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Key Take aways for UK Point based system
- 70-Point System: Applicants need 50 mandatory points (job offer, RQF Level 6 role, English proficiency) and 20 tradeable points (salary, shortage roles, or qualifications).
- 2026 Changes: Higher English language requirements (B2 level from 8 January 2026), a 32% increase in the Immigration Skills Charge (effective 16 December 2025), and proposed extensions to the settlement qualifying period reshape recruitment and costs.
- Compliance is Critical: Maintain Sponsor Licence, issue accurate CoS, and prepare for Home Office audits to avoid penalties.
- Strategic Recruitment: Leverage Graduate Visas (now shortened to 18 months for most), align roles with ISL/TSL, and train managers to streamline visa processes amid rising costs.
Introduction
Sponsoring an overseas hire for a UK role? Here's what the points system means for you as an employer.
To sponsor a non-UK national on a Skilled Worker Visa, your candidate must score a minimum of 70 points - and as the sponsoring employer, you control whether they get there.
50 of those points are mandatory. You determine all three:
- Whether you hold an active sponsor licence (20 points)
- Whether the role is at RQF Level 6 or above (20 points)
- Whether you've confirmed your candidate meets the B2 English requirement (10 points)
This guide covers the full points breakdown, which occupations qualify in 2026, how to verify your sponsor licence status, and how to check a candidate's eligibility before the CoS is assigned.
What is the Points-Based System?
The PBIS is a structured framework that assigns points to visa applicants based on specific criteria, such as job offer, skill level, and English proficiency. To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must score a minimum of 70 points. The system aims to prioritize high-skilled workers, streamline immigration processes, and ensure employers meet sponsorship obligations. HR teams play a pivotal role in facilitating this process by preparing accurate documentation and aligning recruitment with Home Office requirements.
Points Allocation for the Skilled Worker Visa
The PBIS awards points across mandatory and tradeable categories. Below is the 2026 points structure (unchanged from 2025 core allocations, but with updated English requirements):
Total Points Requirement
- Minimum: 70 points (50 mandatory + 20 tradeable).
- HR Tip: Use a points calculator (available on gov.uk) to assess candidates’ eligibility before issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
UK Skilled Worker Visa - 70 Points Breakdown (2026)
Mandatory Points - 50 points required (non-negotiable)
Tradeable Points - 20 points required (combinations allowed)
UK Skilled Worker Visa Eligible Occupations 2026 - What Qualifies
From 22 July 2025, eligible roles must be at RQF Level 6 (degree level) or above for most Skilled Worker applications. This is a tightening from the previous RQF Level 3 minimum.
Exception Roles Below RQF Level 6 that Remain Eligible:
- Roles on the Temporary Shortage List (TSL) - reviewed periodically by the Migration Advisory Committee
- Roles on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) - where salary and going rate conditions are met
- Roles already sponsored before 22 July 2025 - transitional rules may apply for extensions
How to check if a specific role is eligible:
- Identify the role's SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) code
- Check it against the current eligible occupations list on GOV.UK
- Confirm the going rate salary for that SOC code
- Check if the role appears on the current ISL or TSL if below RQF Level 6
Important for 2026: The TSL is expected to expire later in 2026, check the current status before relying on it for a role below degree level.
Sponsor Licence Verification -What HR Teams Need to Check in 2026
Before issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship, confirm your sponsor licence is:
- Active - check your licence status in the Sponsor Management System (SMS)
- Correct licence type - Worker licence (not Temporary Worker) for Skilled Worker CoS
- Has available CoS allocation - you need sufficient Defined CoS allocated for overseas applications
- Not subject to any UKVI action - suspensions or downgrade actions block CoS issuance
Verifying a prospective employer's licence (for employees):Employees can verify a sponsor's licence status using the Register of Licensed Sponsors on GOV.UK. This is also useful for HR teams at newly-acquired or merged entities to verify legacy licence status.
2026 compliance note: Home Office audits have increased in frequency. Ensure your SMS records are current - any discrepancy between SMS data and actual employment conditions is a compliance risk.
UK Skilled Worker Visa Points Calculator - Check Eligibility
The official GOV.UK points calculator assesses a candidate's eligibility based on their job offer, salary, and qualifications. Use it before issuing a CoS to avoid refusals.
Worked example: Software Engineer, £45,000 salary:
Worked example - Marketing Manager, £36,000 salary:
Disclaimer
Immigration laws and policies change frequently and may vary by country or nationality. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend doing your own due diligence or consulting official sources. You are also welcome to contact us directly for the latest guidance. Jobbatical is not responsible for decisions made based on the information provided.
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