UK Skilled Worker Visa Checker
2025
Check if your job offer meets the updated £38,700 salary threshold and role-specific going rate for a UK Skilled Worker visa. Updated for 2024–26 rules.
Check Your Eligibility
UK Skilled Worker Visa — What Changed in 2024
The April 2024 salary increase was the largest change to UK work visa rules in a decade. The standard minimum jumped from £26,200 to £38,700 — a 48% increase. Many existing blog posts and calculators still show old figures. If you are comparing global employment routes, check out the Germany EU Blue Card Checker or the points-based Australia Skilled Migration Points Calculator. Here's what's actually in effect now in the UK.
Sponsor Licence
Your employer must hold a valid UK Sponsor Licence and have assigned you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Check the register of licensed sponsors.
Skill Level
Your role must be at RQF Level 3 or above (equivalent to A-level). Most professional, technical, and managerial roles qualify. The job must be on the eligible occupations list.
Salary — Both Tests
You must pass TWO salary tests: the general minimum (£38,700 or £30,960 for new entrants) AND the role-specific going rate from the Home Office appendix.
English Language
You must prove English proficiency — typically through an approved test (IELTS UKVI, Pearson PTE Academic UKVI) at B1 level or above, or through a degree taught in English.
New Entrant vs Standard — Explained Simply
New entrants qualify at a lower salary threshold (£30,960). You qualify as a new entrant if you are:
The new entrant rate applies for your first 3 years in the role. After that, your employer must pay the full going rate.
Document Checklist
Valid for your intended stay duration.
Issued by your UK employer. Contains a unique reference number you use in your application.
£1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying (unless your employer certifies maintenance).
Approved test certificate or degree certificate if your degree was taught in English.
You'll provide this at a UK Visa Application Centre near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did the UK Skilled Worker salary threshold increase?
Yes. In April 2024, the standard minimum salary for a UK Skilled Worker visa increased from £26,200 to £38,700 per year. New entrants may qualify at £30,960.
What is the going rate for a software developer UK Skilled Worker visa?
Software developers (SOC 2136) have a going rate of approximately £40,300 per year. Your offer must meet both the standard £38,700 minimum AND this role-specific going rate.
What is a new entrant for UK Skilled Worker visa?
A new entrant is someone under 26, a recent graduate within the last 5 years, working towards a PhD, or switching from a student or graduate visa. New entrants qualify at the 80% threshold of £30,960.
How long does UK Skilled Worker visa processing take?
Standard processing takes up to 8 weeks outside the UK. Priority service is 5 business days (extra fee applies). Super Priority is 1 business day.