The United Kingdom (UK) Government has recently updated its guidance for sponsors of Skilled Worker visas.
The update corrects several errors in the previously published “going rates” for specific job roles.
These corrections follow changes made in the Immigration Rules in April 2024, where some salary thresholds were set too high.
The new figures are now available on the UK Government’s website, offering employers clarity on salary requirements for sponsored workers.
Correcting errors in Skilled Worker visa guidance
The going rates represent the typical salary for specific occupations eligible under the Skilled Worker visa route.
These skilled worker visa going rates are crucial to the UK visa application process.
Salaries of Skilled Worker visa applicants must meet or exceed the going rate for their occupation to qualify.
However, following the April 2024 Immigration Rule changes, some roles were mistakenly assigned inflated salary thresholds.
This has led to confusion among sponsors and potentially disqualifying eligible workers.
In September 2024, the Home Office updated its guidance to correct the going rates for several occupations.
Employers and sponsors are now expected to use the revised figures when issuing Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS).
While the corrected rates are effective immediately, they will be formally integrated into the Immigration Rules in autumn 2024.
Immigration experts stated that the updated guidance allows sponsors to align their salary offers with current market conditions.
This reduces the risk of visa refusals due to salary miscalculations.
The errors in going rates highlight the importance of regularly checking government guidance for updates.
It is especially recommended in light of significant changes to the UK’s immigration policy.
Changes to the UK Skilled Worker visa route in 2024
The April 2024 Immigration Rule changes were part of a broader effort by the UK government to manage migration.
It also aimed to align the salary thresholds with current market conditions and allow employers to prioritize hiring local workers.
The most notable change was the increase in the general salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas, which went from £26,200 to £38,700.
The UK Government also replaced the Shortage Occupation List with the new Immigration Salary List (ISL).
This ensures employers can no longer pay migrants less than UK workers in shortage occupations.
Roles in the ISL are both skilled and in shortage and are also deemed “sensible” given current efforts to prioritize the local workforce.
Varying Skilled Worker salary thresholds and going rates
While the general salary threshold has been raised, some sectors continue to operate under different salary rules.
Salaries of specific job sectors, such as healthcare and education, are based on national pay scales.
Alongside this, the government adjusted the going rates for specific occupations based on Office for National Statistics (ONS) data.
Skilled workers applying for jobs in the ISL may meet a lower salary threshold than the general salary threshold.
Additionally, exceptions exist for some workers, such as those with PhDs and those under age 26 or new entrants to the labor market.
Lower salary thresholds may apply to skilled workers who qualify under these exceptions.
Each job eligible for a Skilled Worker visa has a unique four-digit code, called a Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code.
The government regularly updates the list of eligible jobs and their corresponding minimum salary requirements.
This ensures that salaries reflect the typical market rate for each role.
Ensuring compliance for employers
With the corrected rates now in effect, employers and sponsors must offer salaries that meet these revised figures.
Failure to comply with these updated rates could result in Skilled Worker visa applications being rejected.
Using the incorrect salary figures could also lead to penalties for employers, including the potential loss of their sponsor license.
Immigration experts advise sponsors to review the Home Office’s guidance regularly.
They should use the Sponsorship Management System (SMS) to stay informed about any changes to sponsorship processes.
The situation also serves as a reminder to employers to review all aspects of the Skilled Worker visa requirements carefully.
This includes specific job codes and going rates for their employees, as even small oversight can disrupt hiring plans.
Future implications on hiring skilled workers
The incident highlighted some challenges employers face in navigating the UK’s complex immigration system.
With frequent updates to salary thresholds, going rates, and job codes, sponsors must stay vigilant to ensure compliance with the latest rules.
This can be especially difficult for smaller employers without dedicated HR or legal teams to manage the sponsorship process.
Looking ahead, sponsors should prepare for further updates as the UK continues to refine its immigration system.
The Skilled Worker visa is key in maintaining the UK’s access to global talent while ensuring that salary standards align with market realities.
Future policy updates also allow the government to balance labor market demands and migration targets.
Employers and sponsors are encouraged to stay proactive in checking government updates and seeking advice from immigration specialists.