UK Skilled Worker visa CRM: CoS, salary thresholds and B2 English, tracked per client
Manage Skilled Worker applications for sponsors and workers: Certificate of Sponsorship details, occupation codes, salary and going-rate checks, English evidence and the route to ILR.
What practitioners need to know in 2026
- The general salary threshold is £41,700 or the occupation going rate, whichever is higher (CoS on or after 22 July 2025), with lower thresholds in specific cases.
- New applicants since 8 January 2026 need English at CEFR B2.
- eVisa share codes and continuous-residence records are kept on file for extensions and settlement.
For CoS assigned on or after 22 July 2025 the standard threshold is the higher of £41,700 or the occupation going rate; lower thresholds (e.g. £33,400) apply in specific cases.
Official sourceFrom 8 January 2026 new applicants must show CEFR B2; existing Skilled Workers who already met the earlier level do not need to re-prove it when extending.
Official sourceClients prove status through a UKVI account and share code; keep share codes on file for right-to-work and travel.
Official sourceProcess and documents
Skilled Worker Visa
Workers with a UK licensed sponsor
- 1Licensed sponsor assigns CoS
- 2Check occupation code, salary threshold and B2 English
- 3Online application and identity check
- 4eVisa grant
- 5ILR after 5 years if eligible
- Valid passport (all pages)
- Passport-style photo (country specification)
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from licensed sponsor
- English at CEFR B2 (SELT or degree)
- Salary and occupation code evidence
- Proof of funds / bank statements
- TB test certificate (if required)
- Police certificates (every country lived 12+ months)
UK Skilled Worker visa compared with other options
| Visa | Best for | Sponsor / offer needed | Path to permanent residence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker Visa | Workers with a UK licensed sponsor | Yes, licensed sponsor | Yes, ILR after 5 years |
| Global Talent Visa | Leaders in research, tech, arts and culture | No, endorsement instead | Yes, ILR in 3-5 years |
| Family Visa (Spouse / Partner) | Partners of British citizens / settled persons | Yes, UK partner | Yes, settlement route |
| Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) | Long-term residents on settlement routes | Depends on route | Is permanent residence |
Frequently asked questions
What salary does a UK Skilled Worker need in 2026?+
For most new applications the higher of £41,700 a year or the going rate for the occupation code. Lower thresholds (for example £33,400) apply in specific cases such as Immigration Salary List roles. Check gov.uk before assigning a CoS.
What English level is required?+
New Skilled Worker applicants must show CEFR B2. Workers who already met the earlier requirement on the route generally do not need to prove it again when extending.
Can sponsors use My Briefcase too?+
Yes. Employers can be given portal access to upload sponsor documents, while the representative keeps the case file, tasks and deadlines.
General information for practitioners, not legal advice. No government-form autofill or submission outside Canada.