UK Skilled Worker Visa Points Calculator: How to Score 70 Points
Interactive guide to the UK Skilled Worker visa points-based system. Learn how to calculate your eligibility score across all categories and maximize your chances.
UK Skilled Worker Visa Points System
The UK Skilled Worker visa operates on a points-based system where applicants must score a minimum of 70 points to be eligible. Understanding how points are awarded across different categories is essential for a successful application.
Mandatory Points (50 points)
All applicants must score a minimum of 50 points from three mandatory criteria: a valid job offer from an approved UK employer (20 points), the job must be at an appropriate skill level of RQF 3 or above (20 points), and the applicant must demonstrate English language proficiency at B1 level or higher (10 points).
Tradeable Points (20 points needed)
To reach the 70-point threshold, applicants need an additional 20 points from tradeable options. The highest-scoring tradeable option is the salary component, where earning above the general threshold of £26,200 or the going rate for the occupation (whichever is higher) awards 20 points. Alternatively, applicants with a PhD in a STEM subject relevant to the job can claim 20 points. Other combinations include having a PhD in any subject (10 points) combined with a job in a shortage occupation (20 points).
Salary Breakdown
| Annual Salary | Points |
|---|---|
| £26,200 or above (or going rate) | 20 |
| £23,040 - £26,199 | 10 |
| Below £23,040 | 0 |
Shortage Occupation List
Jobs on the UK Shortage Occupation List (SOL) receive additional points. Current shortage occupations include roles in: healthcare (nurses, doctors, paramedics), engineering (civil, mechanical, electrical engineers), IT (software developers, cybersecurity specialists), and education (secondary school teachers in STEM subjects).
Application Process
Once you have confirmed your points score, the application process involves: securing a Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer, completing the online visa application, paying the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge, providing biometric information, and submitting supporting documents. Processing times are typically 1 to 4 weeks for priority service.