UK Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold & IELTS 2026

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about the UK Skilled Worker visa in 2026, including the critical £38,700 salary threshold, how shortage occupations affect your application, and the IELTS requirements you need to meet.

Table of Contents

1. What is the UK Skilled Worker Visa?
2. The £38,700 Salary Threshold Explained
3. Understanding Going Rates and Occupation Codes
4. Shortage Occupation List: What Changed in 2024-2026
5. English Language Requirements: IELTS B1 vs B2
6. Alternative English Language Tests
7. How to Calculate Your Eligibility Points
8. Special Salary Rules and Exceptions
9. Application Process and Timeline
10. Common Mistakes to Avoid
11. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the UK Skilled Worker Visa?

The UK Skilled Worker visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa in December 2020 as part of the UK's new points-based immigration system. This visa allows international workers to come to or stay in the UK to do an eligible job with an approved employer.

Key Features of the Skilled Worker Visa

Duration: Initially granted for up to 5 years (or the length of your job plus 1 month, whichever is shorter). You can extend the visa and may be eligible to apply for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 years.

Family Members: Your partner and children can join you in the UK as dependents.

Path to Settlement: After 5 years on a Skilled Worker visa, you may qualify for permanent residence.

Switching Jobs: You can change employers, but you'll need to apply to update your visa with a new Certificate of Sponsorship from your new employer.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, you must:

• Have a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor license
• Have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer
• Work in an occupation on the eligible occupations list
• Meet the minimum salary threshold
• Prove your knowledge of English
• Have enough money to support yourself

The visa is designed for skilled professionals in fields ranging from healthcare and engineering to IT, education, and business management.

The £38,700 Salary Threshold Explained

One of the most significant changes to the UK immigration system in recent years has been the increase in the minimum salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas.

The New £38,700 Rule

As of April 2024, the general minimum salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas increased from £26,200 to £38,700 per year.

This substantial increase was announced by the UK Home Office as part of efforts to reduce net migration and ensure that migrant workers are paid at rates comparable to the domestic workforce.

What This Means for Applicants

The £38,700 threshold represents the minimum you must be paid to qualify for a Skilled Worker visa in most occupations. However, this isn't the only salary requirement you need to meet.

You must be paid BOTH:

1. At least £38,700 per year (the general minimum threshold)
2. At least the "going rate" for your specific occupation (whichever is higher)

Let's break this down with an example:

Example 1: Software Developer (SOC Code 2136)

• Going rate: £41,000 per year
• General minimum: £38,700
• Required minimum salary: £41,000 (the higher of the two)

Example 2: Graphic Designer (SOC Code 3421)

• Going rate: £28,000 per year
• General minimum: £38,700
• Required minimum salary: £38,700 (the higher of the two)

Transitional Arrangements

Important: If you were granted a Skilled Worker visa before April 4, 2024, you may still be subject to the old minimum salary threshold of £26,200 when extending your visa in the same occupation and with the same employer. However, if you switch employers or occupations, the new £38,700 threshold will apply.

Salary Calculation Rules

Your salary includes:

✅ Counted:

• Guaranteed basic gross pay (before tax)
• Guaranteed allowances (such as London weighting if guaranteed)
• Guaranteed bonuses or commissions

❌ Not Counted:

• Non-guaranteed overtime
• Non-guaranteed bonuses or commissions
• Employer pension contributions
• Benefits in kind (company car, health insurance, etc.)
• One-off payments
• Accommodation or housing allowances

The salary must be paid in British pounds and cannot include deductions for expenses or accommodation provided by the employer.

Pro-Rata Calculation for Part-Time Work

If you're working part-time, your salary will be pro-rated. However, you still need to meet both:

1. The pro-rated general minimum (£38,700 pro-rated to your hours)
2. The pro-rated going rate for your occupation

Example:

• Full-time going rate: £40,000 (37.5 hours/week)
• Your part-time hours: 30 hours/week
• Pro-rated requirement: £40,000 × (30 ÷ 37.5) = £32,000

You would also need to meet the pro-rated general minimum: £38,700 × (30 ÷ 37.5) = £30,960

So you'd need to earn at least £32,000 (the higher figure).

Understanding Going Rates and Occupation Codes

The "going rate" is the minimum salary deemed appropriate for each occupation by the UK Home Office, based on analysis of the UK labor market.

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Codes

Every eligible occupation for a Skilled Worker visa is assigned a Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code. The UK uses the SOC 2020 system (updated from SOC 2010).

Finding Your SOC Code:

1. Visit the UK Home Office's list of eligible occupations for Skilled Worker visas
2. Search for your job title or description
3. Identify the correct 4-digit SOC code
4. Check the going rate for that code

Example SOC Codes and Going Rates

Here are some common occupations and their 2026 going rates:

Healthcare:

• Nurses (2231): £30,960
• Doctors (2211-2219): £48,100+
• Physiotherapists (2230): £30,960

Technology:

• Software Developers (2136): £41,000
• IT Business Analysts (2135): £41,000
• Cyber Security Specialists (2139): £41,000

Engineering:

• Civil Engineers (2121): £39,200
• Mechanical Engineers (2123): £39,200
• Electrical Engineers (2126): £39,200

Education:

• Secondary Teachers (2314): £33,000
• Primary Teachers (2315): £33,000
• Higher Education Teachers (2311): £41,732

Business:

• Management Consultants (2424): £44,200
• Financial Analysts (3537): £33,000
• Marketing Managers (1132): £44,200

Note: These rates are examples and may vary. Always check the official UK government guidance for the most current going rates.

Skill Level Requirements

All Skilled Worker occupations must be at RQF Level 3 or above (equivalent to A-level). This typically means:

• RQF Level 3: A-level equivalent
• RQF Level 4: Certificate of Higher Education
• RQF Level 5: Higher National Diploma
• RQF Level 6: Bachelor's degree
• RQF Level 7: Master's degree
• RQF Level 8: Doctorate

Most professional roles require RQF Level 6 (degree level) or above.

Shortage Occupation List: What Changed in 2024-2026

The Shortage Occupation List (SOL) has undergone significant changes in recent years, affecting how salary thresholds are applied.

What Was the Shortage Occupation List?

Historically, the SOL was a list of occupations where the UK faced a shortage of workers. Jobs on this list received favorable treatment, including:

• Lower salary thresholds (80% of the going rate, minimum £20,960)
• Reduced visa fees in some cases
• Priority processing

Major Change in April 2024

The salary discount for shortage occupations was abolished in April 2024.

This means that even if your occupation is experiencing a shortage in the UK, you still need to meet the standard salary requirements:

• At least £38,700 per year (or the going rate, whichever is higher)

The New "Immigration Salary List"

The UK Home Office replaced the Shortage Occupation List with the Immigration Salary List (ISL) in April 2024. However, the ISL no longer provides salary discounts—it simply identifies occupations where there is a recognized shortage.

Why This Matters

Previously, workers in shortage occupations could qualify with lower salaries. For example:

Before April 2024:

• Occupation going rate: £30,000
• Shortage occupation discount: 80%
• Minimum required: £24,000 (subject to £20,960 minimum)

After April 2024:

• Occupation going rate: £30,000
• General minimum: £38,700
• Minimum required: £38,700 (whichever is higher)

Current Shortage Occupations (2026)

While the salary discount is gone, the following sectors still experience significant worker shortages in the UK:

Healthcare and Social Care:

• Nurses (various specializations)
• Care workers and home carers
• Paramedics
• Occupational therapists
• Speech and language therapists

Construction and Engineering:

• Civil engineers
• Mechanical engineers
• Electrical engineers
• Welding trades
• Bricklayers and masons

Technology:

• Software developers and programmers
• Cyber security specialists
• Data analysts
• IT project managers

Education:

• Secondary school teachers (especially in STEM subjects)
• Special educational needs teachers

Other Sectors:

• Veterinarians
• Architects
• Social workers
• Lab technicians
• Chefs (in some specific categories)

Even though these occupations are in high demand, applicants still must meet the standard salary and qualification requirements.

Exceptions: Health and Care Worker Visa

One important exception is the Health and Care Worker visa, a separate route for eligible healthcare professionals. This visa route still maintains lower salary thresholds and reduced fees for:

• Doctors
• Nurses
• Healthcare professionals working in eligible roles in the NHS, adult social care, or with other regulated healthcare providers

If you're a healthcare professional, you may qualify for this more favorable route instead of the standard Skilled Worker visa.

English Language Requirements: IELTS B1 vs B2

Proving your English language ability is a mandatory requirement for the UK Skilled Worker visa. Let's clarify what levels are required and which tests are accepted.

What Level Do You Need?

For the Skilled Worker visa, you must prove your English language ability at CEFR Level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

B1 Level is defined as "intermediate" and means you can:

• Understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters
• Deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling
• Produce simple connected text on familiar topics
• Describe experiences, events, dreams, hopes, and ambitions

B1 vs B2: What's the Difference?

While B1 is the minimum requirement for a Skilled Worker visa, it's worth understanding the difference:

B1 (Intermediate):

• Handle routine work and social situations
• Understand the main ideas of complex text
• Communicate with a degree of spontaneity
• Produce simple detailed text

B2 (Upper Intermediate):

• Interact with native speakers with fluency
• Understand complex technical discussions
• Produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects
• Explain viewpoints with advantages and disadvantages

For the Skilled Worker visa, B1 is sufficient. However, some employers may prefer or require B2 level English, especially for client-facing roles, managerial positions, or jobs requiring complex written communication.

IELTS Requirements for B1

If you're taking the IELTS test to prove your English ability, you need to achieve specific scores to demonstrate B1 level competency.

IELTS Academic or General Training:

For CEFR Level B1, you typically need:

• Overall Band Score: 4.0 (minimum)
• With at least 4.0 in each component (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking)

However, most applicants aim for higher scores to ensure clear demonstration:

• Recommended: Overall Band 5.0-5.5 with no component below 4.0-5.0

IELTS for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration)

Critical: You must take an approved IELTS for UKVI test (or other SELT - Secure English Language Test).

Standard IELTS tests are NOT accepted for visa applications.

The IELTS for UKVI test is identical in format and difficulty to standard IELTS but is administered under secure conditions approved by the UK Home Office.

IELTS for UKVI Options:

1. IELTS Academic for UKVI - Academic contexts
2. IELTS General Training for UKVI - Everyday social and workplace contexts
3. IELTS Life Skills - Only for some visa categories (NOT sufficient for Skilled Worker visa)

For the Skilled Worker visa, you should take either IELTS Academic for UKVI or IELTS General Training for UKVI.

Where to Take IELTS for UKVI

IELTS for UKVI tests are offered at approved test centers worldwide. In India, authorized centers include locations in:

• Mumbai
• Delhi
• Bangalore
• Pune
• Hyderabad
• Chennai
• Kolkata
• Ahmedabad
• And many other cities

At KS Institute in Pune, we've trained 5,000+ students over 19 years across IELTS, PTE, and other English tests. Our certified instructors with 15+ years of experience can help you prepare for IELTS for UKVI with both online and offline classes.

Test Validity

Your IELTS for UKVI test results are valid for 2 years from the date of the test. Your results must be valid at the time you apply for your visa.

Alternative English Language Tests

While IELTS is the most popular, it's not the only English test accepted for UK visa applications. The UK Home Office approves several Secure English Language Tests (SELTs).

Approved SELT Providers (2026)

1. IELTS for UKVI

• Provider: British Council, IDP, Cambridge Assessment
• Widely available globally
• Most recognized by employers

2. PTE Academic UKVI

• Provider: Pearson
• Computer-based test
• Results typically available within 2 business days
• Growing in popularity

3. Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE)

• Provider: Trinity College London
• Available in many countries
• Face-to-face speaking assessment

4. LanguageCert International ESOL SELT

• Provider: LanguageCert
• Available online with remote proctoring (in some cases)
• Newer option

5. PSI Services (UK) Ltd - Skills for English UKVI

• Provider: PSI Services
• Less commonly used

PTE Academic UKVI for B1 Level

If you prefer PTE (Pearson Test of English) over IELTS:

For CEFR Level B1:

• Overall Score: 36-42 (PTE scoring scale)
• With minimum scores in each skill

PTE Advantages:

• Faster results (1-2 business days vs 13 days for IELTS)
• More test dates available
• Computer-based testing (may suit some test-takers better)
• No human examiner in speaking (speaking is recorded and assessed by AI)

Note: You must take PTE Academic UKVI, not standard PTE Academic.

When You Don't Need to Prove English

You're exempt from the English language requirement if:

1. You're a national of a majority English-speaking country:

• Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Malta, New Zealand, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, or the USA

2. You have a degree taught in English:

• A bachelor's degree or higher
• Taught or researched in a majority English-speaking country (as listed above), OR
• Taught in English and verified through UK ENIC (UK National Information Centre)

If you have a degree from India taught in English, you can apply for a UK ENIC Statement of Comparability to confirm it meets the English language requirement. This can save you from taking an English test.

UK ENIC Process:

1. Submit your degree certificate and transcript
2. Pay the assessment fee (approximately £210)
3. Receive a Statement of Comparability (2-3 weeks)
4. Use this statement as proof of English language ability

How to Calculate Your Eligibility Points

The UK Skilled Worker visa uses a points-based system. You need to score 70 points to be eligible.

Points Breakdown

Mandatory Requirements (50 points):

| Requirement | Points | |------------|--------| | Job offer from approved sponsor | 20 | | Job at appropriate skill level (RQF 3+) | 20 | | Speaks English at B1 level | 10 | | Subtotal | 50 |

Salary Threshold (20 points minimum required):

| Salary Level | Points | |--------------|--------| | £38,700+ (or going rate, whichever is higher) | 20 | | £30,960-£38,699 (in specific circumstances only) | 0 | | Below £30,960 | 0 (not eligible) |

Tradeable Points (optional, to reach 70 total):

| Criteria | Points | |----------|--------| | Job in a shortage occupation | 20 | | PhD relevant to the job | 10 | | PhD in STEM subject relevant to job | 20 |

Standard Scenario

Most applicants qualify with:

• Job offer from approved sponsor: 20 points
• Appropriate skill level: 20 points
• English at B1: 10 points
• Salary £38,700+: 20 points
• Total: 70 points ✓

Lower Salary Scenarios

In certain limited circumstances, you may qualify with a salary between £30,960 and £38,699:

Scenario 1: New Entrant

If you're a new entrant (under 26, recent graduate, or in certain training roles), you may qualify with:

• Salary: £30,960-£38,699 (70% of going rate, minimum £30,960): 0 salary points
• BUT you get 20 extra points for being a new entrant
• Total: 50 + 20 = 70 points ✓

Scenario 2: PhD in Relevant Field

• Salary: £34,830+ (90% of going rate): 0 salary points
• PhD relevant to job: 10 points
• Shortage occupation: 20 points (if applicable)
• Total: 50 + 10 + 20 = 80 points ✓

Important: These exceptions are complex and depend on specific circumstances. Most standard applicants should plan to meet the £38,700 threshold.

Special Salary Rules and Exceptions

Beyond the standard salary requirements, there are several special rules and exceptions you should be aware of.

New Entrants

Who qualifies as a new entrant:

• Under 26 years old on the date of application
• Working toward a recognized professional qualification
• Sponsored as a postdoctoral researcher
• Working in a sponsored role as part of a recognized UK Research and Innovation endorsed program

Salary requirements for new entrants:

• Minimum: £30,960 per year
• Or 70% of the going rate for the occupation (whichever is higher)

Example:

• Occupation going rate: £40,000
• New entrant minimum: £40,000 × 70% = £28,000
• General new entrant minimum: £30,960
• Required: £30,960 (the higher figure)

New entrants can hold this status for a maximum period (typically until age 26 or for the duration of their training/research program).

PhD-Level Roles

If your job requires a PhD and you have one, you may benefit from reduced salary thresholds.

PhD in any subject relevant to the job:

• Minimum salary: 90% of going rate
• Minimum floor: £34,830

PhD in a STEM subject relevant to the job:

• Minimum salary: 90% of going rate
• Minimum floor: £34,830
• Additional 20 points (instead of 10) in the points system

STEM subjects include:

• Science: biological sciences, physical sciences, chemistry, physics
• Technology: computer science, information technology
• Engineering: all engineering disciplines
• Mathematics and statistics

Health and Care Workers

Healthcare professionals may be eligible for the Health and Care Worker visa, which offers:

• Lower salary threshold: £29,970 (or going rate if higher)
• Reduced visa fees
• Exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge
• Faster processing in some cases

Eligible occupations include:

• Doctors
• Nurses
• Paramedics
• Medical radiographers
• Social workers
• Care workers (in specific regulated settings)

To qualify, you must work for:

• The NHS
• An organization providing services to the NHS
• An adult social care provider registered with the Care Quality Commission

Part-Time Work

You can work part-time on a Skilled Worker visa, but:

1. Your pro-rated salary must still meet the minimum threshold
2. The job must still be at the appropriate skill level
3. Working hours cannot be less than 16 hours per week (in most cases)

Pro-rata calculation example:

Full-time salary requirement: £40,000 (37.5 hours/week) Your hours: 30 hours/week

Pro-rated requirement: £40,000 × (30 ÷ 37.5) = £32,000

You must earn at least £32,000 annually while working 30 hours per week.

Multiple Jobs

You can have multiple jobs on a Skilled Worker visa, but:

• Your main job (the one your visa is sponsored for) must meet all the requirements
• Secondary jobs can be in any eligible occupation up to 20 hours per week
• You may need additional sponsorship depending on the secondary job

Regional Variations

The salary requirements are the same throughout the UK (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland). There are no regional adjustments, even though living costs vary significantly between London and other areas.

However, if your job includes a guaranteed London weighting allowance, this counts toward your salary.

Application Process and Timeline

Understanding the application process helps you plan your move to the UK effectively.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer

• Find a UK employer with a valid sponsor license
• Accept a job offer for an eligible occupation
• Ensure the salary meets the minimum threshold

Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

• Your employer applies for a CoS through the UK Sponsor Management System
• The CoS is a digital reference number (not a physical document)
• Contains details about you, your job, and your salary
• Valid for 3 months from the date of issue

Step 3: Gather Your Documents

Required documents typically include:

• Valid passport or travel document
• Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
• Proof of English language ability (IELTS for UKVI results or degree in English)
• Proof of funds (at least £1,270 held for 28 consecutive days) - not required if your employer can certify maintenance
• Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if from a listed country, including India)
• Criminal record certificate (if required for your occupation)

Step 4: Complete the Online Application

• Apply online through the UK government's visa application website
• Pay the visa fee
• Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
• Schedule a biometric appointment

Step 5: Attend Biometric Appointment

• Visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC)
• Provide fingerprints and photograph
• Submit supporting documents

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

• Standard processing: typically 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK
• Priority service: available for an additional fee (5 working days)
• Super Priority service: next working day (if available in your location)

Step 7: Receive Your Decision

• You'll be notified by email
• If approved, you'll receive a visa vignette (sticker in passport) valid for 30 days to travel to the UK
• Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days of arriving in the UK

Application Fees (2026)

Visa application fees:

• For up to 3 years: approximately £719
• For more than 3 years: approximately £1,423

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):

• £1,035 per year for adults
• Example: 3-year visa = £3,105 IHS

Priority services (optional):

• Priority (5 working days): approximately £500
• Super Priority (next working day): approximately £1,000

Note: Fees are subject to change. Always check the UK government website for current fees.

Timeline Expectations

From offer to application:

• Employer obtains sponsor license (if not already licensed): 4-8 weeks
• Certificate of Sponsorship issued: 1-2 weeks
• Document preparation: 1-2 weeks
• Application submission: 1 day

From application to decision:

• Standard processing: 3 weeks (from outside UK)
• Standard processing: 8 weeks (from inside UK, switching visas)
• With priority service: 5 working days
• With super priority: 1 working day

Total timeline: Typically 2-3 months from job offer to arriving in the UK, assuming no delays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many visa applications face delays or refusals due to avoidable errors. Here are the most common mistakes:

1. Taking the Wrong English Test

Mistake: Taking standard IELTS or PTE instead of the UKVI version.

Solution: Always take IELTS for UKVI or PTE Academic UKVI (or another approved SELT). Standard tests are not accepted for visa applications, even if your scores are excellent.

2. Using Expired Test Results

Mistake: Applying with English test results older than 2 years.

Solution: Ensure your test results are less than 2 years old at the time of application. If they're close to expiring, consider retaking the test.

3. Incorrect Salary Calculation

Mistake: Assuming £38,700 is always sufficient, or including non-guaranteed bonuses in salary calculations.

Solution: Check the going rate for your specific SOC code and ensure you meet whichever is higher. Only count guaranteed salary components.

4. Wrong SOC Code

Mistake: Employer assigns an incorrect SOC code that doesn't match the actual job duties.

Solution: Review the SOC code description carefully. The job duties in your CoS must genuinely match the SOC code. Mismatches can lead to refusal.

5. Insufficient Maintenance Funds

Mistake: Not maintaining £1,270 in your bank account for the required 28-day period.

Solution: If your employer isn't certifying maintenance, ensure you have at least £1,270 in your account for 28 consecutive days ending within 31 days of your application.

6. Missing TB Test

Mistake: Forgetting to get a tuberculosis test if you're from a listed country (including India).

Solution: If you're applying from India, you must have a TB test from an approved clinic. Book this early as appointments can be limited.

7. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

Mistake: Submitting unclear scans, documents in wrong format, or missing pages.

Solution: Follow the document checklist carefully. Provide certified translations for any documents not in English or Welsh.

8. Applying with Invalid CoS

Mistake: Delaying application until after the CoS expires (3 months from issue).

Solution: Apply as soon as possible after receiving your CoS. If it expires, you'll need your employer to request a new one.

9. Not Declaring Previous Immigration History

Mistake: Failing to declare previous visa refusals or overstays.

Solution: Be completely honest about your immigration history. Undisclosed refusals or violations can result in a 10-year ban.

10. Assuming Degree Exemption Applies

Mistake: Thinking any degree taught in English exempts you from English testing.

Solution: Only degrees from majority English-speaking countries automatically qualify. For degrees from India or other countries, you need UK ENIC confirmation or must take an English test.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I apply for a UK Skilled Worker visa without a job offer?

No. The Skilled Worker visa requires a confirmed job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid sponsor license. You must have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) before applying. You cannot apply speculatively.

To find UK employers with sponsor licenses, you can:

• Search job boards (LinkedIn, Indeed, Reed, Totaljobs) and filter for "visa sponsorship"
• Check the UK government's register of licensed sponsors
• Work with recruitment agencies that specialize in sponsored roles

2. How long does the Skilled Worker visa application take?

Standard processing times:

• Outside the UK: Approximately 3 weeks
• Inside the UK (switching visas): Approximately 8 weeks

Expedited options:

• Priority service: 5 working days (additional fee ~£500)
• Super Priority service: Next working day (additional fee ~£1,000, not available in all locations)

Processing times can vary based on your location, time of year, and individual circumstances. Complex cases may take longer.

3. Is IELTS General or Academic better for UK Skilled Worker visa?

Both are accepted. For visa purposes, IELTS Academic for UKVI and IELTS General Training for UKVI are equally valid.

Choose IELTS General Training if:

• You're more comfortable with practical, everyday English
• You're not planning to pursue further education in the UK
• You prefer the slightly more straightforward reading and writing tasks

Choose IELTS Academic if:

• You may pursue further education or professional qualifications later
• Your employer prefers Academic (some do, though it's not required for the visa)
• You're comfortable with academic-style texts

For just meeting the visa requirement, either test is fine. Choose the one you feel most confident taking.

4. What happens if I lose my job while on a Skilled Worker visa?

If you lose your job (redundancy, termination, or resignation), you have a 60-day grace period to either:

1. Find a new employer and apply to update your visa with a new CoS
2. Switch to another visa category (if eligible)
3. Leave the UK

During this 60-day period:

• You can stay in the UK legally
• You cannot work
• You must take action before the 60 days expire

If you find a new employer with a sponsor license, they can issue you a new CoS, and you can apply to update your visa. You don't need to leave the UK during this process.

5. Can my family come with me on a Skilled Worker visa?

Yes. Your partner (spouse or unmarried partner) and children under 18 can apply as your dependents.

Dependent requirements:

• They must apply at the same time or after you
• They must prove their relationship to you (marriage certificate, birth certificates, evidence of living together for unmarried partners)
• They must meet the financial requirement
• They must pay visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge

Dependent rights:

• Can work in most jobs (without restriction)
• Can study
• Can access the NHS (after paying the IHS)
• Can apply for settlement with you after 5 years

Costs to consider: Each dependent must pay:

• Visa application fee: approximately £719-£1,423 (depending on duration)
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year

For a family of four on 3-year visas, total costs can exceed £20,000.

6. How much is the Immigration Health Surcharge and can I avoid it?

Cost: £1,035 per year per person (as of 2026)

Example: For a 3-year visa = £3,105 per person

You CANNOT avoid it as a standard Skilled Worker visa holder. The IHS must be paid upfront as part of your visa application.

The IHS gives you access to:

• NHS healthcare (similar to UK residents)
• GP services
• Hospital treatment
• Emergency care

Exceptions (who doesn't pay IHS):

• Health and Care Worker visa holders (exempt)
• Applicants from countries with reciprocal healthcare agreements (very limited)

The IHS is non-refundable, even if your visa application is refused (though you can apply for a refund if you withdraw your application before a decision).

7. Can I switch from a Student visa to Skilled Worker visa without leaving the UK?

Yes. This is a common path for international students who graduate from UK universities.

Requirements:

• You must have a job offer at the appropriate skill level
• Your employer must have a sponsor license
• You must meet the salary threshold (£38,700 or going rate, whichever is higher) - Note: New entrant discounts may apply if you're under 26
• You must have completed your degree
• You must meet English language requirements (usually automatically met if you studied in English in the UK)

Process:

• Apply online from within the UK
• Processing time: approximately 8 weeks
• You can start work once your visa is approved (you don't need to wait for your BRP)

Important: You cannot work full-time while on a Student visa. Only start full-time employment after your Skilled Worker visa is approved.

8. What's the difference between Skilled Worker visa and Graduate visa?

These are two different routes with different purposes:

Graduate Visa:

• Purpose: Allows recent graduates to stay in the UK and work/look for work
• Duration: 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates)
• Job restrictions: Can work in ANY job at any skill level
• Salary requirements: NONE
• Sponsor: NOT required
• Path to settlement: NO (cannot lead to permanent residence)
• Eligibility: Must have completed a UK degree

Skilled Worker Visa:

• Purpose: Work in a specific skilled job
• Duration: Up to 5 years (extendable)
• Job restrictions: Must be in an eligible skilled occupation (RQF Level 3+)
• Salary requirements: £38,700 minimum (or going rate)
• Sponsor: Required (employer with license)
• Path to settlement: YES (after 5 years)
• Eligibility: Job offer from approved employer

Strategy for students: Many graduates use the Graduate visa to find a suitable skilled job, then switch to a Skilled Worker visa before the 2 years expire, securing their path to settlement.

9. How long before my visa expires can I apply for extension?

You can apply to extend your Skilled Worker visa up to 3 months before your current visa expires.

Best practice:

• Apply 2-3 months before expiry
• Don't wait until the last minute (in case of processing delays)
• Ensure your passport is valid for the full extension period
• Your current employer can sponsor your extension, or you can switch to a new employer

During extension processing:

• You can continue working under the same conditions
• Your current visa is extended until a decision is made (called "3C leave")
• You remain legally in the UK

After 5 years: If you've been on a Skilled Worker visa (or other eligible visas) for 5 continuous years, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) instead of extending your visa.

10. Will the salary threshold increase again in the future?

It's possible. The UK government reviews immigration rules regularly, and salary thresholds can change.

Recent history:

• Pre-2020: Tier 2 visa minimum ~£30,000
• December 2020: £25,600 minimum (when Skilled Worker visa launched)
• October 2023: Increased to £26,200
• April 2024: Increased to £38,700 (major jump)

What to watch:

• Annual UK government immigration reviews
• Economic conditions and inflation
• Political changes and election outcomes
• Post-Brexit migration policy adjustments

Recommendations:

1. If you're planning to apply soon: Don't delay - salary thresholds tend to increase, not decrease
2. If you're already on a visa: Check if transitional arrangements apply when extending
3. Stay informed: Follow UK Home Office announcements and subscribe to immigration law updates

The substantial increase to £38,700 in 2024 suggests the government is focused on reducing net migration numbers. Further increases are possible, though the current threshold already excludes many occupations that previously qualified.

For students and professionals planning UK migration: Act decisively, meet current requirements, and don't assume today's rules will still apply in 1-2 years.

Conclusion

The UK Skilled Worker visa offers an excellent pathway for international professionals seeking to build their careers in the United Kingdom. However, success requires careful planning and attention to detail—especially regarding the £38,700 salary threshold, occupation eligibility, and English language requirements.

Key takeaways:

✅ Salary: You must earn at least £38,700 OR the going rate for your occupation (whichever is higher)

✅ English: You need CEFR Level B1 - achievable with IELTS for UKVI (around Band 4.0-5.0)

✅ Job offer: You must have a confirmed offer from an employer with a sponsor license

✅ Occupation: Your job must be on the eligible occupations list at RQF Level 3+

✅ Points: You need 70 points total (50 mandatory + 20 from salary/tradeable points)

✅ Application: Gather all documents carefully, use the correct English test, and apply before your CoS expires

✅ Settlement: After 5 years on a Skilled Worker visa, you may qualify for permanent residence (ILR)

Next Steps

If you're preparing for IELTS for UKVI:

At KS Institute in Hinjewadi, Pune, we've trained 5,000+ students over 19 years in IELTS, PTE, and other English proficiency tests. Our certified instructors, led by Director Gagan Daga with 15+ years of teaching experience, offer personalized coaching to help you achieve your target scores.

We offer:

• IELTS for UKVI preparation (Academic and General Training)
• PTE Academic UKVI coaching
• Online and offline classes (8am-10pm flexibility)
• Individual attention and practice sessions
• Mock tests and score improvement strategies

📍 Location: Hinjewadi Phase 3, Pune 411057
⭐ Google Rating: 4.8 stars
📞 Contact: Visit our website or call for a free consultation

Whether you're an IT professional in Hinjewadi planning to move to the UK, a recent graduate targeting a Skilled Worker visa, or a healthcare professional exploring opportunities abroad, we can help you prepare for the English language requirement.

Useful Resources

• UK Government Official Visa Information: gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
• UK Sponsor Register: Check if an employer has a license
• Eligible Occupations List: Official SOC codes and going rates
• IELTS for UKVI: Book your test at an approved center
• PTE Academic UKVI: Alternative English test
• UK ENIC: Degree equivalency and English language verification

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes and based on UK immigration rules as of March 2026. Immigration rules can change. Always check the official UK government website or consult with a qualified immigration advisor for the most current information and personalized advice for your situation.

About This Guide

This comprehensive resource was created to help international professionals understand the complex requirements of the UK Skilled Worker visa. If you found this helpful, please share it with others who may benefit.

For IELTS and PTE preparation in Pune, visit KS Institute - helping students achieve their study abroad and migration goals since 2005.

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