Sheet metal workers
Official visa salary requirements and eligibility data for 2026.
Going Rate (Annual)
£30,800
Based on 37.5 hour week
Hourly Rate
£15.79
Minimum per hour
Temporary Shortage List - Time Limited
This occupation is on the Temporary Shortage List (TSL), which provides 3-year access for medium-skilled roles (RQF 3-5).
Expires: 31 December 2026 - The TSL will be reviewed by the Migration Advisory Committee before expiry.
Visa Eligibility for Sheet metal workers
To be sponsored as a Sheet metal workers (SOC 5213) on a Skilled Worker visa, your employer must pay you whichever is HIGHER:
- AThe General Threshold: £41,700
- BThe Going Rate for this job: £30,800
Verdict: You must be paid at least £41,700 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
Immigration Salary List
This job is not on the shortage list, so no specific shortage discount applies unless you are a New Entrant.
Key Facts: Sheet metal workers in the UK
The role of Sheet metal workers (SOC code 5213) is classified as a Medium Skilled occupation at RQF 4 level under the UK's Standard Occupational Classification system. Although the going rate is £30,800, applicants must still meet the general threshold of £41,700 (whichever is higher).
This occupation is not currently on the Immigration Salary List, so the standard threshold of £41,700 or the going rate applies without discount. It is also on the Temporary Shortage List (TSL), providing continued access for medium-skilled applicants until December 2026.
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 £15.79/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