UK Immigration Salary List 2024: Replaces Shortage List

Immigration Salary List 2024 - Four people in healthcare and construction

Sanwar Ali workpermit.com

Table of Contents

• Introduction to the Immigration Salary List (ISL)
• Key Features of the ISL
  • Salary Reductions and Thresholds
  • SOC 2020 Coding System
• Full List of Occupations on the ISL
• Salary Requirements for ISL Jobs
• Compliance for Employers
  • Correct Use of SOC Codes
  • Certificate of Sponsorship
• Benefits of the ISL for Employers
• Practical Steps for Hiring Under the ISL
• FAQ Section
• Conclusion

Introduction to the Immigration Salary List (ISL)

In April 2024, the UK introduced the Immigration Salary List (ISL), a major overhaul to the immigration system. The ISL replaced the previous Shortage Occupation List (SOL), reflecting a strategic shift towards supporting key sectors of the economy, such as healthcare, construction, agriculture, and the arts. By offering reduced salary thresholds for certain job roles, the ISL makes it easier for UK employers to recruit skilled overseas workers in critical areas. This guide provides an in-depth look at the ISL, covering everything from salary reductions to compliance requirements.

Key Features of the ISL

Salary Reductions and Thresholds

The ISL allows employers to hire for specific roles with a 20% reduction in salary requirements. These salary reductions apply to jobs under the Skilled Worker visa and the Health and Care Worker visa:

• General Skilled Worker visa: The threshold is reduced from £38,700 to £30,960.
• Health and Care Worker visa: The threshold is reduced from £29,000 to £23,200.

However, it’s important to note that each occupation must still meet its specific "going rate," meaning some roles may require a higher salary than the reduced threshold.

SOC 2020 Coding System

The Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) 2020 system is used in the ISL. Employers must assign the correct SOC code to the job role when applying for a visa to ensure compliance. Incorrect SOC codes can result in visa refusals or delays.

Full List of Occupations on the ISL

Below is the comprehensive list of occupations that qualify under the ISL, along with any regional or specific job-related requirements:

Salary Requirements for ISL Jobs

While the ISL reduces the general salary threshold, each occupation has a "going rate" that must be met. For example:

• Care workers (SOC 6135): Reduced to £23,200 under the Health and Care Worker visa.
• Archaeologists (SOC 2115): Must earn at least £36,400 despite the reduced general threshold.

Employers must ensure that salaries meet the appropriate going rate for the specific job role, even if the general salary threshold is lower.

Compliance for Employers

Correct Use of SOC Codes

Employers must use the correct SOC 2020 code when issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Incorrect codes can cause visa delays, refusals, or Home Office investigations. The CASCOT occupation coding tool is a useful resource for determining the correct SOC code.

Certificate of Sponsorship

When issuing a CoS, employers must clearly indicate that the role is on the ISL to benefit from the reduced salary thresholds. Careful attention must be paid to the specific requirements of each occupation to avoid compliance issues.

Benefits of the ISL for Employers

The ISL offers several advantages to employers, including:

• Cost-effective recruitment: The reduced salary thresholds make it easier to recruit overseas talent while keeping costs down.
• Access to international talent: Employers can hire skilled workers from abroad for critical roles where domestic talent is lacking, particularly in healthcare, agriculture, and construction.
• Simplified visa process: The ISL streamlines the visa application process for specific occupations, ensuring faster and more efficient recruitment.

Practical Steps for Hiring Under the ISL

To hire workers under the ISL, employers must:

• Use the correct SOC code: Ensure the job role is accurately classified according to the SOC 2020 system.
• Issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Clearly indicate that the role is on the ISL when applying for the CoS.
• Ensure salary compliance: Check that the salary meets both the reduced threshold and the specific going rate for the occupation.
• Monitor compliance: Regularly review sponsored employees and ensure that all details, including job roles and salaries, remain compliant with immigration regulations.

FAQ Section

What is the Immigration Salary List (ISL)?
The ISL is a list of occupations eligible for reduced salary thresholds, introduced in April 2024 to replace the Shortage Occupation List. It allows UK employers to hire international workers at a 20% lower salary than the usual requirement.

How does the ISL differ from the SOL?
The ISL focuses on roles that align with government priorities and strategic sectors like healthcare and construction, while the SOL primarily addressed immediate labor shortages.

Can I hire for roles not on the ISL?
Yes, but roles not on the ISL must meet the standard salary thresholds without the 20% reduction.

What are the salary thresholds for ISL jobs?
For most Skilled Worker visa roles, the threshold is £30,960. For Health and Care Worker visa roles, it's £23,200. However, each job must also meet its going rate.

How do I ensure compliance with the ISL?
Employers must ensure the correct SOC code is used, and salaries must meet both the reduced threshold and the going rate for the occupation. Regular monitoring is crucial.

Conclusion

The UK Immigration Salary List (ISL) is a key part of the 2024 immigration reforms, offering flexibility and reduced salary thresholds for employers hiring overseas workers in critical sectors. This comprehensive guide outlines all the necessary steps for compliance, job eligibility, and hiring processes under the ISL, ensuring employers can navigate the complexities of the UK's immigration system with confidence.