Physical scientists
Official visa salary requirements and eligibility data for 2026.
Going Rate (Annual)
£42,000
Based on 37.5 hour week
Hourly Rate
£21.54
Minimum per hour
Visa Eligibility for Physical scientists
To be sponsored as a Physical scientists (SOC 2113) on a Skilled Worker visa, your employer must pay you whichever is HIGHER:
- AThe General Threshold: £41,700
- BThe Going Rate for this job: £42,000
Verdict: You must be paid at least £42,000 per year (assuming 37.5 hour week).
Can I be paid less?
New Entrant Discount
If you are under 26, a recent graduate, or in professional training, you can be paid 70% of the going rate.
New Minimum: £33,400
On Salary List
This job is on the Immigration Salary List. You can be paid 80% of the going rate.
Discounted Rate: £33,600
Key Facts: Physical scientists in the UK
The role of Physical scientists (SOC code 2113) is classified as a Higher Skilled occupation at RQF 6 level under the UK's Standard Occupational Classification system. With a going rate of £42,000, this role exceeds the general Skilled Worker threshold of £41,700, meaning the going rate is the binding minimum.
This occupation is on the Immigration Salary List, which means applicants may qualify for a reduced salary threshold. The discounted rate is £33,600 (80% of the going rate).
As of January 2026, all new Skilled Worker visa applicants for this role must demonstrate B2 English language proficiency (IELTS 5.5-6.5 or equivalent). The hourly rate equivalent for this going rate is approximately £21.54/hour based on a standard 37.5-hour week. This role leads to a pathway to ILR (settlement) after 5 years of continuous residence under current rules — though proposed earned settlement changes may extend this to 10 years from April 2026.
Disclaimer: This data is for guidance only. Home Office rules change frequently. Always verify specific requirements with a qualified immigration adviser.
Official Sources & Data
- • Going rate from: GOV.UK Appendix Skilled Occupations (effective 22 July 2025)
- • General threshold: £41,700 from GOV.UK Skilled Worker Visa
- • SOC classification: ONS SOC 2020
- • Last verified: February 2026 | Rule set effective from: 22 July 2025