For Software Developer roles (SOC 2135), the salary threshold is £38,700 under the UK Immigration Rules. Salary offered was below the going rate for SOC 2135.

Skilled Worker Visa: Software Developer — Refusal Reasons

This page covers refusal reasons for Software Developer applications under the UK Skilled Worker Visa.

Based on current UK Home Office immigration rules (updated 2026)

For Software Developer roles (SOC 2135), the salary threshold is £38,700. SOC 2135 covers software and IT professionals. Going rate applies.

Check your application against current Immigration Rules before paying non-refundable visa fees. Run the UK Visa Risk Checker before submitting →

What key facts should you know?

• SOC code for Software Developer: 2135
• Salary threshold: £38,700
• SOC 2135 covers software and IT professionals. Going rate applies.
• Sponsor must hold a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence and assign a COS

Why This Matters

• Salary offered was below the going rate for SOC 2135
• Certificate of Sponsorship contained errors or was not correctly assigned
• Role did not clearly meet the skill threshold for Software Developer at RQF Level 3 or above

What salary do I need as a Software Developer on the Skilled Worker Visa?

The salary must meet £38,700 or the going rate for SOC 2135, whichever is higher. SOC 2135 covers software and IT professionals. Going rate applies.

What SOC code applies to Software Developer roles?

SOC 2135 is the standard occupation code for Software Developer roles.