The Checklist

1. 1

   Identify the correct SOC 2020 occupation code

   Match the role to its correct Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) 2020 code. The SOC code determines both the going rate that applies and whether the role sits on the Immigration Salary List. Using the wrong SOC code is one of the most common reasons CoS are queried or visas refused.

2. 2

   Check the current general salary threshold (Option A)

   From 22 July 2025 the general threshold for most Skilled Worker applications is £41,700 per year, or the going rate for the occupation, whichever is higher. Lower thresholds may apply to new entrants and to roles on the Immigration Salary List. Always check Appendix Skilled Worker for the latest figure before assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship.

3. 3

   Apply the going rate for the specific occupation

   Each SOC 2020 code has its own going rate published in Appendix Skilled Occupations. The salary on the Certificate of Sponsorship must equal or exceed the going rate, prorated where appropriate for the number of paid hours. The general threshold does not override the going rate — both must be met.

4. 4

   Check the minimum hourly floor

   An hourly floor applies in addition to the annual thresholds. The current figures are £17.13 per hour for most Table 1 roles (calculated on a 48-hour week basis) and £12.82 per hour for Table 2 roles. Salaries are pro-rated for paid weekly hours up to a maximum of 48 hours, so high hourly rates cannot be combined with very long working weeks to inflate apparent pay.

5. 5

   Consider whether the new entrant discount applies

   New entrants may qualify for a reduced general threshold and 70% of the relevant going rate. This typically covers applicants under 26, those switching from a Student or Graduate visa, and those working towards a recognised professional qualification or postdoctoral position. The discount is time-limited (usually up to four years) and cannot be combined with most other concessions.

6. 6

   Check the Immigration Salary List (ISL)

   Roles on the ISL benefit from a reduced general threshold of £33,400, but the full going rate for the occupation still applies. The list is reviewed by the Migration Advisory Committee and changes periodically, so confirm whether the role is currently on the ISL before relying on the concession.

7. 7

   Confirm what counts towards salary

   Only guaranteed basic gross pay for the sponsored role normally counts. Allowances, bonuses, overtime, in-kind benefits and pension contributions are usually excluded, with limited exceptions (for example, certain London weighting and shift allowances paid for the sponsored role). Calculating salary on the wrong basis is a frequent reason for refusal.

Common Mistakes

• Using the wrong SOC 2020 code. This pulls in the wrong going rate and may put the role outside the eligible skill level.
• Meeting only the general threshold or only the going rate. Both must be met — whichever is higher controls.
• Ignoring the hourly floor. A salary that meets the annual figure can still fail if the hourly rate falls below the relevant floor when paid hours are taken into account.
• Counting non-guaranteed pay. Including bonuses, overtime or in-kind benefits in salary is one of the most common refusal grounds.
• Not allowing for annual uprating. Thresholds and going rates are reviewed periodically and salaries that were compliant last year may not be compliant on a new CoS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Visa Professionals Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) to provide immigration advice and immigration services. IAA Registration Number: F201000109. This guide provides general information only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration rules, fees and Home Office guidance change frequently; this page reflects the position as understood at the time of publication. For advice on your specific circumstances, please contact us directly.