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In the UK, their Skilled worker route seen significant changes in the period of December 2023 in the hope of streamlining processes for businesses as well as prospective immigrants who are planning to move to the UK via the Skilled Worker Route. This route was specifically created to allow the hiring of non-UK citizens in jobs in which there is a real demand for their talent in the UK economy and the workforce.
Introduction to the Immigration Salary List (ISL)
The new immigration Salary List (ISL) is a major change in the rules for immigration in the UK that pertain to this visa for skilled workers since it replaces the short-term Occupation List (SOL). The ISL is a summary listing of occupations that have the minimum salary threshold is used, and aims to streamline the hiring process for the skilled Worker route. That means if the occupation is listed on the list of that has a new salary list for immigration candidates to apply for the skilled worker visa might be able to meet a lower amount of salary.
What’s New in 2024?
What’s the change in 2024? The UK government revises and adjusts the thresholds for salary so that they reflect the changing employment market as well as the cost of living. In 2024, there have been significant changes. This is a breakdown of the changes:
- General Work Visa (Skilled Worker Visa): The minimum wage requirement has been raised to £26,000 a year or the rate that is in place for the job in question which is the greater. This is an improve from the £25,600 for 2023.
- Employment List of Shortage For positions that are on the list of shortage occupations the minimum wage requirement is just a little lower at £20,480 annually, in order to attract the excellent talent in areas that have significant shortages.
- Health and Care Visa In recognition of the vital significance of healthcare workers The salary threshold for this visa was maintained at £20,480, which ensures that the industry can draw needed professionals.
- Highly Earners The good news for those earning a high salary! The minimum threshold for the high earner category of visa that allows certain benefits in immigration, has been increased to £73.900 from £73.500.
How These Changes Affect You
Let’s look at the in-depth details of the ways these shifts may affect you or someone you know:
For Prospective Immigrants
If you’re looking to relocate to the UK to work, you must be aware of the salary threshold that is applicable to your particular situation. For instance, if your job is as a computer engineer you’ll have to warrant the job you’re offered is the new £26,000 minimum, or the average salary for your job. Be sure to check the requirements for your job because they may differ significantly.
For Employers
Employers must stay up-to-date regarding these changes in order to assure that their job advertisements are conforming to immigration laws. This could affect hiring strategies, especially in positions that are hard to fill in the local market. For employers think about consulting an immigration expert to make the most of these changes.
What is the Immigration Salary List?
The latest immigration Salary List provides specific job titles that qualify to receive a lower minimum wage in the Skilled Worker visa. This list is vital for employers looking to hire foreign workers as it directly impacts the financial requirements to be met by applicants to an skilled worker visa.
Differences Between the Shortage Occupation List & Immigration Salary List
Contrary to the shortage occupation list that focuses on specific sectors that are experiencing shortages in their labor market. The ISL is designed to aid in the development of broader industries and priorities of the government regardless of problems with shortages within the UK labor market.
Discounts On the Minimum Salary Thresholds on the ISL
The codes for occupations listed within the ISL are suitable to be eligible for discounted thresholds for salary. This means that for these particular job titles and jobs the salary that is required to qualify for the Skilled Worker approach is generally around 80% of the standard minimum rate.
Every occupation is assigned an “going level ‘ that is to be met or exceeded regardless of the threshold for salary. This ensures that salaries for jobs reflect the true value and the level of talent required for the job within the UK labor market.
Example of Salary Calculation
For example if an occupation with a standard salary of £30,000 was on the ISL instead, the employer might only need to pay £24,000 (80% of the standard requirement), provided that it still meets the occupation-specific threshold, which could be higher depending on the job’s market rate.
Benefits of the Immigration Salary List
The main advantage of the ISL is that it allows employers to hire immigrants at a lower salary than the threshold of minimum wage for jobs that aren’t listed. This is particularly beneficial in industry sectors which budgetary restrictions would hinder hiring foreign workers.
Immigration Salary List Guidance for Employers
The most crucial aspects for employers when hiring foreign skilled workers is to ensure that the that they’re sponsoring in fact mentioned as a job on the Immigration Salary List. This confirmation should form included in the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) procedure and ensures that they’re in compliance to all skilled worker visa rules.
Meeting Additional Criteria for Specific Occupations
Some jobs listed on the ISL include extra specifications and criteria which must be fulfilled. These may be related to competent qualifications like degrees from a field that is related that are relevant to the particular job or years of experience or knowledge which are required to the job. Employers should be aware and comply with these more specifications to avoid issues during the application process that could cause Home Office Time Delays.
Regional Variations and Part-time Positions
The ISL also allows for regional differences in salary thresholds and also applies for part-time positions. Part-time salaries should be calculated in a pro-rata manner and are accurate compatible to the number of hours were working to ensure the credibility of the pay in relation to the equivalent full-time positions.
No Minimum Working Hour Requirement
Another benefit that comes with the ISL is that it doesn’t contain a minimum hour of work requirement for occupation codes that are listed. This flexible approach permits employers to provide positions which don’t adhere to traditional full-time work hours however still meet the wage and qualifications of the skilled Worker route.
How to Choose the Correct Occupation Code
Choosing the right Standard Occupational Classification code (SOC) is vital when sponsoring the visa of a foreign worker. Incorrect SOC code could lead to delays in processing or refusals for visa applications. This is why it’s important to emphasize the importance of preparing during this phase of the application procedure.
Resources for Finding the Appropriate SOC Code
Employers can make use of tools like the CASCOT tool for coding occupations as well as resources provided by the Office for National Statistics to warrant they select the correct SOC code. These tools benefit to match the job description and requirements to the appropriate codes, making it easier to complete the process of ensuring compliance.
Consequences of an Incorrect SOC Code Selection
Selecting the wrong SOC code could cause differences in the applicant’s application, which could prompt compliance checks from Home Office. Home Office, potentially leading to a suspension of license of the sponsor. Therefore, it is essential that employers invest the time and money to ensure that this part of sponsorship done correctly.
How Can Immigration Cafe Help in UK immigration Salary
At Immigration cafe, our experts are ready to assist you with each step of the application procedure, from selecting the correct SOC code to making sure your immigration salary is within the required thresholds. Immigration solicitors at Primus are experts in all aspects that are covered by UK immigration law. They can give specific advice and support in any situation you be facing.
For personalized guidance and to deal with your particular circumstances hiring our expert immigration lawyers will benefit give guidance and clarity you require.
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