Understanding the Salary Threshold for Skilled Worker Visa

If you're applying for a Skilled Worker visa in the UK, one of the key requirements is meeting the salary threshold for skilled worker visa. This threshold is designed to ensure that sponsored workers are paid a wage that reflects the skilled nature of their role and does not undercut resident workers. The rules can be complex, especially when considering regional pay differences and seniority levels. This article explains how the threshold works, how it relates to UK pay benchmarks, and how to convert hourly rates to annual salaries.

Current Salary Thresholds

According to GOV.UK guidance, the minimum salary for a Skilled Worker visa is the higher of:

• £41,700 per year (the standard general threshold)
• The ‘going rate’ for the specific occupation code

If you do not meet the usual requirements and are not in healthcare or education, you may still be eligible if your salary is at least £33,400 per year (subject to certain conditions).

A technical note published by the Migration Advisory Committee in May 2026 proposes updating the general threshold to £44,000 based on the 30th percentile of full-time earnings for eligible occupations using the 2025 Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE). This change is not yet in force, but it indicates the direction of travel.

Going Rates and Occupation-Specific Thresholds

The going rate for each eligible occupation is based on median ASHE data for that job code, assuming a 37.5-hour week. For the standard rate (Options A–E), the going rate is the higher of the median ASHE figure or £17.13 per hour. For the lower rate (Options F–J), it is the higher of the 25th percentile ASHE figure or £12.82 per hour. These rates must be pro-rated if your working week differs from 37.5 hours.

For example, if your occupation’s median annual earnings are £45,000, that becomes your going rate, even though the general threshold is £41,700. You must be paid at least the going rate.

Regional and Seniority Differences

While the salary threshold is a national minimum, regional pay variations exist across the UK. The ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (April 2025) shows that median full-time weekly earnings vary by region, with Northern Ireland seeing the highest growth (7.4%). However, the visa threshold does not adjust for region – an employer in a lower-paying area must still meet the same minimum.

Seniority differences are captured through occupation-specific going rates. Higher-skilled roles (e.g., managers, professionals) have higher median earnings, so their going rates are higher. The general threshold is set at the 30th percentile of all eligible occupations, meaning it is above the median for many lower-skilled roles but below the median for senior ones.

Healthcare and Education Roles

For jobs in healthcare and education, the going rates are based on national pay scales (e.g., NHS Agenda for Change, teacher pay bands). These scales may be lower than the general threshold, but they are still acceptable for visa purposes. Always check the relevant pay scale for your role.

Converting Hourly Rates to Annual Salary

To see how an hourly wage compares to the visa threshold, use the formula:

Annual salary ≈ hourly rate × hours per week × 52

Assuming a standard 37.5-hour week:

• £41,700 per year ≈ £21.38 per hour
• £44,000 per year ≈ £22.56 per hour
• £33,400 per year ≈ £17.13 per hour

If you work fewer or more hours, pro-rate accordingly. Remember that the threshold is based on gross annual salary, excluding overtime, bonuses, and tips unless they are guaranteed.

UK Pay Benchmarks

For context, the ONS reports median full-time annual earnings of £39,039 (April 2025), and median hourly earnings of £19.67. The National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over is £12.21 per hour (2025 rate). The Skilled Worker threshold is therefore well above the national median, reflecting the requirement for skilled roles.

Using Our Tools

To help you calculate whether a job offer meets the salary threshold, use our Hourly to Salary converter. You can also explore salary data for different occupations and regions.

Summary

The salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa is a moving target, with a current standard of £41,700 and a proposed increase to £44,000. Occupation-specific going rates may be higher, and regional pay differences do not affect the threshold but are worth considering when negotiating a salary. Always check the latest guidance on and consult your employer or an immigration adviser.

Disclaimer: Hourly-to-salary figures assume a steady contracted week with no unpaid overtime, bonus, tips or salary sacrifice. Actual pay depends on rota, holiday pay method, London weighting and overtime rules. Always check your contract and official GOV.UK guidance.