Skilled Worker visa refused because the offered salary was below the going rate for the occupation code under the UK Immigration Rules. The specific requirement was not met as evidenced by the submitted documents.
This page covers one of the specific grounds on which UK visa applications are refused: skilled worker visa refused because the offered salary was below the going rate for the occupation code. Below you will find the key facts caseworkers consider, the evidence that addresses this risk, and what to check before submitting your application.
Based on current UK Home Office immigration rules (updated 2026)
Skilled Worker visa refused because the offered salary was below the going rate for the occupation code. This is a significant refusal ground that UKVI caseworkers assess carefully. SOC code going rates, new entrant discounts, tradeable vs non-tradeable points. Understanding the specific requirements and preparing evidence in advance is critical to avoiding this refusal trigger.
Check your application against current Immigration Rules before paying non-refundable visa fees. Run the UK Visa Risk Checker before submitting →
The primary risk relates to skilled worker visa refused because the offered salary was below the going rate for the occupation code. Caseworkers assess this against specific paragraphs of the Immigration Rules and will refuse if the requirement is not met or the evidence is insufficient.
In most cases, you can submit a new application addressing the refusal reasons. For some routes, administrative review is available. The key is understanding exactly which requirement was not met.
If your application involves soc code going rates, seeking advice from an IAA-registered immigration advisor is recommended, especially if the issue is complex or involves previous adverse decisions.