Log in or register
Share on LinkedInShare on LinkedIn

ARTICLE · 23 JANUARY 2026

Understanding The Immigration Salary List

WestBridge Business Immigration
Explore more from WestBridge Business Immigration

The UK's immigration system is designed to attract skilled workers from across the globe, while balancing the needs of the local labour market.

United KingdomImmigration
Johnathan Banks
Johnathan Banks
Author LinkedIn connections

The UK's immigration system is designed to attract skilled workers from across the globe, while balancing the needs of the local labour market. One of the key mechanisms used to regulate and support this system is the Immigration Salary List (ISL), introduced in April 2024 as part of broader changes to the Skilled Worker visa route.

The ISL replaced the Shortage Occupation List and plays a significant role in determining salary thresholds.

This article explains what the Immigration Salary List is, how it functions, and what impact it has on salary requirements and visa applications for employers and migrants alike.

What Is the Immigration Salary List?

The ISL identifies specific occupations under the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes 2020 that are recognised as being in shortage or where recruitment is particularly challenging within the UK.

We operate a free-to-view policy, asking only that you register in order to read all of our content. Please login or register to view the rest of this article.

Register for freeORLog in

View source

Related Articles

Legal Intelligence Newsletters: sign up for the latest legal and regulatory news on your chosen topics

Read more about

Related Comparative Guides

See more popular content from

Article

Important UK Immigration Rule Changes From Autumn 2026 – But Nothing Yet On Earned Settlement

The UK Home Office has published Statement of Changes HC 584, introducing targeted amendments to immigration rules effective from autumn 2026. These changes affect multiple visa routes including EU Settlement Scheme, Skilled Worker, Victim of Domestic Abuse, and Student visas, with new protections for vulnerable applicants and procedural updates for sponsors and education providers.
United KingdomImmigration
Richmond Chambers Immigration Barristers
Richmond Chambers Immigration Barristers
Article

Revised Earned Settlement Policy To Be Unveiled Before The End Of 2026

The UK Home Secretary has confirmed that the revised earned settlement policy will be published before the end of 2026, following her appearance before the Home Affairs Committee. This announcement provides clarity on the timeline for implementing significant changes to the UK immigration system, including transitional arrangements and the extension of the default settlement period from five to ten years.
United KingdomImmigration
Lewis Silkin
Lewis Silkin