The UK Government has made significant amendments to the Skilled Worker visa route, raising salary thresholds and tightening the criteria for eligible occupations. These changes have wide-ranging implications for both employers and prospective migrants — and the picture is not uniformly negative.

What Has Changed?

The main change is a substantial increase in the minimum salary threshold, now set at £38,700 per year for most roles (up from £26,200). The Government has also removed certain occupation codes from the eligible list and strengthened requirements around going rate compliance.

Winners and Losers

Shortage Occupation Considerations

Some roles remain on a shortage occupation list, which previously allowed applicants to be paid 80% of the going rate. Recent reforms have changed this allowance, meaning even shortage roles must now meet the standard going rate. This has created a bottleneck in sectors like health and social care that rely heavily on overseas recruitment.

What Employers Must Do

• Review all current and planned sponsorship against the new salary thresholds
• Ensure occupation codes are still eligible under the updated rules
• Update HR and payroll processes to reflect compliance requirements
• Seek legal advice before making new recruitment decisions

Advice for Applicants

If you are considering a Skilled Worker visa application, it is essential to check that the role you have been offered meets the current salary and occupation requirements. Our team at Wright Justice Solicitors can carry out a full assessment of your case before you submit your application.