UK Extends Offshore Well Boat Workers Concession to 2029 with Raised Salary Threshold
The UK government has prolonged the offshore well boat workers concession until February 2029, aligning minimum salary requirements with Skilled Worker levels at £41,700. This temporary measure allows approved workers to operate in UK waters without a standard visa. Time under this scheme generally does not contribute to settlement paths, per the announcement.
UK Prolongs Offshore Well Boat Workers Scheme Amid Salary Adjustments
According to a February 4, 2025, announcement from the UK government, the concession for offshore well boat workers has been extended for an additional three years, now set to end on February 8, 2029. This follows a prior extension from February 2024 to 2026.
Key Caveat
This remains a temporary concession outside standard UK Immigration Rules. Workers must be employed by Home Office-approved companies, and details can change.
The scheme permits overseas nationals to enter UK territorial seas for well boat operations without requiring a Skilled Worker visa. However, periods spent under this concession typically do not count toward settlement requirements.
Updated Requirements
The salary threshold increase brings these roles in line with the general requirements for Skilled Worker visas, as stated by the source.
Background on the Concession
- Introduced in February 2022 as a temporary measure.
- Applies to workers on well boats in UK territorial waters.
- Requires sponsorship by approved well boat operators.
Important Note
This is general information only, not legal advice. Rules are subject to official updates from the Home Office.
Source Attribution
Details drawn from Newland Chase analysis of the UK government's announcement (newlandchase.com/united-kingdom-extends-offshore-well-boat-workers-concession/). Always verify with gov.uk for latest rules.
FAQ
Who qualifies under this concession?
Generally, overseas workers employed by Home Office-approved well boat companies operating in UK waters, meeting the updated salary threshold.
Does time on this scheme lead to settlement?
According to the source, time spent in the UK under this concession typically does not count towards settlement requirements.
Is a Skilled Worker visa now required?
No, the concession allows entry without one, but it remains temporary outside standard Immigration Rules.