UK Point Based System – Skilled workers – As of 28 Sep 2020

Under the new skilled worker system, anyone coming to the UK to work will need to demonstrate that:

• they have a job offer from a Home Office licensed sponsor
• the job offer is at the required skill level – RQF 3 or above (A Level and equivalent)
• they speak English to the required standard

In addition to this, the job offer must meet the applicable minimum salary threshold. This is the higher of either:

• the general salary threshold set by Her Majesty’s Government on advice of the independent Migration Advisory Committee at £25,600, or
• the specific salary requirement for their occupation, known as the “going rate”

All applicants will be able to trade characteristics, such as their qualifications, against a lower salary to get the required number of points. If the job offer is less than the minimum salary requirement but no less than £20,480, an applicant may still be eligible if they have:

• a job offer in a specific shortage occupation
• a PhD relevant to the job
• a PhD in a STEM subject relevant to the job

There are different salary rules for workers in certain health or education jobs, and for “new entrants” at the start of their careers.