1. Updated Going Rates for Occupation Codes:
- The going rates refer to the minimum salary levels required for specific job roles under the Skilled Worker Visa. These rates are tied to the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes that categorize different jobs.
- Due to errors in the April 2024 Immigration Rules, many of these rates were listed too high. The corrected, lower rates are now published on the GOV.UK website.
- Employers and Sponsors must use these updated rates when issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for a Skilled Worker. Caseworkers at the Home Office will use these revised rates to assess visa applications.
2. Guidance for Issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS):
- A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is required for an employer to sponsor a Skilled Worker. The salary mentioned in the CoS must align with the updated going rates.
- For applications made from now until the formal update in autumn 2024, employers must refer to the corrected going rates published in the guidance documents on GOV.UK.
- If an incorrect, higher salary rate is used from the outdated April rules, it could lead to unnecessary costs for employers and potentially impact the success of a visa application.
3. Formal Correction in Autumn 2024:
- The official text of the Immigration Rules will be amended in autumn 2024 to align with the updated guidance. Until then, the corrected rates in the guidance documents are the authoritative source for both sponsors and applicants.
4. Specific Guidance Documents Updated:
- Going Rates for Eligible Occupations: This document contains a detailed breakdown of the revised salary thresholds for each eligible occupation under the Skilled Worker route.
- Immigration Salary List: Provides a comprehensive list of occupations and the respective salaries required to meet the visa criteria.
- Jobs That Qualify for a PhD Salary Discount: Lists jobs where the salary threshold is reduced for applicants with a PhD, recognizing the advanced qualifications of these candidates.
- Minimum Salary if You’re Under 26, Studying, Training, or in a Postdoctoral Role: Provides reduced salary thresholds for applicants who fall under these specific categories, making it easier for younger and less experienced workers, students, and researchers to qualify.
5. Why These Changes Matter:
- Employers and Applicants should be aware that using the correct salary rates is critical for compliance and for the successful processing of Skilled Worker Visa applications.
- These changes aim to provide more accurate salary requirements, aligning the rules with the current labor market and immigration needs.
Accessing Updated Documents:
One can find the updated guidance and salary lists on the official website- https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
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