Skilled Worker Visa

The Skilled Worker Visa allows individuals to come to or stay in the UK to work in an eligible job with an approved employer

You are eligible if:

• You have a job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
• Your job is on the list of eligible occupations.
• You meet the required skill level for the job.
• You speak English at the required level.
• You meet the salary requirements.

Generally, you must be paid at least £38,700 per year or the ‘going rate’ for your job, whichever is higher. Some applicants can be paid less based on certain criteria, such as if the job is on the shortage occupation list.

You can apply online. You will need to complete the application form, pay the application fee, provide your biometric information, and submit supporting documents such as your Certificate of Sponsorship, proof of English proficiency, and evidence of your salary.

A CoS is a reference number that your employer gives you to apply for your visa. It is not an actual certificate or paper document but a digital record.

You must demonstrate English language proficiency at least at the B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This can be proven through a passed English language test, a degree taught in English, or being a national of a majority English-speaking country.

The visa can be granted for up to 5 years. You can apply to extend it if you meet the eligibility requirements.

Yes, you can bring your partner and children (under 18) as dependents. They must apply separately, and you will need to show proof of funds to support them.

Yes, you can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa from another visa category while you are in the UK, provided you meet all the eligibility requirements, and your current visa allows you to switch.

Yes, you can apply for ILR after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa, provided you meet the eligibility criteria, including salary requirements and English language proficiency.

• The application fee ranges from £719 to £1,639 depending on your circumstances.
• The immigration 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).

• Yes, you can change employers, but you must apply to update your visa with a new Certificate of Sponsorship from your new employer. You must meet the eligibility requirements with the new job offer.

• You may be able to appeal the decision, request an administrative review, or reapply if you believe there was an error in the decision or if you have new information to support your application.

The standard processing time is around 3 weeks if you are outside the UK and 8 weeks (about 2 months) if you are inside the UK. Priority services are available for faster processing.