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1. Overview: What Is the Skilled Worker Visa?

The UK Skilled Worker visa (previously Tier 2 General) allows eligible individuals to live and work in the UK if they:

• Have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer licensed by the Home Office

• Are applying for a role listed as eligible by the UK government

• Meet required thresholds for salary, skill level, and English language ability

This visa is valid for up to five years and can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain. It also permits dependants to accompany you and, for most jobs, allows additional work and study.

2. Eligible Occupations: Updated Scope

The UK government maintains an official list of eligible occupations, identified by SOC 2020 codes. This list was significantly revised on April 9, 2025.

Unsure of the right SOC code for your job? Use the CASCOT tool on GOV.UK to search by title or job description.

The list spans a wide range of fields, including:

• STEM and professional roles (e.g. engineers, scientists, executives)

• Healthcare and education (e.g. doctors, nurses, teachers)

• Creative and technical occupations

• Some middle-skilled roles

3. April 2025 Update: 200+ New Occupations Added

The April 2025 changes expanded eligibility with over 200 new roles across multiple industries, including:

• Technology: Software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity experts

• Skilled Trades: Electricians, carpenters, plumbers, welders

• Creative Arts: Musicians, photographers, set designers

• Healthcare & Education: Nurses, doctors, educators

• Miscellaneous: DJs, dog walkers, homeopaths, costume interpreters

These updates reflect a broader acceptance of middle-skilled roles, due to post-Brexit policy changes.

4. Skill Level & Salary Thresholds

To be eligible, a job must:

• Be listed under the correct SOC 2020 code

• Meet the skill requirement (minimum RQF Level 3, rising to Level 6+ from July 2025)

• Pay the higher of either the general salary threshold or the occupation’s “going rate”

Recent Updates:

• General salary threshold increased in April 2024 from ~£26,200 to £38,700 (for a 37.5-hour week)

• Specific roles (e.g., software engineers) now require a minimum of £51,000/year

• Some jobs qualify for an 80% reduced salary threshold if they’re on the immigration salary list (e.g., £30,960 vs. £25,200), depending on region and role type

5. Temporary Shortage List: Non-Graduate Roles Extended

In July 2025, the UK introduced a Temporary Shortage List to maintain visa eligibility for certain non-graduate roles until the end of 2026. Examples include:

• HR officers, IT support technicians, mortgage administrators

• Engineering and lab technicians, welders

• Creative roles like set designers and box-office assistants

Beyond 2026, employers in these sectors will need to submit domestic training strategies to continue recruiting internationally.

6. In-Demand Sectors (2025 Snapshot)

These roles reflect the UK’s strategic focus on innovation, public service, and infrastructure, blending graduate and middle-skilled occupations.

7. How to Apply

Here’s a streamlined checklist:

1. Confirm Your SOC Code – Use the CASCOT tool on GOV.UK

2. Secure a Sponsoring Employer – Must be licensed and issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

3. Verify Salary and Skill Requirements – Match your role’s going rate and skill level

4. Prepare Documents – English language proof, identity verification, financial support, TB test (if required)

5. Apply Early – Up to 3 months before your job start date; visa length can be up to 5 years

6. Include Dependants – Spouses and children under 18 may apply, with specific rules and possible fee waivers for healthcare workers

8. Key Policy Changes to Watch

• From July 2025, most eligible roles will require RQF Level 6 (graduate level)

• The Temporary Shortage List continues only through 2026

• Salary thresholds are expected to rise again in early 2026

• Some middle-skilled roles (e.g., DJs, costume interpreters) remain eligible but may face future restrictions

• High-priority sectors such as AI and life sciences continue to receive focus, with an emphasis on local workforce training

9. Final Thoughts

The UK Skilled Worker visa is the primary route for international professionals entering the UK workforce. Given the frequent updates, your best strategy is to:

• Always verify your SOC code and salary eligibility via GOV.UK

• Take advantage of temporary pathways (e.g., shortage lists) while they’re still active

• Plan ahead for changes coming July 2025 and beyond

Stay informed and act early to maximize your opportunity for a successful UK work visa.