Skilled Worker Visa · sub-route
STEM PhD
£33,400 floor · 80% of going rate
Sourced from GOV.UK · Updated April 2026The short answer
STEM PhD is one way to qualify for the Skilled Worker Visa. The core rules of the Skilled Worker Visa apply — the specifics that set this route apart are below.
£819Application fee from
£1,035IHS per year
Up to 5 yearsInitial leave
5 yrsTo settlement (ILR)
Who qualifies for this route
- Hold a UK or Ecctis-verified overseas PhD in a STEM subject
- Subject relevant to your sponsored role
Good to know
Salary at least 80% of your job's going rate AND at least £33,400.
Other Skilled Worker Visa sub-routes
Standard rate
£41,700 floor · 100% of going rate
ViewNew entrant rate
£33,400 floor · 70% of going rate · max 4 years
ViewImmigration Salary List
£33,400 floor · 100% of going rate
ViewNon-STEM PhD
£37,500 floor · 90% of going rate
ViewPostdoctoral researcher
70% of going rate · max 4 years
ViewSource: GOV.UK — STEM PhD · Last verified April 2026
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