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Skill level and shortage lists
From 22 July 2025, new Skilled Worker jobs are mainly degree level (RQF 6). The standard general threshold is £41,700 a year or the going rate, whichever is higher. A medium-skilled job must be on the Immigration Salary List or the Temporary Shortage List, and those lists only count where the certificate of sponsorship was issued before 31 December 2026. Care worker (6135) and senior care worker (6136) roles can only be sponsored for people already in the UK, until 22 July 2028. Last checked: 13 October 2026. See Skilled Worker: your job, the Immigration Salary List and Appendix Skilled Worker.
Defined vs undefined (high level)
Employers often discuss defined (typically for workers applying from outside the UK) and undefined CoS (often for in-country switches/extensions). Annual allocations and request processes differ, confirm the current SMS rules before you promise a start date.
| Topic | Why it matters to hiring |
|---|---|
| Allocation | You may need to request CoS before you can assign one |
| Accuracy | Job title, salary, SOC/occupation, and dates must match reality |
| Timing | Workers need the CoS reference to apply for the visa |
| Changes | Role changes after assignment can create compliance issues |
Offer-to-assign workflow
- 1
Firm offer: Role, salary, location, and start-date range agreed.
- 2
Route check: The occupation and salary still meet the rules. Ask a specialist if unsure.
- 3
Allocation: Ensure the right CoS type is available in SMS.
- 4
Assign: Enter accurate data; worker receives the reference.
- 5
Visa support: Worker applies; you stay ready for document queries.
- 6
Start: Right-to-work check; open compliance pack for the hire.
Data that must match the real job
Title and duties: What they will actually do, not a vanity title.
Salary: What you will pay; thresholds and allowances rules matter.
Work location: Where they will work; hybrid patterns should be truthful.
Dates: CoS validity and employment start assumptions.
Recruitment planning tips
Build CoS allocation lead time into your hiring plan. Tell hiring managers that “offer accepted” is not the same as “can start Monday.” On Global Sponsor Hub, only say a role offers sponsorship when you can complete this workflow for that hire.
Next step
Start hiring
Post one role free, or link your careers page or ATS free. Candidates see the sponsorship you offer before they apply.
Specialist directoryWhat's next
Related guides and links
More on this site: related guides, official government pages with the current rules and fees, and quick links to jobs and specialists.
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Post a roleCommon questions
Does assigning a CoS guarantee the visa?+
No. The worker must still meet the visa rules and be approved by UKVI.
Can we change the job after assigning a CoS?+
Material changes can create compliance and visa issues. Ask a specialist before changing duties, salary or location after assignment.