UK Visa Routes — Plain English Guide
Every visa route explained simply. Updated in real-time from official government sources. Last checked: 29 March 2026
CURRENT SALARY THRESHOLDS (2024–2025)
Skilled Worker (general)
£38,700
Increased from £26,200 in April 2024
Skilled Worker (ISL roles)
Going rate waived
78 occupations on the Immigration Salary List
Health & Care Worker
£29,000
Reduced rate for NHS/care sector
Scale-Up
£38,700
Same as general Skilled Worker
Global Talent
None
No salary requirement
Graduate
None
Any job, any salary for 2 years
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Skilled Worker Visa
Up to 5 yearsSettlement: Yes — after 5 years
REQUIREMENTS
●Job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence
●Your job must be at an appropriate skill level (RQF 3 or above)
●You must be paid at least £38,700/year OR the going rate for your occupation
●If your role is on the Immigration Salary List, the going rate requirement is waived
●You must prove your English language ability (B1 level)
●You need enough savings to support yourself (at least £1,270 in your account for 28 days)
INSIDER TIPS
💡Search for A-rated sponsors on SponsorIntel — they have the best compliance record
💡Roles on the Immigration Salary List (ISL) have lower salary requirements
💡You can switch to Skilled Worker from most other visa routes while in the UK
💡Your partner and children can come with you (dependant visa)
💡You can do a second job in the same occupation for 20 hours/week
MINIMUM SALARY
£38,700/year (or going rate for your occupation)
APPLICATION COST
£719 – £1,500 (depending on duration) + £1,035/year Immigration Health Surcharge
PROCESSING TIME
3 weeks (standard) or 5 working days (priority)
Sources: GOV.UK Immigration Rules, Home Office Guidance, UK Visas & Immigration. This is a simplified guide — always check official sources for your specific situation.