Hi,
What are the resources / websites/ source of truths where I can compare and show that my salary is high?
Also - Do you compare against the city where you live/going to work in UK or UK country wide?
To demonstrate or compare high remuneration for the Tech Nation Global Talent Visa, especially under the Mandatory Criterion (for recognition as a leader/emerging leader), you’ll want to show that your compensation is notably above average in your field, location, or role. Here’s how to do it and the resources you can use:
1. What to Show as Evidence
Tech Nation looks for quantifiable proof of high remuneration such as:
- Salary (current or past offers)
- Bonuses and equity (stock options, RSUs, ESOPs)
- Consulting fees (if consistent and high-value)
- Proof of freelance rates (invoices + consistent volume)
- Offer letters or employment contracts
- Tax returns (redacted, if needed)
- Payslips (for at least 3–6 months)
2. How to Compare It
You need to benchmark your earnings against credible industry data. Here are some resources:
Global Tech Salary Benchmark Sites
| Resource | What It Offers |
|---|---|
| Levels.fyi | Salary data for tech roles by level, company, and location (great for global big tech comparisons) |
| Glassdoor.com | Self-reported salaries by company, job title, and region |
| Paysa (archived data) | Historical salary data by role and company |
| BuiltIn | US tech salaries, often detailed by city (e.g. Austin, NYC, SF) |
| Hays Salary Guides | Global annual salary reports by industry and country |
| Robert Half Salary Guide | Tech-focused salary benchmarking across the UK, US, and EU |
| Otta.com / Wellfound (AngelList) | Startup salary ranges, including equity insights |
How to Present It in Your Evidence
- Screenshot or export relevant benchmark page (with role, location, and average salary).
- In your evidence file (max 3 pages), include:
- A short intro paragraph explaining your role/impacts, pay, and comparison.
- A table or graph comparing your salary to the market median or upper quartile.
- A screenshot or citation from the benchmarking source.
Example:
“As a Senior Software Engineer in Lagos, I earn ₦XX,000,000 annually (equivalent to £XX,000). According to Hays and Glassdoor, the average for this role is ₦YY,000,000, placing my earnings in the top 10% bracket locally. Furthermore, adjusted for UK equivalents using Levels.fyi and Glassdoor UK, my compensation would rank in the top quartile for mid-level to senior engineers.”
Thank you Ego, I need this.