SOC 2020 · 3414
Dancers and choreographers
Immigration Rules Appendix Skilled Occupations from
Skilled Worker
Shortage list only
Below the usual skill level, but listed.
Salary floor
£41,700
The general threshold, £41,700, is the higher of the two.
Shortage lists
Immigration Salary List and Temporary Shortage List
Listed roles carry their own restrictions — check GOV.UK.
Shortage list conditions
Immigration Salary List: only skilled classical ballet dancers or skilled contemporary dancers who meet the standard required by internationally recognised UK ballet or contemporary dance companies. The company must be endorsed as being internationally recognised by a UK industry body such as the Arts Councils (of England, Scotland or Wales). Listed until 31 Dec 2026.
Temporary Shortage List: all jobs in this code. Certificate of sponsorship must be issued before 31 Dec 2026.
Shortage-list jobs are below the usual skill level, so employers face restrictions such as no dependants and no salary discount. Check GOV.UK for the current conditions.
Salary the job must pay
A Skilled Worker job must pay at least the higher of the general threshold and the going rate for its occupation code.
Going rate (standard)
£33,400
General threshold
£41,700
Visa thresholds from
Minimum for this role
£41,700
Home Office going rates from
New entrants and some other cases can use 70% of the going rate, £33,400, subject to the lower general threshold of £33,400.
Job titles in this code
What the work involves
Dancers and choreographers devise, direct, rehearse and perform classical and contemporary dance routines.
Typical tasks
builds and maintains stamina, physical strength, agility and general health through fitness exercises and healthy eating
attends rehearsals to develop and practice dance routines for performance
participates in dance performance
demonstrates and directs dance moves, monitors and analyses technique and performance, and determines how improvements can be made
Entry routes and qualifications
There are no formal academic requirements, although some dance schools may require candidates to have passed relevant dance graded examinations. Entry to courses is often via audition. Medical and physical assessments are required. Performers’ courses typically last three years and lead to a diploma or certificate awarded by the school. Some degree courses are also available.