UK Skilled Worker Visa

A Skilled Worker visa allows overseas skilled workers to come to or stay in the UK to do an eligible job with an approved employer. This visa has replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa. It is part of the UK's points-based immigration system.

If you are planning to apply for a UK Skilled Worker visa, our immigration solicitors can provide legal advice assistance with your UK Skilled Worker visa application.

Please contact our immigration solicitor at 0158 235 9990 or fill in the enquiry form to take the first step towards your successful UK Skilled Worker visa application.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa, you must:

• Have a job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid sponsor licence.
• Have a 'certificate of sponsorship' (CoS) from your employer with information about the role you've been offered in the UK
• Meet the specific job requirements, including a minimum salary threshold and appropriate skill level.
• Prove your knowledge of English (minimum B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

Job Offer and Sponsorship

Your job offer must be from an employer approved by the Home Office as a licensed sponsor. The job should be on the list of eligible occupations, and your employer will need to provide a certificate of sponsorship, which includes details about the role and your salary.

Salary Requirements

The general salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa is £38,700 gross per year, or the 'going rate' for the particular job, whichever is higher. 

Your employer must make sure your job pays at least the minimum wage and follows the UK rules for how many hours a week you work. If your employer does not do this, your application will be refused.

English Language Proficiency

You need to demonstrate your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English to at least level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale. You can prove this through an approved English language test or by having a degree-level academic qualification that was taught in English.

Documents you'll need to apply 

When applying for a Skilled Worker visa to the UK, you'll typically need the following documents:

• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Issued by your UK employer.
• Proof of Identity: Such as a valid passport or travel document.
• Proof of English Language Proficiency: This can be an English language test result or a degree taught in English.
• Proof of Finances: To show you can support yourself in the UK unless your sponsor is covering your costs.
• Tuberculosis Test Results: Depending on your country of residence.

Application Process

Applying for a Skilled Worker visa involves several steps:

1. Online Application: Fill out the online application form on the UK government's official website.
2. Supporting Documents: Submit the required documents, including your certificate of sponsorship, proof of English proficiency, and proof of funds.
3. Pay Fees: Pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
4. Biometrics: Book and attend your biometric appointment. Provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) at a visa application centre.
5. Wait for a Decision: You should receive a decision within 3 weeks if applying from outside.

Skilled Worker visa processing times

Processing times for UK Skilled Worker visa application can vary, but you'll typically receive a decision within 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK and 8 weeks if applying from within the UK.

How much it costs

When you apply for a Skilled Worker visa, you'll need to have enough money to:

• pay the application fee - the standard fee ranges from £719 to £1,639 depending on your circumstances
• pay the healthcare surcharge - this is usually £1,035 per year
• support yourself when you arrive in the UK - you'll usually need to have at least £1,270 available (unless you're exempt)