Are you looking to start a new chapter in your career in the UK? The UK Skilled Worker Visa could be your pathway to a wealth of opportunities. This visa, designed for international workers with specific skills, allows you to work with approved UK employers and, in time, provides a pathway to permanent residency.
What is the UK Skilled Worker Visa?
The UK Skilled Worker Visa enables skilled professionals from around the world to work in the UK for licensed UK employers. This visa, which replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa in 2020, is open to individuals with skills at RQF Level 3 (equivalent to A-level in the UK) or higher in a relevant occupation. It is designed for skilled roles across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, finance, and education.
The Skilled Worker Visa offers:
- A long-term work option, granted initially for up to five years based on your Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Eligibility for extensions and, after five years, the chance to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), paving the way for UK citizenship.
- Flexibility for qualified workers to fill positions without a cap on visa numbers or needing to pass a Resident Labour Market Test.
Also read UK Visitor Visa: Types, Cost, Application Process
If the Skilled Worker Visa is not the best fit for you, there are alternative UK work visas worth exploring on the official UK Work Visas page.
Eligibility Criteria for the UK Skilled Worker Visa
To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Job Offer from a UK Employer
Applicants must secure a job offer from a licensed UK employer who is on the Home Office’s list of approved sponsors. The role must be one listed on the eligible occupations list and must meet minimum salary requirements. A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the UK employer is also necessary, as this document verifies your job offer.
2. Employer’s License to Sponsor
The UK employer offering the position must hold a valid A-rating on the Home Office’s list of licensed sponsors. Only A-rated businesses can issue new Certificates of Sponsorship. Be sure to verify your employer’s status before applying, as applications linked to B-rated sponsors may face delays.
3. Valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
A Certificate of Sponsorship is an electronic document provided by your UK employer that outlines key details of your employment, including:
- Role title and responsibilities
- Start and end dates
- Gross salary
- Sponsor licence number
The CoS is required to proceed with the Skilled Worker Visa application. For further details, check the Certificate of Sponsorship guidelines.
4. Eligible Occupation Requirement
To qualify, your job must be on the list of eligible occupations maintained by UK Visas and Immigration. Each role has a unique Standard Occupation Code (SOC) that specifies its eligibility and minimum salary. Verify your job’s eligibility by consulting your employer or visiting the list of eligible occupations.
Also read Want to Work in the UK? Here’s Everything You Need to Know About UK Work Visas in 2024
5. Skill Level Requirement
The job must meet the minimum skill level of RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent). This doesn’t mean that applicants need specific academic qualifications, but their skills must match this level or higher.
6. Minimum Salary Requirement
To qualify, applicants must meet a minimum salary threshold, which is the higher of £38,700 or the “going rate” for the role. For some positions, especially in healthcare and education, other salary rules apply. Review the salary requirements to see if your role qualifies.
There are exemptions for certain roles. Lower salary thresholds may apply if:
- You’re under 26, in professional training, or a recent graduate.
- You have a Ph.D. in STEM relevant to your job.
- You hold a postdoctoral position in science or higher education.
7. Financial Requirement
Applicants must show that they have at least £1,270 in personal savings for their first month in the UK. This amount can be waived if your employer agrees to cover it on your behalf.
8. English Language Requirement
Proof of English proficiency at B1 level on the CEFR scale is required, which can be demonstrated by:
- Passing a CEFR-approved test.
- Holding a degree taught in English.
- Being from an English-speaking country (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia).
For a full list of English-speaking countries and other accepted proofs, refer to the English language requirements.
Required Documents for the UK Skilled Worker Visa
When applying for a Skilled Worker Visa, you will need to submit the following:
- Passport with a blank page.
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.
- Job details: title, annual salary, and occupation code.
- Employer details: name and sponsor licence number.
- Financial proof: personal savings or employer’s guarantee.
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate) if applying with dependents.
- Criminal record certificate (if required for your occupation).
- English language proof.
- TB test results if from a listed country.
- Ph.D. certification or Ecctis reference, if applicable.
Also read How to Get an H-2B Visa for Seasonal Jobs in the US?
Applicants will also need to verify their identity and provide biometrics for their Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). This can be done at a visa application center or through the Home Office’s mobile app.
Application Process for the Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker Visa application is submitted online via the UK Home Office website. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all requirements.
- Secure a Job Offer: Obtain a position with a licensed UK sponsor.
- Receive Certificate of Sponsorship: Your UK employer will issue this document.
- Gather Documents: Prepare all supporting documents.
- Submit Online Application: Fill out the form, upload documents, and save progress as needed.
- Pay Fees: Application fee, healthcare surcharge, and biometric fees.
- Attend Biometrics Appointment: Book an appointment for fingerprints and photo.
- Await Decision: Processing usually takes up to three weeks.
If additional information is needed, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will reach out. Track your application status on the UKVI website.
Fees and Costs
Here’s a breakdown of the costs for a Skilled Worker Visa:
- Application fee: £625–£1,423 (varies by job length and location).
- Healthcare surcharge: £624 per year.
- Biometric fee: Typically £19.20.
Applicants can opt for expedited processing at an additional fee. Visit the UK Skilled Worker Visa fees page for the latest updates.
Changing Employers on a Skilled Worker Visa
Switching jobs or employers while on a Skilled Worker Visa requires a new visa application. This applies if you:
- Change employers.
- Move to a different occupation.
- Change job titles or move to a role not on the shortage occupation list.
Also read How can you apply for Refugee and Asylum Visas in the U.S.?
Submit your new application within three months before your new job’s start date. It is important to wait for approval before beginning work with your new employer. For details on changing employers, refer to the Home Office guidelines.
Extending the Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker Visa can be extended indefinitely, provided you stay with the same employer in the same occupation. If you’re eligible, apply to extend your visa before it expires. For step-by-step instructions, visit the Skilled Worker Visa extension page.
Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
A major benefit of the Skilled Worker Visa is the option to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years, granting permanent residency. ILR requirements include:
- Five years of continuous residence.
- Employment with the same sponsoring employer.
- Meeting minimum salary and English language standards.
- Passing the Life in the UK test.
After securing ILR, applicants can apply for UK citizenship after 12 months. For ILR eligibility details, visit the Indefinite Leave to Remain page.
Key Benefits of the UK Skilled Worker Visa
- Flexibility: Freedom to work in eligible roles without a cap on visa numbers.
- Career Progression: Pathway to ILR and citizenship.
- No Cooling-Off Period: Unlike the old Tier 2 Visa, applicants can reapply without a waiting period if they switch employers or roles.
The Skilled Worker Visa is an excellent choice for skilled professionals aiming to build a future in the UK. With proper planning and meeting the eligibility requirements, this visa could be the gateway to a fulfilling career in one of the world’s most dynamic job markets.