What is changing for Skilled Worker visas in 2026?
Since July 2025, the Skilled Worker visa has required jobs at degree level (RQF 6). Jobs below that level (RQF 3–5) can only be sponsored for new applicants if they appear on one of two lists:
- Immigration Salary List (ISL): lets eligible jobs qualify with a lower salary, currently £33,400 instead of the standard £41,700.
- Temporary Shortage List (TSL): keeps the visa route open for selected medium-skilled jobs, but with no salary discount.
Both lists were a temporary bridge, and both end on 31 December 2026. A new, much shorter Temporary Shortage List is expected from January 2027.
Which SOC codes are affected?
| SOC code | Job | What we know |
|---|---|---|
| 6135 | Care Workers & Home Carers | ✅ Transitional arrangements until 22 July 2028, subject to conditions |
| 6136 | Senior Care Workers | ✅ Transitional arrangements until 22 July 2028, subject to conditions |
| 6131 | Nursing Auxiliaries & Assistants | ⚠️ ISL entry ends 31 Dec 2026. Only applies where registered nurse or healthcare professional roles also exist |
| 3111 | Laboratory Technicians | ⚠️ Different rules apply; depends on the final 2027 list |
| 3113 | Engineering Technicians | ⚠️ Different rules apply; depends on the final 2027 list |
Can I still extend my Skilled Worker visa?
Not being on the list does not automatically stop your extension. This is the biggest confusion we're seeing.
❌ Myth
"My job is coming off the list, so I can't extend my Skilled Worker visa."
✅ Fact
If your first Skilled Worker visa was granted before 22 July 2025 and you've held Skilled Worker permission continuously since, you can generally still be sponsored below RQF 6 when you extend.
What should you do now? 5 simple steps
- Find your SOC code. It's on your Certificate of Sponsorship. Check it matches your real job duties.
- Note your key dates. First CoS issue date, first Skilled Worker visa grant date and current visa expiry.
- Check your salary. Compare your pay with the standard threshold and your job's going rate, not just the ISL rate.
- Talk to your employer early. If your extension is due in 2027, ask if a CoS can be assigned before 31 December 2026 while current rules apply.
- Watch for the government decision. The final 2027 list is expected this autumn. We'll update this page once it's confirmed.
Who should read this?
Official GOV.UK resources
Skilled Worker visa changes 2026: FAQs
When does the Immigration Salary List end?
All ISL entries expire on 31 December 2026, except care worker codes 6135 and 6136, which have transitional arrangements until 22 July 2028.
Is the final 2027 shortage list confirmed?
Not yet. The Migration Advisory Committee recommended 28 jobs in July 2026, but the government must accept them and change the Immigration Rules before the new list applies.
Can I still extend my Skilled Worker visa if my job is RQF 3–5?
Generally yes, if your first Skilled Worker visa was granted before 22 July 2025 and you've held continuous Skilled Worker permission since. Salary rules may still change, so check your own case.
Will my Skilled Worker salary threshold go up?
Possibly. If you now rely on the ISL discount, your next extension may need a higher salary once the ISL ends. Your exact rate depends on your CoS dates and job.
Should my employer assign my CoS before 31 December 2026?
If your extension is due soon and the job is genuine, assigning the CoS before 31 December 2026 may let current rules apply. Speak to your employer and get advice on your timing.
