Salary Guide

Skilled Worker Minimum Salary 2024 — The £38,700 Threshold Explained

As of 4 April 2024, most Skilled Worker visa applicants must be paid at least £38,700 per year, up from £26,200. The new threshold applies to most roles on the eligible occupations list. Several exceptions apply — including health and care workers, new entrants, and shortage occupations.

Source: Home Office Appendix Skilled Occupations, effective 4 April 2024

What is the £38,700 threshold?

The £38,700 general salary threshold is the minimum annual salary a Skilled Worker visa applicant must be paid. It replaced the previous £26,200 threshold on 4 April 2024 following a recommendation by the Migration Advisory Committee. The figure represents approximately the 25th percentile of earnings for eligible occupations.

Does it apply to every Skilled Worker role?

No. The threshold is a floor, not the only requirement. Your salary must meet whichever is higher: the general £38,700 threshold, or the going rate for your specific SOC code. Some roles have a going rate above £38,700 (for example, many senior software engineering roles). You must meet both.

Exceptions to the £38,700 threshold

Three main exceptions exist. Health and Care Worker visa: care workers and some NHS roles have a lower minimum of £23,200. New entrant rate: applicants who are 26 or under, within the first five years of their career, or switching from a Student visa may qualify for an 80% rate (£30,960). Shortage occupations: some shortage occupation roles have a 20% going rate discount applied, though not all shortage occupations also reduce the general threshold.

Does the £38,700 include all pay components?

Not all pay counts. The UKVI counts basic salary, London weighting allowances, and allowances that are guaranteed and non-discretionary. Bonuses, overtime, and discretionary allowances do not count. The salary stated on your Certificate of Sponsorship must reflect the guaranteed minimum, not potential total earnings.

What this means for your Certificate of Sponsorship

The salary on your CoS must be the gross annual salary your employer guarantees you. If your CoS states a salary below £38,700 (and no exception applies), your visa application will be refused. Always verify the salary on your CoS before your application is submitted.

This page provides general information about UK immigration salary rules. Rules change frequently — always verify the current thresholds on GOV.UK (Appendix Skilled Occupations) before making any visa decision. This is not legal advice. Consult a regulated immigration adviser (OISC Level 2+) for advice specific to your situation.

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