If you are planning to apply for a UK Skilled Worker visa, you may have come across salary requirements that seem quite high.
But here is something many applicants and even employers are not fully aware of.
In certain cases, you can actually be sponsored on just 70 percent of the standard salary requirement.
Yes, that is correct.
This is made possible through a rule known as the New Entrant Salary Discount — and it is one of the most underused opportunities within UK immigration.
If used correctly, it can make sponsorship more accessible and reduce costs for employers.
Let’s break down how this works and whether it could apply to you.
What Is the New Entrant Salary Discount?
The New Entrant rule allows eligible applicants to be sponsored at a reduced salary level.
Instead of meeting 100 percent of the going rate for a role, qualifying applicants can be sponsored at 70 percent of the going rate.
This can make a significant difference, especially in roles where salary thresholds are a major barrier.
However, this is not available to everyone.
You must meet specific eligibility criteria to qualify as a “new entrant” under the immigration rules.
Who Qualifies as a New Entrant?
Typically, the New Entrant category includes individuals who are at an early stage of their career or switching from certain visa routes.
For many applicants, this includes those who are currently in the UK on:
A Student visa
A Graduate visa
These categories are commonly used pathways into the Skilled Worker route.
How Long Can You Use the 70% Salary Rule?
One of the most important aspects of this rule is the time limit.
The salary discount is available for a maximum of four years.
However, the actual duration you can benefit from depends on your current immigration history.
If You Are on a Student Visa
If you are switching directly from a Student visa, you can usually access the full four years of the New Entrant salary discount.
This makes it an attractive option for recent graduates entering the workforce.
If You Are on a Graduate Visa
If you are already on a Graduate visa, the situation is slightly different.
Any time spent on the Graduate visa is deducted from the four year limit.
For example:
If you have spent one year on a Graduate visa, you will have three years of the discount remaining.
If you have spent two years on a Graduate visa, you will have two years remaining.
This is a critical detail that many applicants overlook.
Why the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Is So Important
Even if you meet all the eligibility requirements, your application can still run into problems if your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is not prepared correctly.
The CoS must clearly reflect:
The correct work start date
The correct work end date
Accurate salary details aligned with the New Entrant rule
This is not just a technical requirement.
The Home Office uses this information to assess whether you qualify for the salary discount.
A Common Mistake That Can Cost You the Discount
One of the biggest risks is incorrect information on the CoS.
If the dates or salary details are not aligned properly with the New Entrant eligibility period, you may lose access to the discount entirely.
This can result in:
Your application being refused
Your salary not meeting the required threshold
The need to reapply with corrected details
In many cases, this issue arises simply because the CoS was not structured correctly at the start.
Why This Rule Is Often Overlooked
Despite its benefits, the New Entrant Salary Discount is still underused.
This is often because:
Applicants are not aware of the rule
Employers are unsure how to apply it correctly
There is confusion around eligibility timelines
CoS preparation is not handled strategically
With proper guidance, this rule can be used effectively to support both the applicant and the employer.
What This Means for You
If you are planning to switch to a Skilled Worker visa, this rule could make your application more achievable.
It can:
Reduce the salary threshold required
Make sponsorship more attractive for employers
Help you transition into the UK workforce more smoothly
However, the key is to get everything right from the beginning, especially your eligibility and CoS details.
When Should You Seek Professional Advice?
If you are unsure whether you qualify for the New Entrant salary discount, or if you want to make sure your application is prepared correctly, it is always better to seek advice early.
A small mistake at the CoS stage can have a significant impact on your application outcome.
Need Help with Your Skilled Worker Visa?
If you are planning a Skilled Worker visa application or want to understand whether you qualify for the New Entrant salary discount, professional guidance can help you avoid costly errors.
At CSR Law, we provide reliable and ethical immigration advice tailored to your situation. Our team is regulated by the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) and supports both individuals and employers with UK immigration matters.
If you need assistance:
Phone: +44 7586 980156
Email: info@csrlaw.co.uk
Website: www.csrlaw.co.uk