UK Skilled Worker Visa Jobs List (Updated Guide 2026)
The rules for working in the UK have undergone their most significant tightening in a decade. As of 2026, the “Skilled Worker” route has transitioned from a broad entry-point to a highly selective pathway reserved for high-value professionals and critical shortage roles. With the standard salary threshold now sitting at £41,700, many roles that were sponsorable just two years ago are now out of reach for smaller employers.
At Parentguide Jobs, we’ve spent the start of 2026 analyzing the new Immigration Salary List (ISL) and the updated SOC 2020 codes. If you are an international job seeker or a UK employer, you need to understand that the “Going Rate” is now the ultimate gatekeeper of the UK visa system. This guide provides the definitive list of eligible jobs and the strict financial requirements you must meet this year.
What are the New Salary Thresholds for 2026?
Direct Answer: For most Skilled Worker applications in 2026, you must be paid at least £41,700 per year or 100% of the “Going Rate” for your specific job code—whichever is higher. However, if your job is on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) or you are a New Entrant (under 26 or a recent UK graduate), the minimum salary floor drops to £33,400.
The 2026 Salary Hierarchy (Option A to E)
In 2026, your eligibility is determined by which “Option” your application falls under. Use the hierarchy below to find your minimum salary requirement.
|
Option |
Category |
Minimum Salary Floor |
Going Rate Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Option A |
Standard Skilled Worker |
£41,700
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|
100% of Going Rate |
|
Option B |
Relevant PhD (Non-STEM) |
£37,500 |
90% of Going Rate |
|
Option C |
Relevant STEM PhD |
£33,400 |
80% of Going Rate |
|
Option D |
Immigration Salary List (ISL) |
£33,400 |
100% of Going Rate |
|
Option E |
New Entrant (Recent Grad/Under 26) |
£33,400 |
70% of Going Rate |
Note: The Health and Care Worker Visa (Option F-K) operates on a different scale, typically requiring the higher of £29,000 or the occupation-specific rate.
The 2026 Immigration Salary List (ISL): Shortage Roles
The ISL replaced the old “Shortage Occupation List.” Being on this list doesn’t mean you can be paid “cheaply,” but it does lower the absolute minimum salary you need to qualify.
High-Demand ISL Jobs for 2026:
- Construction Trades: Bricklayers, Roofers, Stonemasons, and Carpenters.
- Science & Tech: Laboratory Technicians (3+ years experience), Pharmaceutical Technicians, and Archaeologists.
- Creative Industries: Graphic Designers (Senior levels), Ballet/Contemporary Dancers, and Orchestral Musicians.
- Engineering: High-integrity Pipe Welders and Boat/Ship Builders (Scotland only).
Crucial 2026 Requirement Changes
1. The B2 English Requirement (New for Jan 2026)
As of January 8, 2026, the bar for English proficiency has been raised. New applicants must now prove they meet CEFR Level B2 (A-Level standard), up from the previous B1 (GCSE standard). This applies to all Skilled Worker, Scale-up, and High Potential Individual (HPI) visas.
2. The Skill Level (RQF 6+)
For standard sponsorship, the job must be at RQF Level 6 (Degree level). While you don’t always need the degree yourself, the duties of the job must be complex enough to satisfy the Home Office that the role is truly “Skilled.”
3. The “Earned Settlement” Reform (April 2026)
A major change is coming in April 2026. The government is proposing to extend the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from 5 years to 10 years for most workers.
- The Exception: High earners (those earning over £125,140) or those in specific public service roles may still be able to settle in 3 to 5 years.
Popular Sponsored Job Codes (SOC 2020) in 2026
When searching for a job, you must ensure the SOC Code is eligible. Here are the most common codes being sponsored this year:
|
Job Title |
SOC 2020 Code |
2026 “Going Rate” (Standard) |
|---|---|---|
|
Civil Engineer |
2121 |
£50,400 |
|
Software Developer
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|
2134 |
£49,400 |
|
Marketing Manager |
2432 |
£41,700* |
|
Business Analyst |
3534 |
£48,200 |
|
Quantity Surveyor |
2433 |
£43,500 |
|
HR Manager |
1135 |
£49,800 |
- If the going rate is below £41,700, you must still be paid £41,700 to meet the general threshold.
Step-by-Step: How to Verify a Job for Sponsorship
- Find the SOC Code: Ask the employer for the 4-digit SOC 2020 code for the role.
- Check Table 1 or 2: Look up the “Going Rate” in the Immigration Rules Appendix Skilled Occupations.
- Compare to £41,700: If the going rate is £35,000, you must be paid £41,700. If the going rate is £55,000, you must be paid £55,000.
- Apply the Discount: If you are a “New Entrant” (e.g., switching from a Student Visa), calculate 70% of the going rate. If that 70% is below £33,400, your minimum is £33,400.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in 2026
- Trusting Old Salary Data: Many blogs still quote the 2023 (£26,200) or 2024 (£38,700) thresholds. As of mid-2025/2026, £41,700 is the magic number.
- Ignoring the “Hourly Rate” Rule: You must also earn at least £17.13 per hour (for a 48-hour week) or more depending on your SOC code. You cannot simply work 80 hours a week to hit the £41,700 threshold.
- Extension Surprises: If you were sponsored before April 2024, you may be eligible for “transitional arrangements” with a lower threshold (£29,000). Always check if you are a “protected” worker before switching employers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can a Chef get a Skilled Worker Visa in 2026?
Yes, but it is difficult. Most Chefs fall under SOC 5434. The going rate is now quite high, and the employer must prove the role is RQF Level 3 or higher. Most “fast food” or “standard” cook roles are ineligible.
2. What happens if my salary is £40,000?
Unless you qualify for a discount (PhD, ISL, or New Entrant), a £40,000 salary will result in a visa refusal, as it is below the £41,700 floor.
3. Does the Graduate Visa count toward the 5 (or 10) years for ILR?
No. Time on a Graduate Visa does not count toward the 5-year Skilled Worker settlement route. It only counts toward the 10-year “Long Residence” route (which is also under review for April 2026).
4. Can I switch from a Student Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, but you can no longer switch before completing your course unless you are a PhD student. You must also meet the “New Entrant” salary threshold of £33,400.
5. How much does sponsorship cost the employer in 2026?
Between the Immigration Skills Charge (£1,320/year for large firms) and the CoS fee, a 5-year visa can cost an employer over £10,000 in government fees alone.
