UK Skilled Worker Visa 2025: Higher Salary Thresholds

The minimum salary threshold for most Skilled Worker visa applicants has risen significantly to £41,700 (or the occupation’s going rate, whichever is higher), marking a major increase from earlier levels like £26,200 and reflecting alignment with median UK earnings for skilled roles.
Discounted thresholds apply in specific cases: PhD holders (especially STEM-related) and roles on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) or for new entrants generally require around £33,400 to £37,500, with the previous 20% discount for shortage occupations fully removed and replaced by targeted lists.
These updates prioritize higher-skilled, higher-paid positions by basing eligibility on median salaries and graduate-level (RQF 6+) requirements, making it tougher for applicants in sectors like tech, healthcare, and engineering to qualify without securing above-average pay.
Employers face increased challenges, including higher salary budgets, greater sponsorship costs, and difficulties filling mid-level or lower-paid skilled roles amid shortages—though partnering with global mobility experts (such as Jobbatical) can help refine hiring and sponsorship strategies to attract international talent effectively.

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The changes from mid-2025 remain in effect in 2026, representing one of the most substantial shifts in recent years:

Most Skilled Worker visa applicants must now meet a minimum salary of £41,700 (or the occupation’s "going rate," whichever is higher), up from the previous £38,700 threshold that applied briefly after the January 2025 changes.
Applicants with a relevant PhD face a threshold of £37,500 (non-STEM, 90% of going rate) or £33,400 (STEM-related PhDs, aligned with discounted rates), reflecting updated requirements.
Jobs on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) or roles for new entrants generally require a salary of £33,400 (with the previous 20% discount structure adjusted and no separate shortage occupation discount as before; note that the ISL replaced earlier shortage lists, with a Temporary Shortage List for certain below-degree-level roles in limited cases).

These updated thresholds are based on median salaries from recent Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) data and the government's emphasis on graduate-level (RQF Level 6) roles. Lower thresholds may apply in specific transitional cases (e.g., extensions for pre-2025 certificates or certain health/care roles), but new applications and most cases follow the higher standards. This makes qualification tougher in sectors like technology, healthcare, and engineering unless higher-paying offers are secured.

How will these thresholds affect employers in 2026?

For UK employers, the elevated salary requirements (now at £41,700 general floor plus going-rate compliance) demand further budget adjustments and higher sponsorship costs, particularly in key industries like technology, healthcare, and engineering.

While this narrows the pool of eligible applicants, it directs hiring toward top-tier, higher-paid talent and supports the goal of net-positive fiscal contributions from migrants. However, it exacerbates difficulties in filling roles amid ongoing worker shortages, especially where salaries don't align with the new floors or where occupations were removed from eligibility.

Collaborating with global mobility experts like Jobbatical can provide valuable insights and solutions to adapt to these ongoing changes effectively. Talk to our team to continue attracting the global talent necessary for your business’ growth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the general minimum salary threshold for the Skilled Worker visa in 2026?

In 2026, the general minimum salary threshold for the Skilled Worker visa remains £41,700 per year, or the full “going rate” for the specific occupation—whichever is higher. Employers must ensure that both the annual salary and the occupation-specific rate are met when issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship.

From when are the current salary thresholds mandatory in 2026?

The current salary thresholds apply to all Certificates of Sponsorship issued from 2026 onward and continue to govern new applications, extensions, and most in-country switches under the Skilled Worker route.

What is the minimum hourly pay requirement under the 2026 Skilled Worker rules?

Applicants must meet a universal hourly pay floor of at least £17.13 per hour in 2026, in addition to satisfying the annual salary and going-rate requirements for their occupation.

Are discounted salary routes still available in 2026?

Yes. Reduced thresholds continue to apply in 2026 for specific categories such as “New Entrants” (around £33,400), non-STEM PhD holders (around £37,500), and roles listed on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) which also benefit from the lower £33,400 benchmark, provided all other eligibility criteria are met.

How do the 2026 rules affect Skilled Workers applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?

For ILR applications in 2026, candidates must meet the higher of the general settlement threshold (£41,700) or the updated full going rate for their occupation. Entry-level or “New Entrant” salary discounts cannot be used at the settlement stage, so salaries often need to be reviewed and uplifted before applying for permanent residence.