News

New immigration salary requirements have been introduced in relation to Skilled Worker Visas, following the announcements by the Government in December 2023,.

These measures are aimed at significantly reducing the UK’s net migration by tightening visa categories, increasing salary thresholds, and addressing exploitation within the immigration system.

If you are impacted by any of these recent changes, our expert private immigration team boasts a well-established reputation and stands ready to assist you.

A substantial rise in the earnings threshold for individuals arriving on the Skilled Worker visa, now set at £38,700, up from £26,200, came into force as of April 4. Moreover, the updated SOCC 2020 codes reveal an approximate 50% increase in salaries compared to the previous SOC 2010 codes.

While Health & Care Worker salary rates will see minor adjustments, with a minimum threshold of £23,200 or the prevailing rate for the specific job, skilled workers on extensions or switching visas will face a new minimum salary threshold of £29,000. Additionally, the Shortage Occupation List has been replaced by the Immigration Salary List, focusing on occupations primarily in construction, arts, and science, including care workers and senior care workers.

Exemptions to the higher thresholds are available for new entrants, such as individuals under 26, students, and graduate visa holders. The revised minimum stands at £30,960 or 70% of the occupation's prevailing rate, up from the previous £20,960 threshold. Further exemptions for PHD students/STEM subjects range from 80% to 90% of the current salary rate.

Supplementary work of up to 20 hours a week outside one's main job is now permitted, provided the occupation appears on the 2020 Occupation codes, no longer limited to specific job categories or those listed on the Shortage Occupation List.

These new immigration rules represent a significant shift in the UK's approach to managing migration. By raising salary thresholds, revising occupation codes, and introducing the Immigration Salary List, the Government aims to reshape the immigration landscape while addressing exploitation and ensuring fair compensation for workers although this will no doubt have an effect on businesses who are looking to employee overseas nationals. Throughout 2024, the government plans to enhance the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme to cover all passengers visiting or transiting through the UK who do not currently require a visa for short stays or have any other UK immigration status.

About our Immigration Team

Our expert business and immigration lawyers have an established reputation in acting for business and private immigration. If you are affected by any of these recent changes, or are an employer sponsoring skilled workers or are looking submit an application as a skilled worker and would like advice, get in contact with our private immigration team director Vicash Ramkissoon via email at VicashR@duncanlewis.com or by telephone at 02031141105

Vicash is expert in all matters relating to business and private immigration with 20 years of PQE. He oversees a team specialising in private and business immigration. The team excels in complex skilled worker and sponsor licence applications including for the technology, care and hospitality sectors. Their expertise extends to advising high-net-worth individuals from Asia and the Middle East, and advising on immigration strategy, compliance, and representing clients in immigration-related judicial reviews.

Duncan Lewis Solicitors

Duncan Lewis Solicitors is an award-winning law firm renowned for its exceptional legal services and commitment to social justice. With a history spanning several decades, our team of highly skilled solicitors provides top-tier representation in 25 diverse fields of law. Recently crowned Law Firm of Year 2024 at the Lexis Nexis awards, the firm is recognised by the Times as one of the top 250 firms in the country and for its commitment to diversity and statt training. Duncan Lewis is Investors in People Gold accredited.