🇬🇧 Top 23 Occupations Eligible for UK Skilled Worker Visas on the 2025 Immigration Salary List (ISL)

The United Kingdom has introduced the Immigration Salary List (ISL) for 2025, offering skilled professionals worldwide an opportunity to contribute to its dynamic economy. This initiative replaces the previous Shortage Occupation List, expanding the range of eligible professions for the Skilled Worker visa.

Key Highlights of the Immigration Salary List (ISL):

  • Expanded Opportunities: The ISL encompasses a broader spectrum of professions, including science, technology, arts, and skilled trades, reflecting the UK’s commitment to attracting diverse talent.
  • Updated Salary Thresholds: Each occupation on the ISL has a specified minimum salary requirement, ensuring that roles are filled by qualified professionals.
  • Regional Specifications: Certain occupations are region-specific, addressing localized skill shortages effectively.

Comprehensive List of Occupations on the ISL:

The following table outlines the occupations 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 ISL is a strategic initiative by the UK government to address specific skill shortages across various sectors. By specifying occupations and associated salary thresholds, the ISL ensures that the UK attracts qualified professionals to meet its economic needs.

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Key Points to Consider:

  • Eligibility: To qualify for the Skilled Worker visa under the ISL, applicants must have a confirmed job offer in one of the listed occupations and meet the specified salary threshold.
  • Regional Specifications: Some occupations are region-specific, such as certain roles limited to Scotland, addressing localized skill shortages.
  • Salary Requirements: The listed salary thresholds represent the minimum annual salary for each occupation. Employers may offer higher salaries based on experience, qualifications, and market demand.

Next Steps for Prospective Applicants:

  1. Identify Suitable Occupations: Review the ISL to determine if your profession is listed and meets the eligibility criteria.
  2. Secure a Job Offer: Engage with UK employers in your field to obtain a job offer that aligns with the ISL requirements.
  3. Prepare for Visa Application: Once you have a job offer, prepare the necessary documentation for the Skilled Worker visa application, ensuring compliance with all requirements.

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.

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