Since April 2024, the increase in the salary threshold for the Skilled Worker route has caused many companies to reassess their hiring strategies and grapple with talent shortages. The new threshold of £37,500 now applies in most cases, and while there are exceptions with lower requirements, UK employers frequently find themselves needing to offer salaries above this amount to secure skilled migrant workers.

For example, according to Glassdoor, the average salary for a Web Designer in the UK is around £29,212 annually. Under the Skilled Worker route, however, the standard salary for a 37.5-hour workweek contract would be £41,300—well above the industry average. This disparity can certainly discourage employers from considering migrant workers under this visa route due to the increased salary obligations. Nevertheless, for many businesses, accessing global talent is vital for growth and competitiveness. In my experience working with clients across sectors like fashion, finance, technology, and science, the decision to recruit internationally is driven by the need for specialised skills and experience not readily available within the UK.

Migrant workers contribute significantly to UK businesses, bringing diverse perspectives, advanced skills, and educational excellence that can enhance business performance. Contrary to some media narratives, they are not taking jobs away from British citizens. In fact, many of my clients spend months and substantial resources searching for domestic candidates before considering sponsorship. Given the costs and complexities associated with hiring under the Skilled Worker route, businesses often see it as a last resort when local talent cannot meet their needs. This highlights the importance of improving the skills and training available within the UK workforce to create a more competitive talent pool. However, in the current environment, employing migrant workers remains a key strategy for businesses looking to grow, expand, and meet market demands.

Although the increased salary threshold presents challenges, the Skilled Worker route remains a strategic option for businesses that require specialised talent not easily sourced within the UK. By obtaining a Skilled Worker sponsor license, companies can access a diverse pool of highly skilled professionals who can drive growth, innovation, and competitiveness. For businesses aiming to stay ahead in their industries, the benefits of hiring the right talent far outweigh the costs, making the Skilled Worker route an investment worth considering.

Our experienced team understand the complexity of the Sponsor Licence application. Our immigration team work closely with businesses and organisations across the UK, providing them with strategic commercial immigration support to help their human resources departments hire and retain the best talent. Please call us to discuss your UK skilled worker sponsor licence.