Do I meet the salary thresholds for a skilled worker visa?
As candidates consider the Skilled Worker visa, one of the main considerations is whether they will meet the salary threshold required for sponsorship.
We have a blog here which outlines in further details an overview of other considerations for this visa. This post will focus specifically the salary requirements.
There are a number of considerations when calculating a precise salary threshold and as such this blog will be unable to cover every eventuality and consideration, it is therefore important that if in doubt that the sponsor seeks legal advice before proceeding with assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS). An incorrectly assigned COS could result in a refused application. The Home Office have changed the rules a number of times in the last 2 years. This means that there are broadly three cohorts of skilled worker;
- Those first sponsored before 4th April 2024 on or after 11th July 2025
- Those first sponsored between 4th April 2024 and 11th July 2025
- Those first sponsored on or after 11th July 2025
This means that working out the minimum salary can be very confusing.
When working out the minimum salary for your role, you must take the following steps;
- Identify the relevant standard occupation code (SoC)
- Identify the salary threshold based on the relevant option A-K
- Identify the ‘going rate’ for your standard occupation code and option
The salary must meet both the threshold and the ‘going rate’. You therefore need to consider both and make sure that the salary meets or exceed the higher of the two.
- Identify the standard occupation code
The Home Office publish a list of SOC codes which are eligible for sponsorship in Appendix Skilled Occupations. Some lower skilled SoC are no longer eligible for those new to the skilled worker visa, but individuals already sponsored in those codes can extend.
- Identify the relevant salary option (A-K)
The correct option will depend on;
- When you were first sponsored as a skilled worker
- Whether you qualify for a salary discount, for example if you are a new entrant to the labour market or have a relevant PhD
- Whether you are sponsored in a health or education role
Each option has a different threshold salary that is the absolute minimum that a worker in that option can be paid. This cannot be reduced, even if the worker works part time hours.
The thresholds at the date of writing are as follows;
| Option | Salary Threshold |
| A | £41,700 |
| B | £37,500 |
| C | £33,400 |
| D | £33,400 |
| E | £33,400 |
| F | £31,300 |
| G | £28,200 |
| H | £25,000 |
| I | £25,000 |
| J | £25,000 |
| K | £25,000 |
- Identify the ‘going rate’ for your standard occupation code
The going rates are set out in Appendix Skilled Occupations.
- Those in options A-E should look in section one.
- Those in options F-J should look in section two.
- Those in option K should look in sections three, four and five
These rates can be pro-rated up or down based on the number of weekly hours that you work.
Worked Examples
These examples are illustrative of the principles, the immigration rules are frequently changing and as such the below figures may become out of date.
Example One
A CEO has not been sponsored as a skilled worker before. There are no applicable discounts. The relevant option is therefore option A.
The SoC is code 1111 Chief executives and senior officials.
The worker works 37.5 hours per week.
- Minimum threshold for option A, £41,700
- Minimum going rate for SOC 1111, £88,100
The CEO must be paid whichever is greater, meaning based off a 37.5 hour working week this CEO would need to be paid £88,100 to be eligible for sponsorship.
Example Two
An Architect has not been sponsored as a skilled worker before. The Applicant is 22 years old and therefore relying on the new entrant provisions for new entrants to the labour market. They are therefore eligible for a discounted minimum salary.
The SoC is code 2451 Architects.
- Minimum threshold for option E, £33,400
- Minimum going rate for SOC 2451 with 70% discount, £33,320
The Architect must be paid whichever is greater, meaning based of a 37.5 hour working week this Architect would need to be paid £33,400 to be eligible for sponsorship.
Information correct on date of publication.
Getting advice on salary requirements
At OTB Legal we regularly advise sponsors on the salary requirements for sponsored worker.
If you are an employer who wants to sponsor workers, we would be very happy to arrange a free one off consultation in order to discuss our services and costs. You can book your free initial consultation here.
If you are a workers, and would like advice on salary requirements for your role, then we offer a one off paid for consultation for £180 inc VAT. You can book a one off paid consultation here.
If you already have a certificate of sponsorship and you want assistance with your skilled worker visa, then we would review your certificate of sponsorship as part of our advice package. We would also provide advice on the other requirements of for the route, and any documents required to submit a successful application. You can book a skilled worker appointment here.
Contact Us
Not quite ready to book an appointment yet or unsure if it’s the right step for you? No worries! We understand that making decisions regarding legal matters can be daunting.
Reach out to our Client Care Manager, Rikki, who will be more than happy to assist you and guide you in the right direction.
Your peace of mind matters to us, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact Rikki today for personalised guidance and assistance.
