Important changes to the Skilled Worker visa

The UK government has recently announced important changes to the Skilled Worker visa route. The changes came into effect on 12 April 2023. What does it mean for prospective applicants and existing sponsored workers?

Minimum Salary Requirement

A notable change is the increase in the minimum salary threshold for the Skilled Worker visa category from £25,600 to £26,200 per year, and an increase in the minimum hourly rate from £10.10 per hour to £10.75 per hour. However, some exemptions apply for certain roles in the health and education sectors. 

Changes to going rates

New going rates will now be based on a 37.5-hour working week rather than a 39-hour working week. This is an important consideration, where employees are contracted for other working hours, as proposed salaries will need to be pro-rated in order to calculate eligibility for sponsorship.

When do the changes take effect?

The above salary and going rate changes will only apply to visa applications made using a Certificate of Sponsorship issued on or after 12 April 2023. For any applications made using a Certificate of Sponsorship issued before 12 April 2023, the application will still be decided in accordance with the Immigration Rules in force on 11 April 2023.

Do employers need to do anything?

Employers who currently sponsor workers need not be concerned as there is no need to take any action. Employers will only need to ensure salaries align with the new mandatory minimums, when their sponsored workers apply for their next visa extension or settlement stage.

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

©Gherson 2023