The UK government is raising salary thresholds for Skilled Worker visas significantly starting January 1, 2025. These updates are an effort to align immigration policies with the UK’s economic goals but will create challenges for employers and applicants alike.

UK 2025 Skilled Worker Visa salary thresholds

The upcoming changes represent the most substantial increase in salary thresholds for Skilled Worker visas in recent years:

• Most Skilled Worker visa applicants must now meet a minimum salary of £38,700, an 82% jump from the current threshold of £26,200.
• Applicants with a relevant PhD will face a threshold of £34,830, up from £23,800, while those with STEM-related PhDs will need a salary of £30,960, an increase from £20,960.
• Jobs on the shortage occupation list and roles for new entrants will also require a salary of £30,960, with the 20% discount for shortage roles removed.

The updated thresholds are based on median salaries and reflect the government’s goal to prioritize higher-paying, skilled positions. However, they will make it more challenging for applicants in sectors like technology, healthcare, and engineering to qualify without securing higher-paying roles.

How will the new salary thresholds affect employers? 

For UK employers, the increased salary requirements will require budget adjustments. Companies will need to account for higher sponsorship costs, especially in key industries like technology, healthcare, and engineering.

While this may narrow the pool of eligible applicants, it’s expected these changes make hiring more focused on top-tier talent. However, the increase in hiring costs could make it harder to fill roles in sectors already facing worker shortages.

Collaborating with global mobility experts like Jobbatical can provide valuable insights and solutions to adapt to these changes effectively. Talk to our team to continue to attract the global talent necessary for your business’ growth.