DJs are Now Considered Skilled Workers in the U.K.

DJs can now apply for a Skilled Worker visa in the U.K. under new immigration rules.

The U.K. government has officially classified DJs as “skilled workers,” making them eligible for long-term work visas alongside professionals such as airline cabin crew, fitness instructors, and veterinary nurses. The visa allows successful applicants to live and work in the U.K. for up to five years, after which they may apply for an extension or permanent residency.

This change is part of a broader update in visa policies following the U.K.’s departure from the European Union in 2021. Under the new system, the government has lowered the skill requirements for visa eligibility, expanding the list of middle-skilled jobs that qualify.

An analysis of Home Office data from 2021 to 2024 found that DJs were among the professions granted Skilled Worker visas under this updated framework. The findings were reported by University of Oxford researcher Robert McNeil, who explained that the revised criteria were based on an official qualifications framework used by the government. This change was introduced as part of efforts to address labor shortages in multiple industries.

To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, applicants must secure a job offer from a U.K. employer who is registered to sponsor visas. They must also meet a salary requirement of at least £38,700 per year, or £31,000 if they are under 26 and still in education. Additionally, applicants must meet English language requirements and fulfill the specific skill criteria set by the U.K. government.

For DJs who do not meet the criteria for a Skilled Worker visa, alternative visa options are available. The Creative Worker visa allows artists, including DJs and musicians, to work in the country for up to 12 months, provided they have a certificate of sponsorship from an approved employer. Another option is the Permit Free Festivals scheme, which enables international artists to perform at selected U.K. festivals without requiring a work visa. This applies to major festivals such as Creamfields, Wireless, and The Warehouse Project, allowing performers to stay and work in the country for up to six months.

The British government’s changes to visa rules are part of ongoing efforts to adjust immigration policies following Brexit. By expanding the list of eligible professions, the Home Office aims to fill gaps in the labor market while maintaining specific requirements for salary and sponsorship. The impact of this policy update on international workers in the U.K.’s creative and entertainment industries will depend on employer demand and the ability of applicants to meet the financial and sponsorship criteria.