If you’re planning to move to the UK for work or sponsor someone on a Skilled Worker Visa, understanding the new UK visa salary thresholds in 2025 is essential. In an effort to reform immigration policies, the UK government recently introduced significant changes to the salary requirements for work-related visas.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
- What the new salary thresholds are
- Who they affect
- How to meet them
- Exceptions and key updates for 2025
Why Have UK Visa Salary Thresholds Changed?
The changes are part of the UK’s effort to reduce net migration and prioritize high-skilled workers. As of April 2024, the government increased the salary thresholds across most work visa routes, including the Skilled Worker Visa—the most popular route for foreign professionals.
New Salary Thresholds (2025
Here are the updated minimum salary thresholds:
Skilled Worker Visa
- New general salary threshold: £38,700/year (up from £26,200)
- Or £15.88/hour (based on a 39-hour week)
Shortage Occupation List (Now ‘Immigration Salary List’)
- Discounted rate removed for most roles
- New minimum salary: £30,960/year or 80% of the occupation’s going rate—whichever is higher
New Entrants (e.g., graduates)
- Lower threshold: £30,960/year or 70% of the going rate
Health and Care Visa (Some Exceptions)
- Certain roles (like nurses and social workers) may still be eligible at a lower rate: around £23,200/year
Who is Affected?
These new salary rules apply to:
- New Skilled Worker Visa applicants from April 2024 onward
- Visa extensions for those switching roles or employers
- UK-based employers sponsoring international workers
If you already hold a Skilled Worker visa granted before April 2024, the previous salary threshold of £26,200 may still apply until your next extension or renewal.
How to Meet the Salary Threshold
To qualify under the Skilled Worker route, the offered job must meet or exceed:
- The general salary threshold or
- The “going rate” for the occupation (based on the job’s SOC code)
Whichever is higher will apply.
Example:
If you’re offered a job as a software developer:
- Going rate = £41,500/year
- New general threshold = £38,700/year
➡️ You must meet £41,500, since it’s higher than the general threshold.
Exceptions and Special Cases
- Health & Care Workers: Still benefit from lower thresholds and faster processing
- PhD roles in STEM: May have reduced salary requirements (from 80–90% of going rate)
- New graduates (“new entrants”) get a slight discount
- Intra-company transfers (Global Business Mobility route) have different salary rules
Tips for Employers and Applicants
✔ Use the correct SOC code: Misclassification can lead to rejection
✔ Check the ‘Immigration Salary List’ for in-demand roles
✔ Provide full documentation: Employment contract, job description, salary details
✔ Avoid relying on bonuses or perks to meet thresholds—only guaranteed earnings count
Final Thoughts
The new UK visa salary thresholds are part of a broader immigration overhaul aiming to attract higher-skilled workers while reducing dependence on lower-wage labor.
If you’re an applicant, it’s crucial to:
- Check the updated Home Office guidance
- Use the right salary and occupation code
- Understand how the changes affect your eligibility
For employers, failing to adapt to these new rules could result in sponsorship issues and rejected visa applications—so staying updated is key.
Need Help?
Whether you’re applying for a Skilled Worker Visa or sponsoring talent from abroad, navigating UK immigration can be complex. Consider consulting an immigration lawyer or advisor for tailored guidance.
