Imagine you’re a 24-year-old graduate with a job offer in London. You’re ready to embark on your UK career journey, but the immigration rules seem complex. This guide aims to demystify the New Entrant UK Visa Rules as of 2025, providing clear and accurate information for young professionals worldwide.
Understanding the ‘New Entrant’ Category
The UK government recognizes the potential of early-career professionals. To facilitate their entry into the UK workforce, the Skilled Worker visa includes provisions for “new entrants,” allowing for lower salary thresholds under certain conditions.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify as a new entrant, you must meet one of the following:
Age: Under 26 years old at the time of application.
Recent Graduate: Switching from a Student or Graduate visa within the last two years.
Professional Training: Working towards a recognized UK professional qualification or chartered status.
PhD Holders: Possess a PhD in a relevant field.
Postdoctoral Researchers: Engaged in postdoctoral positions in specified occupation codes.
Note: The maximum period you can be considered a new entrant is four years, which includes time spent on a Graduate visa.
Salary Thresholds for New Entrants
As of April 2025, the general salary threshold for the Skilled Worker visa is £38,700 per year. However, new entrants benefit from reduced salary requirements.
Salary Requirements for New Entrants:
General Rule: £30,960 per year or 70% of the occupation’s going rate, whichever is higher.
Minimum Salary Floor: £25,000 per year, applicable to certain categories, including roles on the Immigration Salary List.
Example: If the standard going rate for your occupation is £40,000, as a new entrant, you must be paid at least £28,000 (70% of £40,000), provided this is above the £30,960 minimum.
Duration and Transition
The new entrant status is time-limited:
Maximum Duration: Four years, including any time spent under the Graduate visa.
Post-Four Years: You must meet the full salary requirements applicable to experienced workers.
Planning Tip: Use the new entrant period to gain experience and negotiate salary increases to meet future visa requirements.
Application Process
Steps:
Job Offer: Secure a job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor Skilled Worker visas.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your employer assigns a CoS, indicating your new entrant status.
Visa Application: Apply for the Skilled Worker visa, ensuring all eligibility criteria are met.
Important: Ensure your employer correctly indicates your new entrant status on the CoS to benefit from the reduced salary threshold.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the ‘New Entrant’ category?
A: It’s a provision under the Skilled Worker visa allowing early-career professionals to qualify with lower salary thresholds.
Q2: How long can I be considered a new entrant?
A: Up to four years, including time spent on a Graduate visa.
Q3: What happens after four years?
A: You’ll need to meet the standard salary requirements for experienced workers to extend your visa or apply for settlement.
Q4: Can I apply for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) as a new entrant?
A: Yes, but you must meet all standard requirements, including salary thresholds, at the time of application.
Q5: Does the new entrant status apply to all occupations?
A: No, it applies to specific roles, particularly those requiring professional training or listed on the Immigration Salary List.
Conclusion
The New Entrant provisions under the UK’s Skilled Worker visa offer a valuable opportunity for young professionals to start their careers in the UK. By understanding the eligibility criteria, salary thresholds, and time limitations, you can effectively plan your career progression and visa strategy.
Sources
GOV.UK – Skilled Worker visa: Overview
GOV.UK – Skilled Worker visa: Your job
GOV.UK – Skilled Worker visa: When you can be paid less
GOV.UK – Skilled Worker visa: Immigration salary list
Fragomen – Navigating the New Entrant Rules for Skilled Worker Visas
QC Immigration – Skilled Worker Salary Discount for New Entrants
University of Bath – Skilled Worker visa: New entrants
University of Sheffield – Skilled Worker visa eligibility requirements
NHS Employers – Skilled Worker Route
DavidsonMorris – Skilled Worker Visa: Application & Eligibility Guide 2025
Please note that immigration policies are subject to change. Always consult the official UK government website or seek professional advice for the most current information.
