Can I switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa?

Yes, and you can often benefit from the "New Entrant" salary discount if you apply within the 4-year limit.

What is the "going rate"?

Every SOC code has a specific minimum salary set by the Home Office based on UK wage data. You must be paid at least this amount, even if it is higher than £41,700.

Are care workers still eligible?

Recruitment for new overseas care workers (SOC 6135/6136) effectively ended in July 2025 for roles in England, unless the employer is CQC-registered and specific local recruitment requirements are met.

UK Skilled Worker Visa Jobs 2025: Your Complete Guide to Sponsorship and Salary Updates

In 2025, understanding the UK’s immigration system has become even more critical than simply securing a job offer. Significant policy shifts have taken place this year, including an increase in the standard salary threshold to £41,700 and the replacement of the old “Shortage Occupation List” with the Immigration Salary List (ISL).

Whether you are a healthcare professional, a tech expert, or a recent graduate, this guide will show you the correct path to obtaining a UK Skilled Worker Visa in 2025.

1. Essential Policy & Rules: What’s New in 2025?

Since July 2025, the UK immigration system has moved away from the “Shortage Occupation List” (SOL) in favor of a salary-driven framework. To succeed, you must understand these core pillars:

General Salary Threshold (£41,700): For most new applicants, this is the minimum annual salary required. Additionally, you must meet the “Going Rate” for your specific job code—whichever of the two is higher.
Immigration Salary List (ISL): The ISL has replaced the SOL. Roles on this list benefit from a lower salary threshold of £33,400, though the occupation’s full “going rate” still applies.
Skill Level (RQF Level 6): Most eligible roles now require a skill level equivalent to a bachelor’s degree. While some RQF Level 3–5 roles remain, they are increasingly restricted to the Temporary Shortage List (TSL).
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): This is your digital ticket to the UK. Only A-rated sponsors can issue this, and it must include your specific SOC Code (Standard Occupational Classification).

2. High-Demand Industry Keywords for 2025

The UK’s “critical demand” sectors offer the highest probability of sponsorship. Tailoring your CV to these specific SOC codes and keywords is essential for passing Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Sector	High-Demand Keywords & SOC Codes
Healthcare	Health and Care Visa, Registered Nurse (2231), Senior Care Worker (6136), Occupational Therapist, Mental Health Professional.
Tech & Digital	Cybersecurity (2135), Cloud Solutions Architect, AI/Machine Learning Engineer, DevOps (2139), Data Science.
Engineering	Civil Engineer (2121), Mechanical Engineer (2122), Renewable Energy, Structural Engineering, Project Engineer.
Business/Finance	Chartered Accountant (2421), Compliance Officer, Business Analyst, Tax Advisor, Investment Analyst.

3. The “New Entrant” Advantage: Lowering the Salary Barrier

If you are under 26, a recent UK graduate, or a postdoctoral researcher, you may qualify as a “New Entrant.” This is a powerful tool for early-career professionals.

Key Benefit: New entrants can be paid as little as £33,400 (or 70% of the job’s going rate). This discount is available for up to four years, including any time spent on a graduate visa.

4. Where to Find Sponsored Jobs in 2025

Instead of generic job boards, focus on platforms that explicitly highlight A-rated sponsors:

Find a Job (DWP): The official government portal. Use the “Visa Sponsorship” filter.
LinkedIn & Indeed: Use search terms like "Visa Sponsorship Available" or "Tier 2 Sponsor".
UKVisaJobs.com: A dedicated platform for roles that explicitly offer sponsorship.
Register of Licensed Sponsors: Always cross-reference potential employers against the official Home Office list.

5. CV Optimization (ATS-Friendly Tips)

To stand out to recruiters, include a “Visa Status” section at the top of your CV:

Phrase to use: “Eligible for sponsorship via the Skilled Worker Visa route; SOC Code 2134 (Software Developer).”
English Proficiency: Explicitly state your level (e.g., “IELTS Academic 7.5”). Note that from January 2026, the requirement may rise to B2 for certain routes.
Professional Registration: If you are a doctor or vet, list your GMC or RCVS registration number immediately.

Also Read: Qatar Housekeeping Jobs—Visa Sponsorship (2025 Guide): Salary, Benefits & How to Apply

FAQS UK Skilled Worker Visa Jobs For 2025

Can I switch from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, and you can often benefit from the “New Entrant” salary discount if you apply within the 4-year limit.
What is the “going rate”?
Every SOC code has a specific minimum salary set by the Home Office based on UK wage data. You must be paid at least this amount, even if it is higher than £41,700.
Are care workers still eligible?
Recruitment for new overseas care workers (SOC 6135/6136) effectively ended in July 2025 for roles in England, unless the employer is CQC-registered and specific local recruitment requirements are met.

Step-by-Step Action Plan

Identify your SOC code using the ONS hierarchy tool.
Verify the going rate for your code on GOV.UK.
Target A-rated sponsors specifically to avoid wasting time on companies that cannot sponsor.
Prepare for your English test early, as test centers often have backlogs.

Would you like me to help you draft a cover letter specifically optimized for a UK visa-sponsored role in your industry?

Disclaimer: This job information is shared for educational and informational purposes only. Please verify details from the official employer or government website (GOV.UK) before applying, as immigration rules are subject to frequent change.