Skilled Worker Visa

Work in the UK with Confidence


The Skilled Worker Visa allows you to come to the UK to take up a job offer in a specific occupation with an approved sponsor. It is one of the most popular visa routes for foreign nationals seeking to work in the UK. Whether you're a healthcare professional, engineer, IT expert, or from any other skilled field, this visa offers a clear pathway to living and working in the UK. Our expert team is here to assist you with every step of your application.

What is a Skilled Worker Visa?

The Skilled Worker Visa enables individuals to live and work in the UK for a specific employer in a role that meets the required skill level and salary threshold. This visa is designed for skilled workers who have received a job offer from an eligible employer in the UK.


Key Benefits of the Skilled Worker Visa:


  • Live and Work in the UK: You can stay in the UK for up to 5 years, depending on the length of your employment contract.


  • Path to Settlement: After 5 years of continuous residence, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allowing you to stay in the UK permanently.


  • Bring Your Family: Your spouse/partner and children can join you in the UK under this visa.


Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet the following requirements:


1. Job Offer from an Approved Sponsor:
You must have a job offer from an employer who is a registered sponsor with the Home Office.


Your employer must provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).

2.  Skilled Job Role:

The job must be on the list of eligible occupations, and it must meet the skill level required (RQF Level 3 or above, equivalent to A-level).


Your role must be in a sector that requires a skilled worker, such as IT, engineering, healthcare, or finance.


3. Salary Requirements:
You must be offered a role that meets the minimum salary threshold of:

£26,200 per year (or £10.75 per hour)

Alternatively, if your occupation is on a shortage occupation list, a lower salary threshold may apply.

Certain roles may have a different salary threshold depending on the industry and the type of work.


4. English Language Proficiency:
You must demonstrate that you can speak, read, write, and understand English to the required level. This can be done by passing an approved English language test, or by proving that you have an academic qualification taught in English.


How to Apply for Settled or Pre-Settled Status

Step 1: Check Eligibility
Ensure that your job offer and qualifications meet the requirements for the Skilled Worker Visa. If you’re unsure, our expert team can provide a tailored assessment of your situation.


Step 2: Secure a Job Offer and Certificate of Sponsorship
You must first secure a job offer from a UK employer who is an approved sponsor. Your employer will provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which is a unique reference number that supports your visa application.


Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Complete the online application form for the Skilled Worker Visa on the UK government website. You will need to provide:

  • Your job title and occupation code.
  • The name and sponsor details of your employer.
  • Your personal information (name, date of birth, nationality, etc.).
  • Your Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.


Step 4: Submit Documents and Evidence
You’ll need to submit supporting documents, including:

  • Proof of your job offer (Certificate of Sponsorship).
  • Proof of your English language proficiency.
  • Evidence of your salary (e.g., contract or payslips).
  • Passport or travel document showing your identity.
  • Proof of funds (bank statements) to demonstrate you can support yourself (if required)


Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
The fee for a Skilled Worker Visa varies depending on your circumstances. The standard fee ranges from £610 to £1,408 depending on the job and the applicant’s circumstances (e.g., whether the job is on the shortage occupation list).


Step 6: Attend Biometrics Appointment
You will need to attend a biometrics appointment to provide your fingerprints and photograph at a local visa application center.


Step 7: Wait for a Decision
After submitting your application and biometrics, the processing time is usually 8 weeks. You will be notified of the outcome, and if successful, your visa will be issued.


Visa Duration and Extensions

  • Initial Visa: The Skilled Worker Visa is usually granted for a period of up to 5 years.
  • Extensions: You can extend your visa if you still meet the eligibility criteria. Extensions are usually granted for the same length as your original visa.
  • Permanent Residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain): After 5 years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allowing you to stay permanently in the UK.


What You Can Do with a Skilled Worker Visa

  • Work in the UK: You can work for your sponsor employer in the job described in your application. You can also switch jobs, provided you meet the visa requirements.
  • Bring Your Family: Your spouse/partner and children under 18 can join you in the UK.
  • Access Public Services: You can access the National Health Service (NHS) and other public services, just like UK citizens.


Visa Fees

The cost of the Skilled Worker Visa is as follows:

  • Visa Fee: £610 to £1,408, depending on your circumstances.
  • Health and Care Worker Visa: If your job is in the NHS or care sector, you may be eligible for a lower fee.
  • Dependents: You will need to pay for your dependents’ visa applications, which is typically £610 per person.


If you need further assistance please contact our visa consultants.


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