Skilled Worker Visa Salary Requirements 2026: Everything You Need to Know

The salary requirements for the UK Skilled Worker visa changed significantly in April 2024 — and they remain in force in 2026. If you are applying for a Skilled Worker visa, extending one, or sponsoring an employee, you need to understand the current thresholds.

This post explains the current rules in plain English.

What Are the Current Salary Thresholds?

There are two thresholds you need to be aware of:

The general threshold: £41,700 per year. This is the minimum salary for most Skilled Worker visa applications made on or after 4 April 2024.

The occupation going rate: The higher of £41,700 or the going rate for the specific occupation code (SOC code). If the going rate for your role is higher than £41,700, you must be paid at least the going rate.

You must meet whichever figure is higher — the general threshold or the going rate. Paying the general threshold alone is not always enough.

Are There Any Lower Thresholds?

Yes. Reduced thresholds apply in certain circumstances:

• New entrant rate — 70% of the going rate applies if you are under 26, a recent graduate, or in a recognised training programme. The general threshold for new entrants is £33,700.
• National living wage for care workers — specific rules apply to the health and care sector following the shortage occupation changes.
• PhD-level roles — a 10% reduction in the going rate may apply in some circumstances.

What Is a SOC Code and How Do I Find the Going Rate?

Every job role in the Skilled Worker system is assigned a Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code. The going rate is set for each SOC code and published in the Home Office’s Appendix Skilled Occupations.

Finding the right SOC code for your role is critical — an incorrect code can lead to refusal. If your role spans multiple activities, you need to identify the code that best reflects your primary duties.

If you are an employer, the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) you assign to the worker must correctly reflect the SOC code, and the salary must meet the going rate for that code.

What About Part-Time Workers?

The salary thresholds are based on hourly rates, not just annual salary. A part-time worker can qualify for a Skilled Worker visa if their hourly rate meets the threshold — even if the annual salary is lower because of the reduced hours. The calculation is: annual salary divided by hours per week divided by 52.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong SOC code — always match the primary duties of the role, not just the job title.
• Forgetting about allowances — some allowances count towards the salary threshold and some do not. Guaranteed allowances count; discretionary bonuses do not.
• Not checking the going rate — the general £41,700 threshold and the going rate are two separate tests. Both must be met.
• Forgetting that the salary must be paid consistently — the visa can be curtailed if salary drops below the required level after entry.

What If You Are Already in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa?

If you are extending your Skilled Worker visa or switching employers, the current thresholds apply to your new application. If your salary has not kept pace with the new thresholds, you will need to address this before making an application.

Skilled Worker visa questions? Book a free call — 0742 7858 876 | sajjad@faranitaylor.com