Appendix Skilled Occupations treats codes in Tables 1, 2 and 3 as skilled to RQF level 6 or above. Codes in Tables 1a, 2aa and 3a are RQF levels 3 to 5. Since 22 July 2025, RQF 3–5 codes can only be used for new applicants when the job is on the Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List.
RQF level by table
| Skill level (as stated in the table notes) | Tables | GOV.UK tier | Codes |
|---|---|---|---|
| RQF level 6 or above | 1, 2, 3 | Higher Skilled | 121 |
| RQF levels 3–5 (6135 Care workers: RQF level 2) | 1a, 2aa, 3a | Medium Skilled | 187 |
| Reassessed as below RQF level 3 | 2a | Medium Skilled (conditions) | – |
| Do not meet the required skill level, or other reasons | 6 | Ineligible | 104 |
The 22 July 2025 change
Table 1a's notes say that, except where option D (Immigration Salary List) or the Temporary Shortage List applies, sponsors may only sponsor Skilled Worker applicants in RQF 3–5 codes if the applicant was granted permission under the rules in place before 22 July 2025 and has had continuous permission as a Skilled Worker since then.
The 4 April 2024 change
Table 2a lists codes that were previously considered RQF 3–5 but have been reassessed as below RQF level 3. Sponsors may only sponsor applicants in them if the application is made before 4 April 2030, the applicant was granted Skilled Worker permission under the rules in place before 4 April 2024, has held it continuously, and is applying to work for the same sponsor.
The site doesn't explain what RQF levels mean as qualifications. GOV.UK's guide to qualification levels does: What qualification levels mean.
Sources
- Immigration Rules Appendix Skilled Occupations (GOV.UK, updated 29 October 2026)
- Skilled Worker visa: eligible occupations and codes (GOV.UK, updated 29 April 2026)
Compiled by SWC Editorial Team from the sources above. An information summary, not immigration advice.