re using the most current version, as rates update regularly
4. Pro-rate the figure if your working hours differ from 37.5 per week

Healthcare and Education Exceptions

Some healthcare and education roles operate under different systems. Jobs paid according to national pay scales (such as NHS Agenda for Change) have their going rates determined by those scales rather than ASHE data. This reflects the structured nature of public sector pay in these essential services.

Skilled Worker Visa Minimum Salary: Exceptions and Discounts

Not everyone needs to meet the full Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold 2026 UK of £41,700. The immigration rules provide several alternative pathways through what’s called the “tradeable points” system. These exceptions recognise that certain circumstances justify lower salary requirements.

New Entrant Discount

The new entrant category allows qualifying applicants to be paid 70% of the standard going rate for their occupation, provided their salary is at least £33,400 per year.

Who qualifies as a new entrant:

• Individuals under 26 years old on the date of application
• Those switching from a Student visa or Graduate visa
• Those who completed a UK degree within the past two years
• People working towards professional qualifications or chartered status
• Those in postdoctoral positions in specified scientific or higher education roles
• Individuals working towards full registration with a professional body

Important limitations:

• New entrant status can only be used for a maximum of four years
• Time spent on the Graduate visa counts towards this four-year limit
• Once you exceed four years, you must meet the full salary requirements
• When extending your visa or switching employers, carefully check whether you still qualify

PhD Holder Discounts

If you hold a PhD relevant to your job, you may qualify for reduced salary requirements:

STEM PhD discount:

• 80% of the standard going rate
• Minimum salary of £33,400

Non-STEM PhD discount:

• 90% of the standard going rate
• Minimum salary of £37,500

Requirements:

• Must hold a UK PhD or equivalent overseas qualification verified by Ecctis
• PhD must be relevant to your sponsored role
• Your employer must confirm the qualification’s relevance
• Check your occupation code appears in the eligible PhD occupations list

Immigration Salary List (ISL) Roles

Certain occupations appear on the Immigration Salary List, reflecting recognised skill shortages. If your role is on the ISL:

• Minimum salary of £33,400 (for graduate-level roles)
• Must still meet 100% of the going rate for your occupation
• Reduced visa fees and lower Immigration Health Surcharge
• The ISL is scheduled to be phased out by 31 December 2026

Temporary Shortage List (TSL)

Introduced in July 2025, the Temporary Shortage List includes roles at RQF levels 3-5 (below degree level) that support the UK’s industrial strategy:

• Time-limited until 31 December 2026
• Roles may be retained beyond this date only if recommended by the Migration Advisory Committee
• Salary thresholds vary by occupation
• New applicants in TSL roles cannot bring dependants

Health and Care Visa Concessions

Health and Care Visa holders benefit from unique salary arrangements:

• Minimum threshold of £25,000 for roles on NHS pay scales
• Going rates based on 25th percentile rather than 50th percentile
• Applies to qualified doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and adult social care workers
• Care worker (SOC 6135) and senior care worker (SOC 6136) roles now closed to new overseas recruitment

Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold 2026: Transitional Arrangements

Understanding transitional arrangements is essential because not everyone moving into 2026 will face the full £41,700 requirement immediately. The Home Office recognises that sudden changes would create hardship for existing visa holders and their employers.

Who Benefits from Lower Transitional Rates?

If you were first granted Skilled Worker permission before 4 April 2024 and have held continuous permission since then, you may qualify for lower thresholds:

Transitional general threshold: £31,300 instead of £41,700

Transitional new entrant threshold: £25,000 instead of £33,400

Important deadline: If you’re extending your visa before 1 December 2026, you may still be able to rely on the £31,300 threshold. After this date, new salary thresholds apply even for extensions.

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Issue Dates Matter

The date your Certificate of Sponsorship was issued determines which rules apply:

• Before 4 April 2024: Transitional lower rates may apply
• On or after 4 April 2024: New higher rates apply
• On or after 22 July 2025: Latest rates and going rates apply

Switching Employers

If you switch employers whilst on a Skilled Worker Visa:

• The new salary must meet current thresholds
• Transitional arrangements don’t automatically carry over
• Your new employer must issue a new CoS under current rules
• Plan ahead if relying on transitional rates that may expire

Settlement (ILR) Requirements

When applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years:

• You must meet the full current salary threshold
• No transitional discounts apply
• Must earn £41,700 or the going rate, whichever is higher
• Plan your salary progression from day one

Calculating Your Skilled Worker Visa Salary: Practical Examples

Understanding the theory is one thing, but seeing how it works in practice helps clarify these complex rules. Let’s examine several real-world scenarios.

Example 1: Standard Software Developer

Scenario:

• Job: Software developer (SOC 2136)
• Age: 30 years old
• Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree
• Offered salary: £43,000
• Going rate: £42,500
• Working hours: 37.5 per week

Assessment:

• General threshold: £41,700 ✓
• Going rate: £42,500 ✓
• Hourly rate: £22.22 (exceeds £17.13) ✓
• Result: QUALIFIES

Example 2: New Entrant Marketing Assistant

Scenario:

• Job: Marketing associate professional (SOC 3543)
• Age: 24 years old
• Qualifications: UK master’s degree completed 6 months ago
• Offered salary: £30,000
• Going rate: £35,000
• Switching from Student visa

Assessment:

• Qualifies as new entrant (under 26, recent UK graduate)
• New entrant minimum: £33,400
• Offered salary: £30,000 ✗
• 70% of going rate: £24,500 ✓
• Result: DOES NOT QUALIFY (doesn’t meet £33,400 minimum)

To qualify, the employer would need to offer at least £33,400.

Example 3: PhD Holder in Engineering

Scenario:

• Job: Mechanical engineer (SOC 2123)
• Age: 35 years old
• Qualifications: PhD in Mechanical Engineering
• Offered salary: £35,000
• Going rate: £43,000

Assessment:

• Qualifies for STEM PhD discount
• Minimum salary: £33,400 ✓
• 80% of going rate: £34,400 ✓
• Offered salary: £35,000 (exceeds both) ✓
• Result: QUALIFIES

Example 4: NHS Nurse

Scenario:

• Job: Registered nurse (SOC 2231)
• Qualifications: Nursing degree
• Offered salary: £28,000
• NHS Band 5 pay scale
• Applying under Health and Care Visa

Assessment:

• Health and Care Visa minimum: £25,000 ✓
• Going rate based on NHS pay scale: £28,000 ✓
• Result: QUALIFIES

Example 5: Part-Time Consultant

Scenario:

• Job: Management consultant (SOC 2424)
• Offered annual equivalent: £50,000
• Working hours: 30 hours per week (not 37.5)
• Going rate: £48,000 (based on 37.5 hours)

Assessment:

• Pro-rated going rate: £48,000 × (30/37.5) = £38,400
• Pro-rated offered salary: £50,000 × (30/37.5) = £40,000
• General threshold: £41,700 ✗
• Result: DOES NOT QUALIFY (doesn’t meet £41,700 minimum)

The full £41,700 minimum applies regardless of part-time hours.

Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold 2026: What’s Changing?

Looking ahead into 2026, several developments will shape the Skilled Worker Visa salary landscape.

Expected Salary Adjustments

The Home Office typically updates going rates annually based on new ASHE data. Whilst no specific announcement has been made for 2026, historical patterns suggest:

• Annual adjustments of 2-5% reflecting wage inflation
• Updates usually implemented in spring (March-April)
• Individual occupation going rates may vary significantly based on sector-specific wage movements

Immigration Salary List Phase-Out

The Immigration Salary List is scheduled to be phased out entirely by 31 December 2026:

• Occupations may be removed earlier if circumstances change
• The Temporary Shortage List will replace it for below-degree roles
• Only roles recommended by the Migration Advisory Committee will remain
• Employers should plan for higher salary requirements as ISL concessions disappear

Potential Policy Developments

The UK government continues reviewing immigration policy. Potential changes on the horizon include:

• Further increases to the general salary threshold
• Modifications to the skill level requirements
• Changes to dependant rights and restrictions
• Adjustments to the new entrant discount periods
• Reforms to settlement requirements

The Migration Advisory Committee Review

The MAC is due to publish recommendations on the Temporary Shortage List in 2026, which may include:

• Updated salary thresholds for shortage occupations
• Additions or removals from the TSL
• Sector-specific recommendations
• Evidence-based assessments of labour market needs

Skilled Worker Visa Salary Requirements: Additional Costs to Consider

The Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold 2026 UK isn’t the only financial consideration. Both employers and applicants face substantial costs throughout the visa process.

Employer Costs

Sponsoring organisations must budget for:

Sponsor Licence:

• Small businesses/charities: £574
• Medium and large organisations: £1,579
• Processing time: Approximately 8 weeks

Certificate of Sponsorship:

• Standard fee: £525 per person (increased from £239 in 2025)
• Reduced fee: £25 for some shortage occupations (phasing out)

Immigration Skills Charge (ISC):

• £1,320 per person per year from 16 December 2025 (32% increase)
• £364 per year for small businesses and charities
• Payable for certificates of 6 months or longer
• Exemptions apply to certain roles and circumstances

Applicant Costs

Skilled Worker Visa applicants must pay:

Visa Application Fee:

• From outside UK (up to 3 years): £719
• From within UK (up to 3 years): £827
• From outside UK (over 3 years): £1,420
• From within UK (over 3 years): £1,500

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):

• £1,035 per person per year
• Paid upfront for the full visa duration
• 3-year visa: £3,105
• 5-year visa: £5,175

Other Costs:

• English language test: £150-£200
• Financial maintenance requirement: £1,270 in savings
• Translation services if documents aren’t in English
• Biometric appointment fees (varies by location)
• Priority services (optional): £500-£1,000

Total Cost Example

For a 5-year Skilled Worker Visa from outside the UK:

How to Meet the Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold 2026 UK

If your current job offer doesn’t quite meet the threshold, don’t lose hope. Several strategies can help bridge the gap.

Negotiate Your Salary Package

When discussing your offer:

• Present evidence of the minimum salary requirements
• Demonstrate your value and relevant experience
• Highlight any unique skills or qualifications
• Research industry salary standards in your location
• Consider the employer’s budget and flexibility

Include Allowable Payments

Not all compensation counts towards your salary, but certain elements do:

Allowable:

• Guaranteed base salary
• Guaranteed allowances (if paid throughout your visa period and available to settled workers)
• On-call allowances for certain medical roles

Not allowable:

• One-off bonuses or payments
• Performance-related bonuses
• Accommodation allowances
• Travel expenses
• Pension contributions
• Amounts deducted to cover visa or immigration costs

Consider Alternative Roles

If your preferred role doesn’t meet requirements:

• Look for more senior positions in your field
• Consider roles in high-demand sectors with better pay
• Research occupations on the Immigration Salary List
• Explore whether you qualify for any discounts
• Check if similar roles have higher going rates

Timing Your Application

Strategic timing can make a difference:

• Apply before transitional arrangements expire (1 December 2026)
• Wait for annual salary increases if close to threshold
• Consider whether gaining UK experience first might help
• Evaluate the Graduate visa route if you’re a recent UK graduate

Explore Alternative Visa Routes

The Skilled Worker isn’t your only option:

Global Talent Visa:

• No minimum salary requirement
• For leaders or potential leaders in specific fields
• Requires endorsement from designated bodies
• More flexible employment terms

High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa:

• For graduates from top global universities
• No job offer required
• 2-3 years permission
• Can lead to Skilled Worker route

Innovator Founder Visa:

• For entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas
• Requires endorsement from approved body
• Path to settlement after 3 years
• No fixed minimum investment

Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold 2026: Compliance and Penalties

Understanding salary requirements isn’t just about securing your visa. Both employers and workers must maintain compliance throughout the visa period.

Employer Responsibilities

Sponsors must:

• Pay the stated salary consistently and on time
• Report any salary reductions to the Home Office within 10 working days
• Maintain accurate payroll records
• Conduct right to work checks
• Report any changes in worker circumstances
• Keep copies of all relevant documents

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to meet salary requirements can result in:

For employers:

• Sponsor licence downgrade (from A-rated to B-rated)
• Sponsor licence revocation
• Fines and penalties
• Inability to sponsor future workers
• Home Office compliance visits and audits
• Reputational damage

For workers:

• Visa curtailment (cancellation)
• Requirement to leave the UK
• Difficulty obtaining future UK visas
• Impact on settlement applications
• Potential deportation in serious cases

Salary Reductions and Changes

If circumstances change:

• Temporary salary reductions due to sick leave or maternity are generally acceptable
• Permanent reductions below the threshold require Home Office approval
• Changing to a different role may require a new CoS
• Always seek legal advice before making salary changes

Keeping Records

Both parties should maintain:

• Employment contracts
• Payslips and P60s
• Bank statements showing salary payments
• Records of any allowances paid
• Correspondence regarding salary negotiations
• Evidence of any approved changes

Frequently Asked Questions About Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold 2026

Can my employer pay me less if I’m willing to accept it?

No. The salary thresholds are legal requirements, not suggestions. Even if you’re happy to work for less, your employer cannot legally sponsor you below the minimum thresholds. The Home Office will refuse applications that don’t meet these requirements.

Do bonuses count towards my salary?

Generally, no. One-off bonuses, performance-related pay, and annual bonuses don’t count towards your qualifying salary. Only guaranteed base pay and certain guaranteed allowances are included in the calculation.

What happens if I get a pay rise after my visa is granted?

Salary increases are positive and don’t require reporting to the Home Office. However, keep evidence of all salary changes for your records, especially if you plan to apply for settlement or extend your visa later.

Can I work a second job to top up my salary?

Working a second job doesn’t help you meet the salary threshold for your sponsored role. The threshold applies specifically to the job your sponsor is paying you for. However, Skilled Worker Visa holders can take supplementary employment in certain circumstances, subject to restrictions.

What if the going rate increases whilst I hold my visa?

Generally, increases to going rates during your visa validity period don’t affect your current visa. However, when you extend or apply for settlement, you’ll need to meet the requirements in place at that time.

How are part-time salaries calculated?

Part-time salaries must be pro-rated based on your actual working hours. However, the general minimum threshold (£41,700 for new applicants) must still be met regardless of part-time status, which effectively means part-time work below degree level is not viable under this route.

Does location in the UK affect salary requirements?

No. The same salary thresholds apply whether you’re working in London, Edinburgh, Manchester, or anywhere else in the UK. There are no regional variations, despite significant cost of living differences across the country.

Can my employer pay my immigration costs from my salary?

Yes, but these deductions reduce your qualifying salary. If your employer deducts visa fees from your pay, the Home Office will assess your salary after these deductions. Your net salary after deductions must still meet the minimum threshold.

Planning Your Future: Skilled Worker Visa to Settlement

Understanding the salary threshold is just the beginning of your UK journey. Looking beyond 2026, consider your long-term immigration pathway.

The Five-Year Route to ILR

Most Skilled Worker Visa holders can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years of continuous residence:

• Must have held continuous Skilled Worker permission for five years
• Salary must meet full current requirements (no transitional rates)
• Must meet continuous residence requirements (no more than 180 days outside UK in any 12 months)
• Must pass Life in the UK test
• Must meet English language requirement at B1 level

Salary Requirements for Settlement

When applying for ILR, you must meet:

• The full general threshold (currently £41,700)
• OR the going rate for your occupation
• Whichever is higher

No discounts apply for settlement applications:

• New entrant discounts cannot be used
• PhD holder discounts don’t apply
• ISL concessions are not available
• You must meet the full standard rate

Career Progression Planning

To ensure settlement eligibility:

• Request regular salary reviews
• Document your professional development
• Track industry salary benchmarks
• Plan for threshold increases
• Keep detailed employment records
• Maintain continuous employment

Alternative Settlement Routes

Some workers may qualify for faster settlement:

• Innovator Founder route: 3 years to ILR
• Global Talent route: 3-5 years to ILR depending on category
• Certain healthcare roles may have specific provisions

Final Thoughts: Navigating the Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold 2026 UK

The Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold 2026 UK of £41,700 represents a significant investment for both employers and workers. These requirements reflect the UK’s balancing act between controlling immigration numbers and ensuring businesses can access the talent they need to grow and innovate.

Success in navigating these requirements demands:

• Thorough research: Understand your occupation’s specific going rate and any available discounts
• Accurate calculations: Double-check all salary figures and pro-rating for part-time work
• Strategic planning: Consider timing, transitional arrangements, and long-term settlement goals
• Professional advice: Complex cases benefit from immigration lawyer guidance
• Employer cooperation: Work closely with your sponsor to ensure compliance
• Documentation: Maintain meticulous records of all salary payments and changes

The system continues evolving, with regular updates to going rates, threshold amounts, and eligible occupations. Stay informed through official GOV.UK channels and consider how policy changes might affect your individual circumstances.

For those just starting their UK career journey, these salary requirements might seem daunting. However, with proper preparation, realistic expectations, and the right support, securing your Skilled Worker Visa remains an achievable goal. Many thousands of international workers successfully navigate these requirements each year, building rewarding careers whilst contributing to the UK economy.

Whether you’re a new entrant taking your first career steps, an experienced professional switching to the UK market, or a PhD holder bringing specialist expertise, understanding the Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold 2026 UK is your foundation for success. Use this knowledge to make informed decisions, negotiate effectively with employers, and plan your long-term future in the United Kingdom.

For additional support in navigating the UK immigration system, consider exploring resources that can transform your job search strategy and empower your UK career journey. Professional guidance can make all the difference, particularly when dealing with complex salary calculations or unique circumstances. Many successful applicants have found that expert advice on understanding UK visa options can empower informed decisions throughout the application process.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about UK Skilled Worker Visa salary requirements and should not be considered legal advice. Immigration rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements through official GOV.UK sources or consult qualified immigration advisers before making application decisions. Salary thresholds, going rates, and eligibility criteria are subject to change without notice.

Read also: UK Innovator Founder Visa: Your Complete Guide to Building a Business in Britain