Ever wondered if you can start your UK career without hitting the sky-high salary requirements? If you’re young, just graduated, or switching from a UK student visa, you might qualify for a special category called a “new entrant.” And the best part? This status comes with a lower salary threshold that could make your UK dream job a reality.
From what “new entrant” means to how much you need to earn and whether you must meet all the requirements, this blog will walk you through the new rules that came into force on 22 July 2025.
What Exactly is a “New Entrant”?
You could be classed as a new entrant if any one of these applies to you:
- You’re under 26 years old when you submit your visa application.
- You’ve just graduated from a UK university (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD).
- You’re starting a graduate training programme, joining a rotational job role, or working as a postdoctoral researcher.
- You previously had a Tier 4 Student visa or Graduate/Postdoctoral visa in the UK within the last two years.
- You’re working towards full professional registration or chartered status in a job where it’s required.
💡 Important: You don’t have to tick all these boxes if you meet just one of the above, you can be considered a new entrant.
What’s the Salary Requirement for New Entrants in 2025?
From 22 July 2025, the numbers went up. Here’s the breakdown:
- £33,400 a year OR 70% of the going rate for your occupation whichever is higher.
- The “going rate” is basically the average market salary for your job, as set by the UK government.
- You must have a job at RQF Level 6 (think degree-level) or higher unless the role is on the Temporary Shortage List.
This lower threshold is only valid for up to four years. After that, if you want to extend your visa, you’ll need to meet the full “experienced worker” salary requirement.
Official details here: UK Skilled Worker visa rules
Do You Still Need to Meet Other Skilled Worker Rules?
Absolutely! Being a “new entrant” doesn’t mean you automatically get the visa. You still have to meet all the general Skilled Worker visa requirements, which include:
- Having a job offer from an approved UK sponsor.
- Making sure your job is on the eligible occupation list.
- Meeting the relevant English language requirement.
- Having enough funds to support yourself (unless your sponsor certifies maintenance).
- Getting a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to apply.
Let’s Look at Real Examples
Imagine Rahul, aged 24, just graduated from a UK master’s programme in Computer Science. He’s been offered a Graduate Software Engineer role at £34,000 per year.
- He’s under 26
- He’s a recent UK graduate
- The role is RQF Level 6 and on the eligible occupation list
- Salary is above £33,400 and meets 70% of the going rate
Outcome: Rahul qualifies as a new entrant AND meets the Skilled Worker visa requirements. He gets to apply on the lower salary threshold and start his UK career.
Another example: Smriti, who is 35 years old and has over 7 years of experience as a Project Manager. In 2024, she completed her master’s degree at a UK university. Recently, she received a job offer for a Project Manager role in the UK.
- Smriti is over 26 so she does not qualify under the age rule
- But because she recently completed a UK master’s degree in 2024, she qualifies as a new entrant
- Her job is at RQF Level 6 or above (degree-level professional role)
- She has a valid job offer from a licensed UK employer and meets the salary threshold for new entrants (at least £33,400 or 70% of the going rate)
Outcome: Although Smriti has significant professional experience, she qualifies as a new entrant because of her recent UK graduation and can apply under the discounted salary threshold.
Key Takeaways for International Job Seekers
- You only need to meet one of the new entrant criteria.
- Salary threshold for new entrants is £33,400 or 70% of the going rate.
- You must still pass all the general Skilled Worker visa checks.
- This concession lasts for up to four years after that, you’ll need to earn more to stay.
- Always double-check the latest official guidance before applying.
Final Word
If you’re serious about building a career in the UK, the “new entrant” route is a fantastic opportunity especially if you’re young, just graduated, or coming off a student visa. You don’t need to tick every box, but you do need to make sure your job, salary, and sponsorship all meet the current rules.
Tip: Start planning early and talk to your employer about these requirements before you even apply because in the UK visa game, being prepared is half the win.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is accurate as of 11th August 2025. UK immigration regulations and visa requirements frequently change, so for the most up-to-date and official information, please always refer to the UK government’s official website.
