Skilled Worker Visa applications

Since 1 January 2021, the Skilled Worker route replaced the previous Tier 2 General category. This visa category enables both EU and non-EU nationals from outside of the United Kingdom to be employed by a UK business that holds a Sponsor Licence.

To qualify for a Skilled Worker route, a Sponsor will need to ensure the migrant worker scores 70 points in order to qualify for the Skilled Worker visa:

• Sponsorship (20 points);
• Job of an appropriate skill level (20 points);
• Meet the minimum salary requirement; and
• English Language skills at level B1 (10 points).

The salary threshold under the Skilled Worker route was increased on 4^th April 2024. Sponsors must now ensure that all individuals applying to this route after this date are being paid at least £38,700 or the “going rate” in order to qualify for a Certificate of Sponsorship. Those individuals already on the Skilled Worker route, or with a Certificate of Sponsorship assigned prior to the 4^th April 2024, may continue to have the previous salary threshold applied.

There are certain provisions allowing for a discount in the salary threshold where the following applies:

• ‘New entrants’.
• Those with roles on the Immigration Salary List, formally known as the Shortage Occupation List.
• Those with a PhD, or a PhD in a STEM subject relevant to their role.

There are a number of different ways an individual can meet the minimum salary threshold – these points are tradeable depending on age, qualification, whether the role is shortage occupation etc.

Analysing role profiles, assessing the minimum salary requirements and assigning of Certificate of Sponsorships (defined or undefined) can be a complex process for businesses that are unfamiliar with the process.

Our Immigration team often are instructed to manage this process for corporate clients from start to finish. If you require any advice or assistance with regards to the Skilled Worker visa, please do not hesitate to contact our Immigration team.