MIG Welder

GOV.UK states the National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over is £12.80 per hour from 1 April 2026. Entry-level plumbers must receive at least this rate for all hours worked including travel time between jobs. Employers must pay overtime at 1.5 times the rate after 40 hours per week.

The Skilled Worker visa requires a minimum salary of £38,700 or the occupation going rate for plumbers whichever is higher as of January 2026. Applicants need a valid Certificate of Sponsorship and must score at least 70 points under the points-based system. Visas are issued for up to 5 years initially with Indefinite Leave to Remain possible after 5 years continuous residence.

Plumbers require an NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Plumbing and Domestic Heating or equivalent qualification approved by the Department for Education. A minimum of 3 years documented site experience is needed before full registration with a competent person scheme. The standard apprenticeship route lasts 48 months with 20% off-the-job training hours.

The Working Time Regulations limit average working hours to 48 per week with plumbers typically contracted for 40 hours. Annual leave entitlement is 5.6 weeks including bank holidays calculated from the first day of employment. Employers must provide rest breaks of 20 minutes after 6 hours worked.