- The UK Immigration Salary List (ISL) replaced the Shortage Occupation List on 4 April 2024.
- Workers in eligible occupations may qualify for a lower general salary threshold under the Skilled Worker visa route.
- Applicants must still meet the full occupation-specific going rate, even if their job is on the Immigration Salary List.
- The current minimum salary for eligible ISL roles is generally £30,960, although different salary options may apply depending on the applicant’s circumstances.
- The Health and Care Worker visa follows separate salary rules, including national pay scales for certain occupations.
- Employers must assign the correct SOC code and issue a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) before a visa application can proceed.
- As the Immigration Rules are updated regularly, applicants should always check the latest Home Office guidance before relying on salary thresholds or occupation eligibility.
Introduction
The Immigration Salary List plays an important role in determining whether certain overseas workers can qualify for a UK Skilled Worker Visa at a lower general salary threshold.
Introduced by the UK Government on 4 April 2024, the Immigration Salary List (ISL) replaced the former Shortage Occupation List to reduce legal migration while continuing to address genuine skills shortages across key sectors.
Rather than offering broad salary concessions, the Immigration Salary List UK identifies specific occupations that may qualify for a reduced general salary threshold, provided applicants still meet the full occupation-specific going rate set out in the Immigration Rules.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the ISL including the latest skilled worker occupation codes, SOC codes with salary, current skilled worker salary threshold rules, and how to check whether your job appears on the appendix immigration salary list.
What Is the Immigration Salary List?
The Immigration Salary List (ISL) is an official list published by the Home Office under the appendix immigration salary list within the UK Immigration Rules. It identifies specific occupations that can benefit from a reduced general salary threshold when applying under the skilled worker route.
The Immigration Salary List was introduced on 4 April 2024, replacing the Shortage Occupation List. The change formed part of the UK Government’s wider immigration reforms following recommendations made by the Migration Advisory Committee.
For example, the general salary threshold is £38,700 from April 2024 for many Skilled Worker applications. However, the minimum salary for ISL roles is £30,960, provided the applicant also receives the full skilled worker going rates applicable to their occupation code.
The Immigration Salary List offers a maximum 20% discount on salary thresholds, but the ISL no longer offers a discount on the going rate for occupations. In every case, roles on the Immigration Salary List require 100% of the occupation’s going rate to be paid.
Some occupations of Immigration Salary List apply UK wide, while others are limited to particular nations or industries.
For example, roles connected with the nuclear industry Scotland, internationally recognised UK orchestras, internationally recognised UK ballet companies, skilled contemporary dancers, only skilled orchestral musicians, high integrity pipe welders, only racing grooms, fishing boat masters and other specialist occupations listed within the appendix skilled occupations.
The Home Office may amend eligible occupations, salary thresholds and occupation code job types whenever changes to the Immigration Rules come into force.
UK Immigration Salary List: Latest Updates
One of the most common questions we receive is, “Is your job on the Immigration Salary List?” The quickest way to answer this is by identifying your Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code and checking whether it appears in the current appendix immigration salary list.
The table below highlights some of the most commonly searched occupations currently included within the UK Immigration Salary List.
| Occupation Code | Occupation | Immigration Salary List Status | Salary Threshold | Going Rate | Skilled Worker Eligibility |
| SOC 6145 | Care Workers and Home Carers | Yes | £30,960 | £25,000 (£12.82/hr) | Eligible subject to salary requirements and going rate |
| SOC 6146 | Senior Care Workers | Yes | £30,960 | £25,000 (£12.82/hr) | Eligible subject to salary requirements and going rate |
| SOC 6131 | Nursing Auxiliaries and Assistants | Yes | National pay scale or applicable salary option | £25,000 (£12.82/hr) | Eligible subject to salary requirements and going rate |
| SOC 2461 | Social and Humanities Scientists (selected occupations) | Selected occupations | £40,400 | £28,000 (£14.36/hr) | Subject to Immigration Rules |
| SOC 3556 | Conservation and Environmental Associate Professionals (selected occupations) | Selected occupations | £30,960 | Varies with occupation | Subject to occupation-specific conditions |
The complete Immigration Salary List UK contains additional occupations across healthcare, engineering, construction, agriculture, fishing, culture and specialist technical professions. Eligibility is determined not only by the job title but also by the relevant occupation code, salary level and the detailed job description set out within the Immigration Rules.
Current Skilled Worker Salary Thresholds
Understanding the relationship between the Immigration Salary List, the Skilled Worker Visa, and the applicable salary rules is essential before accepting a job offer or submitting a visa application. While many people focus on the general salary threshold, the Home Office assesses applications against several salary options under Appendix Skilled Worker.
The correct threshold depends on factors such as the applicant’s occupation, occupation code, sponsorship date and whether they qualify for tradeable points.
The Immigration Salary List (ISL) can reduce the general salary threshold for eligible occupations, but it does not remove the requirement to meet the relevant going rate skilled worker salary. In other words, being on the UK Immigration Salary List does not automatically make a job eligible for sponsorship.
General Salary Threshold for Skilled Worker Visa Applicants
The general salary threshold increased from £26,200 to £38,700 on 4 April 2024 for many applicants entering the Skilled Worker Visa route. This remains the standard benchmark for applicants who do not qualify under one of the alternative salary options available within the Immigration Rules.
However, following changes introduced from 22 July 2025, the salary framework became more flexible. Different minimum salaries now apply depending on the applicant’s circumstances, the occupation code, and the salary option relied upon under Appendix Skilled Worker.
The table below summarises the main thresholds.
| Salary Category | Current Position |
| General salary threshold for many Skilled Worker applicants | £38,700 |
| Minimum salary for eligible Immigration Salary List roles | £30,960 |
| Health and Care Worker visa minimum salary | £25,000 (or the applicable national pay scale where relevant) |
| Certain post-22 July 2025 salary options for eligible RQF Level 6+ occupations | £33,400 where the relevant salary option applies |
It is important to note that the £33,400 figure does not apply to every Skilled Worker applicant. It is available only where an applicant qualifies under one of the salary options introduced through the revised Appendix Skilled Worker, such as certain new entrants, applicants claiming tradeable points, or other qualifying categories.
The applicable threshold should always be assessed against the current Immigration Rules.
Immigration Salary List Salary Requirements
The Immigration Salary List (ISL) allows employers to sponsor workers at a lower general salary threshold, but only where the occupation appears on the current appendix immigration salary list and all other conditions are satisfied.
Applicants should remember the following principles:
- The minimum salary threshold on the ISL is £30,960.
- Employers must pay at least £30,960 for ISL roles, unless another applicable salary option applies under the Immigration Rules.
- The Immigration Salary List requires full payment of the occupation’s going rate.
- ISL roles require 100% of the occupation’s going rate to be paid.
- The ISL does not reduce the going rate for occupations.
- The applicable SOC code with salary must correspond with the duties actually performed.
This represents one of the biggest differences between the current Immigration Salary List and the former Shortage Occupation List. Previously, employers could benefit from a reduction in both the general salary threshold and, in some cases, the occupation-specific rate.
Under the current system, the Immigration Salary List offers a maximum 20% discount on salary thresholds, but the going rate must still be paid in full.
Understanding Skilled Worker Going Rates
Every occupation eligible under the Skilled Worker Visa has an associated going rate published by the Home Office. This reflects the expected market salary for that occupation and forms part of the applicant’s salary requirements.
When assessing a Skilled Worker Visa application, employers must ensure that the proposed salary satisfies both:
- the relevant general salary threshold, and
- the published skilled worker going rates for that occupation code.
Whichever figure is higher will normally determine the minimum salary that must be offered.
Going rates are usually calculated using:
- the relevant Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes
- annual salary
- hourly pay where applicable
- recognised other working patterns permitted under the Immigration Rules
Applicants should therefore avoid relying solely on the general salary threshold when assessing visa eligibility.
The Home Office publishes the official Skilled Occupations list, which sets out the relevant SOC codes, occupation descriptions, and going rates used to assess Skilled Worker visa applications. Applicants and employers should always refer to the latest guidance when checking salary requirements.
Tradeable Points and Reduced Salary Options
Not every Skilled Worker Visa applicant is assessed against the same salary threshold. The Immigration Rules contain several tradeable points options that allow qualifying applicants to rely on alternative salary thresholds.
These include applicants who:
- qualify as new entrants to the labour market
- hold relevant PhD qualifications
- hold STEM PhD qualifications
- work within recognised national pay scale occupations
- apply under the Immigration Salary List (ISL)
- qualify under certain postdoctoral or specialist salary options
Each salary option has its own eligibility requirements. Although a lower minimum salary may apply, applicants must still satisfy the relevant occupation code, skill level and applicable going rate skilled worker requirements.
New Entrant Salary Rules
New entrants skilled workers continue to benefit from reduced salary thresholds where they satisfy the relevant conditions under Appendix.
A person may qualify as a new entrant if they are, for example:
- under the permitted age threshold at the date of application
- switching from a Student or Graduate route in qualifying circumstances
- working towards a recognised professional qualification
- entering an approved postdoctoral position
Rather than applying one fixed salary, the Immigration Rules generally allow new entrants in the immigration labour market to be paid between 70% and 90% of the standard going rate, depending on the applicable salary option. Employers should therefore assess the relevant salary tables before assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
Health and Care Worker Salary Requirements
The Health and Care Worker route continues to operate under its own salary framework because many occupations are linked to NHS or other recognised national pay scale arrangements. For many applicants:
- Health and Care Worker visa minimum salary is £25,000.
- Applicants must still satisfy the relevant occupation code requirements.
- Where a national pay scale applies, employers must pay the appropriate rate for that role.
- Certain care occupations remain included on the Immigration Salary List UK, subject to the current Immigration Rules.
Applicants should remember that the Immigration Salary List does not automatically guarantee eligibility. The Home Office will assess the occupation, salary, sponsorship details and all other visa eligibility requirements before granting permission to work in the UK.
How to Check Whether Your Job Is on the Immigration Salary List
Many applicants ask “Is your job on the Immigration Salary List?” The answer depends on much more than your job title. The Home Office assesses sponsorship using the relevant occupation code, job description and salary rather than the title shown on your employment contract.
Following these steps can help you determine whether your role appears on the Immigration Salary List.
Step 1: Identify Your Occupation Code
The first step is to identify the correct Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code for your role. Employers must select the correct SOC code when assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Choosing the wrong code can lead to delays, compliance issues or visa refusal.
When identifying your code, consider:
- your day-to-day duties
- level of responsibility
- qualifications required
- skill level expected for the role
The job description is often more important than the job title itself.
Step 2: Check the Appendix Immigration Salary List
Once you know your eligible occupation code, compare it with the current appendix immigration salary list published by the Home Office. Some occupations apply UK wide, while others only apply in specific Immigration Salary List areas, industries or nations of the UK.
For example, certain specialist occupations relate to:
- high integrity pipe welders
- the nuclear industry Scotland
- internationally recognised UK ballet companies
- internationally recognised UK orchestras
- only skilled orchestral musicians
- skilled classical ballet dancers
- skilled contemporary dancers
- only racing grooms
- fishing boat masters
- large fishing vessels
- selected elementary agriculture occupations
These roles often include additional eligibility conditions beyond the occupation title alone.
Step 3: Compare the Salary Requirements
After confirming that your occupation appears on the Immigration Salary List, compare your proposed salary against:
- the relevant general salary threshold
- the applicable going rate skilled worker
- any salary option available under Appendix Skilled Worker
Remember that roles on the Immigration Salary List require 100% of the occupation’s going rate, even where a reduced general salary threshold applies.
Step 4: Confirm Your Visa Eligibility
Finally, ensure that you satisfy all other requirements for the Skilled Worker Visa, including sponsorship, skill level and any occupation-specific conditions contained within the Immigration Rules.
Where there is any uncertainty regarding your occupation code or salary assessment, obtaining professional legal advice before your employer issues a Certificate of Sponsorship can help prevent unnecessary delays or refusals.
Popular Immigration Salary List Occupation Codes
Below are some of the most commonly searched occupations on the Immigration Salary List. Eligibility always depends on meeting the relevant salary requirements, occupation code, and Skilled Worker Visa criteria.
SOC 6145: Care Workers and Home Carers
Care Workers and Home Carers remain among the most recognised occupations on the UK Immigration Salary List. Employers sponsoring workers under this code must pay the applicable salary and 100% of the occupation’s going rate. Sponsorship in private households is generally not permitted unless specific Home Office requirements are met.
SOC 6146: Senior Care Workers
Senior Care Workers continue to be eligible under the Immigration Salary List (ISL), subject to the correct occupation code, salary and sponsorship requirements. Many roles in this category are linked to regulated care providers and the Health and Care Worker route.
SOC 6131: Nursing Auxiliaries and Assistants
This occupation supports healthcare services across the UK and may qualify under the Health and Care Worker route where all eligibility criteria are met. Applicants must receive the appropriate salary or national pay scale applicable to their role.
SOC 2461: Social and Humanities Scientists
Selected specialist roles under this occupation code may qualify for sponsorship where they appear in the current appendix immigration salary list. Applicants for any UK visa should always confirm whether their specific role is included.
SOC 3556: Conservation and Environmental Associate Professionals
Certain environmental and conservation roles are eligible for sponsorship where the relevant conditions in the Immigration Rules are satisfied. Eligibility depends on the exact job duties and the assigned SOC code.
Immigration Salary List vs Shortage Occupation List
The Immigration Salary List replaced the Shortage Occupation List on 4 April 2024 as part of wider immigration reforms.
| Immigration Salary List | Shortage Occupation List |
| Introduced on 4 April 2024 | Replaced in April 2024 |
| Reduced general salary threshold only | Reduced salary threshold and offered additional concessions |
| Requires 100% of the occupation’s going rate | Allowed discounts to the going rate in some cases |
| Focuses on salary-based eligibility | Focused on occupations experiencing shortages |
| Applies under current Immigration Rules | Former immigration framework |
The Immigration Salary List aims to target genuine skills shortages while ensuring overseas workers receive appropriate pay for their occupation.
Latest Immigration Salary List Updates
Recent changes introduced by the Home Office include:
- The Immigration Salary List replaced the Shortage Occupation List on 4 April 2024.
- The general salary threshold increased from £26,200 to £38,700 for many Skilled Worker applicants.
- The minimum salary for ISL roles is £30,960.
- ISL roles require 100% of the occupation’s going rate to be paid.
- Some applicants sponsored after 22 July 2025 may qualify under alternative salary options, including £33,400 for certain RQF Level 6+ occupations where the relevant salary provisions apply.
- The Temporary Shortage List now operates alongside the Immigration Salary List for selected occupations.
Because the appendix immigration salary list is updated whenever the Immigration Rules change, employers and applicants should always check the latest version before relying on an occupation code.
Need Help Checking Your Immigration Salary List Eligibility?
Finding and meeting your salary requirement is not enough to get a UK job.
Selecting the skilled worker eligible occupations, understanding immigration health surcharge and immigration skills charge, securing the suitable work visa sponsorship and following the latest rules are all essential to a successful application.
At Axis Solicitors, our experienced immigration lawyers advise both employers and overseas workers on Skilled Worker Visa applications, sponsorship requirements, Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issues, salary assessments and Immigration Salary List eligibility.
Whether you need help identifying the correct SOC code, assessing your visa eligibility, or preparing an application, our team can provide expert legal advice to help you move forward with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is your job on the Immigration Salary List?
You can check whether your role appears on the Immigration Salary List by identifying your Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code and comparing it with the latest Appendix Immigration Salary List published by the Home Office.
Even if your occupation is listed, you must still meet the relevant Skilled Worker salary threshold, the applicable going rate, and all other visa eligibility requirements.
Has the UK Skilled Visa Salary List been abolished?
No. The UK Skilled Visa Salary List has not been abolished. Instead, the Immigration Salary List replaced the Shortage Occupation List on 4 April 2024. The current list continues to identify occupations that qualify for a reduced general salary threshold, although applicants must still receive 100% of the occupation’s going rate.
What is the new entrant salary threshold for a Skilled Worker Visa?
The new entrant salary threshold depends on the salary option that applies under Appendix Skilled Worker. New entrants may qualify for a lower salary than experienced workers if they meet the Home Office criteria, such as age, professional training, or switching from a Student or Graduate visa.
However, they must satisfy the relevant percentage of the going rate for their occupation.
What is the 2461 job code under the Immigration Salary List?
SOC Code 2461 covers Social and Humanities Scientists. Certain specialist roles within this occupation may qualify under the Immigration Salary List, provided they satisfy the current Immigration Rules, sponsorship requirements, and applicable salary thresholds. Applicants should always check whether their specific role is included in the latest Home Office guidance.
What is the 3556 SOC code?
SOC Code 3556 relates to Conservation and Environmental Associate Professionals. Eligibility under the Immigration Salary List depends on the exact job duties, occupation description, and salary offered. Employers must assign the correct occupation code when sponsoring a worker.
What is the UK salary for the 6131 job code?
SOC Code 6131 covers Nursing Auxiliaries and Assistants. The salary required depends on the applicable Health and Care Worker or Skilled Worker salary rules, the national pay scale where relevant, and the occupation’s published going rate. Employers must ensure the salary meets the current Home Office requirements before assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship.
What are the Skilled Worker Visa going rates for eligible occupation codes?
The Skilled Worker Visa going rates for eligible occupation codes are occupation-specific salary levels published by the Home Office. Applicants must normally meet both the applicable general salary threshold and the full going rate for their SOC code. Being on the Immigration Salary List does not reduce the occupation’s going rate.
What is Paragraph 360 of the Immigration Salary List?
Paragraph 360 refers to provisions within the Immigration Rules and Home Office guidance relating to salary assessment and eligible occupations. Applicants should always refer to the latest version of the Appendix Immigration Salary List and Appendix Skilled Worker, as paragraph numbering and guidance may be updated whenever the Immigration Rules change.
