Overview
If you have a job offer from a UK employer or you are already working in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa, the rules that govern your stay have changed substantially since 2024. The salary threshold has risen, the Shortage Occupation List no longer exists, and the cost of non-compliance for sponsors has never been higher. Marsl Sharifi is an SRA-regulated immigration solicitor who advises both individual workers and UK employers on every aspect of the Skilled Worker route — from initial eligibility through to settlement. He handles each instruction personally so that nothing slips through the gaps.
Who this service is for
- Overseas nationals with a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK-licensed sponsor, applying from outside the UK
- Overseas nationals switching to Skilled Worker status from within the UK
- Workers extending their Skilled Worker leave
- Workers changing employers or roles mid-visa
- Employers who need advice on assigning a CoS correctly, meeting salary obligations, and avoiding compliance failures
- Dependants (partners and children under 18) of Skilled Workers
What you'll need
- Valid passport
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number from your employer
- Evidence of English language ability (degree taught in English, approved test, or exemption)
- Qualifications relevant to the role (where required)
- Tuberculosis test certificate where applicable
- Bank statements or financial evidence showing you can support yourself (unless your sponsor certifies maintenance)
- Immigration Health Surcharge payment receipt
Fees
Marsl's professional fees are £1,500 + VAT for a straightforward new application. Employer advice and CoS review are charged separately.
UKVI application fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge are paid direct to the Home Office.
A full written fee agreement is provided before any work begins, in line with the SRA Transparency Rules.
The process, step by step
- Step 1
Eligibility check
Marsl reviews the job offer, SOC code, and salary to confirm the application will meet the current Rules. This step is particularly important following the 2024 salary changes.
- Step 2
Document preparation
Marsl produces a tailored checklist, reviews every document, and advises on any gaps.
- Step 3
Application preparation
Marsl completes the online form and drafts a cover letter where required, paying close attention to salary evidence, start dates, and any switching complications.
- Step 4
Biometrics and submission
Overseas applicants submit at a Visa Application Centre. In-country applicants use the UKVI online system. Marsl coordinates both.
- Step 5
Decision
Standard processing is currently around 3 weeks. Priority and Super Priority services are available.
- Step 6
Ongoing compliance
Marsl can advise on role changes, salary variations, and renewal ahead of visa expiry.
What has changed (2024–26): higher salaries, no Shortage Occupation List
The Skilled Worker route has seen two significant changes since early 2024.
Higher salary floor: From 4 April 2024 the general minimum salary threshold rose to £38,700 per year — an increase of approximately 48%. Workers already on the route before that date and extending in the same role benefit from a transitional minimum of £29,000, but this will not remain indefinitely.
Shortenage Occupation List abolished: The Shortage Occupation List, which previously allowed a 20% salary reduction for roles in shortage, was scrapped from 4 April 2024. Roles in certain sectors now fall under the Immigration Salary List, which carries no salary discount. If your role was previously on the Shortage Occupation List, Marsl can advise on whether you are affected and what options remain.
These changes have materially altered the economics of sponsoring overseas workers for many employers, and have made accurate salary-threshold analysis essential before any application is submitted.