Understanding the UK Points-Based Immigration System

The United Kingdom introduced its modern points-based immigration system to attract skilled workers who can contribute to its economy. Unlike the old Tier-based system, the current approach assigns points for specific criteria such as having a confirmed job offer, meeting salary thresholds, possessing the right skill level, and proving English proficiency. Applicants need at least 70 points to be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa. This calculator helps you gauge where you stand based on the core and tradeable points that the UK Home Office requires.

At the heart of the Skilled Worker route is the principle that workers bring economic value when they have a legitimate job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor license. The job must be at the appropriate skill level, typically RQF Level 3 or above. English language ability is also mandatory, as it ensures you can integrate smoothly into British workplaces and society. These three attributes—job offer, skill level, and English proficiency—combine to form the 50 'mandatory' points that every applicant must secure. Without them, even the most qualified person cannot obtain a Skilled Worker visa.

Beyond these core requirements, the UK system provides additional 'tradeable' points that let applicants reach or surpass the 70-point benchmark. Salary plays a major role here: higher pay generally means higher points, signaling that the job is valuable and in-demand. Jobs that fall on the Shortage Occupation List or those supported by a relevant PhD can also add valuable points. The Shortage Occupation List includes roles that the UK struggles to fill domestically, so applicants who can take on those roles are rewarded with extra points. A doctoral degree related to the job can further demonstrate advanced expertise, yielding extra points—especially if it's in a STEM field.

Let's walk through each section in the calculator to clarify how the points are tallied and why they matter. First, the Job Offer from Licensed Sponsor field is crucial. If your prospective employer does not hold a sponsor license, you cannot claim any points, and you likely will not be eligible for this visa route. Securing a sponsor license involves a rigorous process for UK companies, so if you're being offered a position, it is important to verify that the employer is indeed licensed.

The next field, Job at Required Skill Level, checks that your role meets the RQF Level 3 standard or higher. This ensures that migrants are filling skilled positions rather than low-skilled jobs that could be filled by the domestic workforce. As a result, the government awards 20 points if the job is at the proper skill level. Without this, your application cannot proceed.

English Language Proficiency is another mandatory element. Most applicants prove their ability by passing an approved English test at B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) scale. Nationals of majority English-speaking countries or those with qualifying degrees taught in English can often get a pass on this requirement. If you meet it, you secure another 10 points.

The Salary section is slightly more complex. The UK sets a general salary threshold, but there are exceptions for certain jobs, new entrants, or those with relevant PhDs. Typically, earning £25,600 or more grants the full 20 points. A slightly lower salary can still earn 10 points if other tradeable points make up the difference. Salaries below £23,040, however, do not receive any points and may jeopardize your application's success unless other criteria, like being on the Shortage Occupation List, apply.

Shortage Occupation status is a huge advantage. The UK compiles this list to identify professions facing significant worker shortages. If your job appears on the list, you gain 20 points, and the salary threshold for your role may also be reduced. Health and care workers, engineers, and certain IT professionals often benefit from this category.

Finally, having a PhD Relevant to the Job can bolster your application. An advanced degree in a STEM subject that directly relates to your occupation scores the maximum 20 points. A non-STEM PhD can still add 10 points. These points recognize the specialized knowledge and innovation that doctoral-level candidates bring to the UK job market.

When using this calculator, add up the points from each category. A combination of the mandatory fields—job offer, skill level, English ability—plus enough tradeable points from salary, shortage occupation, and education should get you to or beyond the 70-point threshold. This score doesn't guarantee a visa, as you'll still need to provide documentation, complete the application forms, and pay the necessary fees, but it gives you a strong indication that you're on the right track.

Remember that the UK's immigration rules can change, especially as the job market evolves and government priorities shift. Always double-check the latest guidance from the UK Home Office or consult with a qualified immigration professional before submitting your application. Pay attention to the details: the occupation codes (SOC codes) assigned to your role, the exact salary requirements for your sector, and any exemptions that might apply to new graduates or applicants with extraordinary talent. A well-prepared application that aligns with the latest policies is far more likely to succeed.

Understanding the points system is just the beginning. You'll also need to gather the right documents, including your certificate of sponsorship from your employer, proof of your English proficiency, financial evidence showing you can support yourself, and your tuberculosis test results if you're from a listed country. On top of that, you must pay the application fee and the immigration health surcharge, which grants you access to the UK's National Health Service during your stay.

If you meet the points threshold and submit a successful application, you'll receive permission to work in the UK for up to five years at a time, depending on your employment contract. You can then extend your visa or switch to another route if you remain eligible. After five years of continuous lawful residence, you may even apply for settlement (also called Indefinite Leave to Remain), which is a significant step toward British citizenship.

In short, the UK points-based system aims to create a level playing field where skilled migrants who bring value to the economy can contribute and settle. By using this calculator and learning how points are awarded, you're already taking a proactive step in planning your move to the United Kingdom. Whether your dream is to work in London’s buzzing tech scene, join a cutting-edge research team in Oxford, or bring your engineering skills to Manchester’s thriving industries, understanding the points system helps you chart the right course.

Take your time exploring the options above, and don't hesitate to tweak your plans or seek professional advice if needed. The path to UK residency might seem complex, but with careful preparation and an accurate understanding of your points tally, you can make the process smoother and more predictable. Best of luck with your UK immigration journey!