Skilled Worker salary checker
Check whether a job offer meets the salary rules for a new Skilled Worker visa application.
Enter a salary and hours to see your result.
A guide only, based on the rules for new applications from 22 July 2025. Extensions for people first sponsored before then, Health and Care roles and Temporary Shortage List jobs have different thresholds. Ask us to check your offer.
Do you qualify?
- You have a job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence
- You have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship for the role
- The job is at the required skill level and meets the salary threshold
- You meet the English language requirement
Documents you'll need
| Document | Details | Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | Valid for at least 6 months, with a copy of the photo page | Required |
| Application form | Completed and checked by us before submission | We prepare |
| Certificate of Sponsorship | Certificate of Sponsorship reference number | Required |
| English language evidence | Required | |
| TB test certificate | Tuberculosis test results, if required for your country | If applicable |
| Criminal record certificate | Criminal record certificate, for some roles | If applicable |
We give you a full checklist for your circumstances at your consultation.
Skilled Worker visa requirements in 2026
To get a Skilled Worker visa you need:
- A job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence
- A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from that employer
- A job at the required skill level, which is degree level (RQF 6) for most new roles since July 2025
- A salary of at least £41,700 a year, or the going rate for the job if higher, unless a lower threshold applies
- English at B2 level, for new applicants since January 2026
- Savings of £1,270, unless your employer certifies your maintenance
Lower salary thresholds
Some applicants can be paid less than the general threshold. These include new entrants, such as people under 26, recent UK graduates and people switching from a Student or Graduate visa, applicants with a relevant PhD, and jobs on the Immigration Salary List. Our free salary checker on this page gives you a quick answer before you apply.
Extending, or changing employer
You can extend your Skilled Worker visa with the same employer, but if you change employer you must make a new application with a new Certificate of Sponsorship before you start the new job. People first sponsored before 22 July 2025 may be able to continue on the older, lower thresholds in some situations. We check which rules apply to you.
Skilled Worker visa and ILR
The Skilled Worker route currently leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years. The government has proposed lengthening this to 10 years under its earned settlement model, with possible reductions for higher earners. If you are close to 5 years, speak to us about applying as soon as you're eligible.
Skilled Worker visa help in Manchester
We're based at 61 Mosley Street in Manchester city centre and help clients across Greater Manchester, including Bury, Bolton, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford and Stockport. We also work with clients anywhere in the UK and overseas by phone, video call and email.
How we help
- Check your eligibility and confirm the right route at your consultation
- Give you a personalised document checklist
- Prepare and complete your application forms
- Review all evidence against the current rules before submission
- Keep you updated until you have a decision
Fees and timescales
Our fee is agreed before we start. See our fees. Government fees are paid separately, and are listed on GOV.UK.
Common questions
Can I change employer?
Yes, but you need to make a new application before you start the new job, with a Certificate of Sponsorship from the new employer.
Can my family come with me?
Your partner and children can usually apply as dependants. Some roles have restrictions, so we check this for your case.
Can I switch to a Skilled Worker visa from inside the UK?
Yes, from most visas, including the Student and Graduate visas. You can’t switch from a Visitor visa.