Skilled Worker Visa UK: A Detailed Guide
The UK's Skilled Worker visa offers international professionals the opportunity to work and build a life in the UK. Whether you're a nurse, engineer, IT specialist, or teacher, this visa route allows you to join a UK employer who holds a sponsorship licence.
This guide answers the most common questions people have about the Skilled Worker visa. From eligibility to application steps, costs, timelines, and what to do once you're in the UK—each section helps simplify what can often feel like a complex immigration process.
Whether you're planning your move or supporting a family member, this detailed guide provides the clarity you need to move forward confidently.
What Exactly Is a Skilled Worker Visa?
The Skilled Worker visa is the UK's primary immigration route for qualified overseas professionals. It replaced the previous Tier 2 (General) visa system in December 2020. This points-based route requires sponsorship from a UK employer with a valid licence.
Unlike some other visa categories, this option provides a clear pathway to settlement in the UK. It's specifically designed for non-UK nationals who have received job offers from licensed UK employers. Self-employment or freelancing doesn't qualify under this route.
Who Can Apply for This Visa?
You might be eligible if you meet these core requirements:
- Have a genuine job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence.
- Work in an eligible skilled occupation.
- Meet the minimum salary threshold for your role.
- Speak English to the required standard.
- Have enough savings to support yourself initially.
Healthcare professionals, IT specialists, lawyers, engineers, and financial experts are among the most common applicants. The Home Office evaluates each application against strict criteria to ensure only qualified individuals receive approval.
How Does the Points System Work?
The Skilled Worker visa operates on a points-based assessment. You'll need to score 70 points to qualify. Here's how points are typically allocated:
| Requirement | Points |
|---|---|
| Job Offer from approved sponsor | 20 |
| Job at appropriate skill level | 20 |
| English language skills at level B1 | 10 |
| Salary £38,700 or above | 20 |
| Job on Immigration Salary List | 20 |
| PhD in relevant field | 10-20 |
The first three requirements are mandatory, providing your first 50 points. The remaining 20 points can come from your salary, working in a role on the Immigration Salary List, or having relevant qualifications. This flexibility helps accommodate different professional backgrounds.
What Salary Do I Need to Earn?
For most applicants, the minimum salary requirement is currently £38,700 per year. However, this threshold varies depending on your specific role. Some occupations have higher “going rates” which you must meet.
New entrants to the labour market benefit from a lower threshold of £30,960. This includes recent graduates and those under 26. Roles on the Immigration Salary List also offer some salary flexibility, recognising areas where the UK faces skills gaps.
Note: The salary thresholds have been updated as of April 2025. Health and Care Worker visa holders are subject to a lower minimum threshold.
What Jobs Qualify for This Visa?
Not all positions are eligible for sponsorship. The job must be skilled roughly equivalent to A-levels. The Home Office maintains a detailed list of eligible occupations that defines eligible roles.
Common Eligible Sectors Include:
- Healthcare (doctors, nurses and other health professionals)
- Information technology (developers, analysts, cybersecurity)
- Engineering (civil, mechanical, electrical)
- Financial services (accountants, analysts, advisors)
- Education (teachers, lecturers, researchers)
Shortage occupations receive special treatment in the visa process. These are roles where the UK faces significant skills gaps. Working in such positions may reduce your salary requirement.
Note: The Shortage Occupation List has been replaced by the Immigration Salary List as of April 2025.
How Do I Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa?
The application process follows these key steps:
- Secure a job offer from a licensed UK employer.
- Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer.
- Prepare supporting documents (passport, qualifications, English test results).
- Complete the online application via the UK government website.
- Pay the required fees (application fee plus Immigration Health Surcharge).
- Attend a biometric appointment at a visa application centre or provide your biometrics utilising a dedicated App.
- Wait for a decision (typically 3 weeks for overseas applications or 5 working days on a priority basis).
Starting the process early is crucial. Gathering documents and scheduling appointments can take time. Many applicants find professional guidance invaluable for navigating potential complications.
What Documents Will I Need?
Preparing the correct documentation is essential for a successful application. The Home Office requires:
- Valid passport or travel document.
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- Evidence of required maintenance funds (if needed).
- Tuberculosis test results (for certain countries).
- Qualification certificates (if relevant to your points claim).
- Criminal record certificate (for certain occupations).
Document requirements may vary based on your circumstances. Having everything properly organised before submission helps avoid unnecessary delays. Missing or incorrect documentation is a common reason for refusals.
How Much Does It Cost?
The Skilled Worker visa involves several fees.
| Fee Type | Cost (Up to 3 Years) | Cost (Over 3 Years) |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee outside the UK | £769 per person | £1,519 per person |
| Application fee inside the UK to extend | £885 per person | £1,751 per person |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £1,035 per year | £1,035 per year |
Additional costs may include English language tests, tuberculosis screening, and document translation. Dependants will need to pay similar fees. Some healthcare workers qualify for Health and Care Worker visa discounts.
Note: Fees are subject to change; always refer to the official UK government website for the most current information. (Source)
Can My Family Join Me in the UK?
Yes, your dependants can join you or accompany you to the UK. Eligible family members include:
- Your spouse or civil partner.
- Your unmarried partner (if you have been in a relationship for at least 2 years).
- Your children under 18.
- Each family member must submit their own application and pay separate fees. They'll need to prove their relationship to you with appropriate documentation. Once approved, dependants can work, study, and access healthcare services. <?li>
Note: As of March 2024, care workers and senior care workers are no longer permitted to bring dependants unless they meet specific criteria. (Source)
How Long Can I Stay in the UK?
Your initial visa can be granted for up to 5 years. There's no maximum time limit for how long you can stay with continual extensions. Each extension application requires you to still meet the eligibility criteria.
Time spent on this visa counts towards settlement eligibility. After 5 years of continuous residence, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). This removes the need for further visa extensions and most immigration restrictions.
What is the Path to Settlement?
The Skilled Worker visa offers a clear route to permanent settlement. After 5 years, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain if you:
- Have spent 5 years continuously in the UK on this route.
- Still meet the salary requirements.
- Have maintained continuous employment with a licensed sponsor.
- Pass the Life in the UK Test.
- Meet the English language requirement (Level B1).
ILR removes most immigration restrictions, allowing you to work for any employer without sponsorship. After holding ILR for 12 months, you may be eligible to apply for British citizenship.
Note: Detailed information on ILR eligibility can be found on the official UK government website. (Source)
Can I Switch to This Visa from Another Category?
Many applicants successfully switch to the Skilled Worker route from other visa categories. Common switching scenarios include:
- Student visa holders who have successfully completed their studies
- Graduate visa holders moving into sponsored roles.
- Dependant visa holders seeking independent status.
- Global Business Mobility visa holders changing to a settlement route.
Most switches can be completed without leaving the UK. The application process follows similar steps to a new application but may have different documentation requirements. Timing is important to ensure you maintain legal status throughout.
What Rights Does This Visa Provide?
Understanding your entitlements and restrictions is important. With a Skilled Worker visa, you can:
- Work for your sponsoring employer in your sponsored role.
- Take on supplementary work (up to 20 hours weekly in certain conditions).
- Travel abroad and return to the UK.
- Access NHS healthcare (after paying the Immigration Health Surcharge).
- Bring qualifying dependants to join you.
However, there are limitations. You cannot: <?p>
- Change jobs or employers without updating your visa.
- Access public funds (such as most benefits).
- Work as a professional sportsperson or sports coach.
Common Reasons for Visa Refusals
Understanding potential pitfalls helps avoid disappointment. Common refusal reasons include:
- Insufficient documentation or evidence.
- Sponsor licence issues or job role concerns.
- Failure to meet the salary threshold.
- English language test issues.
- Maintenance funds requirements not met.
- Previous immigration violations or criminal history.
If your application is refused, you may apply for an administrative review. Professional legal advice is particularly valuable in these situations. Many refusals can be overturned with proper representation.
Note: From April 2025, administrative review is no longer the mechanism to challenge incorrect conditions and length of immigration permission.
Important 2025 Updates
Figuring out the Skilled Worker visa process requires attention to detail. Our team at MGBe Legal offers comprehensive support:
- Assessing your eligibility before application.
- Advising on documentation and evidence.
- Preparing and reviewing application forms.
- Communicating with the Home Office on your behalf.
For assistance with your Skilled Worker visa application, contact MGBe Legal today to ensure your application meets all requirements and stands the best chance of success.
Conclusion
The Skilled Worker visa represents a significant opportunity for international professionals seeking to build their careers in the UK. While the application process requires careful preparation, the benefits make it worthwhile. From flexible employment to a clear path to settlement, this visa category offers a secure foundation for your life in Britain.
At MGBe Legal, we're committed to making your immigration journey as smooth as possible. Our experienced team understands both the technical requirements and the personal significance of your application. Whether you're applying for the first time or planning your route to settlement, we're here to help.
Need personalised advice about your Skilled Worker visa application? Contact MGBe Legal today for expert guidance tailored to your unique situation.
