What is the UKVI Salary List and how does it differ from the previous Shortage Occupation List

Changes To The Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) 

Alongside other changes to the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes and work routes, the Immigration Salary List has taken effect from 4^th April 2024. It has now completely replaced the previous Shortage Occupation List.

Like the previous Shortage Occupation List, the Immigration Salary List notes SOCs that are regarded as being in shortage. The Immigration Salary List still permits a discount to the going rate that an employee needs to be paid, as well as a discount to the fees paid on a visa application.

However, there are some key changes that have been brought in under the Immigration Salary List:

• SOCs listed on the Salary List now have an increased ‘standard’ and ‘lower’ rate, as with those on the updated Skilled Worker Occupation Codes list. This replaces the previous ‘going rate discount’;
• The minimum salary for SOCs listed on the Salary List is £30,920. This is lower than the standard salary of £38,700 now required for roles not included on the Immigration Salary List;
• The number of SOCs that are included on the Immigration Salary list has been reduced to 23. Previously, on the Shortage Occupation list, there were a total of 53 roles listed.

What Does This Mean For The Immigration Salary List?

Although a reduction in the overall number of roles listed on the Immigration Salary List, alongside an increase in the minimum expected salary may present a challenge to employers, there are some benefits to sponsoring an employer in an Immigration Salary List role:

• Reduced visa application fees. For example, a Skilled Worker who is sponsored under an Immigration Salary List role will pay £551 for a visa for 3 years or less; £1084 for more than 3 years. The standard fees by comparison are £827 and £1636, respectively;
• Sponsors can still benefit from paying their employees a reduced standard salary and reduced SOC salary for the employee’s role;
• Sponsors employing employees in Health & Care Work roles continue to have the minimum salary for their employees fixed to the 25^th percentile, unlike other roles not included on the Immigration Salary List;

Final Thoughts

It is also worth noting that the Immigration Salary List, currently with 23 roles included, is likely to expand in scope. Although it cannot be predicted when or which roles may be included, more sponsors and employees will likely be able to benefit from the Immigration Salary List. However, this will depend on the outcome of the ‘full review’ that the government has stated that it will ask the MAC to carry out sometime mid-to-late 2024.

Once the review opens, the MAC will consult with businesses, allowing businesses to submit representations on the current salary list and providing data and evidence as to which other occupations should be included.