Advertising accounts managers and creative directors

To sponsor a advertising accounts managers and creative directors on a Skilled Worker visa in 2026, the salary offered must clear three separate tests. The Home Office takes the highestof the three as the applicant's effective threshold.

1. 1
   General minimum

   £41,700

   Across all eligible occupations
2. 2
   Going rate for SOC 2494

   £46,000

   25th percentile UK earnings for the role
3. 3
   Hourly floor

   £15.88/hr

   Across 37.5-hour standard week

Some applicants can use a discounted threshold instead of the standard going rate. The lowest applicable rate wins.

1. 1Confirm your offer letter shows a basic gross salary of at least £46,000.
2. 2Subtract bonuses, overtime, commission, in-kind benefits and pension contributions — none of these count.
3. 3Check the hourly equivalent: divide annual basic by your contracted weekly hours × 52. Must be £15.88 or higher.
4. 4If you qualify for the new-entrant or ISL discount, apply it — they stack with each other to give the lowest floor.
5. 5Build in a £500+ margin: Home Office caseworkers round down, not up.

A sample of A-rated licence holders in the media sector — likely sponsors for advertising accounts managers and creative directors roles.

• 1255
  Managers and directors in the creative industries

  £44,900
• 2491
  Newspaper, periodical and broadcast editors

  £39,600
• 2492
  Newspaper and periodical broadcast journalists and reporters

  £34,000
• 3429
  Design occupations not elsewhere classified

  £39,300