UK Skilled Worker Visa Checker
2026
Check your offer against the current £41,700 standard or £33,400 new-entrant threshold, then verify the occupation going rate on GOV.UK.
Check Your Eligibility
UK Skilled Worker Visa — Current Salary Rules
For most new applications, the standard salary threshold is £41,700. An offer must normally meet both the applicable general threshold and the occupation-specific going rate. Some applicants, including eligible new entrants, can use discounted rules. If you are comparing global employment routes, see the Germany EU Blue Card Checker or Australia Skilled Migration Points Calculator.
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
For most new applications from 22 July 2025, the role must normally be at RQF Level 6, unless it qualifies through an eligible exception such as the Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List. Confirm the occupation code on GOV.UK.
Salary — Both Tests
You must pass TWO salary tests: the applicable general minimum (£41,700 standard or £33,400 for eligible new entrants) AND the relevant percentage of the occupation going rate.
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
Eligible new entrants can use the lower £33,400 general threshold, while also meeting the applicable percentage of their occupation going rate. Eligibility can include:
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. From 22 July 2025, the standard threshold is £41,700 per year. Eligible new entrants may qualify at £33,400, but applicants must also meet the applicable occupation going rate.
What is the going rate for a software developer UK Skilled Worker visa?
Going rates depend on the current occupation code and are updated by the Home Office. Check the official going-rates table and make sure the offer meets both the applicable general threshold and occupation going rate.
What is a new entrant for UK Skilled Worker visa?
New entrants can include applicants under 26, certain recent graduates, people working toward recognised professional qualifications, or some applicants switching from Student or Graduate routes. The general threshold is £33,400 and occupation-specific requirements still apply.
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.