November 8, 2024

The United Kingdom has launched the 2025 Immigration Salary List (ISL), creating new opportunities for skilled professionals from around the globe to join and strengthen its vibrant economy. Replacing the previous Shortage Occupation List, this initiative broadens the scope of professions eligible for the Skilled Worker visa.

Key Features of the Immigration Salary List (ISL):

  • Broader Range of Professions: The ISL now includes a diverse array of fields, from science and technology to the arts and skilled trades, showcasing the UK’s dedication to attracting a wide variety of talent.
  • Revised Salary Thresholds: Each role listed on the ISL has a designated minimum salary requirement, ensuring that only qualified professionals fill these positions.
  • Regional Focus: Certain roles are specific to particular regions, effectively addressing localized skill shortages.

Occupations Covered in the ISL:

The table below provides a detailed overview of the professions included in the ISL. along with their Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes and minimum salary thresholds:

SOC CodeOccupationMinimum Salary ThresholdNotes
1212Managers and proprietors in forestry, fishing, and related services£30,960Only “fishing boat masters” in Scotland.
2111Chemical scientists£35,200Only jobs in the nuclear industry in Scotland.
2112Biological scientists and biochemists£38,000All jobs UK-wide.
2115Social and humanities scientists£36,400Only archaeologists UK-wide.
2142Graphic and multimedia designers£30,960All jobs UK-wide.
3111Laboratory technicians£30,960Only jobs requiring 3 or more years of related on-the-job experience UK-wide.
3212Pharmaceutical technicians£30,960All jobs UK-wide.
3411Artists£32,800All jobs UK-wide.
3414Dancers and choreographers£31,200Only skilled classical ballet dancers or skilled contemporary dancers meeting the standard required by internationally recognized UK ballet or contemporary dance companies UK-wide.
3415Musicians£35,300Only skilled orchestral musicians who are leaders, principals, sub-principals, or numbered string positions, meeting the standard required by internationally recognized UK orchestras UK-wide.
3416Arts officers, producers, and directors£37,500All jobs UK-wide.
5119Agriculture and fishing trades not elsewhere classified£30,960Only jobs in the fishing industry UK-wide.
5213Welding trades£31,700Only high-integrity pipe welders with 3 or more years of related on-the-job experience UK-wide.
5235Boat and ship builders and repairers£34,100All jobs in Scotland.
5312Stonemasons and related trades£32,400All jobs UK-wide.
5313Bricklayers£30,960All jobs UK-wide.
5314Roofers, roof tilers, and slaters£30,960All jobs UK-wide.
5316Carpenters and joiners£30,960All jobs UK-wide.
5319Construction and building trades not elsewhere classified£30,960Only retrofitters UK-wide.
6135Care workers and home carers£30,960All jobs UK-wide, with specific conditions for roles in England.
6136Senior care workers£30,960All jobs UK-wide, with specific conditions for roles in England.
6129Animal care services occupations not elsewhere classified£30,960Only racing grooms, stallion handlers, stud grooms, stud hands, stud handlers, and work riders UK-wide.
9119Fishing and other elementary agriculture occupations not elsewhere classified£30,960Only deckhands on large fishing vessels (9 meters and above) with at least 3 years of full-time experience UK-wide.

Note: The minimum salary thresholds are subject to periodic updates. For the most current information, please refer to the official UK Government website.

Understanding the ISL and Its Implications:

The Immigration Salary List (ISL) is a strategic initiative by the UK government aimed at addressing specific skill shortages across various sectors. By defining eligible occupations and their minimum salary requirements, the ISL ensures that the UK attracts skilled professionals to meet its economic goals.

Key Considerations

  • Eligibility: To qualify for the Skilled Worker visa through the ISL, applicants must secure a confirmed job offer in one of the listed occupations and meet the required salary threshold.
  • Regional Focus: Certain occupations are limited to specific regions, such as Scotland, to effectively address localized skill gaps.
  • Salary Requirements: The salary thresholds listed are the minimum annual amounts for each occupation. Employers may offer higher salaries depending on an applicant’s experience, qualifications, and current market demand.

Steps for Prospective Applicants

Prepare Your Visa Application: Once you have a qualifying job offer, gather the necessary documents and follow the application process for the Skilled Worker visa, ensuring all requirements are met.

Identify Relevant Occupations: Review the ISL to check if your profession is included and ensure you meet the eligibility requirements.

Obtain a Job Offer: Connect with UK employers in your field to secure a job offer that meets ISL criteria.

For detailed guidance on the application process and to stay updated on any changes to the ISL, consult the official UK Government website.

The UK’s Immigration Salary List for 2025 presents a significant opportunity for skilled professionals worldwide to advance their careers in a dynamic and diverse environment. By understanding the ISL and its requirements, you can take proactive steps toward a rewarding professional journey in the UK.