ILR Points Impact on Skilled Worker Visa 2026
What you need to know
- •Employment and salary are major scoring categories.
- •B2 English may be required (subject to transitional rules).
- •Maintain continuous employment to maximise points.
- •Start preparing well before your 5-year qualifying date.
Skilled Worker visa holders should understand how the new ILR points system affects their settlement plans. Points are earned through employment, salary, English language, and community integration. This guide helps you prepare.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
How the Points System Works
The proposed points-based ILR system requires applicants to earn points across several categories. For Skilled Worker visa holders, the key categories are:
- Employment. See our employment points guide.
- English language. See the B2 impact guide.
- Community integration. Including volunteering, community involvement, and knowledge of life in the UK.
Employment Points for Skilled Workers
As a Skilled Worker, you should be in continuous employment, which puts you in a strong position for employment points. Focus on:
- Maintaining employment throughout your qualifying period
- Meeting the salary threshold and going rate
- Keeping all payslips, P60s, and employment records
- Ensuring your NI contributions are up to date — see NI contributions guide
If you change jobs during your qualifying period, ensure there are no gaps in employment. If you are made redundant, act quickly to find new sponsored employment.
English Language Points
The B2 English requirement may apply to ILR applications. For Skilled Workers:
- If you entered the UK before the B2 change, the transitional rules may allow B1
- If you entered after the change, you may need B2
- Check if you are exempt
- If you need B2, see our study tips and IELTS score guide
Other ILR Requirements
You still need to meet the standard ILR requirements:
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
- Continuous residence (180-day absence rule)
- Life in the UK test
- Good character
See the Skilled Worker to ILR guide and documents checklist.
Costs
ILR costs £2,885. See the ILR cost guide.
Salary Threshold Changes
The 2026 Skilled Worker changes include updates to salary thresholds. Higher salaries are expected to earn more ILR points. Check the ILR salary threshold guide.
Preparation Timeline
- Year 1-3: Keep all employment records. Start studying for the Life in the UK test.
- Year 4: Check your English level. Book the Life in the UK test. Review your absence record.
- Year 4.5: Gather documents. Book any required English tests.
- 28 days before year 5: Submit your ILR application through GOV.UK.
Next Steps
Start preparing early. Keep records, monitor policy changes, and check whether transitional rules protect you from B2. For the latest, see GOV.UK.
Related guides:
This guide is general immigration information, not immigration advice under s.82 Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an IAA-authorised adviser or an SRA-regulated immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the authoritative current rules.
Related guides
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.