Metal machining setters and setter-operators
UK Skilled Worker visa going rate and threshold requirements for metal machining setters and setter-operators (SOC 5221) under 2026 Home Office rules.
The 2026 numbers for SOC 5221
To sponsor a metal machining setters and setter-operators 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.
- 1General minimum£41,700Across all eligible occupations
- 2Going rate for SOC 5221£34,60025th percentile UK earnings for the role
- 3Hourly floor£15.88/hrAcross 37.5-hour standard week
A salary below this will be refused at the salary stage with no appeal on that ground.
Lower-rate paths
Some applicants can use a discounted threshold instead of the standard going rate. The lowest applicable rate wins.
Under 26, recent graduate, or switching from Student/Graduate visa. Max 4 years on this rate.
Verify your offer clears the threshold
- 1Confirm your offer letter shows a basic gross salary of at least £41,700.
- 2Subtract bonuses, overtime, commission, in-kind benefits and pension contributions — none of these count.
- 3Check the hourly equivalent: divide annual basic by your contracted weekly hours × 52. Must be £15.88 or higher.
- 4If you qualify for the new-entrant or ISL discount, apply it — they stack with each other to give the lowest floor.
- 5Build in a £500+ margin: Home Office caseworkers round down, not up.
Other Skilled Trades occupations
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