The UK government has announced minimum wages for the new applicants under the ‘Skilled Worker route’. As per the announcement, ongoing rates for specific occupation codes will be increased. Also, the rate for immigration health charge has increased with a discounted rate available for the students and individuals below the age of 18.
As per the announcement, from 4 April 2024, the general salary threshold for new applicants under the Skilled Worker route will increase from £26,200 to £38,700 per year. It is expected that their minimum salary will increase according to the minimum salary requirement as determined in the standard occupation code. The ongoing rates for specific occupation codes will be increased.
This planned hike will, however, not impact those who are already under the Skilled Worker route if they change sponsor, extend their visas, or settle.
Health and Care visa applicants will be exempted. Effective February 6, 2024, the rate for immigration health charge has increased to GBP 1,035 from GBP 624 per year, with a discounted rate available for the students and minors.
Apart from this, for spouse/partner visa, the minimum income will first increase to £29,000 on 11 April 2024; to around £34,500 at an unspecified time later in 2024; and finally, to approximately £38,700.
Additionally, minimum income increase also applies to foreign members of the armed forces who are sponsoring a spouse/partner visa.
Those with a family visa within a five-year partner route, or those applicants who apply before the minimum wage threshold is raised, will continue to have their applications reviewed against the current income requirement.
Such applicants will not be required to meet the increased threshold.
The UK government also specified that the initial changes to the shortage occupation list will likely happen in April 2024. Also, the country will not allow newly arriving care workers to bring immediate family from March 11, 2024.
