UK Immigration Salary List (ISL) 2025
Check if your salary meets the requirements for UK work visas
What is the Immigration Salary List?
The Immigration Salary List (ISL) identifies specific occupations where the UK government allows employers to recruit overseas workers at a reduced minimum salary threshold compared to the standard requirement for the visa route. Introduced on April 4, 2024, it replaced the previous Shortage Occupation List (SOL).
For jobs on the ISL, employers can potentially pay 80% of the usual minimum salary for the visa, OR the specific ISL threshold for that job, OR the 'going rate' for the job, whichever is highest. As of 2025/26, the key discounted thresholds are:
- Skilled Worker Visa (ISL Rate): £30,960 per year (instead of the standard £38,700)
- Health and Care Worker Visa (ISL Rate): £23,200 per year (instead of the standard £29,000)
The ISL currently lists 23 occupations (down from over 50 on the SOL), focusing on sectors like healthcare, construction, and certain skilled trades. This change aims to balance filling genuine labour shortages with controlling overall migration levels.
The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) regularly reviews the ISL. Changes may occur, so always refer to the official GOV.UK ISL guidance for the definitive list and rules.
Understanding SOC Codes and Salary Requirements
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes are essential for determining salary requirements for UK work visas. Each occupation has a specific SOC code that determines its 'going rate' - the typical salary for that role in the UK market.
For the Skilled Worker visa, your salary must meet either:
- The general minimum threshold (£38,700 for 2025/26)
- The specific going rate for your SOC code
- The ISL rate (if your occupation is on the list)
Whichever of these is highest will be your required minimum salary.
Skilled Worker Visa Going Rates 2025
The 'going rate' for a Skilled Worker visa is determined by the SOC code of your occupation. These rates are based on the 25th percentile of earnings for each role in the UK. Here are some common examples:
| Occupation | SOC Code | Going Rate (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Software Developer | 2135 | £42,000 |
| Registered Nurse | 2231 | £32,000 |
| Civil Engineer | 2121 | £38,000 |
| Healthcare Assistant | 6145 | £20,000 |
| Marketing Manager | 1136 | £35,000 |
For the complete list of going rates, refer to the official GOV.UK going rates guidance.
Check if Your Hourly Wage Meets ISL Thresholds
Enter your hourly pay rate and the average number of hours you work per week. The calculator will estimate your annual gross salary and check if it meets the main ISL discounted thresholds.
Eligible Occupations
The ISL includes specific occupations in healthcare, construction, and skilled trades. Here are some examples:
- Healthcare Workers: Various roles in nursing, care, and medical support
- Construction Workers: Bricklayers, carpenters, and other skilled trades
- Engineering Technicians: Specialized technical roles in various industries
For the complete list of eligible occupations and their specific requirements, please refer to the official GOV.UK ISL guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the ISL and the old Shortage Occupation List (SOL)?
The Immigration Salary List (ISL), introduced April 2024, replaced the SOL. The ISL is much shorter (fewer occupations) and offers a discount on the general minimum salary threshold for specific listed jobs (e.g., 80% of the standard rate), whereas the SOL offered points benefits and sometimes different salary rules.
Does meeting the ISL salary threshold guarantee a visa?
No. Meeting the salary threshold (either the standard rate or the ISL discounted rate if applicable) is just one requirement. Applicants must also meet other criteria for the Skilled Worker or Health and Care Worker visa, such as having a job offer from an approved sponsor, meeting English language requirements, and the job itself being eligible (having an appropriate SOC code).
What if my job isn't on the ISL?
If your occupation is eligible for a Skilled Worker visa but not on the ISL, you generally need to meet the standard minimum salary threshold for the visa route (e.g., £38,700 for Skilled Worker as of 2025/26, subject to change) AND the specific 'going rate' for your occupation, whichever is higher. You do not benefit from the ISL's lower threshold.
How do I find my occupation's SOC code and going rate?
You can find your occupation's SOC code and going rate in the official GOV.UK going rates guidance. The SOC code is a 4-digit number that classifies your occupation, and the going rate is the minimum salary requirement for that specific role.
What is the minimum salary for a Skilled Worker visa in 2025?
For 2025/26, the general minimum salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa is £38,700. However, this can be reduced to £30,960 if your occupation is on the ISL. You must also meet the specific going rate for your SOC code, whichever is higher.